Quick Trip: Welcome to Joplin!
The wild, wild west of 417-land is close, affordable and happening.
Hurray for March and warmer weather. We think a quick getaway is the best cure-all for cabin fever. How about Joplin? At just 70 miles west of Springfield on I–44, you can be there in a jiff. We’ve done the research. All you have to do is show up. (And call ahead to make a few reservations.) Beyond that, it’s an easy trip with plenty to keep you entertained, well-fed and rested.
See
PhotoSpiva—a national photography competition—begins March 7 at the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts (222 W. Third St., Joplin, 417-623-0183, photospiva.org). This juried competition features the work of photographers from around the country.
You don’t need a golden ticket to tour the Candy House Chocolate Factory (510 S. Kentucky Ave., Joplin, 877-623-7171 candyhouse.net) in downtown Joplin. Tours at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. are free. Walk-ins are welcome, but it’s a good idea to call ahead. Chocolates are also available online. \
Need to get your backyard or garden in shape for the warmer months? Sandstone Gardens (2826 Douglas Fir Rd., Joplin, 417-206-6305 sandstonegardens.com) is a must-stop shop for outdoor living ideas.
Eat
Like Springfield, Joplin has a lot of restaurants, so you’re bound to find something you like. The menu at Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill (815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysseafood.com) should satisfy anyone craving something from the sea—with plenty of options for landlubbers, too. The Red Onion Café (203 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe.com) is good for lunch or dinner. A couple favorites include David’s Fried Chicken Salad and the Arkansas Smokehouse Chicken. Save room for dessert. The eatery is closed Sundays.
Party
While it isn’t exactly in Joplin, Downstream Casino and Resort in Quapaw, Oklahoma, is just across the Missouri–Oklahoma border. Of course, gaming and testing fate for the big bucks is the casino resort’s main draw. But if you’re not a big gambler, there’s Eagle Creek Golf Club and Nee Spa—opening this spring. Downstream also plays host to a variety of live entertainment. (888-396-7876, downstreamcasino.com.)
Play
If it’s nice outside, spend an afternoon at the Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center (201 W. Riveria Dr., Suite A, Joplin, 417-782-6287, wildcatglades.audubon.org). Stroll along walking trails, and stop at the learning stations as you go. If the outdoors aren’t your kids’ thing, try The Bridge (3405 S. Hammons Blvd., Joplin, 417-206-6886, thebridgejoplin.com). It’s is a fun, youth-oriented hotspot where you can enjoy rock-climbing, skateboarding, arcade games and an Internet café.
Stay
If you’re more interested in privacy—not socializing with other travelers—then Bit of Eden B & B (3546 S. Pearl, Joplin, 417-782-8592, bitofedenbnb.com) is the perfect place to stay. The owners welcome just one group at a time, which means you and yours will have the place to yourself. A couple of things: Let the innkeepers know in advance if you’re bringing children. And pets are negotiable. Cost per night is $75 for one person up to $170 for two couples. Downstream Casino and Resort in nearby Quapaw, Oklahoma, also offers overnight accommodations. (Call 888-396-7876 or visit downstreamcasino.com.)
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