7 Best Small Towns in The Ozarks to Visit in 2025
Whether you're looking for a peaceful weekend retreat, a unique day trip, or a secluded spot to spend a few tranquil moments, the Ozarks have just what you need! In the nation's heartland, this lush region of rolling mountains touches four states, including most of northern Arkansas, southern Missouri, southeastern Kansas, and the eastern edge of Oklahoma. The region is nearly 47,000 square miles and is known for its scenic views, thick pine forests, fresh-flowing rivers, and abundant outdoor activities.
If you choose to visit, there are numerous small towns to explore, where the pace of life seems to slow down. Don't be surprised to find places where arts thrive, or culinary delights abound as the sound of a fiddle and banjo wafts through the hills. So, if you've had enough of the frantic pace of urban life, need a tranquil spot to reconnect, gather your bags, bring along your favorite travel buddy, and prepare to explore these seven delightful towns just waiting for your 2025 adventure!
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
In the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the Ozark National Forest, the town offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities to hike, bike, and observe local wildlife. One highlight is the awe-inspiring Thorncrown Chapel, an architectural masterpiece fashioned with unique wooden beams and glass windows perfect for a few minutes of quiet reflection.
The downtown district exudes a charming Victorian charm with its well-preserved turn-of-the-century architecture and cobblestone streets. The local arts community and culinary scene are evident, with numerous galleries, quaint shops, and local eateries. For nearly sixty years, the Great Passion Play has attracted visitors to its outdoor amphitheater every summer, depicting the last days of Christ. In 2025, the community will welcome the addition of a new 300-seat opera house poised to host performances from the prestigious Opera in the Ozarks program.
For accommodations, the Crescent Hotel, built in 1886, is a majestic landmark overlooking the town. It's a favorite among history buffs known for its storied history and nightly ghost tours. For a more tranquil experience, the Palace Hotel and Bath House, operating since 1901, offers rejuvenating spring-fed spa treatments. Don’t miss dining at the Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave. This culinary gem perfectly complements the town’s ambiance, or for a more casual offering, savor a meal at Ermilio's for excellent homemade Italian cooking.
Mountain View, Arkansas
Mountain View, Arkansas, is a captivating destination in the Ozarks. It is renowned as the home of the Ozark Folk Center State Park, a living history museum dedicated to preserving and presenting Ozark traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional crafts, music, and folklore. The Blanchard Springs Recreation Area also offers breathtaking natural attractions, including the stunning Blanchard Springs Caverns, where guided tours reveal intricate cave formations and underground waterways.
In 2025, various annual events will showcase Mountain View's vibrant community spirit. The Annual Arkansas Folk Festival, scheduled for April 18th, celebrates the state's folk traditions with music, crafts, and local cuisine. Later in the year, the town hosts the 43rd Annual Arkansas Bean Fest and Championship Outhouse Races on October 24th, a unique event featuring bean cooking competitions and whimsical outhouse races.
When you visit, one of the best local eateries for breakfast is PJ's Rainbow Cafe. The affordable homemade plates and bottomless cups of coffee will remind you of your grandmother's house.
Hermann, Missouri
Hermann, Missouri, is a picturesque town in the heart of Missouri Wine Country, offering a delightful blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. German immigrants founded the community in the 19th century, and the ancestral influences helped Hermann retain its Old-World charm. The town is famous for its award-winning wineries, such as Stone Hill Winery and Hermannhof Winery, where visitors can enjoy tastings while soaking in breathtaking views of the rolling hills and Missouri River. For beer enthusiasts, the Tin Mill Brewery provides locally crafted brews in a rustic setting. The town's annual events, including the Wurstfest in March and the festive Oktoberfest in the fall, showcase its German heritage and lively community spirit.
With its quaint brick streets and preserved architecture, the Historic District offers a glimpse into the past, featuring antique shops, boutiques, and museums such as the Deutschheim State Historic Site, which celebrates the area’s German roots. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Katy Trail, perfect for hiking or biking. At the same time, those seeking relaxation can book a stay at one of the town’s many cozy bed-and-breakfasts or riverfront lodges. When you visit, eat at the Vintage 1847 Restaurant at the Stone Hill Winery. The restaurant serves out of the original barn and carriage house, giving it a unique atmosphere to complement the excellent food and wine selections.
