7 Perfect Destinations For A Long Weekend In Missouri
With over 97% of Missouri’s land classified as rural, sticking only to the state’s cities means missing out on some incredible experiences. In fact, many of Missouri’s best highlights are hidden in small towns that often fly under the radar. From waterfalls in the Ozarks to historic German settlements and rolling vineyards, these towns, many with just a few thousand residents, contain an unexpected diversity. If you are ready to discover a side of Missouri you have never seen, these seven towns are calling your name.
Hermann
Hermann was founded by 17 German immigrants who made the most of the land by establishing vineyards. Today, a weekend getaway is perfect for visitors to experience this German heritage and the area's wine country. The Historic Hermann Museum, housed in the old 1871 German school building, is a great way to learn more about the town’s settler history and heritage. Travelers can also take a tour of the Hermannhof Winery, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and sample some of the Hermannhof wines and German-style sausages.
Those visiting the weekend of December 20th can enjoy an array of Christmas activities, including the 7th annual cookie walk, the Wine Country Wagon Holiday Carriage Tours, and Christmas at the historic Hermann Farm. Heritage Lodging, sitting one block from the Missouri River, is a beautiful and historic bed and breakfast. The building has been beautifully restored and renovated with antique furniture, with the innkeeper serving a full breakfast each morning.
Arrow Rock
In 1963, Arrow Rock was designated a National Historic Landmark in recognition of its pivotal role during the Westward Expansion. Visitors can explore several self-guided attractions in town, including the "Reflections of African-American Arrow Rock" exhibit, which shares the experiences of Black Americans in the area through artifacts, oral histories, and historical records.
Other notable sites include the 1839 Miller-Bradford House, the 1830s Shelby Log Cabin, and the 1868 Masonic Lodge Hall and Craft Shop, each allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the area’s history. Visitors wanting to stay in Arrow Rock’s oldest home should make lodging reservations at the Latch House, originally built in 1829 and lovingly renovated in 2018 to ensure a comfortable stay.
Carthage
Known as America’s Maple Leaf City, Carthage is a key stop along the historic Route 66, promising some interesting historic attractions. The 1939 Boots Motel is one of the town's most iconic relics of Route 66, featuring Streamline Modern Architecture. Still in operation today, it retains a vintage touch and features a radio in every room, offering guests a nostalgic experience.
Carthage is also home to one of the country’s last few drive-in theatres, the 66 Drive-In, showing films from April through October. For a peaceful retreat into nature, visit the Precious Moments Chapel and Gardens. The gardens feature fountains, wrought iron gates, and bronze statues, while the chapel has 30 stained-glass windows made from 20,000 individual pieces of glass.
Kimberling City
Located along Table Rock Lake, Kimberling City is about a half-hour drive from Branson and has a much more tranquil feel, for those wanting to feel immersed in nature. Travelers who want to get out on the water can enjoy kayaking or fishing on the lake, or even enjoy a lunch or dinner cruise on a traditional paddlewheel cruiser.
About a 15-minute drive from town, visitors can reach Dogwood Canyon, where they can horseback ride, hike, or bike among creeks, waterfalls, or towering bluffs in the Ozarks. For a rustic stay in front of the lake, consider one of Kimberling City’s lodges or resorts, such as Kimberling Oaks Resort, which features various renovated cabins with waterfront views.
Perryville
Perryville is an excellent destination for families, offering a variety of activities that will capture the interest of both children and adults. In the colder months, Legion Lake becomes popular with anglers for winter trout fishing. Perryville offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to get active as well, from the disc golf course at Perryville City Park to the golf course at the Perryville Country Club, as well as the Perryville Splash Pad, which is perfect for kids to enjoy.
Those interested in history can visit the American Tractor Museum, which features an impressive collection of tractors, or the Perry County Courthouse, constructed in 1826. For cozy accommodation, check out the Atrium Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Perryville, each room decorated with a colorful and unique style.
Rocheport
City dwellers will love a weekend away in Rocheport for a complete change of pace, which has a population of just over 200. Les Bourgeois Vineyards is a popular local attraction, known for its award-winning wines and picturesque wine garden, where visitors can relax and enjoy a glass outdoors. Rocheport is home to a stretch of the Katy Trail State Park, a 240-mile rail trail, making it a frequent base camp for hikers and bikers as well.
Looking for a Christmas gift with the holidays coming up? Stop into one of Rocheport’s charming shops, such as Southern Gent Candle Bar, the Stockton Mercantile, or the Art & Antiques and Blacksmith Shop. For a luxurious night away, Amber House Bed and Breakfast is a great option, featuring elegant suites, a wrap-around veranda, delicious meals, and easy access to the Katy Trail.
Hannibal
Hannibal is famously known for being the boyhood home of author Mark Twain. Visitors can spend a weekend learning about the classic author, touring the Mark Twain Cave Complex, a labyrinth that inspired many of Twain’s works, watching Mark Twain come to life at a performance at the Cave Hollow Theatre, or exploring where he grew up at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum.
On December 13th and 14th of this year, Hannibal will put on its annual Victorian Festival of Christmas, taking place in the downtown district and offering carriage rides, caroling, a holiday historic home tour, reindeer games, and a Santa visit. Need a place to stay? Consider one of Hannibal’s historic inns, such as Belvedere Inn, a renovated 1859 Italianate Mansion that is just four blocks from downtown.
Final Thoughts
While it can be tempting to stay cooped up indoors during a long weekend, there is so much out there to explore. So many experiences await you in Missouri’s smaller towns, from Victorian holiday festivals to the childhood home of Mark Twain. So, grab your calendar and plan that well-deserved weekend getaway to one of these exciting towns.
