13 Prettiest Small Towns In Missouri

Aptly nicknamed "Show Me State," Missouri is a beautiful destination with numerous hidden gems that tourists ought to see. It is home to spectacular natural landscapes, captivating historical heritage, and a unique blend of Southern and Midwestern cultural influences that sets it apart from its neighbors. While most people associate the state with St. Louis and Kansas City, there is a pleasant collection of cute little towns beyond its two major metropolises.

These lovely locales truly embody the heart and soul of Missouri and together preserve its dynamic past while playing an important role in shaping its bright future. Their slow pace of life and rich natural setting beckon comfortable exploration away from the city. Between the gorgeous wilderness of Parkville and the historic homes of Ste. Genevieve, these are the prettiest small towns in Missouri.

Poplar Bluff

Considered the gateway to the Ozarks, Poplar Bluff is home to several museums that help preserve its dynamic historical and cultural heritage. Guests come for a unique trip down memory lane at the Mo-Ark Regional Railroad Museum. The facility stocks diverse relics and artifacts depicting the railroad history of southeastern Missouri and its neighbors. Not too far off, the Poplar Bluff Museum takes a keen interest in different aspects of the town's history, exhibiting archives and documents inside a 1910s Mark Twain School.

Poplar Bluff's artistic heritage shows at the Historic Rodgers Theatre, where townsfolk gather to watch plays, seminars, concerts, and other theatrical performances. Meanwhile, a scenic walking trail cuts through Ferguson Grove Park, beckoning those interested in the outdoors. The area has lovely picnic spots that let you relax.

Dexter

Steeped in mining history, Dexter is a delightful village in Stoddard County with an interesting story to tell. The Dexter Welcome Center Depot and Museum lays this all out through a collection of quirky artifacts and archives, introducing newcomers to the history of the railroad and the people. Nearby, Hidden Trails Country Club provides an excellent escape for golfers of all skill levels. This well-maintained course challenges players with 18 holes while rewarding them with terrific views of surrounding nature.

After a long day of exploring, downtown Dexter hosts numerous hang-out spots ideal for relaxing and unwinding. This includes Sonny's Place, a welcoming watering hole where you can enjoy cold craft beers and delicious burgers while catching up with receptive patrons.

Trenton

Although Trenton is synonymous with the production of Vienna Sausages, this Grundy County town has a balanced mix of attractions, allowing visitors an all-encompassing experience. For instance, historians can take an interest in the Grundy County Museum, which recounts the region's chronology using a vast collection of old photographs, furniture, weapons, and other artifacts displayed inside a three-building complex.

Meanwhile, outdoor lovers feel in their element while discovering Crowder State Park. This 1,900-acre playground supports all manner of outdoor recreation, from mountain biking and hiking to fishing and camping. Trenton doesn't discriminate against wine lovers, welcoming them to sample finely crafted local varieties at Black Silo Winery.

Parkville

Parkville is a charming suburb of Kansas City with an impressive network of green spaces, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This leaves numerous options for those looking to hit the trails, starting with English Landing Park. Spanning 68 acres, the area hosts three miles of walking trails and provides access to cool views of the Missouri River. Not too far away, Parkville Nature Sanctuary offers more reasons to embrace the great outdoors. This 115-acre refuge is a habitat for local wildlife that you can spot while exploring its rugged trails.

Parkville also boasts a historic downtown area with an eclectic mix of family-owned businesses. The corridor has a lively bar and restaurant scene, which includes the popular Char Bar. Patrons come here to enjoy delicious barbecue dishes before downing the food with refreshing craft beer in a vibrant atmosphere.

Boonville

A nice blend of curious history and exquisite nature brings travelers to this modest Cooper County village, famous for its rich Civil War heritage. Boonville was established in the 1800s and became the site for the Battle of Boonville, a taste of the intriguing local history worth exploring inside the River, Rails, and Trails Museum. This is depicted using a colorful collection of old wagons, steamboats, and other relics.

Car enthusiasts will relish admiring the fleet of vintage vehicles at Lewis Miller's Mitchell Collection. These range from wagons and motorcycles to automobiles, chronicling the evolution of the Mitchell brand. Finally, ardent adventurers can escape to the Katy Trail State Park for a wild biking, hiking, or horse-riding expedition along a historic recreational pathway.

Hannibal

Hannibal is a historic riverside community associated with the hometown of the legendary Mark Twain. It hosts several monuments and markers honoring its famous son, led by the Mark Twain Boyhood Home Museum. This 19th-century structure displays rare artifacts and personal memorabilia from Twain, including authentic paintings by Norman Rockwell. Just across the street, the Becky Thatcher House is another historic attraction worth checking out. It was the home of a childhood friend who inspired one of Twain's book characters.

Tourists who love unique adventures can venture underground to discover the mystic Mark Twain Cave. This wonderful labyrinth was famously immortalized in Mark Twain's The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Finally, don't leave without getting on the water for a cruise aboard the cozy Mark Twain Riverboat.

