7 Slow-Paced Towns To Visit In Missouri

Missouri's small towns are among the greatest in the nation because of their laid-back lifestyles, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals. In towns like Hannibal, learn more about the birthplace of author Mark Twain. At the same time, you can see a significant part of Lewis and Clark's transcontinental exploration of the American West in Weston. Most of Missouri's small towns are also perfect for reconnecting with nature, as the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers run through towns like Parkville and Arrow Rock. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or want a peaceful getaway, there's much to love about these seven slow-paced towns in the Midwestern state.

Warsaw

Warsaw, a beautiful waterfront town between Truman Lake and Lake of the Ozarks, is only two hours from Kansas City. Drake Harbor, about a block from Main Street in downtown Warsaw, is a popular destination for locals and visitors who love the outdoors. Many hiking and biking trails, including near the historic Joe Dice Swinging Bridge, surround the harbor. The Steamboat Landing Boardwalk is another area where you can take a pleasant stroll. The Drake Harbor also has a playground, horseshoe pits, picnic areas, boat ramps and docks, and fishing spots for a relaxing day. The harbor isn't the only peaceful thing to love about Warsaw. Perched atop Kaysinger Bluff, the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site Visitor Center is a top attraction for history buffs.

Ste. Geneviève

Ste. Geneviève, an ancient colonial settlement, has been remarkably preserved within the Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park, which contributes to its historic charm and atmosphere. For a serene afternoon, walk the levee trail near the Mississippi River, explore the town's rich art scene with artwork displayed in the Jean Baptiste Vallé House, or book a tour at the Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary. If a glass of wine is your idea of a relaxing outing, you'll also want to visit Ste. Geneviève's diverse collection of wineries. Sip on the finest wines while listening to live music at Sand Creek Vineyard & Winery, or retreat to Chaumette Vineyards & Winery, an award-winning winery with an eloquent tasting room, a restaurant, and stunning views of Saline Creek River Valley's rolling hills.

Parkville

Parkville, which borders Kansas City and Riverside, is a slow-paced town with stunning limestone-carved bluffs, woodland landscapes, and views of the Missouri River. There are two golf courses at Parkville's National Golf Club of Kansas City for individuals who enjoy golfing. In addition to being a golf club, it's also a community with tennis courts, a pool, and several ponds. Platte Landing Park in downtown Parkville offers more leisurely pursuits with various pathways, a dog park, and boat access to the Missouri River's main channel. The downtown area is also home to dining and shopping gems. Grab a coffee from Parkville Coffee, order baked goods from The Baker's Table, smell fragrant roses at White Farmhouse Flowers, browse through La Bottega Vintage Market, or dine at the French bistro Cafe des Amis.

Arrow Rock

One of Missouri's slowest-moving towns is Arrow Rock. Still, it's an excellent place for a peaceful weekend escape. The Arrow Rock State Historic Site is the best place to study the history of the once-thriving river town. Explore the exhibits about Arrow Rock and the area by strolling through the visitor center. Enter an old courthouse, historic homes, and a tavern serving food at the oldest restaurant still in operation west of the Mississippi River if you want to look closely at its landmark structures. Many cozy cottages and inns provide easy access to charming businesses and antique shops in Arrow Rock, some of which bear the town's name.

Boonville

Boonville, perched high on forested cliffs with a view of the Missouri River, is a stunning, low-key community worth exploring. To experience Boonville at your own pace, visit the Boonville Visitor Center for information, maps, area attractions, and souvenirs on the area. While there, experience Boonville's transportation history at the River, Rails, & Trails Museum in the same building. The center is also the place to book a tour of the Mitchell Antique Motorcar Museum, which has an extensive collection of Mitchell motorcars, bikes, and wagons. Retreat to Katy Trail State Park for a scenic hike or bike ride along the extensive Katy Trail, or gamble at the Isle of Capri Casino, central Missouri's only casino.

Hannibal

Hannibal was once home to Samuel Langhorne Clemens, known as author Mark Twain. Many attractions and landmarks are named after the literary icon, including Mark Twain State Park. Endless outdoor activities and the expansive Mark Twain Lake await at the park. Whether it's the hiking paths with lake vistas, taking advantage of the four-lane boat ramps, or settling in for a cozy picnic spot, the park offers something for everyone. Riverview Park is another place to enjoy the great outdoors with scenic views of the Mississippi River. Feel even more calm and at peace in this slow-paced town with a yoga or meditation class at Twisted Juniper Yoga. A trip to Hannibal is complete with a stop at Becky's Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor & Emporium for classic sundaes, ice cream sodas, and nostalgic candies. Turn your visit there into a shopping trip with traditional souvenirs, books, and toys for sale.

Weston

People visit Weston for various reasons. After all, it's the location of many antebellum houses, educational farms, tobacco barns, orchards, museums, and other historic sites. After all, it's home to antebellum homes and other historic sites, museums, exhibits, tobacco barns, orchards, and educational farms. But those aren't the only things to love about this charming town. For a simple meal, dine at Avalon Cafe or Tin Kitchen Southern Smokehouse before heading to one of Weston's pleasant wineries, such as Weston Wine Company or Pirtle Winery. In addition to its wine presence, you can find regional bourbons at Holladay Distillery and craft beers at Weston Brewing Company. There's also Weston Bend State Park on the bluffs of the Missouri River, where trails follow the voyage of Lewis and Clark's historic expedition.

Discover These Slow-Paced Towns In Missouri

The Midwestern wonder of Missouri is filled with cities packed with fantastic architecture, historical sites, well-known attractions, and plenty of delicious things to eat. But as you can see, its small towns are equally worth visiting. Ste. Geneviève's charming wineries, Parkville's cozy cafes, and Hannibal's serene state park named after Mark Twain all offer an exceptional relaxing getaway in Missouri.