7 Most Charming River Towns in Missouri to Visit in 2024

Missouri is a scenic state famous for its position as the gateway to the West. The state sits right on the shores of America's mightiest river, the Mississippi, with the Missouri River going down the center. As a result, Missouri has its fair share of river towns with friendly residents, beautiful parks, and great opportunities for visitors. From the riverside eateries in Rocheport to the craftsmanship of New Haven, each town has something unique to share. Thus, by visiting one of the state's river towns, one can experience the joys of water activities without the hustle and bustle of a city. Here are seven river towns in Missouri to consider for a vacation in 2024.

Rocheport

This small town of just over 200 people on the banks of the Missouri River offers a beautiful retreat to get away and recharge. Despite its small size, there are plenty of things to do in Rocheport. Most tourists head straight to the Mighty MO Canoe Rental company to rent a guided float trip down the Missouri River. Continue the outdoor journey on land with a hike along part of the Katy Trail, which spans 240 miles through Missouri. The town is ideal for bikers as you can refresh with a bite to eat at the Meriwether Café and Bike Shop. For other places to eat, try out The Bistro on The Blufftop at Rocheport overlooking the Missouri River. After the food, relish local wines at The Tasting Room on The Blufftop and enjoy fun conversations into the night.

Jefferson City

Despite being the state capital, Jefferson City only has a population of just 43,000, giving it an exciting mix of urban and small-town feel. Those interested in Missouri’s landscapes rejoice at the abundance of areas for outdoor adventures. From the state capitol building, take the Bicentennial Bridge to Deborah Cooper's Park on Adrian's Island, a 30-acre parkland on the Missouri River. With incredible riverside viewpoints, it is a lovely place to relax and take in the sights. For a more immersive experience, one can spend a relaxing day fishing at Binder Park & Lake.

While Jefferson City boasts natural charm, there is much more to see in this bustling town. As the state capital, many historical sites exist, beckoning curious travelers. The Missouri Farm Bureau Log Home, Governor's Mansion, and the Cole County Historical Society and Museum shine, sharing plenty of historical tales and exhibits. For a different side of local culture, be sure to visit during June for the Juneteenth - Jefferson City Heritage Celebration, a wellspring of good vibes and activities.

Hermann

Located in the Missouri River Valley, this small town of just over 2,000 people is a cute destination with great historical and outdoor spots. Hermann was a major hub for German immigration, which you can learn about at the Deutschheim State Historic Site, with tours of multiple 19th-century German houses available. Hermann also hosts a Caboose Museum that displays the history of the town's railway and the Hermann Fire Company Museum. For outdoor activities, explore caves at the Graham Cave State Park or take in the views of bluffs at the Grand Bluffs Conservation Area. After spending the day out, most tourists stop by the town’s famous wineries and distilleries. Fernweh Distilling Company and G. Husmann Wine Company are must-visit spots with good food, chilled drinks, and lively conversations.

Hannibal

With a population of 17,000 on the shores of the Mississippi River, Hannibal has a grand history of inspiration for the famed American author Mark Twain, who was born in the town. Today, multiple outdoor areas are named after the author, such as the nearby Mark Twain Lake or the Mark Twain Cave Complex, a series of caves discussed in his book, Huckleberry Finn. Tourists can experience a unique way to learn about local history and the Mississippi River on the Mark Twain Riverboat cruise. Back in town, the Mark Twain Boyhood Home beckons travelers with a rustic ambiance, while the Huck Finn Freedom Center showcases the history of African Americans in the region. Those visiting in 2024 should plan their trip during August for the 10th Annual Big River Steampunk Festival, America’s largest outdoor Steampunk festival.

Arrow Rock

This village of less than 100 people is a historic masterpiece hidden away on the Missouri River. The entire town is a National Historic Landmark filled to the brim with museums and sites to visit, such as the J. Huston Tavern or the Jon P. Sites Gun Shop. Continuing through the quaint streets, one can learn about the frontier doctor John Sappington at the Dr. John Sappington Museum or about formerly enslaved people at the African-American Experience Museum. Tourists can also take back a bit of local history with them at the Arrow Rock Antiques or the Arrow Rock 1829 Gift Shop, which are perfect for souvenirs. Beyond its history, Arrow Rock has many places to stay, such as Borgman's Bed & Breakfast for a comfortable vacation.

New Haven

Located on the banks of the Missouri River, this small river town, originally called Miller's Landing, is a fantastic spot for wine enthusiasts due to its location in the heart of Missouri wine country. To this end, it is home to multiple wineries, including Roblar Winery, Kuenzel Valley Winery, and Bommarito Cellars. Each site has unique spirits to enjoy, from delicious spiced gin to aromatic bourbon whiskey. Those who don’t drink can go for a walk by the river at the John Colter Memorial to learn more about the 19th-century American explorer.

Continuing along the streets, tourists are sure to notice the array of boutiques in this small town, such as Elizabeth's Lizzy Lou's Haven Boutique and Country Cottage Boutique. Similarly, visit the Astral Glass Studio and Gallery to see artists at work and purchase some of the glass for yourself.

Ste. Genevieve

Missouri has a history of French settlement, which is on full display at Ste. Genevieve. This rustic town was first settled in 1735 on the Mississippi River, making it the oldest European settlement in the state. Today, just 5,000 people call the town home, but it still keeps its French spirit alive with the Centre for French Colonial Life museum and many historic buildings such as the Jacques Guibourd House. Tourists looking for an in-depth lesson with local heritage can visit in June, 2024 for the French Heritage Festival, which is a wellspring of cultural activities.

There are also many places of natural beauty to explore in the town, such as the Hickory Canyons Natural Area, Hawn State Park, and Kaskaskia Island, a top-rated spot for bird watchers. For a different view of natural sights in town, take the Modoc Ferry, which runs between Ste. Genevieve and southern Illinois, offering a calming experience in Missouri.

Conclusion

With its central location between two rivers, Missouri has many small river towns to explore. These towns have a long history of European settlement, which means there are always fascinating historical sites to discover and buildings of different styles. Whether you are looking to go for a hike at a state park, go fishing in a lake, or take a riverboat tour, you will always have something to do in these river towns. Moreover, with events lined up in 2024, they are perfect to visit this year. Thus, consider adding them to your travel plans the next time you are in Missouri.