7 Best Missouri Towns For A Weekend Trip

Appropriately named the "Gateway to the West," Missouri features a blend of Midwest, West, and Southern cultures. Also known as the "Show-Me State," beautiful Missouri is ready to introduce its visitors to all it offers, from the wild and natural Ozarks to the bustling cities of St. Louis and Springfield. If you are looking for a state to spend a fun and interesting weekend in, consider packing your bags and hitting the road to Missouri, where you will find no shortage of small, charming towns to call home during your short getaway.

Clarksville

Cute Clarksville is the ideal weekend getaway destination as it's situated on both the mighty Mississippi River and the Little Dixie Highway of the Great River Road, one of America's scenic byways. The small town, which was founded by immigrants from the southern states of Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky in 1817, calls to travelers seeking a quiet, slow-paced way of life if only for a few days. Clarksville features a charming downtown area with historic buildings, boutiques, cafes, and informative stops such as the Visitor Center and the Community Chamber of Commerce.

History lovers won't want to miss a trip to the Elgin Cottrell House, which overlooks the river, while golfers can practice their swings at the Eagle's Bluff Golf Course. Or head to the Clarksville Riverfront Park, where you can also take in the local water views. The area offers a handful of lodging options, including the nearby River's Edge Motel.

Arrow Rock

Sweet and scenic Arrow Rock is a history enthusiast's dream weekend trip location, as the entire town is considered a National Historic Landmark. The town offers more than its fair share of interesting historical attractions, including the Black History Museum, the Dr. John Sappington Museum, the Old Courthouse, Brown Lodge, and the well-known J. Huston Tavern, which was built in 1834 and is the oldest operating restaurant west of the Mississippi River.

Arts and culture lovers will feel right at home in Arrow Rock, which features the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre, a venue that's been in operation for more than 60 years. You can check out local and regional artwork at the Little Studio and Gallery, which also sells gifts and one-of-a-kind artwork. If being outdoors is more of your thing, stroll the trails at the Arrow Rock State Historic Site. Spend a night or two at one of the area's campgrounds when the weather is nice, or check into a historic bed and breakfast inn, such as the Arrow Rock Station.

Van Buren

Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks on the pretty, spring-fed Current River, the quaint town of Van Buren has all the makings of a perfect weekend escape. Van Buren is also located near the vast Mark Twain National Forest, as well as the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The river is the star of the show during the hot summer months, as it provides the perfect, refreshing spot for travelers wanting to go canoeing, kayaking, floating, tubing, and fishing.

Big Spring, which is considered one of the world's largest springs, is also available for cooling off. Spend some time at The Landing on Current River, where you can set off on a floating adventure or check in for the night at the onsite lodge. Other local attractions include the Big Spring Historic District, Van Buren Riverfront Park, the Ozark Trail Trailhead, and the 21 Drive-In Theatre, a classic outdoor cinema.

Rocheport

As interesting as it is beautiful, the historic small town of Rocheport dates back to 1825. Listed as one of "America's 10 Coolest Small Towns" by Frommer's Budget Travel Magazine, Rocheport is a weekend getaway destination that doesn't disappoint. Rocheport was also dubbed one of the country's "Best Tiny Towns" by Southern Living Magazine, a title it strives to live up to all year long.

The Lewis and Clark Historical Site at the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail draws visitors from all over, as does the Les Bourgeois Vineyard, which features a tasting room, gift shops, and an eatery overlooking the enchanting landscape. Sample and purchase some local wines from the state's third-largest winery, which produces more than 120,000 gallons of wine annually.

While you are in town for a few days, don't forget to check out the Katy Trail State Park, the United States' longest-developed rail trail. If you are an equestrian, spend some time at the Warm Springs Ranch, where you can go horseback riding or take guided walking tours. When it comes to lodging, you can't go wrong with the unique and charming School House Bed and Breakfast, a historic former schoolhouse.

Kimmswick

The tiny, historic town of Kimmswick may be small population-wise, but it is big on unique attractions, history, natural beauty, and special events. If you are lucky enough to visit in June, head to the Annual Strawberry Festival, which celebrates everything associated with the favorite fruit. October visitors won't want to miss the popular Apple Butter Festival, which offers local produce, local arts and crafts, food trucks, family-friendly activities, and plenty of live entertainment. If you have time during your weekend visit, make a stop at Fred and Mabel Ruth Anheuser's historic family home at Fredmar Farms, where you can take a guided tour.

Other local attractions include the Burgess-How House & Museum, the historic Windsor Harbor Road Bridge, the Kimmswick Historical Society Museum, and the Mastodon State Historic Park, where you can view the bones of the massive, extinct creatures. Stay the night at one of the town's attractive lodging options, including the sweet and cozy Greenhouse Inn.

St. Genevieve

Pretty St. Genevieve has the distinction of being Missouri's oldest town, making it a popular weekend destination for history lovers from all around. Founded in the early 18th Century by French settlers, St. Genevieve still celebrates its rich French history and culture today. Stroll through the town's historic district, taking in the perfectly preserved French Colonial architecture of buildings such as the Bolduc House and the Guibourd-Valle House.

Spend some time strolling through the town's historic downtown district, where you will find several museums and historic sites, including the St. Genevieve Museum Learning Center and The Centre for French Colonial Life. June visitors are treated to the French Heritage Festival, an event showcasing the town's unique culture and traditions. At the end of a busy day, check into the historic Dr. Hertich's House, which offers gas-burning fireplaces and whirlpool baths.

Perry

Last but certainly not least, pretty Perry is another must-visit small town with no shortage of outdoor recreational opportunities, historic sites, and campgrounds for weekend visitors wanting to stay close to nature. Situated in the northeast region of the "Show-Me" State, Perry's claim to fame is its proximity to the impressive Mark Twain State Park, which is home to the sparkling Mark Twain Lake and scenic bluffs. Outdoor adventurers visit the park to go boating, swimming, fishing, or picnicking and hiking along the shoreline.

Downtown Perry is also worth checking out, as it boasts several locally owned antique shops, boutiques, and eateries, such as Miss Daisy's Antiques and sweet-smelling Flower Shack. Say goodnight at the rustic Timber Ridge Resort, a popular lodging option located by the Lick Creek Hiking Trail.

No matter where you find yourself traveling in diverse Missouri, the perfect weekend getaway destination awaits. From expansive state parks featuring refreshing lakes and miles of hiking trails to the stunning Mississippi River, the Midwestern state has an impressive roster of natural attractions to explore. There are also enough special events, fairs, and festivals celebrating the state's unique heritage and agricultural offerings to keep you coming back throughout the year.