Travel
Getaway to Sedalia, Missouri
In a city about two hours north of Springfield, thousands of visitors make a pilgrimage every summer to celebrate the Missouri State Fair. While many already know about Sedalia’s fair offerings, there are still plenty of hidden gems to discover.
By Allie Free
Aug 2024
Photo courtesy Missouri Division of TourismHead to Sedalia for the Missouri State Fair for motorsports, live music, rodeo and bull riding.
Go to the Missouri State Fair
See everything Missouri front and center at the Missouri State Fair held this year from Aug. 8 to 18 at the Missouri State Fairgrounds (2503 W. 16th St., Sedalia). With livestock shows, thrilling rides, live music, rodeo, bull riding, races and more, you’ll have plenty to explore from the Show-Me State during your visit. Ticket costs range from $4–$15 depending on entrant age.
Order a Famous Guberburger
Sedalia is known for its guberburger (a hamburger topped with mayo, lettuce, tomato and peanut butter). Kehde’s BBQ (1915 S. Limit Ave., Sedalia) serves up guberburgers fresh daily in the vintage rail car that houses the restaurant. Goody’s Steakburgers (901 S. Limit Ave., Sedalia) can’t be missed either—the bright blue exterior of the building, 1960s decor and neon lights define this local classic.
Explore the Katy Trail
Boasting the title of the longest developed rail-trail in the country, the Katy Trail clocks in at just under 240 miles; thankfully, you don’t have to walk the whole thing to enjoy it. The trail cuts directly through Sedalia and is easily accessible to walk, bike or even ride a horse through. While there, visit The Katy Depot (600 E. Third St., Sedalia), a preserved train depot that is now a trailhead to the park and museum.
Visit Daum Museum of Contemporary Art
At the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art (3201 W. 16th Street, Sedalia), you can discover new artistic inspirations, movements and pieces that might make you look at things a little differently. The Daum displays up to 15 exhibitions annually, has a substantial permanent collection and three exhibition cycles annually. Notable pieces include glazed porcelain triptychs stoneware.
Shop at the Farmers Market
Already in town for some exploring? Stop into the Sedalia Area Farmers’ Market (1814 S. Limit Ave., Sedalia) held twice weekly. Pick up some local produce from Beulah Valley Farm and pair it with locally raised meats from MidMo Beefalo. Other vendor offerings might also catch your eye: one-of-a-kind metal and crystal jewelry from TdBinks, watercolor paints from Artistic Isle and tacos from Street Treats Food Truck.
