2025's Most Underrated Towns In Missouri

Tucked carefully away in every state are a few hidden travel gems that often go overlooked. Whether the towns have a small, unassuming population or are easily overshadowed by bigger nearby cities, these underrated locations are still worth exploring. In many cases, travelers to small towns get to enjoy a less commercialized experience allowing them to truly live like the locals do.

In Missouri specifically, big cities like St. Louis and Branson are highly sought after, but the state's small towns have just as much to offer. Whether you’re looking to walk through the boyhood home of Walt Disney or attend a cozy annual festival, these underrated towns have you covered. And the best part? There will be no giant hoards of excited tourists to navigate through. So this year, get out and discover that there is more to Missouri than the Ozarks.

Carthage

Carthage’s natural landscape is a stand-out feature boasting lush forests, rolling hills, and small but peaceful streams of water. One of the best ways to soak up that natural beauty is by visiting the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site. Here, hiking trails, meadows, streams, and history lessons come together for an afternoon of fun.

Carthage’s alluring location along Route 66 and its ties to the Civil War make it a dream destination for history buffs as well. Notably, Carthage was the site of one of the war’s earliest land battles.

Those interested in that particular battle can learn more by visiting the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum on Grant Street. Here, visitors can enjoy various artifacts and an impressive 7-by-15-foot mural depicting the famous event.

Outside of natural and historic attractions, Carthage offers a myriad of fun things to see and do. For example, Route 66 locations such as Boots Court, Red Oak II, and the 66 Drive-In Theater are all worth exploring.

The town's tourism industry also believes in Carthage, boasting “four historic districts and over 550 buildings listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.” Annual events such as the Maple Leaf Festival also add to the overall appeal of this destination, so get in while you can.

Hermann

Hermann, Missouri’s thriving wine culture and strong German heritage are notable.

The town is located along the shores of the Missouri River and features dolomite bluffs, rolling hills, and beautiful vineyards.

The town was originally settled by ethnic Germans from Philadelphia in the 1800s. Today, that German influence still permeates the culture in Hermann. Visitors hoping to learn more about Hermann’s origins can visit the Historic Hermann Museum inside the 1871 German School Building or check out the Deutschheim State Historic Site. The historic site is home to some of the oldest surviving buildings in town and hosts semi-regular events, including Weihnachtsfest, a traditional German Christmas celebration.

Perhaps the most obvious defining feature of Hermann is the multiple wineries that line the town's streets. Some of the standout wineries include Adam Puchta Winery, which claims to be “the oldest continuously owned family farm winery in the country,” and the Hermannhof Winery, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Other fun things to do while in town include visiting the Historic Hermann Caboose Museum and the Herman Farm Museum. Presently, tourism is “Hermann’s most visible industry,” according to information posted on the town's official website. The same site also notes that “the City of Hermann works hard to help local businesses grow and expand and to attract new business and industry.” So be sure to visit this charming little German-inspired town ASAP, before bigger crowds start rushing to this hidden gem.

Hannibal

In 2025, HGTV called Hannibal the most charming small town in the state. The town is still largely considered an underrated spot

Upon arrival, travelers will find plenty of natural beauty to admire, including the Mississippi River, towering bluffs, dense woodlands, caves, and hiking trails.

Notably, lovers of literature will be pleased to learn that Hannibal is also the boyhood home of author Mark Twain. Fans of Twain’s work will find several appealing attractions in Hannibal, including the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, the Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse, and the Mark Twain Riverboat. Jim's Journey: The Huck Finn Freedom Center is also loosely inspired by Twain’s work and showcases the history of the “19th and 20th-century African American community in Hannibal and northeast Missouri.”

Molly Brown-the, the famous Titanic survivor, was also born in Hannibal, and interested travelers can visit her Birthplace & Museum as well. To get the most out of Hannibal’s natural beauty, don’t forget to explore local places such as Lovers Leap and Riverview Park.

Pineville

Pineville, Missouri, is known as “The River City” due to its location at the confluence of three rivers: Little Sugar Creek, Big Sugar Creek, and the Elk River. The town's natural landscape is characterized not only by these bodies of water but also by rocky ledges, rugged terrain, and groves of beautiful pine trees. Despite its natural appeal, Pineville-with a population of just over 800-has long been overlooked as a tourist destination.

Today, the allure of this peaceful town is undeniable. While here, nature lovers can explore the best of Pineville by visiting outdoor attractions such as the Huckleberry Ridge Conservation Area and Big Sugar Creek State Park. Both locations offer great hiking trails and plenty of local flora including Ozark Chinquapin trees and prickly pear cactus. Travelers looking for family-friendly events will find a handful here including Pineville’s annual Fall Festival, Easter Egg Hunt, and Lighted Christmas Parade.

