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Excelsior Springs

Excelsior Springs, Missouri, United States

Excelsior Springs, located in the heart of Missouri, is a charming and historic town that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for visitors. Known for its healing mineral waters, Excelsior Springs has bee…

#Historic town#Mineral springs#Spa destination#Tourist attraction#Midwest charm

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Excelsior Springs.

Top Hotels in Excelsior Springs

Top Flights to Excelsior Springs

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Excelsior Springs.

Tours

Hall of Waters Historic Site

Explore the historic Hall of Waters, a renowned landmark showcasing the town's mineral water history, with guided tours available.

Shopping

Antique Shopping on Broadway Street

Discover unique vintage items and antiques by exploring the charming shops along Broadway Street.

Outdoor

Fishing at Watkins Mill State Park

Enjoy a day of fishing in the serene waters of Watkins Mill State Park, a perfect spot for outdoor lovers.

Location videos

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

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Excelsior Springs.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

10,700

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Excelsior Springs

Jan

3°-6°

Feb

6°-4°

Mar

12°1°

Apr

18°7°

May

24°13°

Jun

29°18°

Jul

32°21°

Aug

31°20°

Sep

27°16°

Oct

20°9°

Nov

12°3°

Dec

5°-3°

Local guide

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

What people love

Excelsior Springs, located in Missouri, United States, offers several benefits and attractions for travelers:

Historic Mineral Water: Excelsior Springs is famous for its historic mineral water springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Visitors can enjoy the therapeutic effects of the mineral water by visiting the local spas and wellness centers.
Outdoor Activities: Excelsior Springs is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and golfing in the nearby parks and recreation areas.
Historic Architecture: The city is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, including Victorian-era buildings and charming downtown streets. Travelers can take a stroll through the historic district to admire the beautiful buildings and learn about the city's history.
Local Events and Festivals: Excelsior Springs hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, providing visitors with opportunities to experience the local culture and community spirit. From art fairs to music festivals, there is always something happening in Excelsior Springs.
Shopping and Dining: The city offers a range of shopping and dining options, including local boutiques, antique stores, and restaurants serving delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore the unique shops and eateries in downtown Excelsior Springs to find souvenirs and enjoy a taste of local flavors.

Overall, traveling to Excelsior Springs offers a combination of relaxation, outdoor adventure, history, and cultural experiences that can appeal to a wide range of travelers.

What to know

Excelsior Springs in Missouri is a charming destination known for its historic sites, mineral water springs, and relaxing atmosphere. However, like any travel destination, there are some potential cons to consider when visiting Excelsior Springs:

Limited public transportation: Excelsior Springs is a smaller town, and public transportation options may be limited. Renting a car or relying on ride-sharing services may be necessary to explore the area effectively.
Limited dining and entertainment options: While Excelsior Springs offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, the selection may be more limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a bustling nightlife scene or a wide range of culinary choices may find the options in Excelsior Springs limited.
Seasonal variations: Excelsior Springs experiences seasonal weather changes, with hot and humid summers and cold winters. Visitors should be prepared for these variations and plan their activities accordingly.
Potential for crowded tourist areas: During peak tourist seasons, popular attractions in Excelsior Springs may become crowded. Visitors looking for a more secluded or quiet experience may want to plan their trip during off-peak times.
Limited shopping opportunities: Excelsior Springs may not offer the extensive shopping options found in larger cities. Visitors looking for a variety of shopping experiences may need to explore nearby towns or cities.

Overall, while Excelsior Springs offers a unique and charming experience for visitors, it's essential to consider these potential cons when planning a trip to the area.

Excelsior Springs, Missouri, is a city with a rich history, primarily known for its mineral water springs, which were believed to have healing properties. Here's a detailed overview of its history, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

History

Founding and Early History:
- Excelsior Springs was established in the late 19th century, following the discovery of mineral water springs. The first spring, known as Siloam Spring, was discovered in 1880 by a farmer named Travis Mellion.
- The town was officially platted in 1881 by Anthony W. Simpson, who recognized the potential of the mineral waters. It quickly grew as a health resort destination.
Growth as a Health Resort:
- During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Excelsior Springs became a popular destination for those seeking health treatments. Numerous hotels, bathhouses, and spas were built to accommodate visitors looking to benefit from the waters, which were rich in minerals such as iron, magnesium, and calcium.
- The Elms Hotel and Spa, originally opened in 1888, became one of the most famous establishments in the area, attracting celebrities, politicians, and even gangsters.
20th Century Developments:
- Excelsior Springs continued to thrive as a health resort until the mid-20th century. The popularity of mineral baths declined with advancements in modern medicine.
- The city adapted by diversifying its economy, focusing on local industries and tourism.

Significant Events

The Elms Hotel Fires:
- The Elms Hotel, a key landmark, experienced two major fires in its history. The first occurred in 1898 and the second in 1910. Each time, the hotel was rebuilt, with the current structure dating back to 1912.
Great Depression and Recovery:
- Like many towns, Excelsior Springs was affected by the Great Depression, but it slowly recovered in the following decades, partly by capitalizing on its historical and cultural heritage.

Historical Figures

Travis Mellion:
- Credited with discovering the first mineral spring that led to the founding of the town.
Anthony W. Simpson:
- Platted the town and was instrumental in its early growth and development.

Important Landmarks

The Elms Hotel and Spa:
- A historic hotel that has been a centerpiece of the city's tourism industry since the late 19th century. It is known for its luxury accommodations and historical significance.
Excelsior Springs Hall of Waters:
- Built in the 1930s as part of a New Deal project, the Hall of Waters was designed to be a central hub for the city's mineral water industry. It housed the world's longest mineral water bar and is an excellent example of Art Deco architecture.
Excelsior Springs Museum & Archives:
- This museum preserves the history of Excelsior Springs and offers insights into the city's past as a health resort.
Siloam Park and Spring:
- The location of the original mineral spring, now a park where visitors can learn about the history of the springs.

Excelsior Springs remains a city that celebrates its unique heritage as a former health resort, with many of its historical sites preserved for visitors to explore.