Ste. Genevieve

One of the most historic small towns in Missouri, Ste. Genevieve stands out for its immaculate preservation of French Colonial history in the state. It boasts a site-rich historic downtown district awash with markers and landmarks, including the Center for French Colonial Life. This unique museum was part of Missouri's first European settlement. Another notable site in the district is the Felix Valle House State Historic Site. The rustic American-Federal-style house was constructed in 1818 and provides a vivid glimpse of early French life in the town.

Beyond its colorful past, Ste. Genevieve has beautiful countryside with plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Multiple trails cutting through Hawn State Park let you explore 5,000 acres of wilderness with woodlands, streams, and other landscapes.

Creve Coeur

Situated a short distance from St. Louis, Creve Coeur is a suitable getaway from the city for anyone craving a taste of small-town life. It offers uncrowded green spaces like Millennium Park, a 25-acre public recreational space with multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, sports facilities, and a seasonal splash pad. The Creve Coeur Golf Course is an excellent alternative for golfers yearning to show off their swing. Its well-maintained greens and fairways deliver a delightful experience as you try to conquer the nine holes.

Lastly, remember to hunt for a worthy souvenir at the Antique Mall of Creve Coeur. The establishment houses over 200 dealers, which increases the variety and uniqueness of the antiques, primitives, and collectibles on display.

Arnold

Set on the confluence of the Mississippi and Meramec Rivers, Arnold is endowed with natural beauty, complementing its adorable rural atmosphere. Tourists have numerous options to explore the great outdoors, including access to the 25-acre Ferd Lang Park. This serene setting has shaded picnic areas designed for lazy walks and picnics. The Arnold Farmers Market showcases the community's receptiveness towards visitors while offering a chance to sample fresh local produce, mouth-watering baked treats, and handmade crafts. The market has over 60 vendors on average, so there is no shortage of choice.

Also, use the chance to learn about the town's past inside the Arnold Historical Society. The facility is dedicated to preserving and interpreting Arnold's dynamic evolution since its infant days, showcasing artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and photographs depicting this journey.

Belton

This bedroom community in northwest Cass County has a family-friendly atmosphere and invites tourists to spend a quality vacation with loved ones. Many of its major attractions are designed for all ages, including Aaron's Family Fun Center. This is where people go to enjoy a pleasant game of bowling, golfing, and volleyball. Meanwhile, Belton Cinema 8 screens some of the latest movies from Hollywood inside a small but intimately maintained venue.

There is no shortage of options for those craving the open spaces. Wallace Park is a great example and provides a myriad of useful recreational amenities for kids and adults. These include a soccer field, skate park, and playground.

Branson

Branson is a town in the Ozark with a reputation as a family-getaway destination thanks to its string of amusement parks. It is famously home to Silver Dollar City, an 1880s theme park with record-breaking coasters, thrill rides, live shows, and festivals. Guests and locals make lasting memories with loved ones in this exciting establishment. The Aquarium at the Boardwalk intrigues first-timers with exotic marine animal encounters. It hosts colorful undersea creatures, including stingrays, seahorses, and sharks, with a chance to join them underwater during a special diving session.

If you enjoy quirky attractions, consider touring the Hollywood Wax Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum allows you to meet some of your favorite celebrities using an amazing selection of life-like Hollywood life figures. It also offers props that you can use for a believable photo.

Carthage

This adorable community in Jasper County harbors an intriguing heritage intertwined with the Civil War as part of its historical fabric. Tourists can explore the story by visiting the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum. Dioramas, murals, and artifacts explaining the Civil War in the Ozark Mountains are displayed inside. Meanwhile, you can witness the actual location of the showdown at the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site. This 7-acre site preserves one of the earliest Civil War battles, fought in 1861.

Besides the history, remember to experience the town's lovely natural scenery with a trip to Spring River Park. This peaceful riverside escape allows you to pass the time fishing for walleye while listening to the soothing sounds of rushing river waters.

Cape Girardeau

Cape Girardeau balances its small-town feel and city-like attractions to guarantee visitors a taste of both worlds. It hosts pleasant green spaces to bring out its rural side, inviting outdoor lovers to revel in the relaxing setting of Cape Rock Park. This historic nature area was once a trading post established in the 18th century and features spectacular Mississippi River overlooks. An exciting trip back in time awaits at the Glenn House. This Victorian mansion transports newcomers to the 19th century with its original artifacts and furnishings.

Tourists interested in a more contemporary experience can take advantage of shopping and dining opportunities at the expansive West Park Mall. The establishment houses dozens of designer brands and retailers, including J.C. Penney's.

Final Thoughts

Although the Show Me State doesn't get as much wrap as it should for a vacation destination in the United States, the prettiest small towns in Missouri above truly showcase what travelers have been missing. Their unique histories, novel cultures, and picturesque nature represent an authentic side of the state that visitors can only experience when they venture outside the top cities. From enjoying family-friendly fun in Branson to exploring Civil War heritage in Carthage, expect memorable experiences where you choose to go.