If you’re planning to visit Hannibal (Mo) for a holiday and you don’t know what to do when you get there, this is the perfect post for you as we will reveal to you the various exciting and fun things to do in Hannibal (Mo).
Hannibal is a small town situated on the Mississippi River in northeast Missouri. Popularly known as the river town, Hannibal Mo is the 19th-century boyhood home of author Samuel Langhorne Clemens (Mark Twain).
The city inspired the settings of the famous Mark Twain’s novel 19th-century, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”
So many historical centers are associated with Mark Twain and the areas revealed in his story.
According to the city’s 2019 population census, Hannibal Mo has a population of approximately 17,320. You will never lack any fun and exciting thing to do in Hannibal when you explore this historic river community.
Find time to visit Mark Twain’s Hometown and enjoy a lovely holiday. How about the world’s renowned Mark Twain Cave? You can also explore the Haunted Hannibal ghost tour. The city also features Hannibal activities like Cave Hollow West Winery, a dinner cruise with the Mark Twain Riverboat, etc.
Now, let’s look at these Hannibal Mo fun attractions in detail!
Fun Things to Do In Hannibal, MO
1. Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum
You can begin your quest for excitement in Hannibal by discovering how a male teenager who grew up in a little Hannibal village became widely known as the world’s most cherished author. You are free to tour the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum.
By exploring this area, you will get the opportunity to discover the Hannibal of Samuel Clemens, where you will experience the exciting stories he wrote via his imaginative skills.
Situated along the 206 to 208 Hill Street in Hannibal, the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum was the residence of the famous Mark Twain, whose original name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens, from 1844 to 1853.
You must have read it in novels, but the museum allows you to visit and see it in the real world.
Address: 206-208, Hill Street, Hannibal, Missouri, west bank of the Mississippi River, United States
2. Haunted House on Hill Street
Ask those who visited the Haunted House and Wax Museum about 30 years ago, and they will tell you the nostalgia they went through. Fortunately, you still stand a chance to experience the same thrilling feelings and nostalgic moments.
You might be fooled into thinking that it ends with the charming exterior. However, a visit inside the place will provide more thrilling adventures. The Haunted House features a little Holiday Magic area, offering gifts and holiday items.
It also features a dark room. You will be welcomed by the unblinking gazes of 27 wax figures of Mark Twain’s characters and family, all stylishly created and designed by a famous sculptor called Martin Krewson.
A little more step inside, and you will find a doorway that ushers you into more thrilling feelings.
Address: 215 Hill St, Hannibal, MO, 63401, United States
3. Bluff City Theater
Another fun center you shouldn’t miss in Hannibal is the Bluff City Theater. It is an SPT Equity Theatre established for theatrical works rooted in literature, including books, authors, or characters from various novels or fiction.
It is a theater that functions every year and is used as a performance center. Apart from hosting its productions, the Bluff City Theater also welcomes different musical, theatrical, and community shows.
Situated in the previous Farmers and Merchants Bank building, a small theatre is open to everyone.
Address: 212 Broadway, Historic Downtown, Hannibal, United States
4. Ayers Pottery
Have you ever heard of the Ayers Pottery, yea! The famous Ayers Pottery? You will have the opportunity to visit the pottery that features the famous works of Steve Ayers. This renowned skilled potter has been producing pottery in Hannibal for over 20 years.
Find time to visit the specialty shop to explore Ayers Pottery’s several outstanding and functional creations, which you will love. It also features lovely groups of bakeware, dinnerware, drinkware, homeware, and several other wares, which you will hardly see in any shop.
Locally owned and located in Historic Downtown Hannibal, the Ayers Pottery is nicely constructed and decorated, featuring great detail in every piece. However, this pottery is more than just a store.
The Ayers Pottery, just like several other specialty shops in Hannibal, you will be shocked at its product production to comprehend the intricacies of its pottery production.
Address: 308 N 3rd Street, Hannibal, MO 63401, United States
5. Mark Twain Riverboat
Located on the riverbanks of Mississippi for over 30 years, the Mark Twain Riverboat will always provide you with an opportunity to get a closer sight of the Mississippi.
You can find this interesting as you only need to make the tour during either 1 hour narrated sightseeing adventure or 2-hour dinner fun tour.
