6 Towns in Missouri that Transport You to the Past
Nestled all over the Midwestern state of Missouri are small, quaint towns that suspend time and encourage visitors to step into life as it was in history's past. It is especially a great place in the fall when cool, crisp air greets your skin with leaves flipping shades of red, orange, and gold. When winter arrives, it makes these towns all the more subdued and warm with historic buildings and Old World inns adding to the attraction. If it is real character, stories of yesteryear, and places that respect their heritage you are into, then these Missouri towns have more than a few secrets to let you in on.
Arrow Rock
Arrow Rock is steeped in its history, and much of its attraction draws deeply from its roots. Start your visit with a meal at Arrow Rock State Historic Site, focusing around the original Huston Tavern from 1834 that is still serving up hearty matter meals prepared from old recipes. Then head off to the Lyceum Theatre, one of Missouri's oldest professional theaters with live, bold productions. Some antique treasures are to be found in Arrow Rock Antiques for the unique piece reflecting the heritage of the town. For a peaceful fall picnic among the colors of changing foliage, Big Soldier Lake is just out of town. Lastly, no visit to Arrow Rock should omit the historic district, which holds remarkably well-preserved 19th-century structures standing as a real step back into time.
Hermann
Hermann's German history and its view up the river give it an almost European atmosphere. Begin with a visit to Deutschheim State Historic Site, which has several beautifully preserved 19th-century German houses. Take a tour and learn about early settlers of the area. No trip would be complete without visiting Stone Hill Winery, which has been in business since 1847 and provides cellar tours and wine tastings with plenty of its rich history. For regional fare, try Hermann Wurst Haus and get a taste of some authentic German sausage along with an ice-cold beer. If looking for a glimpse into agricultural heritage, stop by at Hermann Farm, including an authentic farmstead along with several scenic overlooks. Meanwhile, the Historic Hermann Museum is located inside old German School and holds various remnants of the town history for further review.
Ste. Genevieve
The oldest European settlement in the state of Missouri, Ste. Genevieve has a French Colonial flair and is full of interesting historical tidbits. Start your tour at the Beauvais-Amoureux House and Felix Vallé House State Historic Site, which offer exceptional examples of traditional architecture reflecting the town's French heritage. A stop at Ste. Genevieve Museum Learning Center features hands-on exhibits that explore the area's intriguing history. For some very special shopping, visit The Antique Mall Ste. Genevieve, where visitors can select from various hisoric artifacts. Picturesque streets line this town's downtown area. Ste. Genevieve is a requisite stop for anyone wanting to experience Missouri's history.
Weston
Weston is a quaint riverside town deeply steeped in history as an old port with a beauty that effortlessly combined natural splendor. Make the beautiful trails that line the Missouri River at Weston Bend State Park a first stop, with especially impressive fall vistas. Take a stroll down Main Street to Weston Brewing Company, which was established in 1842, and have a pint of the local-brewed beer in its lively atmosphere. No trip is complete without visiting the National Silk Art Museum, where visitors can enjoy an absolutely marvelous collection of tapestries completely made of silk. For something a bit different, take a taste of Pirtle Winery, situated in an old church, which really characterizes the visit. Finish out your evening at O'Malley's Pub, one of the oldest pubs in the Midwest, where you can find live music in a beautiful, underground venue.
Clarksville
Looking down on the Mississippi River from Clarksville, you gain a glimpse into riverside history. Take a stroll down the Clarksville Riverfront Park where visitors can get a scenic and up-close view of the Mississippi River. Take a rest at Overlook Farm, where five historic inns line a three hundred twenty-six-acre site. The Bluffs Restaurant is a great place to stop for some good grub and a good time with family and friends. They serve steaks, porkchops, sandwiches and more. If you're visiting in January, don't miss out on Eagle Days, where locals join together around the town to eagle watch. Visitors can see them at a number of sites across the state of Missouri but in Clarksville, visit the Lock & Dam 24 at Clarksville to watch them soar.
Rocheport
Rocheport is a picturesque combination of scenic river views, rich history, and outdoor adventure. Start with the A-Frame Winegarden on The Blufftop at Rocheport for wine tastings with great Missouri River views. Then, hit the Katy Trail, which runs through Rocheport, for a spectacular biking or walking opportunity along scenic paths with stunning vistas, especially during fall. Pop in at Meriwether Cafe & Bike Shop for coffee and a nosh in an historic structure, or at The Rocheport General Store to get into a bygone era that offers music, among other offerings. Friends of Rocheport Museum features inside of a 19th century church as if looking back on the many years Rocheport had in her early years and history. Rocheport's mix of outdoor activities and historical significance makes it a very good destination for visitors who want to connect with Missouri's history in the most natural way possible.
Historic Missouri towns are all about gentle charm, tales of old, and slow pace. They boast a special mix of old taverns, wineries, riverfronts, and scenic trails-all in places that feel left behind by time. Each one offers something special, from the antique shops, local breweries, and stunning landscapes surrounding you. If you and your family are looking for a refreshing getaway that lets you step back into time in the beauty of today, these Missouri towns are waiting for you. And if you're up for a solo trip, it is one you won't forget.
