Military Graduation Itinerary

Are you attending a military graduation at Fort Leonard Wood?

There’s plenty to see and do while you're here, so you might want to extend your visit by a few days! If you’re in the planning stages, check out some itinerary ideas, places to stay, and tours and trails available in print or digital formats. You may also request materials and a Pulaski County Getaway Guide to be mailed to you. Once you arrive, visit the Pulaski County Visitors Center, where you'll find personalized information and itinerary suggestions. Additionally, information is available at local lodging properties in Pulaski County.

Family Day

One of your first scheduled events with your Soldier will be the Family Day briefing. During this time, the unit will share ideas for activities and inform you of any restrictions your Soldier may have. Typically, these restrictions involve remaining within a certain radius of Fort Leonard Wood and if they are required to stay in uniform. Your service member may then be released to enjoy the day with you from a few hours to possibly early evening.

If your ability to explore is limited due to transportation needs, Fort Leonard Wood has a variety of attractions to offer. The Mahaffey Museum Complex features state-of-the-art exhibits showcasing the history of the Chemical Corps, Engineers, and Military Police. Across the street, visit Memorial Grove, which includes several statues and memorials honoring fallen heroes.

Seasonally, the outdoor MWR Rec Plex features an 18-hole mini golf course, an outdoor pool, and go-karts. You can also enjoy a round of golf at the beautiful, 18-hole Piney Valley Golf Course. For indoor activities, the Daugherty Bowling Center is a great option, as is the Outdoor Adventure Center, which offers axe throwing, paintball, and archery.

Indoor Options

Just outside the Fort Leonard Wood gates, you'll find the communities of Saint Robert (north gate) and Waynesville (west gate). Discover a variety of activities, including gaming rooms like BK Games and Comic Hoarderz, along with event centers such as Bogeys & Beers. There’s also an interactive game play center and axe throwing. For movie lovers, the B&B Theaters Waynesville Patriot 12 features a Grand Screen showcasing the latest releases. A hilarious must-visit is the Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store, where you can enjoy delicious fudge, browse the Sideshow Museum, try Putt Pirates mini golf (outdoor/seasonal), and take fun selfies.

Outdoor Experiences

Outdoor activities and must-see spots include the National Park Service Cherokee Encampment, located alongside the beautiful Roubidoux Creek. Waynesville City Park is ADA accessible and features Little Heroes Park for kids along with a seasonal Splash Park. Downtown Waynesville is walkable and the Tourism Bureau offers both online and print self-guided walking tours highlighting the rich history of Waynesville. If you’re visiting on Saturdays from April through September, the Old Stagecoach Stop and the 1903 Courthouse Museum are both open. As you explore the city and head west toward Buckhorn, admire the beautiful murals celebrating Historic Route 66.

Don’t miss Route 66 Neon Park in Saint Robert, which features restored vintage signs that once graced the Mother Road from St. Louis to Carthage. It’s a wonderful site to visit during the day, but it’s a must-see at dusk when the lights come on! Grab a sundae and relax at the picnic tables — the lights stay on until midnight. To the south, the city playground and skate park offers a spot to play for kids to burn some energy. Saint Robert takes pride in the county’s patriotic culture and showcases several parks highlighting African American history as well as the Freedom Rock and military boulder murals located along Saint Robert Boulevard.

Just outside the immediate area of Fort Leonard Wood — but still within the radius restrictions for your service member — are the towns of Dixon, Crocker, and Richland. Visit their community pages for details on parks, shopping, and dining options. In addition, great eateries are scattered throughout the county offering everything from international cuisine and national favorites and unique, local restaurants. Shopping is also a great activity, with unique boutiques, flea markets, antique shops, and nationally recognized chains available. If you're looking to pamper yourself, be sure to browse personal services for local spas.

Make Graduation a Vacation!

Many families attending graduation extend their stay into a vacation. Pulaski County is a hub for outdoor activities with the beautiful Ozark riverways offering a delightfully relaxing river float trip. Choose your vessel — whether it’s a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, inner tube, or raft. Floats are available seasonally and life jackets are provided. Many outfitters also offer camping, RV accommodations, or cabin rentals, along with hiking trails, games, special events, and activities; one even features an outdoor pool. Learn more about how to make the most of this wonderful experience.

Travelers from around the world revel in the majesty and nostalgia of America’s Mother Road: Historic Route 66. Check out our multi-day itinerary to experience Missouri section of Route 66.

Visit our events calendar for information on upcoming events and community activities. If you have any questions while planning or during your visit, don’t hesitate to reach out via our Contact Us page, call 573.336.6355, or stop by the Visitors Center in Saint Robert.