6 Coziest Towns to Visit in Missouri in 2024
One of the best places to visit in the Midwest, Missouri has much to offer travelers looking for a healthy dose of “cozy.” The "Show-Me State" not only boasts a super-friendly population but is also blessed with numerous hospitable small towns that offer an authentic Missouri welcome.
From the rolling hills of the Ozarks to its endless grasslands, the state’s landscape is dotted with many charming small communities, each with its own unique character, attractions, and cozy corners. Here are six of the coziest towns to visit in Missouri in 2024, each offering a memorable experience for visitors.
Hermann
Located in the heart of Missouri Wine Country along the Missouri River, the picturesque town of Hermann owes its “cozy” feel to its very palpable European ambiance. Settled by German immigrants in 1837, this early influence can be seen in everything from the town’s architecture to its festivals, as well as its rich wine culture. One of the best (and one of the oldest) is the Hermannhof Winery. Founded in 1852, it offers wine tastings as well as elegant accommodations for those wanting to make a cozy weekend of it.
More can be learned about the town's German American roots at the Deutschheim State Historic Site, which has preserved old homes and barns built by these early settlers from Germany. Hermann has also built up a reputation as one of the best places to go in the Midwest for outdoor adventures. Highlights include the Katy Trail, a scenic hiking and biking path that runs through the town and follows the Missouri River. The summer of 2024 sees the return of the Hermann Wine and Jazz Festival, a July event featuring live music, wine tastings, and food vendors.
Weston
Weston is a charming town with a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. Set in a scenic location along the Missouri River bluffs just 34 miles northwest of downtown Kansas City, the town played a significant role in America’s westward expansion and was once a bustling riverport. These days, the big draws include Weston Bend State Park, a 1,100-acre greenspace with excellent views of the Missouri River and miles of hiking trails.
The downtown area is certainly cozy and is home to a variety of unique boutique shops and antique stores, as well as snug eateries and cafés. The Weston Brewing Company is a popular hangout for locals and visitors alike and has crafted award-winning beers since 1842. The National Silk Art Museum is another must-visit for its impressive collection of silk art prints. Time it right and you’ll enjoy a taste of the town’s roots at the Weston Irish Festival, a three-day event planned for October 2024 that will feature Irish music, dance, and traditional foods.
Ste. Genevieve
Its location on the west bank of the Mississippi River certainly adds to Ste. Genevieve’s appeal. Famous as Missouri's oldest European settlement, it was settled in the early 18th century by French Canadians drawn here for its fertile soil, as well as lead and salt deposits. Key attractions in Ste. Genevieve includes Felix Vallé House State Historic Site, centered around an old stone home built in 1818 and featuring displays relating to the town's French colonial past, and Louis Bolduc House, a fascinating museum set in a beautifully preserved home built in 1788 that provides an excellent picture of the town’s early days.
The town's cozy Historic Downtown is perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially if it coincides with the annual Jour de Fête held in August. This family-friendly festival celebrates Ste. Genevieve's rich history with live music, food vendors, and traditional crafts. Here in June? Check out the French Heritage Festival to experience the town's unique cultural legacy through reenactments, music, and dance.
Arrow Rock
As the smallest destination on this list of cozy towns in Missouri (its population is under 100 folks), Arrow Rock bats well above its weight in terms of attractions and fun things to do. Established in 1829 on a bluff above what was then an important ferry crossing, the entirety of this village-like community is now a National Historic Landmark, a nod to its significant role in Missouri’s importance as a stop on the Santa Fe Trail.
Must-dos include exploring the Arrow Rock State Historic Site, an open-air museum that includes the famous landmark after which the town is named as well as much of the village itself. Stroll through the cozy Arrow Rock Historic District to discover restored buildings like the J. Huston Tavern, built in 1837 and still serving up great grub; the Old Courthouse; and the Lyceum Theatre, one of Missouri's oldest professional regional theaters and a cozy church venue that’s been serving up a fun variety of performances since 1961. Highlights of the town’s 2024 cultural calendar include the Annual Heritage Festival, held in October and now in its 56th year of celebrating the town’s past.
Rocheport
Rocheport is another Missouri River community with a cozy village-like appeal and a small population (it had 250 residents at last count). The town's significance lies in its role as a former riverport during the 19th century as well as its proximity to the Katy Trail, America’s longest continuous recreational rail trail. Stretching for 240 miles from the towns of Machens in the east to Clinton in the west, with the Katy Trail State Park in Rocheport offers the chance to conveniently see some of the best bits.
Other fun things to do during a Rocheport visit this year include the annual Rocheport Wine Stroll in September, a fun opportunity to sample local wines while exploring the town's historic streets. Speaking of wine, one of the best vineyards to visit here is the acclaimed Rocheport Blufftop Winery, which is popular not just for its excellent vintages but also its cozy tasting room.
Kimmswick
Founded in 1859, cozy Kimmswick (population under 150 peeps) is a popular day trip destination from St. Louis, a few miles to the north. A great place to begin exploring is the Kimmswick Historical Society Museum. One of 44 heritage buildings located in the Kimmswick Historic District, its exhibits and artifacts provide a fascinating look at the town's past. The Anheuser Museum and Estate, just a half mile from the town center, is also fun to visit for its antique furnishings and stunning Mississippi River views.
The town is also home to the famous Blue Owl Restaurant and Bakery, a cozy spot that’s popular for its delicious homemade pies and desserts. Time a visit to coincide with the 2024 Kimmswick Strawberry Festival in June, a celebration of this bountiful local harvest with craft vendors, live music, and, yes, strawberry-themed treats. Another good time to visit Kimmswick is during the Apple Butter Festival in October, the perfect excuse for a cozy fall getaway.
The Final Word
As anyone who has ever visited one can attest, Missouri's small towns offer plenty of opportunities to get cozy, especially for travelers seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, and culture. Whether you're exploring the scenic Katy Trail, indulging in local wines and cuisine, or immersing yourself in the rich history of these charming destinations, these six cozy towns to visit in Missouri in 2024 are ready and waiting.
