7 Top-Rated Small Towns In Missouri
Missouri, known as the Ozark State, is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is named after the Missouri River, which was named after the Indigenous Missouria, a Siouan-language tribe. Within the state are crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and boating, lazy rivers for fishing and floating, along with several trails and hamlets for camping and biking. The remarkable beauty of the outdoors is without a doubt impressive, but it should not be forgotten how historic and inherently endearing many of the small towns are: a splendid fusion of physical activity and artistic inspiration.
Arrow Rock
A total of 45 full-time and 33 part-time residents call this charming American village home, which is located near the Missouri River and named the National Historic Landmark Arrow Rock Historic District in 1963. What this essentially means is that when travelers walk through the village, they are, quite literally, walking along history. The Black History Museum, Brown Lodge, Dr. John Sappinton Museum, the Old Courthouse, and the famously restored J. Juston Tavern are just some of the few fascinating sites to take a gander at. The art scene is alive and well in Arrow Rock, with the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre, which has been active for over sixty years. There is also The Little Studio and Gallery with original paintings for sale and fun, unique gifts that will memorialize the stay in the tiny town. Guests can lodge at several bed and breakfast inns within traditional 19th-century homes, like Latch House, built in 1829. The more outdoorsy types may choose to stay within Arrow Rock's campgrounds, which are also a part of many walking/hiking options within the surrounding wooded area.
Clarksville
Clarksville was founded in 1817 by immigrants from Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia and is supposedly named after either George Rogers Clark or his younger brother William of the Lewis and Clark Expedition fame. It is located on the banks of the Mississippi River, on the southern anchor of one of America's newest scenic byways: the Little Dixie Highway of the Great River road. The sheer aesthetics of the town take visitors back to a time when life was far more unhurried, with a main street bursting with artistic integrity, ranging from furniture makers and specific craftsmen to potters and antique dealers. The downtown area has been consciously rehabilitated to maintain the allure of the old architecture and has encouraged the ongoing growth of an artistic and creative community.
In addition to its historical relevance, Clarksville is also recognized as one of the most outstanding sports for nature tourism. It acts as one of the largest winter migrating areas for the bald eagle, called 'the eagle viewing capital of the United States' by The World Bird Sanctuary. Those looking for a weekend stay in the quaint town have a few motel and hotel options, like River's Edge Motel and William Watson Hotel, both about half an hour's drive outside Clarksville.
Perry
One of the main attractions of Perry is the proximity to Mark Twain Lake, only a short ten-minute drive out of town. An assortment of recreation and adventure abound on the lake and within the Mark Twain State Park, a terrain with edging bluffs and a glistening cobalt blue overlook. Visitors can picnic, try out the more than six miles of hiking trails, go boating, or settle in for scenic fishing. Camping at Ray Behrens at Mark Twain Lake is popular for the outdoor type, where the wilderness is right outside their tent. There is liveliness within the town itself, too, with antique shops like Hobby Hut and Miss Daisy's Antiques and eccentric boutiques like The Flower Shack. Indulge in some local history at the Faherty House, which was constructed in 1825, or the Perry County Museum. Options for lodging range from affordable and casual inns to full-blown resorts, like the Timber Ridge Resort, settled in the woods adjacent to Lick Creek Hiking Trail.
Van Buren
Van Buren is a small town of 893, a picturesque river community that thrives on genuine Ozark hospitality and rich history. It is located on the Current River and sits upon the doorstep of the Mark Twain National Forest, as well as the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The Current River is one of the primary destinations for recreational floating and fishing, along with sightseeing at one of the world's largest springs, Big Spring. The crystal-clear waters of the Current River were the first stream to be designated a National Scenic River and are the major stream of the many that compromise the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The Landing is a resort where all kinds of water activities can be found, as well as lodging and the absorption of natural wonders.
Outside of drinking in all that nature has to offer, visitors can explore a drive-in theatre, a Down Under Adventure Zoo, or dine at one of the many eateries along the main downtown area. Outside of staying at The Landing, travelers can rest their weary heads at multiple campgrounds or stay at the Bonney House, a Current River retreat overlooking the cascading bay.
Weston
Weston is yet another small town in Missouri with a natural, historic charm known for its plethora of craft brewery and winery options. Visitors admire the American heritage of legitimate antebellum homes, the Weston Historical Museum, The National Silk Art Museum, and the Laurel Hill Cemetery. Libations are the heart of the town, starting with the Pirtle Winery, located in the historic German Lutheran Evangelical Church built in 1867. From there, both wine and beer consumers and their families can visit Historic Weston Orchard and Vineyard, where fresh fruits, cider, cider donuts, and, of course, the sweetest of wines await. Tourists can move on to O'Malley's 1842 pub, a multilevel seating in the twenty-foot high bottom cellar, fifty-five feet below ground. Nationally famous Irish entertains are a known feature at the ancient tavern.
Lodging in Weston is a breeze at Wester Wanderlust B and B; cozy country stays with gorgeous views at Hippie Hills or the Murphy House Bed and Breakfast for the romantically inclined.
Hannibal
Located 100 miles north of St. Louis along the mighty Mississippi, the historic town of Hannibal is celebrated around the world as the childhood home of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as author Mark Twain. Many of the attractions within Hannibal revolve around the history of Mark Twain's writing life, along with other artistic themes like art galleries and studios and exploration of the surrounding Mississippi River. Visitors can cruise along the waters in The Mark Twain Riverboat, where they can sightsee, dine in for dinner, and try a hand at the Captain's Sunday Lunch Events. Historic Downtown Hannibal connects to Lover Leap Trip, where supposedly, the Pootatuck Indian Chief Waramaug's daughter, Princess Lillinonah, and her lover plunged to their deaths. Lodging can be found within an assortment of Inns and suites, from classic franchises to cozy, 19th-century-themed inns.
Rocheport
Yet another small town within a tight-knight community, combined with a historic ambiance and a plethora of special things to do, resides within Rocheport, Missouri. The peaceful, charming feeling has been maintained since 1825, when the town was founded. Explore the Lewis and Clark Historical Site at the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail, or visit the Old Railroad Storm Shelter along the stunning Katy Trail. Adults and romantic partners can indulge at the Les Bourgeois Vineyard, where a scenic A-Frame patio, Tasting Room, Gift Shop, and Bistro await no matter the occasion. The winery is Missouri's third largest winery and produces over 120,00 gallons of wine a year! Those seeking a longer getaway can settle into the Mount Nebo Inn, drawn into its enchanting green and orange exterior, or try the School House Bed and Breakfast, which was, yes, once Rocheport's public school before 1914. It's no wonder that Rocheport was hailed by Southern Living as one of the "Best Tiny Towns."
Dig into small-town America with its natural wonders, friendly community, artistic hubs, and pristine waters. Make some memories inside one or all of these small, adorable towns.