Jasper, Arkansas
Jasper, Arkansas, serves as the gateway to the Buffalo National River, offering a variety of outdoor adventures, including hiking, canoeing, and fishing. The Buffalo National River has the distinction of being named America’s first national river and is surrounded by stunning limestone bluffs and lush forests. One of the most iconic attractions near Jasper is Hawksbill Crag, also known as Whitaker Point, a rock formation offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It's a favorite spot for photographers and hikers alike, particularly in the spring and fall when the foliage adds a splash of vibrant colors to the landscape.
The town features a delightful mix of local shops, art galleries, and cozy diners. Ozark Café, a local favorite since 1909, serves hearty, homestyle meals and is the perfect spot to recharge after exploring. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Buffalo River Valley offers a scenic drive with numerous overlooks showcasing sweeping views of the valleys and hills that define the region. Jasper is also known for its elk population, so keep your eyes peeled for a local herd posing on the edge of a clearing.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Hot Springs, Arkansas, has enjoyed a distinction and unique history due to the natural mineral springs that have attracted travelers for over 220 years. Hot Springs National Park features Bathhouse Row, a collection of beautifully preserved bathhouses and spas at the heart of the city. Today, some of these bathhouses, like the Buckstaff Bathhouse and the Quapaw Baths & Spa, still operate, providing luxurious thermal spa treatments. The Fordyce Bathhouse Museum and Visitor Center allows visitors to delve deeper into hydrotherapy's history and the city's evolution as a health retreat.
Families and nature lovers will enjoy Garvan Woodland Gardens, a 210-acre botanical oasis with beautifully landscaped trails, a stunning glass chapel, and seasonal floral displays. For those who appreciate art and history, the Hot Springs art galleries and the Gangster Museum of America provide unique cultural experiences. With its lively downtown, dotted with boutique shops, restaurants, and breweries, along with its many festivals, such as the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, the city continues to charm visitors of all ages. When you visit, the best breakfast place is the Pancake Shop. Don't be surprised if there is a wait. The place is that good.
Osage Beach, Missouri
Osage Beach, Missouri, is a vibrant destination in the heart of the Lake of the Ozarks region, built around the massive reservoir - Lake of the Ozarks. This lake has over 54,000 acres of surface area, with plenty of room for fishing, waterskiing, or boating. With over 1,150 miles of shoreline, families will enjoy the hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and many lakeside campgrounds. One unique attraction worth exploring is Ha Ha Tonka State Park in nearby Camdenton. The unique ruins of the turn-of-the-century castle overlook the lake and provide several scenic views.
While the community of Osage Beach has a touristy feel, there are some unique attractions where families can enjoy time together. The Main Street Music Hall features live Broadway and music shows during the summer season. Shoppers will want to explore the Osage Beach Outdoor Marketplace for bargains with a nice selection of stores. If you need a place to unwind from a long day on the lake, adults should try Ozark Distillery and Brewery, which has an excellent selection of home-fashioned moonshine, sauces, craft beers, and BBQ.
Branson, Missouri
Branson, Missouri, is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and world-class live performances. The city’s 76 Country Music Boulevard is lined with theaters offering various shows, from country music performances and comedy acts to magic and tribute concerts. History buffs will want to partake in the Titanic Museum, offering an immersive experience into the tragic history of the famed ship, complete with interactive exhibits and personal stories of the passengers. Silver Dollar City is a theme park that combines thrilling rides with 1880s-style craftsmanship and live performances.
While navigating the chaotic traffic can be challenging (especially during the summer tourist season), there are so many venues and family-friendly activities that the trip is worth the aggravation. Table Rock Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters, offers boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities. Nature lovers can explore the stunning vistas at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, a 10,000-acre wildlife sanctuary with scenic trails, waterfalls, and horseback riding. There are numerous dining establishments, but one of our favorites is Billy Gails, where the 14-inch sweet cream pancakes are the size of hubcaps and almost impossible to finish without sharing.
Why the Ozarks Should Be Your Next Destination
Whether you are searching for a momentary escape, a romantic weekend sipping wine, or just a few moments of peace relaxing in a mineral spa, the Ozark region offers something for everyone. From the historic spa experiences in Hot Springs, Arkansas, to the lively entertainment and shows in Branson, Missouri, the Ozarks provide something for every type of traveler. No matter where you go in the Ozarks, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a welcoming sense of community that makes this region one of the best travel destinations in the Midwest.