In the coming years, tourism in Pineville is expected to rise mostly due to the town's public river access points and public campgrounds. According to a post on the town's official website, the population in Pineville is also expected to rapidly expand because of “the urban sprawl from northwest Arkansas. "

According to an article in Missouri Life Magazine, McDonald County (where Pineville is located) threatened to secede from Missouri. The threat occurred “after three of its towns—Noel, Pineville, and Southwest City—were left off the family vacation guide printed on the back of the official 1961 state highway map.”

Boonville

Located roughly halfway between Kansas City and St. Louis-Boonville, Missouri is often passed over for bigger city attractions. But, don’t be fooled by the town's modest population of under 8,000 people; Boonville is a shining gem with plenty of historical and natural appeal. The town sits on a wooded bluff, overlooking the Missouri River and features a handful of peaceful hiking trails for visitors to enjoy.

Popular outdoor areas such as Katy Trail State Park and Rolling Hills Park offer hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. The Katy Trail Railroad Bridge is also worth checking out, as it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding water.

For history buffs, Booneville’s Friends of Historic Boonville group works hard to preserve some of the oldest buildings in town. These buildings include Old Cooper County Jail, Thespian Hall, and Hain House & Memorial Gardens, which are all worth a visit. Those interested in automobile or train history may also want to explore Lewis Miller’s Mitchell Collection and the Rivers, Rails & Trails Museum;

Perryville

Small-town charm radiates from Perryville, Missouri. Between the welcoming residents and fun annual community events like Mayfest, it is surprising that more people do not look to Perryville as a worthwhile travel destination.

The town's official website describes the area as a “a vibrant community blending tradition with progress.” Moreover, the natural landscape in Perryville is appealing, featuring rolling hills and wide-spanning hardwood forests.

Local spots such as the Ball Mill Resurgence Natural Area and the St. Vincent De Paul Seminary Picnic Grounds are the best places to enjoy the town's natural beauty.

Agriculture has played a prominent role in Perryville’s history. A post on the town's official website notes, “Bread from flour made in Perry County won first prize at both the 1873 Vienna World’s Fair and the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair.” Those interested in farming culture can learn more by visiting the American Tractor Museum or the Perry County Museum.

If a visit to Perryville sounds like fun, 2025 is the time to go as the town is currently “positioned for growth,” according to an article published by the Perry County Economic Development Authority. The article goes on to say, “These top employers are attracting more families to Perryville, which has created a demand for housing in the city of less than 9,000 people. Proactive city leadership is collaborating with developers and builders to invest in housing development projects to facilitate growth in the community.”

Lebanon

When you think of beautiful towns in the Ozarks, places like Branson and Osage Beach likely come to mind first. But just 90 miles outside of Branson, travelers will find the wonderful town of Lebanon, Missouri. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Ozarks, Lebanon offers an enticing mix of outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and historic significance.

The town is known as the “Aluminum Fishing Boat Capital of the World,” and boasts a rich history in boat manufacturing. Travelers looking to enjoy Lebanon’s natural beauty can visit Bennett Spring State Park—one of Missouri’s oldest and most beloved parks. Here, visitors will find excellent fishing spots, scenic hiking trails, and peaceful picnic areas.

Those interested in unique attractions can also stop by the Heartland Antique Mall or the Boswell Park Mural, which beautifully captures the town’s heritage.

Lebanon’s economy has steadily grown in recent years, with new businesses and investments contributing to its development. According to a recent report from Lebanon Regional Economic Development Inc., job growth and tourism numbers have been trending upward, making 2025 the perfect time to visit before this hidden gem gains widespread recognition.

Marceline

For those who love small-town charm with a touch of nostalgia, Marceline, Missouri, is an absolute must-visit. Best known as the boyhood home of Walt Disney, Marceline’s remote location and small population mean the town is still commonly overlooked.

As far as natural appeal goes, the Marceline City Lake is a highlight in town, especially for anglers looking to catch largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish. Those particularly interested in the town's ties to Walt Disney will want to visit the Walt Disney Hometown Museum, which showcases personal artifacts, family photographs, and stories that highlight his early years in Marceline.

The Walt Disney Post Office, The Walt Disney Municipal Park, and Main Street, U.S.A. are also worth checking out. Another must-see spot is E.P. Ripley Park, named after the Santa Fe Railroad’s first president and home to an original steam locomotive that speaks to the town’s deep railroad history.

Beyond its Disney connections, interest in Marceline has been growing. According to the Marceline Area Chamber of Commerce, recent tourism figures indicate increased visitors, thanks in part to the ongoing fascination with Disney’s roots. With its rich history and welcoming atmosphere, now is the time to explore Marceline before it becomes an even bigger tourist destination.

Between the recent rise in remote work and increased interest in slow, off-the-beaten-path tourism, these underrated towns in Missouri carry a lot of appeal. By exploring hidden gems like the towns listed above, travelers get the opportunity to stimulate smaller economies and enjoy a more authentic, less commercialized travel experience. However, some of these hidden gems won’t stay a secret for long, so get in and explore ahead of the crowds.