10 Prettiest Towns In Missouri
On an adventure through the Midwestern state of Missouri, many travelers venture past the world-famous Saint Louis Gateway Arch in one of the most popular cities in the state. But to discover everything this incredible "Show Me" state offers, you will also want to check out the small towns. From rushing rivers, waterfalls, and whitewater rafting to underground caves and caverns you can explore on foot, Missouri has breathtaking views to hike and discover in over 90 State Parks. And in the heart of all this nature are the prettiest small towns in Missouri.
Boonville
Drive down Highway 40 across the Missouri River just 30 minutes east of the city of Columbia and find yourself in one of the prettiest main streets the state has to offer. Home to fewer than 8,000 inhabitants and over 400 buildings on the National Registry of Historic Places, this tiny town has big offerings when it comes to beauty, culture, and history. Jumpstart your day with a visit to the River, Rails & Trails Museum located in a restored historic grocery wholesaler warehouse building. After your tour, you are conveniently located at the head of Katy Trail, the country's longest continuous recreational rail trail. At 240 miles long, you can walk as little or as much as you'd like.
Clarksville
Situated on the West bank of the Mississippi River, just one and a half hours north of Saint Louis, Clarksville is one of the most incredible small towns, and a must-see next time you are in the area. Home to The Clarksville Island National Wildlife Refuge, this location is among the top in the world for bald eagle sightings. A year-round bird-watching destination, try to plan your visit from November through March to experience the eagles swooping down to the river to snatch up a meal. Arrive the last weekend in January to join the annual Eagle Days event, hosted by Naturalists from the Missouri Department of Conservation, the US Army Corps of Engineers. There is something for everyone at this incredible event, where the bald eagle is the guest of honor.
Jefferson City
Home to 42,700 permanent residents, Jefferson City, the state capital, is a hidden gem situated halfway between Saint Louis and Kansas City. This picturesque town is stunning in all seasons, and boasts a rainbow of autumn leaves come September. Named after Thomas Jefferson, this town is packed with history, museums, and adventure. Home of the Missouri State Penitentiary, visitors can tour the Penitentiary Museum or stop by the jail-themed Prison Brews for a cool pint of beer, bocce ball, and chilling stories of prisoners past. Finish your day off with a walk downtown along the beautiful Missouri River.
Arrow Rock
The entire village of Arrow Rock, Missouri, is part of the National Historic Landmark Arrow Rock Historic District. With fewer than 70 inhabitants, this quaint hidden gem is full of nature, history, and scenic adventures for all ages. On the edge of the Missouri River, situated at Arrow Rock Bend, one hour and a half from Kansas City, you will find this picturesque hamlet. Visit the historic Lyceum Theatre, which attracts actors from around the country to perform in its various productions since 1961 at Arrow Rock Baptist Church. They have been sharing Broadway-caliber shows with the world ever since, and you will not want to miss one when you are in Arrow Rock.
Ste. Genevieve
One hour south of Saint Louis, along the banks of the Missouri River, you will find the picturesque town of Ste. Genevieve. Home to 4,600 residents, it is an absolute treat for any history buff while in Ste. Genevieve. You can tour any number of its historic buildings and museums, such as the Bolduc House Museum circa 1788, situated at the center of the French Colonial Life Museum Campus. After your historic tour, finish your day off with a traditional plate of local catfish at the Anvil Restaurant & Saloon, which has been serving the folks of Ste. Genevieve since 1866.
Hannibal
The stunning town of American writer Mark Twain, who was named The Father of American Literature, and a place where now over 17,000 inhabitants call their own. Located on the Mississippi River 116 miles north of Saint Louis, Hannibal is home to hiking, caves, wineries, and museums you do not want to miss. After you tour the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, plan a tour through the Mark Twain Cave, made famous by the book The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. After a day of adventuring, stop by the Cave Hollow West Winery for one of their popular wine slushies that will be sure to cool you down and relax you after a long day.
Kimmswick
Along the edge of the Mississippi River, Kimmswick is a picturesque town located in Jefferson County. With a history dating back to the 1850s, Kimmswick is known for its historic buildings, quaint shops, and warm Midwestern hospitality. It was designated a National Register Historic District where visitors of all ages can step back in time and experience the town’s unique vibe and brick-paved streets. Stop into LaChance Vineyard to enjoy food and a wine pairing of the best Kimmswick has to offer, or spend your day shopping the main streets in over 20 unique shops located inside historic homes.
Washington
Home to fewer than 15,000 residents in the heart of Missouri wine country, this historic river town is rich with German heritage and is the location of the Lewis & Clark trail along the Missouri River. Take a trip to the Iron Spike Model Train Museum to get a first-hand look at the model train systems in this veteran-owned museum, a perfect attraction for families and children. You will not want to miss The Old Bridgeview Brewing Company, Missouri's first community cooperative, where an autonomous association of works together to bring a wonderful atmosphere, education, and beer to the people of Washington.
Perry
Located at the edge of Mark Twain Lake, two hours northwest of Saint Louis lays the prettiest little town and home to 670 permanent residents. This historic town has much to offer, from its shops in a picturesque downtown to its beaches. Spend the day swimming in Mark Twain Lake, where you can picnic, grill, swim, and even camp if you want to be closer to nature. Warm up in the evening at the famous Rustic Oak Cabin Steakhouse and their extensive menu inside a beautiful cabin just steps from the water.
Farmington
About 75 miles southwest of Saint Louis, you will find yourself in the beautiful downtown of Farmington, Missouri. Home to just over 18,000 inhabitants, it has everything to offer from over 15 parks, as well as vineyards, golf courses, and hiking trails that head into multiple surrounding State Parks in the Ozark Mountains. Take a hike at Elephant Rocks State Park and soak up the beautiful scenery before cooling off at the Farmington Water Park. Catch an afternoon round of golf at the Crown Pointe Golf Club before settling in for the evening at Sand Creek Vineyard's expansive tasting room.
The next time you are thinking about getting away for a weekend, or exploring the best of the American Midwest, you must visit the prettiest towns in Missouri. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a week-long road trip, Missouri has so much to offer when it comes to nature, outdoor adventure, and history, not to mention that world-famous Midwestern charm. From wineries to great culinary adventures, Missouri should be on your bucket list for great places to discover in America.
