Discover Dexter

A trip to Dexter can include a range of interests: walking trails and natural areas, water activities, historic sites, and seasonal markets and events. If you’re looking for a hotel, your preferred focus can help you organize your travel dates and activities. The options below differ in their specific offerings and in whether visits are seasonal or require an appointment.

Parks and Walking Trails

The five-acre Eden Park is a nature park with a three-quarter-mile walking trail. It winds through native trees and wildlife habitat. The park is open daily from sunrise to 10:00 p.m. West Park has a paved walking trail, while Boon Park offers accessible playground equipment. You can choose between a trail through a natural setting, a paved trail, and a park with playground equipment, depending on which option suits your stay.

Water Activities

The Aquatic Center swimming pool includes a children’s play area, slides, changing rooms and restrooms, and a concession stand. The Aquatic Center has a listed season for 2026. If you’re planning for a later year, check the applicable dates in advance.

Dexter Fishing Lake includes an eleven-acre natural area for community fishing and has an accessible fishing pier. Dexter City Lake has an accessible kayak launch; only non-motorized watercraft are allowed there. The two lakes offer different options for your plans: fishing at Fishing Lake or using a non-motorized watercraft at the kayak launch at City Lake.

Historic Sites

Heritage House was built in 1870 and is one of Dexter’s original homes. The Dexter Welcome Center & Train Depot Museum is located in a restored historic train depot. The two sites offer different historical perspectives: an early home and a museum in a former depot.

Visits and community events at the Dexter Welcome Center are by appointment. If you’d like to visit the museum, contact Dexter City Hall to make an appointment and confirm the arrangements before you arrive.

Market and Events

At the Dexter Farmers Market, you’ll find fresh produce, local goods, and handmade items from area vendors. Offerings include fresh farm vegetables, homemade jam, desserts, and baked goods. During its 2026 season, the market was held every Thursday through September at East City Park. If you’re planning a visit in a future season, please check the applicable dates and location.

The annual Stoddard County Fair in Dexter may also be relevant when planning a stay. Its program includes entertainment, rides, exhibits, livestock, and food stands. Since dates and programming should be checked from year to year, plan your travel dates accordingly if the Fair is the reason for your trip.

Whether you’re interested in nature trails, fishing, a museum visit, or an event, the relevant conditions provide specific guidance for planning your schedule. You can then look for a hotel in Dexter that suits your travel dates.

For an overview of the wider area: Stoddard County.