Things to Do in Bolivar

Despite his migraines, Obi Simpson's doctors finally cleared him to fulfill his lifelong dream and serve in the military. It was then he made a surprising discovery: ballroom dancing. His newfound passion outweighed his desire to suit up with the armed forces, and he was inspired to open Take The Lead. At his studio– which features a sprung floor, reducing the impact on joints and bones– Simpson blends relationships, confidence, fun, stress relief, and physical fitness to form his unique approach to a variety of styles such as country, Latin, and swing. He treats each session as a chance to connect with others, from custom choreography for altar-bound duos to group classes that implore students to dance until cows have returned home, emptied the recycling, and retired to bed.

In a handful of studios scattered between Charlotte, North Carolina, and Springfield, Missouri, kids express their artistic creativity under the friendly supervision of Noah’s Art instructors. Classes cover a wide variety of topics—from painting and clay sculpture to vocals-based Song Art—and are arranged by age group, allowing children to interact with peers of a similar developmental stage while engaging in philosophical musings on the meaning of parent-enforced time-outs. Instructors also teach basic art tools and techniques, such as how to properly hold a paintbrush or sculpt clay using only your mind.

Equipped with likenesses of military-issue firearms, masked marksmen maneuver throughout a 10,000-square-foot warehouse, pelting each another with plastic BBs as they strafe down halls and overtake rooms. This is the home base of So Go Airsoft, where team members welcome combatants of all skill levels into 20- to 25-minute games that range from classics such as Capture the Flag to scenario matches such as VIP Escort, Hostage Rescue, and Car-Key Find. The facility also organizes at least one scenario event each month—designed for beginners, but challenging for experienced players as well—plus a twice-monthly pistol and shotgun night. So Go Airsoft also engages large groups by opening up their spacious arena to private parties.

Sprawled atop rippling Missouri foothills, Seven Springs Winery's 160 acres affords guests views of forests stretching out before them that change colors throughout the seasons. Amongst the lush, green landscape, the vineyard springs up with rows of grapes, wine-bottle bushes, and a welcoming tasting room. Wine tastings let guests experience a wide range of Seven Springs Winery's reds, whites, and blushes, including varietals such as chardonel and pinot noir. The vintners and knowledgeable bartenders also welcome aficionados and the wine-curious to sip a glass of wine, sangria, or microbrew from the covered porch or patio, and a selection of soups, sandwiches, cheeses, breads, and dipping oils can be called upon to enhance the experience.