With the Mark Twain Riverboat, you will be allowed to explore the Mississippi. Suppose you are given a free daytime break.
In that case, you can spend it in Hannibal cruising in the Mark Twain Riverboat and a one-hour sightseeing adventure on the river, including commentary on river history, legends, and sights. Don’t miss the opportunity to see Jackson’s Island, Lover’s Leap, etc.
Address: 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
6. Mississippi Mind Trap Escape Room
Located within the Broadway arena in Hannibal, the Mississippi Mind Trap offers a fun, enjoyable, and conversational entertainment experience.
You can come with your family and friends to try and find solutions to clues and puzzles while attempting to escape one of its realistically themed rooms within the time frame.
It offers an adventure that will channel you into a different world and find solutions to clues and puzzles to reach your final destination in any of its realistically themed rooms.
In addition, it offers lots of family-friendly games, where everyone in your group can share ideas and initiatives.
Address: 518 Broadway, Hannibal, MO, 63401, United States
7. Native American Trading Co. & Gallery
You can find the Native American Trading Company around the historic mission revival townhome, a block away from Denver’s civic center, and lies across the street from the freshly expanded Denver Art Museum.
It offers a thrilling and wonderfully beautified home featuring treasures such as mid-19th century Saltillo serapes and Chief’s blankets, which will tempt you into thinking it is a museum. In addition, it features Germantown colors of Navajo weavings that add some brightness to the walls.
In its windows, you’ll find original pottery from the local pueblos of New Mexico and the localities of Mata Ortiz in Mexico and its shelves.
Its gorgeous antique also showcases. In addition, the trading company provides a collection of original handmade American Indian art at affordable prices for genuine shoppers.
If you are a casual browser, you will derive essential lessons in the American West’s history and culture.
So don’t miss out on the chance to be among those that will witness and experience these lovely moments in the Native American Trading Company.
Address: 213 West 13th Avenue, Bannock St, Hannibal, United States
8. Haunted Hannibal Ghost Tours
Have you ever visited the Haunted Ghost Tours in Hannibal? If you’re not, you are always welcome to take part in the spine-tingling, guided driving tour around one of the most haunted cities in America.
In this tour, different secrets of several most notoriously haunted areas in Hannibal will be exposed to you.
You will also gain exciting information concerning the killings and mischievous acts that ensued during Mark Twain’s days as a kid in Hannibal.
In addition, you will see the present-day ghosts of the mansions on Millionaire’s Row and explore several other ghostly areas.
Take part in this tour that investigates the Old Baptist Cemetery, where you can look for signs of paranormal activity among the graves of slaves and soldiers of the Civil War. It will provide an exciting adventure that is well worth your time.
Address: 200 N Main St, Hannibal, MO 63401, United States
9. Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse
Are you searching for a fun place or thing to do in Hannibal, MO? Have you tried Mark Twain’s Memorial Lighthouse? You can enjoy the closest view of Hannibal and the Mississippi River by touring 244 steps to the new Lighthouse.
You will move to the intersection of North & Main Street in Hannibal. Meanwhile, it is closest to the Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn Statue.
The Lighthouse will favor photo lovers, as it offers a beautiful location and atmosphere to take lots of stunning river photos; and images of Hannibal’s historic downtown.
Located within a 10 acres of park atop Cardiff Hill, the Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse features a spacious area that accommodates a favorite play center of Tom Sawyer, Huckleberry Finn, and the gang. It also has an ample parking space for vehicles close to the top.
If you cross to the other side of the road, you’ll find the E. Rock & E. Cardiff. The rear entrance lies from Cardiff Hill Drive, which offers handicapped-accessible parking.
If you go 240 steps more, you will be directed to the Lighthouse from the north end of the Main Street in historic downtown Hannibal.
Address: E Rock Street, Hannibal, MO 63401, United States
10. Richard Garey’s Mark Twain Himself Live Show
Why not join us in Hannibal to experience the incredible cleverness and wisdom of Mark Twain.
In this adventure, you will witness the raw talent of combining hilarious comedy, entertaining plays, and stories told by Mark Twain himself to entertain all ages.
