May 8, 2020

A visit to Liberty, Missouri, is sure to delight. Beautiful scenery, parks, and shopping are just some of the things you can enjoy when you’re in town. You’ll also find some interesting landmarks that are must-visit locations while you’re in the area. Check out these places the next time you’re in Liberty. 

1. Corbin Theater Co. 

The Corbin Theater Co. was known as the Corbin Opera House from the late 1800s until the 1920s. Its convenient location on the north side of the public square made it an ideal place to hold Christmas dances, traveling roadshows, and lectures. For almost 40 years, members of the community enjoyed the cultural events that took place at this location.  

Today, you can catch a live concert or see an entertaining play on stage at the Corbin Theater Co. They also have a children’s theater group that performs at Peters Theater on the William and Jewel campus. Kids can attend the summer camp where they’ll learn important skills to help them not just with getting up on stage but in all aspects of their daily lives. 

2. Historic Liberty Jail 

Although the Historic Liberty Jail is not the original building, it still plays an important role in the history of the area. This reconstruction is housed inside a visitor’s center and provides a glimpse into what life was like for those held here. Its main significance is that it once housed the Mormon Prophet Joseph Smith as well as some other important religious figures who were falsely accused of treason. While incarcerated here, Joseph Smith wrote letters about his revelations to the Saints. These were later incorporated into the Covenant, where they can still be read today.  

Knowledgeable guides are available at this location to take you through the museum. They will help you learn more about the time period and what took place in the jail. There’s also a brief audio presentation if you prefer to explore on your own. 

3. Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary 

The Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary was created in the vision of the lifelong resident of Liberty, Missouri, Martha Lafite Thompson. She was a woman who loved the outdoors and wanted to create a place where anyone could go to relax and enjoy nature. Her and her husband, Omar Thompson, bought 53 acres of land in 1954, which is the west section of the sanctuary today. More land was later acquired, and in the 1980s, enough money was raised to build the nature center. 

If you visit the nature center, you can get out on the trails for a hike, observe the wildlife, and walk among the beautiful plants. There are also programs available for families and children, so check their website to find out when they are taking place. 

No matter where your interests lie, you can find fun things to see and do when you’re in Liberty. These must-visit landmarks aren’t the only way to have a good time in the area, but we highly recommend a visit to each one. They’re all a great way to feel more connected to Liberty. 

Image via Pixabay by Roy Harryman