Mt.
Vernon's centralized location places it within an afternoon drive
of two lakes, the nationally recognized tourist spot of Branson
and several major cities. In many ways this is why Mt. Vernon is
often referred to as the "starting line" for the Ozark
Mountain Parkway, the scenic route along Highway 265 toward Branson.
One
of the unique traits about the city, however, is the number of activities
that families or individuals can enjoy without having to drive past
the city limit signs.
Mt.
Vernon residents and city officials are proud of their park facilities,
seven in all. The largest park in the city can be found north of
the downtown area. The "Underwood Spirit of 76" park complex
features an Olympic-sized pool, four baseball fields, tennis courts
and a "Mighty Mite" football field, along with a picnic
area that winds along the tranquil waters of Williams Creek.
Other
Mt. Vernon parks and places of interest include:
 Jones
Memorial and Chapel
Jones Memorial and Chapel, built in 1961 as a "thank you"
to the people by Lawrence K. Jones, is located northeast of town,
adjacent to the golf course. The stone building houses a wedding
chapel and meeting hall and the Lawrence County Historical Society
Museum.
The museum and cabin are open from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sundays
from Memorial Day weekend through October and by appointment.
You can rent this local landmark for your meeting, wedding or other
special event. For more information please call 417-466-2185.
Williams
Creek Fishing Pond
Located just across from the "Underwood
Spirit of '76" park is the Williams Creek Fishing Pond, which
offers handicapped accessible fishing piers and a popular walking
path as well as a spacious picnic area.
Wynne
Park
The site of Mt. Vernon's Veteran's Memorial, Wynne Park is located
on the business loop and provides playground equipment and a picnic
area.
Gibbs
Park
Named after the family who donated the land, Gibbs Park near the
downtown Square offers a pavilion and various playground equipment
for children.
Gary
Ewing Park
Nestled in big shade trees, the Gary Ewing Park is a perfect spot
for family and community gatherings. It is located on the east side
of the city's 9-hole golf course. Park benches and a covered pavilion
are provided.
Golf
Course
Mt. Vernon's golf course, located in the northeast portion of town
has a 9-hole course, clubhouse and golf cart storage. Call 417-466-7831
for more information.
 The
Adamson Cabin
This cabin is one of the few remaining authentic pioneer homes found
in the region.It was constructed in 1845, the same year the county
was founded, and was moved to its present location next to Jones
Memorial on N. East Street. Admission is free.
2nd
Old Jail
The city's "2nd old jail," was built in 1854, is located
a block west of the downtown Square and will eventually become the
city's second public museum.
Library
The Lawrence County Historical Society houses its historical and
genealogical information in the Walter C. McCanse Library at 206
W. Water where they are accessible to researchers six days a week.
Fish
Hatchery
The Chesapeake Fish Hatchery, which produces a variety of warm and
cool water fish, can be found east of Mt. Vernon on Highway 174.
It is an ultra-modern facility consisting of 24 ponds, 12 raceways
and a large hatchery building. For more information or for tours,
call 417-466-3421.
For
more information, please contact us at 417-466-7654 or by Email.
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