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Carthage

Carthage, Missouri, United States

Welcome to Carthage, Missouri, a charming city with a rich history and plenty of attractions to offer visitors. Located in the heart of the United States, Carthage is a destination that seamlessly blends small-town charm…

#Historic site#Archaeological ruins#Ancient civilization#Phoenician culture#Tourist destination

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Carthage.

Top Hotels in Carthage

Top Flights to Carthage

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Carthage.

Tours

Carthage Civil War Museum Visit

Explore the Carthage Civil War Museum to learn about local history and the Battle of Carthage.

Marian Days Festival

Attend Marian Days, the largest religious pilgrimage for Vietnamese Catholics in the United States.

Walking Tour of Historic Carthage Square

Take a guided walking tour of Carthage's historic square, with its beautiful 19th-century architecture.

Precious Moments Park

Visit the Precious Moments Park, known for its beautiful gardens and chapel filled with Precious Moments art and figurines.

Route 66 Drive-In Theater

Catch a movie under the stars at one of the few remaining drive-in theaters on historic Route 66.

Red Oak II

Explore Red Oak II, an artist-created, recreated town with old buildings and unique art installations.

Outdoor

Carthage Skate Park

Enjoy outdoor fun at the Carthage Skate Park, suitable for skaters of all levels.

Lakeside Walking Path

Enjoy a peaceful walk along Kellogg Lake, a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying nature.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Carthage.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

Information not available.

Languages

Punic, Punic, Berber

Average weather

Carthage

Jan

15°6°

Feb

16°6°

Mar

18°8°

Apr

20°10°

May

24°14°

Jun

28°18°

Jul

32°21°

Aug

32°21°

Sep

29°19°

Oct

25°15°

Nov

20°11°

Dec

16°7°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Carthage.

What people love

Carthage, Missouri, is a charming city with a rich history and several attractions that make it a great destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Carthage include:

Historic Route 66: Carthage is located along the iconic Route 66, offering travelers the opportunity to explore this historic highway and its landmarks. You can drive along the historic route, visit nostalgic diners, and take in the Americana charm of the area.
Precious Moments Chapel: One of the main attractions in Carthage is the Precious Moments Chapel, a beautiful and unique chapel featuring intricate artwork and sculptures by artist Samuel J. Butcher. Visitors can tour the chapel and its gardens, which are a peaceful and inspiring place to visit.
Civil War History: Carthage has a rich Civil War history, and visitors can explore sites like the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site to learn about the area's significance during the war. History enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to delve into this aspect of Carthage's past.
Outdoor Recreation: Carthage offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking at parks like Kellogg Lake and Powers Museum. Nature lovers can enjoy the scenic beauty of the area and engage in various outdoor adventures.
Local Culture and Events: Carthage hosts events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing the local culture, arts, and community spirit. From art fairs to music festivals, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the vibrant local scene.

Overall, traveling to Carthage, Missouri, offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation that can appeal to a wide range of travelers.

What to know

Carthage, Missouri, is a historic city with several attractions and points of interest, but like any destination, there are potential cons to consider when traveling there. Some potential cons of traveling to Carthage, Missouri, include:

Limited public transportation: Carthage is a relatively small city, and public transportation options may be limited. Visitors may find it challenging to navigate the city without a car.
Limited dining and entertainment options: While Carthage does offer some dining and entertainment options, the selection may be more limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide variety of restaurants, nightlife, and cultural experiences may find Carthage lacking in this regard.
Weather extremes: Missouri experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, including hot and humid summers and cold winters. Visitors should be prepared for weather extremes depending on the time of year they visit.
Limited accommodation choices: Carthage may have fewer accommodation options compared to larger cities, which could limit choices for visitors in terms of budget, amenities, and location.
Limited shopping opportunities: While Carthage has some shopping options, visitors looking for a wide range of retail choices may need to travel to nearby cities for a more extensive shopping experience.

It's important to note that these potential cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel priorities. Some visitors may appreciate the small-town charm and historical significance of Carthage, while others may find the limited amenities and attractions less appealing.

Please note that the information provided is based on general observations and may not apply to every traveler's experience.

Carthage, Missouri, is a city with a rich history located in Jasper County, in the southwestern part of the state. Here is a detailed history of Carthage, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Founding and Early Development

Founding: Carthage was founded in 1842 and became the county seat of Jasper County. The city was named after the ancient city of Carthage in North Africa.
Early Growth: The early settlers were primarily involved in agriculture, and the town grew steadily due to its strategic location.

Civil War Era

Civil War Impact: Carthage played a significant role during the American Civil War. It was the site of the Battle of Carthage on July 5, 1861. This early battle was significant as it was one of the first major engagements in the state and ended in a Confederate victory.
Destruction and Rebuilding: During the war, Carthage was largely destroyed, but it was rebuilt in the post-war years. Reconstruction efforts involved the establishment of new businesses and infrastructure.

Post-Civil War Growth

Economic Development: In the late 19th century, Carthage experienced significant growth due to the lead and zinc mining industry. The city became a prosperous center for mining and agriculture.
Carthage Marble: The city is known for Carthage Marble, a unique limestone used in many significant buildings across the United States, including the state capitols of Missouri and Minnesota.

20th Century to Present

Industrialization: The 20th century saw further industrial growth, with the establishment of various manufacturing industries.
Cultural Development: Carthage has developed a rich cultural scene, with events such as the annual Maple Leaf Festival, which attracts many visitors.

Significant Landmarks

Carthage Courthouse: The Jasper County Courthouse, built in 1894-95, is a significant architectural landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is known for its Romanesque Revival style.
Historic Homes: Carthage is home to many historic homes and buildings, particularly along Grand Avenue, which showcases Victorian architecture.
Battle of Carthage State Historic Site: This site commemorates the 1861 battle and includes a visitor center with exhibits relating to the Civil War.

Notable Figures

Kendrick House: One of the oldest surviving houses in Jasper County, it was used as a hospital during the Civil War and remains a symbol of the area's resilience.
Marlin Perkins: Although not born in Carthage, this famous zoologist known for hosting the television program "Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom" is associated with the area.

Modern Carthage

Economy and Culture: Today, Carthage is a vibrant community known for its historical significance and cultural events. It continues to celebrate its rich heritage while fostering economic and community development.

Carthage, Missouri, with its intriguing history and cultural significance, remains a key part of the story of the American Midwest, offering insights into the nation's development through its architecture, events, and people.