With this live show, you are guaranteed lovely moments filled with lots of laughter while also offering some slices of Victorian Tea of cookies, coffee, and tea.
In other words, it presents itself as a unique theater and natural in all areas. Of course, you wouldn’t plan on missing out on this show.
You are welcome to have the unlimited fun and enthusiasm of the famous Mark Twain shows of about a century ago. You will see stage performer Richard Garey returning Mark Twain to life in the Historic Planters Barn Theater.
The show pictures the man and legend. Mark Twain, HIMSELF is a fantastic theater filled with humor, comedic sketches, wisdom, and penetrating insight into the human world.
Address: 319 N Main St, Hannibal, MO, 63401, United States
11. Rockcliffe Mansion
You can spend your fun time exploring the Historic House Museum and Boutique Bed and Breakfast (B&B) Accommodations, otherwise known as Rockcliffe Mansion.
Rockcliffe Mansion is situated on a high, rocky eminence overlooking the city. The mansion is a massive center in Hannibal, which provides a daily guided tour.
Due to its location at the top of the high, rocky eminence, as earlier mentioned, it was given the name Rock Cliff, which later became known as the Rockcliffe mansion.
It is among the numerous attraction centers in Hannibal invariably toured by strangers and tourists that visit Hannibal.
Address: 1000 Bird St, Hannibal, MO, 63401, United States.
12. Karlock’s Kars and Pop Culture
A peek at Harlock’s Kars & Pop Culture will move you into spending your next free time in Hannibal. Join the self-guided tour via Hannibal’s newest, family-friendly attraction to witness some of its best collections.
Situated just above 10,000 square feet, you will find incredible artifacts, including more than a dozen vintage cars, arcade games, 100s of signs & posters, movie props, jukeboxes, and lots more.
If you are a car lover, the vehicles will interest you, as they are all authentic and classic.
The Karlock’s Kars & Pop Culture features famous movie and pop culture items such as Frank Sinatra memorabilia from the authentic Capitol Records Studio.
The Capitol Records Studio is a cash register that belongs to President Harry S. Truman and a motorcycle owned by Steve McQueen.
Address: 114 S 3rd Street, Hannibal, MO 63401, United States
13. Mississippi River Gallery Fine Art & Farming
It would be best if you explore the Mississippi River Gallery Fine Art & Farming as it celebrates its storied heritage of the Mississippi River from St. Paul to New Orleans.
Here, you will have fun in its authentic art in various mediums, exploring the river’s storied history and culture.
You will also experience the passion behind the art with artist’s exhibitions at the Mississippi River Gallery. Continuous exploring will take you to meet its artists, artisans, and musicians.
In addition, you can choose to take part in its workshop held in-house to actualize your skills in creative arts.
If you do well in your artworks, memory pieces, and needlepoint, you stand a chance of seeing them in our full-service frame shop.
You will see nicely constructed frames, conservation mats, photo mounting, shrink wrap, and shadow boxes, be it large or small.
Address: 319 N Main Street, Hannibal, MO 63401, United States.
14. Hannibal Art Council
Do you have what to do in your free time? Then, you can do well to visit Hannibal Arts Council gallery, where you’ll explore the creative works by featured talented artists. This council is precisely a world where you will see souls disappearing into art.
The entire Hannibal city features a strong arts community, which offers arts events every year. Now, the Hannibal Arts Council features a complete exhibit schedule among its galleries, in addition to workshops, school tours, and dozens of art programs and services.
Address: 105 S Main St, Hannibal, MO 63401, United States
15. ILASCO Memorial Village
Stroll back into time and discover more information on the history of ILASCO. You are welcome to witness the remaining cement company ghost town, such as the old concrete jail established in 1909, attractive monuments, and eight national flags memorializing the ethnic heritage and history of ILASCO.
ILASCO is an immigrant establishment city established in 1903 during the period Atlas Portland Cement Company built a massive production plant and at one time employed 2,500 workers. As a result, the town features a remarkable history and ethnic heritage created by blue-collar immigrants.
These immigrants entered the city to improve their family lives and usually had to defeat many challenges such as uncomfortable working situations and language problems.
But instead, they embraced the American culture, and due to their bravery, their generations were happy to recognize and respect the ancient ILASCO citizens.
