10-Day Honeymoon Adventure: Columbia to Missouri's Hidden Gems

Day 1: Explore Columbia

Columbia, Missouri

8:00AM

Breakfast at Broadway Diner

Start your honeymoon with a hearty breakfast at Broadway Diner, offering a full menu of classic dishes as well as vegan options.
Just a short drive to the diner within Columbia.
USD20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the University of Missouri

Take a scenic walk around the University of Missouri campus, exploring beautiful architecture and lovely gardens.
Drive 10 minutes to the campus.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cugino's Italian

Savor delicious Italian pasta dishes at Cugino's, offering outdoor seating perfect for you and your dog.
Located about a 5-minute drive from the university.
USD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Afternoon Dog Walk at Twin Lakes Recreation Area

Enjoy a leisurely stroll with your dog at Twin Lakes, complete with scenic views and pleasant trails.
About a 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Pack for Middle Brook

Return home to pack your bags and prepare your pup for the road trip ahead.
Drive 15 minutes back home.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Drive to Middle Brook

Embark on your journey to Middle Brook, enjoying the scenic drive.
Follow US-63 S to MO-72 E, approximately 2 hours.
USD15 (gas), 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Dogwood Inn

Check in to The Dogwood Inn, which is pet-friendly, and enjoy a cozy meal at their onsite restaurant.
Located conveniently at the inn.
USD40, 1 hour
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Day 2: Relax and Explore Middle Brook

Middle Brook, Missouri

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dogwood Inn

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Dogwood Inn before exploring the area.
Onsite dining allows for a stress-free start.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Silver Mines Recreation Area

Take your dog for a hike on the trails of Silver Mines, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
A short 15-minute drive from your inn.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Doc's Place

Stop by Doc's Place for a casual lunch featuring burgers and sandwiches served with friendly smiles.
Only a 10-minute drive from the hiking area.
USD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Local Art Galleries

Discover local talent at some art galleries around Middle Brook, enjoying art together.
Drive 5 minutes to the downtown area.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at the Inn

Head back to the inn for a relaxing afternoon, perhaps sipping coffee while enjoying the outdoors.
Return to The Dogwood Inn, 10-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Dogwood Inn

Enjoy another evening meal at The Dogwood Inn, where pet-friendly dining is always a treat.
Conveniently located at the inn.
USD40, 1 hour
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Day 3: Adventure to Meramec Caverns

Meramec Caverns, Missouri

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Dogwood Inn

Fuel up with breakfast at The Dogwood Inn before hitting the road to Meramec Caverns.
Onsite dining ensuring a timely start.
USD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Meramec Caverns

Leave for the famed Meramec Caverns, just a short drive away.
Drive 30 minutes west on I-44.
USD10 (gas), 30 minutes

9:30AM

Tour Meramec Caverns

Explore the mesmerizing Meramec Caverns on a guided tour while learning about its history and geological features.
Follow the signs from the parking area to the entrance.
USD40, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch near Meramec Caverns

Grab a quick lunch at the nearby Meramec River Resort, a casual dining space with outdoor seating.
1-minute drive from the cavern's exit.
USD30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Nearby State Park

Take your dog for a walk at the Meramec River State Park, enjoying the serenity and keeping your pup happy.
Only a 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Drive Back to Middle Brook

Return to Middle Brook to relax after a fun-filled day.
Reverse your earlier route for 30 minutes.
USD10 (gas), 30 minutes

4:00PM

Rest at The Dogwood Inn

Rejuvenate with some leisure time back at the inn, allowing your dog to unwind as well.
Back at your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Local Diner

Indulge in some comfort food at a local diner known for their hearty meals.
15-minute drive to the ‘Cozy Corner Diner’.
USD30, 1 hour
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Day 4: Leisurely Day in Middle Brook

Middle Brook, Missouri

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dogwood Inn

Enjoy breakfast at your cozy inn before venturing out for the day.
Located onsite.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Elephant Rocks State Park

Take a scenic drive to Elephant Rocks for stunning views and unique rock formations.
Drive 1 hour to the park.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Elephant Rocks

Pack a lunch to enjoy while surrounded by beautiful nature in the park.
Prepare picnic beforehand, easily enjoyed at park.
USD20 (groceries), 1 hour

2:30PM

More Hiking at Elephant Rocks

Take more time hiking the trails around the park with your furry friend.
Continue exploring the park.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive Back to Middle Brook

Return to Middle Brook for a relaxing evening.
Backtrack 1 hour to your inn.
USD10 (gas), 1 hour

5:30PM

Chill at The Dogwood Inn

Spend your evening at the inn, enjoying a downtime together.
Onsite at your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Local Pizzeria

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local pizzeria with outdoor seating for dogs.
Drive 10 minutes to ‘Country Pies’.
USD30, 1 hour
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Day 5: Returning Home to Columbia

Columbia, Missouri

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dogwood Inn

Indulge in breakfast before checking out.
Final meal at the inn.
USD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check Out and Drive Home

Check out of The Dogwood Inn and head back to Columbia.
2-hour drive back using the route you traveled to Middle Brook.
USD15 (gas), 2 hours

