7 Best Downtowns In Missouri
With its undulating hills, historic sites, and close-knit communities, Missouri offers a wealth of intriguing activities outside its most populous cities. Visit a national historical park in Ste. Genevieve, enjoy the outdoors in Parkville, step back to the Civil War era in Cape Girardeau, tour world-class wineries in Hermann, savor local eateries in Liberty, attend the state’s biggest fair in Sedalia, and explore Mark Twain’s hometown in Hannibal. These seven towns provide a distinctive and welcoming downtown experience for anyone eager to immerse themselves in local culture, learn about history, and enjoy small-town street life. Each one is an ideal starting point for discovering the warmth and charm of Missouri's smaller towns.
Ste. Genevieve
Ste. Genevieve is an old colonial settlement remarkably that exudes a unique historical charm. Downtown on Main Street, visitors can stop and smell the roses at the Jean Baptiste Vallé Gardens, admire the Green Tree Tavern—the oldest standing building in town—and stroll through 18th-century homes, including the Jean Baptiste Vallé House and the Bauvais-Amoureux House, all part of the Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park.
The Ste. Genevieve Museum Learning Center is another noteworthy downtown destination, housing life-size dinosaurs, fossils, exhibits on ancient societies, and historical artifacts. The town is also known for its various wineries, including Brix Urban Winery & Market, which is in the heart of downtown. Ste. Genevieve hosts several annual events, including the StG Gravel Classic, a thrilling gravel bike race; Mardi Gras on Main, featuring parades and street performances; and Jour de Fête, a traditional French festival.
Parkville
Parkville, a picturesque town with stunning views of the Missouri River, wooded landscapes, and limestone bluffs, offers a peaceful retreat from city life. At the end of Main Street is Platte Landing Park, a 140-acre oasis featuring two miles of trails, picnic shelters, volleyball courts, a boat ramp, and off-leash areas for small and large dogs. English Landing Park, located minutes away, provides even more outdoor adventure opportunities, making Parkville a perfect destination for nature lovers.
Nearby, the National Golf Club of Kansas City features two golf courses, tennis courts, a pool, and scenic ponds. Parkville’s downtown is also a hotspot for food and shopping. Grab a coffee at Parkville Coffee, try a specialty pie at Stone Canyon Pizza, browse vintage finds at Parkville Antique Mall, enjoy the fragrance of fresh blooms at White Farmhouse Flowers, or savor French-inspired cuisine at Café des Amis.
Cape Girardeau
The vibrant downtown of Cape Girardeau, known as Old Town Cape, blends historical charm with cultural activities. Situated on the Mississippi River, it draws visitors with its rich history and landmarks, including the Fort D Historic Site, a Civil War-era fort offering self-guided tours and living history demonstrations throughout the year. Other historic sites include the Red House Interpretive Center, which highlights the legacy of Louis Lorimier, Lewis and Clark, and early settlers; Heritage Hall; and the Missouri Wall of Fame.
Cape Riverfront Market, held on Saturdays from May through October, is a popular seasonal event featuring fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts. In spring and fall, Ivers Square hosts Tunes at Twilight, a free Friday evening concert series. During winter, downtown Cape Girardeau celebrates the holidays with a tree lighting ceremony, parades, horse-drawn carriage rides, photos with Santa, and shopping and dining events.
Hermann
Hermann, nestled along the Missouri River, is home to one of the state’s most distinctive downtowns. The culinary scene includes Doxie Slush, a vibrant eatery serving seafood-inspired fare alongside speciality frozen cocktails. For sweet treats, visit Ricky’s Chocolate Box or the Downtown Deli & Custard Shoppe, a casual spot offering burgers, sandwiches, and custard.
Hermann’s legacy as America’s top wine producer from 1865 to 1870 makes its wineries a must-visit. Downtown options include OakGlenn Vineyards & Winery, known for its selection of red, rosé, and white wines, and Hermannhof Winery, a nationally recognized favorite. Non-wine drinkers can explore local breweries and distilleries. Downtown Hermann is also the hub of lively events, such as the First Friday Art Walk, which draws crowds with art exhibitions, live music, and shopping on select Fridays throughout the year.
Liberty
Located northeast of Kansas City, Liberty boasts a historic downtown that blends old-world charm with modern amenities. Liberty Square’s centerpiece is the historic Clay County Courthouse, surrounded by shops, galleries, and museums, such as the Jesse James Bank Museum, the site of a bank robbery by Jesse James and his gang. Additionally, downtown Liberty hosts many events, including First Thursdays, which extend merchant hours for evening shopping and exploration.
The weekly farmers market, another favorite event, offers fresh produce, baked goods, artisan jewelry, and other locally made items. Dining options downtown include Ginger Sue’s, a charming café known for its breakfast and lunch offerings; Rancho Grande Cantina, a Mexican restaurant with a variety of margaritas; and Conrad’s Restaurant & Alehouse, which serves classic American fare paired with an extensive beer selection.
Sedalia
Sedalia is home to the Missouri State Fairgrounds, where the annual Missouri State Fair delivers nearly two weeks of live music, carnival rides, exhibits, and food vendors. Other fairground events include gun shows, rodeos, and craft fairs. The Scott Joplin International Ragtime Festival, a favorite among music lovers, is also hosted downtown annually. Seasonal events, such as First Thursdays from April through October, offering food vendors, music, and shopping, as well as holiday celebrations for Halloween and Christmas, are also a huge draw.
In addition to festivals and events, Sedalia's downtown area has many historic sites, including the Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site, a 12,000-square-foot property built atop natural caves with hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and 31 rooms to explore. You can easily spend an entire day exploring everything it offers. The Katy Depot, a restored train depot featuring historical exhibits and a gift shop, is also a must-see.
Hannibal
Located on the Mississippi River, Hannibal is a town with a rich history, including it being the hometown of famous author Mark Twain. Visitors can explore landmarks inspired by Twain’s novels, including the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum on Main Street. Nearby, the Mark Twain Book & Gift Shop offers an array of souvenirs and literary treasures, while the Mark Twain Dinette serves classic diner fare.
Other dining options downtown include The Brick Oven, known for wood-fired pizza and Italian dishes, and LaBinnah Bistro, a Victorian-style restaurant. Becky's Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor & Emporium is a must-visit for ice cream sodas, milkshakes, malts, sundaes, and souvenirs. For other exploration downtown, take a yoga or meditation class at Twisted Juniper Yoga or visit the Alliance Art Gallery to view intriguing artwork. Riverview Park, located just outside downtown, offers picnic areas, trails, and a Mark Twain Memorial statue.
Explore These Downtown Areas In Missouri
From Ste. Genevieve to Cape Girardeau, these Missouri towns boast thriving downtowns that offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and community. Visitors can enjoy antique shops, artisan markets, and boutiques, as well as admire the historic architecture that transports tourists to earlier times. Festivals and events light up the streets, bringing people together to participate in anything from music festivals to seasonal celebrations. Whether exploring museums, tasting local cuisine or strolling along the riverbanks, Missouri's smaller towns promise unique experiences year-round.