Address: Highway 79 Ilasco Drive, Ralls County, Hannibal, MO, 63401, United States
16. Mark Twain Live at Cave Hollow Theater
Make time out of your busy schedule to witness “Mark Twain Live” by Jim Waddell at Cave Hollow Theater.
Located inside the Mark Twain Cave Building, Mark Twain is life at the Cave Hollow Theatre, where Raconteur Jim Waddell reweaves yarns and takes up the live character of Mark Twain, the author of some of the most cherished and famous books.
The presentation has been praised by scholars of Twainian tales for its originality of deliverance and manner of play. Mark Twain was famous for his stage roles when he was still alive.
Bringing over 30 years of professional experience, Jim Waddell portrays the live character of Mark Twain, the celebrated writer. You can join the host of other guests to visit Jim after the show.
Address: Mark Twain Cave Building, Hannibal, MO, United States
17. Molly Brown Birthplace & Museum
You can have an enjoyable lifetime experience by visiting Molly Brown’s Birthplace & Museum. But, who is Molly Brown? He was born in 1867 within the Gilded Age of Hannibal and was widely known as the “Unsinkable.”
However, before engaging in the Unsinkable experience of Molly Brown, it would be best to first tour through the little cottage where Maggie Tobin was birthed.
You will get more information about her childhood days and discover what she passed through during her lifetime and how it affected her.
The adventure continues with the Molly Brown Birthplace and Museum, where you will discover how Margaret Tobin Brown, the heroine of Titanic and an American patriot, grew from grass to grace, how she became so popular and was one of the important voices all through the Progressive Era.
Address: 600 Butler St, Hannibal, MO, 63401, United States
18. The World Trade Center Memorial
Among the numerous fun things to do in Hannibal, MO, is to explore the World Trade Center Memorial, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, a non-profit in New York City.
It celebrates its anniversary in remembrance and respect for the 2 983 people that died in the terrible September 11, 2001, and February 26, 1993 attacks.
It is remembering and showing respect to the heroes who sacrificed their lives to save others and others who showed extraordinary compassion after the horrific attacks.
Finally, it shows the repercussions of terrorism on individual lives and its role in the growth of its communities at all levels, including local, national, and international levels.
The Memorial & Museum serves as a witness to the triumph of human dignity ahead of human depravity and shows its steadfast commitment to the primary value of human life.
Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007, United States
19. Jim’s Journey: The Huck Finn Freedom Center
Find time to take a tour around the only museum in Hannibal dedicated to the African American that led to the character of Jim in Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
You can also view Samuel Clemens, the humanitarian in Hannibal’s first remembrance of Jim (Daniel Quarles).
You can also explore the lives of African Americans who played significant roles in his life and achievements.
Finally, you stand a chance to explore the proud history of numerous African American Hannibal dwellers who have taken the city of Hannibal, Missouri, as their home through their descendants.
The center is the newest museum in Hannibal, and the Northeast Missouri African American history museum features the country’s only memorial to Jim. He is Huck Finn’s friend and loyalist in Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
Here, you will get to discover the heroic tales of Twain, the humanitarian who undermined racism in his works and performances through a satirical and humorous lifestyle.
You will learn more about Daniel Quarles, Jim, and several other African Americans in Twain’s life/writings through a collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia.
The African American history museum also provides prestige to formerly nameless unknown ancestors who toiled as enslaved people for over 50 years in Hannibal.
You will discover the struggles and contributions of African American dwellers in “America’s Hometown.”
Address: 509 N 3rd St, Hannibal, MO 63401, United States
20. The Big River Train Town & Museum
From wherever you are in the world, you can journey to Hannibal to witness toy trains working real and alive. You can make travel to a period of the golden age when toy trains were part of everyone’s life.
You can also call back time to enjoy our functioning and interactive layouts, accompanied by toy train memorabilia.
Explore the new and vintage toy trains, which will undoubtedly interest train enthusiasts of every age. Feel free to come along with your camera and take photos for fun.
You have access to our depot store, with toys and supplies for the interested collector. However, you’ll have to pay a small fee for the interactive layouts.
Address: 320 N 3rd St, Hannibal MO, 63401, United States.