11:00AM

Home Sweet Home

Arrive back home to Columbus and settle in.
Arrive with ease, back to your comfy home.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Home

Enjoy a simple lunch at home together, perhaps using leftovers from your trip.
No travel required, enjoy home comforts.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Walk at Columbia Parks

Take your dog out for a walk at Peace Park, enjoying the lovely weather.
Head to the nearest park nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Pack for Next Adventure

Prepare your gear for upcoming adventures in Columbia, excited for the days ahead.
Finalizing arrangements at home.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Casual Dinner in Columbia

Enjoy a casual dinner at cheers, an affordable local bar and grill with dog-friendly patio.
Just a quick 10-minute drive.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Unwind in Columbia

Columbia, Missouri

8:00AM

Breakfast at Home

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at home before planning your day.
No drive needed, cook breakfast in.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Museum of Art and Archaeology

Explore local exhibits at the Museum of Art and Archaeology, pet-friendly on the grounds.
Just a short drive from home.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Flatbranch Pub and Brewing

Enjoy delicious local food and brewed beer at a dog-friendly outdoor patio.
5-minute drive from the museum.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Leisurely Walk in The MKT Trail

Take your dog for a walk on the MKT Trail, enjoying the autumn scenery.
Head to the nearest trail access point.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the local farmers market

Support local vendors and pick up some fresh produce to take home.
30-minute drive to the farmer's market location.
Free unless purchases made., 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Wind Down with Coffee

Enjoy a coffee at The Coffee Zone, known for their artisanal roasts.
5-minute drive from the market.
USD10, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Rolia's Italian Kitchen

Relish Italian cuisine at Rolia's with takeout-friendly offerings.
10-minute drive from your coffee shop.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Local Columbia Experience

Columbia, Missouri

8:00AM

Breakfast at Home

Start your day with a made-at-home breakfast, ideal for a relaxed morning.
In the comfort of your home.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Columbia Farmers Market

Explore offerings from local farms and artisans, enjoying the outdoor market with your furry friend.
Only a 10-minute drive away.
Free unless purchases made., 2 hours

11:30AM

Brunch at Sophia's

Enjoy a delightful brunch with fresh, seasonal ingredients at Sophia's, welcoming dogs on the patio.
A quick drive from the market.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Columbia Bottling Works

Tour the local brewing plant for a different local experience, allowing dogs in certain areas.
Head over for a 15-minute drive.
USD10 (tour fee), 1 hour

2:30PM

Nature Walk at Grindstone Nature Area

Take an easy hike at Grindstone, with plenty of trails to enjoy with your pup.
Drive 20 minutes to the nature area.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Coffee at Kaldi's Coffee

Relax over a comfy coffee date at Kaldi's, loved for their welcoming atmosphere.
On your return, 10-minute drive back.
USD10, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Crossing

Finish off the day with a lovely dinner at The Crossing, known for their farm-to-table meals.
5-minute drive after coffee.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 8: Adventuring in Columbia

Columbia, Missouri

8:00AM

Breakfast at Home

Wake up and enjoy breakfast made together at home for a cozy start.
No travel required, making memories in your kitchen.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

Hike the trails of Rock Bridge, famous for its natural bridge formation and variety of trails.
A 15-minute drive from home leads you there.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch at the Park

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the serene surroundings of Rock Bridge State Park.
Enjoy the scenery while you eat.
USD20 (groceries), 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore More Trails

After lunch, take your time exploring more trails at the park.
Continue your adventure on available paths.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive to the Columbia Art League

Take in some art and culture at the local art league.
Drive 20 minutes to the league.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Coffee Break at The Grind Coffee House

Relax with a cup of coffee and unwind, taking in lovely local vibes.
Just 5 minutes from the art league.
USD10, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Shiloh Grill

End your day with a satisfying dinner and a dog-friendly patio vibe.
Head over for a leisurely 10-minute drive.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Final Day in Columbia

Columbia, Missouri

8:00AM

Breakfast at Home

Wrap up your trip with a cozy homemade breakfast, cherishing time together.
No travel effort needed.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Participate in Dog-Friendly Events

Check local listings for any dog-friendly events or markets happening today.
Stay local and partake in community offerings.
Free unless purchases made., 2 hours

12:00PM

Light Lunch at Home

Enjoy a simple lunch at home, perhaps using leftover groceries from your picnic.
Free time at home.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the local library

Explore the Columbia Public Library or attend any community events.
Just a quick drive into town.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Dog Park Time

Spend some quality playtime at a local dog park, letting your pup socialize.
Drive 15 minutes to the nearest park.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Coffee at Lakota Coffee

Enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee while thinking about the amazing days you had.
Quick drive for a local favorite.
USD10, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Home

Wrap up the evening with a cozy dinner prepared together, reflecting on your lovely honeymoon activities.
Home sweet home.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Departure for New Adventures

Columbia, Missouri

8:00AM

Farewell Breakfast at Home

Share a farewell breakfast filled with laughter and memories before you continue your adventures.
No hassle, just comfort at home.
Free, 1 hour
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