7 Picturesque Towns In Missouri For A Weekend Retreat In 2024
The Midwestern state of Missouri offers a variety of small, picturesque towns that are perfect for a weekend retreat. And 2024 (what’s left of it, anyway) continues to be an excellent time to visit these appealing getaway destinations. Boasting a more intimate atmosphere than larger urban areas of Missouri like Kansas City and St. Louis and usually less crowded than better-known tourist hotspots such as Branson, these lovely small towns showcase the very best that Missouri has to offer.
Whether your idea of fun is enjoying adventurous activities like hiking and canoeing or sightseeing from the comfort of a car or a park bench, the “Show-Me State” is bound to please. Need inspiration? These seven picturesque towns in Missouri are well worth considering for a memorable fall or early winter weekend retreat in 2024.
Hermann
Hermann’s location along the banks of the Missouri River, just 90 minutes west of St. Louis, makes it an ideal candidate for those seeking a great Missouri weekend getaway. Known for its wineries and European heritage, this picturesque town was established in 1837 by German settlers, a connection that continues to be celebrated throughout the community. More can be learned about the town’s early years at the Historic Hermann Museum. Housed in the original 1871 German School building, this excellent attraction includes exhibits and artifacts that paint a fascinating picture of the town and its people.
If visiting in 2024, try to arrive during the Hermann Oktoberfest, a celebration of German culture with live music, food, and, of course, wine. Hitting the Hermann Wine Trail is, in fact, another fun fall activity and includes the chance to tour seven local wineries, including the historic Stone Hill Winery, which dates back to 1847. Two highly rated accommodations in Hermann include the Hermann Hill Vineyard Inn & Spa, known for its scenic views, luxurious amenities, and wines; and the Captain Wohlt Inn, a historic bed and breakfast offering a cozy atmosphere with modern comforts. Top off your fun weekend with a riverboat cruise along the Missouri River.
Washington
Situated just 50 miles west of St. Louis, Washington is another Missouri town with European roots. Boasting an attractive downtown that backs onto the Missouri River, Washington was founded in 1829 by German settlers and is a delight to explore on foot. Start your weekend with a visit to the Washington Historical Society Museum to learn more about the town's German founders and its development as a river port. From here, it’s just a short walk to the river, with highlights including the James W. Rennick Riverfront Park, a perfect weekend picnic spot. If cycling’s on the agenda, head out on the paved Washington Bikeway Riverfront Trail for a leisurely riverside ride.
If something a little more challenging is required, head to the nearby Marthasville section of the Katy Trail State Park for biking and hiking opportunities with excellent views of the surrounding bluffs and river. A great time for a fun fall visit is during the Washington Town & Country Fair in September, with accommodations like Best Western Plus Washington Hotel or the Old Dutch Hotel & Tavern being great places to stay.
Hannibal
Famous as the boyhood home of the legendary Mark Twain, Hannibal is rich in literary history and riverfront charm. Located along the Mississippi River and just a bridge away from the state of Illinois, Hannibal was established in 1819 and offers plenty of fun things to do for weekend visitors. Topping the town’s list of attractions is the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, with its exhibits detailing the life and writing of one of the USA’s most-revered authors. You’ll also want to explore the nearby Mark Twain Cave Complex, one of the oldest show caves in the country (it opened as a tourist attraction back in 1886).
The Mississippi River featured heavily in Twain’s writing and offers plenty of fun for weekenders, too, with scenic boat tours aboard the highly rated Mark Twain Riverboat being a must-do. Time your 2024 weekend away to coincide with the Hannibal Folklife Festival in October. This celebration of the town’s history and rich culture features plenty of live music, artisan crafts, and great local grub. Ideas for accommodations? Check availability at the 4-star Garth Woodside Mansion, a historical bed-and-breakfast, while the Best Western On the River provides riverfront views and modern amenities.
Weston
Weston’s scenic location in the hills of northwestern Missouri, just a 30-minute drive from downtown Kansas City, makes it an easy place to get to for a last-minute weekend getaway in 2024. Founded in 1837, much of the town’s early architecture survives, especially in the Weston Historic District, which features many buildings from the mid-1800s. It’s also just a short distance from two excellent accommodation options: Hatchery House Bed & Breakfast, offering historic charm in a heritage home dating from around 1845, and The Saint George Hotel, set in a Victorian-era building on Main Street.
Weston is also home to the McCormick Distilling Company, founded in 1856, and one of the oldest whiskey distilleries in the country. Speaking of imbibing, pay a visit to the downtown-located Pirtle Winery or relax at O’Malley’s Pub, a unique subterranean tavern dating back to 1842. For a memorable 2024 fall weekend retreat, visit during the annual Weston Applefest, held in October to celebrate the fall harvest with local crafts, food, and entertainment. Weston Bend State Park is a must-visit and offers several great hiking trails with panoramic views of the Missouri River, so pack those hiking boots.
Ste. Genevieve
Ste. Genevieve, the oldest European settlement in Missouri, was founded in 1735 and offers a diverse cultural experience. The town’s historic district is home to the Felix Vallé House State Historic Site, built in 1818, and several other French Colonial-era buildings. Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park also preserves the town’s colonial architecture and heritage, while the nearby Hawn State Park is known for its hiking trails and sandstone bluffs.
Accommodations include the luxurious Inn St. Gemme, a historic bed-and-breakfast, and the Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sainte Genevieve. Need something more modest? The 2-star Triangle Inn offers affordable stays in a central location and gets good reviews from its guests.
Cape Girardeau
Handily located along the I-55 mid-way between Memphis and St. Louis, Cape Girardeau is another Missouri destination that has benefitted greatly from its association with the mighty Mississippi. Established in 1793 and one of the Midwest’s oldest communities, the town’s Riverfront Park features a mural depicting local history, while the Red House Interpretive Center offers a look at early life in the region. Armed with knowledge gleaned from a visit to the Red House, venture forth and explore the Trail of Tears State Park, a significant geographic landmark with hiking trails and historic markers.
Visit before the end of October 2024 and you’ll still be able to catch the Cape Riverfront Farmers’ Market, a hub for local vendors selling produce, crafts, and prepared foods. Highly rated accommodations include the Courtyard Cape Girardeau Downtown (be sure to request a river view) and The Riverview with its easy access to the downtown area and the Mississippi.
Carthage
Interested in history? Then, Carthage is a great weekend destination. Just an hour due west of Springfield, Carthage was founded in 1842 and is known for its Civil War history and well-preserved Victorian architecture. Try to spend time in the Carthage Historic District, a collection of over 85 buildings and structures dating from the late 1800s, including the Jasper County Courthouse, built in 1895. Carthage is also home to the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site, commemorating a key Civil War battle.
There’s still plenty of time to book your weekend away in Carthage and have fun, especially if you’re planning to visit during October’s Maple Leaf Festival with its popular parade. Accommodation ideas? For a budget stay, check out the Guest House Motel, while the Best Western Precious Moments Hotel provides family-friendly comfort (it’s also located close to the Precious Moments Chapel featuring the artwork of Samuel Butcher).
The Final Word
For those wanting to cram in a last-minute weekend getaway before 2024 is over, these seven picturesque Missouri towns provide plenty of fun things to do in the cooler seasons. From exploring historic sites to enjoying scenic river views and hiking trails, a fall or winter visit to any of these charming towns is ideal, whether you’re traveling as a couple or a family or seeking a little solo quiet time away. However you travel, these seven picturesque towns in Missouri are perfect for a weekend retreat in 2024.
