Missouri has numerous sources of beauty. There are many urban areas in The Show-Me State to visit, but the smaller towns offer the finest access to the state's picturesque grassy plains and Ozark woods. There, visitors will discover inviting small-town charm, top-notch eateries and boutiques, active business sectors, magnificent state parks, outdoor activities, historic locations, and museums that are just waiting for visitors to explore them. Here are 10 beautiful towns in Missouri that should be visited because they perfectly capture the state's beauty.
10 Discover Missouri's Wine Country At Hermann
Hermann, which was previously awarded Missouri's most beautiful town in a reader's survey, is located in the heart of Missouri's wine region. It is tucked away along the Missouri River's banks and provides a starting point for numerous local vineyards and rural areas that may be explored on foot or by bicycle. German immigrants founded the town in the middle of the 19th century, and Hermann's German heritage is still evident in its brick buildings, yearly celebrations, and claim to be Missouri's capital of sausage manufacture.
9 Learn About The Interesting History Of Parkville Town
Parkville, a relatively tranquil town, has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state as a result of its efforts to conserve and promote its historic downtown area. In the 19th century, it was a key town for the westward migration that can be explored through nearby museums and historic structures. Visitors can browse antique stores, art galleries, and boutiques that sell homemade goods and vintage clothing. They can also find great eateries that primarily provide American cuisine and café treats.
8 Enjoy The Small-Town Charm Of Boonville
Boonville was established in the 1800s and was given its name by the sons of Daniel Boone. Due to its location on the Santa Fe Trail and the Missouri River commerce route, the town has a rich history and is best known for hosting a Civil War combat, but today it is one of the most amazing and tranquil tiny towns in Missouri to visit and discover the state's rich history.
7 Explore Rocheport Bike Trails
Rocheport was once only a little trading post, but it has since developed into a stunning town that is ideal for lounging around. Rocheport is one of the top places in Missouri for cyclists if they are seeking an athletic adventure. The town is situated along the 240-mile (386.24 km) Katy Trail, which allows bicyclists to travel primarily along the Missouri River's northern bank. Visitors can also hang out and browse the local boutiques and art galleries.
6 Observe Ste. Genevieve's Historical Sites And Architecture
French Canadian colonists established this town way back in 1735, making it the first European colony west of the Mississippi. This is a great site for history buffs and architecture fans because a large portion of the original architecture and furnishings of various public structures and inns are traditionally French. The wineries and vineyards of Ste. Genevieve is also French-influenced.
- Sites to visit: Visitors can explore The Bolduc House Museum and the Felix Valle House State Historic Site
5 Visit Hannibal, Mark Twain's Hometown
The renowned American author Mark Twain gave Hannibal its initial reputation by living there with his family. Additionally, many of his writings, including Tom Sawyer, have the town as their setting. Tourists can visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, which has been open for more than a century. Shopping, riverboat trips, museums, and other intriguing activities are all available in Hannibal. Visitors can also take part in one of the town's ghost tours.
- Entrance fee to the museum: $12 per adult, $10 per senior, and $6 per youth (6 to 17 years old)
4 Appreciate The Beauty Of Branson
Branson is well-known as a tourist destination because of its extensive array of entertainment venues, but it is much more than that because of its proximity to the Ozark Mountains, wineries, and the Branson Tri-Lakes. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor pursuits and scenic views, or they can take the free trolley to Historic Downtown to experience life in the 1880s. Branson offers beauty in the form of nature, modernity, and history. Spending a weekend in this town is an excellent idea!
- Additional activities to do: Tourists can visit Branson Landing, the Branson Scenic Railway at the historic depot, and the Ralph Foster Museum.
3 Kimmswick Is The Town For Those With A Sweet Tooth
Kimmswick, which is in Jefferson County, is a beautiful and well-liked vacation spot. Its history and architecture were preserved ever since the town was founded in 1859. Kimmswick attracts a surprising amount of tourists since it is filled with numerous locally-owned boutiques, art galleries, gift shops, and antique stores. People who enjoy sweets travel to the town as well. The Dough Depot and the Blue Owl, the town's two bakeries, are essential stops.
- The Town's most popular events: The yearly Strawberry Festival and Bluegrass Festival in June and the Apple Butter Festival in October
2 Step Into The 19th Century At Arrow
Arrow Rock, a small community by the Missouri River, is located in Saline County. When visiting this town, tourists will think that they have gone back in time because it still has a lot of its rich history attractions conserved. The 1829 city design gave the town its distinctive appearance. Seeing an amazing show at the Lyceum Theatre is a must for tourists. The town also has interesting museums, a state historic site, several antique and specialty gift stores, delicious restaurants, and excellent bed-and-breakfasts.
1 Experience Carthage And Its Endless Maple Trees
In Missouri's Jasper County, a charming little community called Carthage bears the name of the ancient Tunisian metropolis. Its abundance of colorful maple trees has earned it the title of America's Maple Leaf City. To find out more about local history and the town's involvement in the American Civil War, tourists can visit several historical sites and museums. They can also attend the Maple Leaf Festival in Carthage in October for lots of regional cuisine and beverages, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
- Additional sites to visit: Tourists can visit the Precious Moments hotel and shop, the Jasper County Courthouse, in addition to the Civil War battleground.