The writer was hosted for all or part of this trip.
While Fort Leonard Wood Army Post may not be on your travel bucket list, It could be an extra stop worth making.
Not all military post are open to the public, which is what makes Fort Leonard Wood extra special. Not only is Fort Leonard Wood open for visitors, travelers, and the public, but the post also has loads of free or affordable things to do within their gates.
Free Things to Do at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri
Inside the gates of Fort Leonard Wood is five military museums that are free to visit. These museums share a load of history, facts, and get a little hands on which makes it fun for the kids.
US Army Chemical Corps Museum, – The history of chemical warfare was not something that I was completely familiar with. Having a ten year old and six year old in tow for my tour of this museum, I am still not well educated on it. However, I was thoroughly impressed with how interactive and fun the museum was. The museum really took what was a very complicated situation down to a level that even grabbed my six old’s attention.
US Army Engineer Museum – Every little boy’s or girl’s dream is to learn about the in and outs of those great big tanks and equipment that our United States Army uses. Getting a behind the scenes or a thorough look at military equipment was probably more than my six year old could ever dream of. During our hour long tour, there was not one moment that he actually stood still or lost concentration of what he was looking at.
Inside the museum you will learn what Army Engineers do, the equipment they use, and even get hands on experience with smaller scale equipment. Days after our visit my six year old is still talking the “amphibian vehicle” that is made to drive on the road or float across water – it is always the small things that excites him.
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US Army Military Police Museum – When we think police we rarely think about the police in our military, but actually the MP’s have played a major role in protecting our safety along with the safety of our government. My six year old loved this area also, because he is a huge fan of German Sheppard dogs and police dogs. He loved all the photos, learning the stories of how they use dogs in the military, and of course seeing all the police equipment.
The WWII Company Area – The WWII Company Area is collection of restored buildings that represent the many building built throughout the United States during WWII. Each building is preserved, but gives you an up-close look at what an Army barracks looked like. This is a bit of a walking trail, you will be going up and down steps to get in the buildings, but definitely worth a look.
The Historic Vehicle Park – Historic Engineer, Chemical, and Military Police vehicles dating from World War II to the Global War on Terror. While you can get a quick view of the park, if traveling with an automobile/ big vehicle lover, expect to spend some time looking over these massive pieces of equipment.
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Outside of the museums there is tons more for families to do on-post.
MWR Rec Plex that offers mini golf, splash park, go carts, and Wallace outdoor pool – with two 100′ slides.
Fort Leonard Wood Theater offers weekend movies and if you look at the prices, you may be surprised how affordable these can be.
Piney Valley Golf Course – An 18 hole golf course that runs along Big Pine River. The course is open to the public and offers a driving range, putting green, chipping area, pro shop, snack bar and lessons.
Outdoor Adventure Center – Inside the OAC you can learn about fishing, hiking, hunting on post. OAC also offers skeet shooting, archery range, paintball, fishing and floating trips and much more.
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