7 Whimsical Towns to Visit in Missouri
Admitted to the Union in 1821, the “Show Me State” of Missouri continues to be an important economic and cultural center of the Midwestern United States. Indeed, with its fascinating tales of the Civil War and its role in the westward expansion of America, Missouri’s historic character is only rivaled by its natural splendor. From river banks to rolling hills and mountainous plateaus, there is always something exquisite to discover here. While the major cities of St. Louis and Kansas City remain the most popular, Missouri is also home to a number of smaller, whimsical, yet equally beautiful towns. Here, some of the very best of the “Show Me State” is on display, ready to leave visitors of any age with a very special set of memories. So come and visit Missouri and its small towns, and a genuine slice of Midwestern Americana will never be far away.
Lexington
Scenically located along the Missouri River, the town of Lexington can trace its foundational history to the early 1820s. Today, this seat of Lafayette County is home to a modest population of just under 5,000 residents, and it remains a charming and inviting historic place. Site of the Battle of Lexington (1861) during the Civil War, guests can learn more about this existential conflict at such attractions as the Historic District, the Lexington Historical Museum, and the Battle of Lexington State Historic Site. Transporting visitors back to the tumultuous days of the 19th century, these places shed light on daily life in the 1800s and the struggle to preserve the Union during the war.
In addition, outdoor lovers can also appreciate Lexington and as a river town there are plenty of great opportunities to enjoy nature. Go boating, biking, and jogging, along the water’s edge, while a peaceful afternoon awaits at the Riverfront Park Marina.
Ste. Genevieve
Established around the 1740s by French Canadian colonists, the historically rich town of Ste. Genevieve also serves as the seat of the same named county. Home to some 5,000 inhabitants, a visit to this town is like stepping back in time, and with its beautiful views of the Mississippi River, being outdoors here is always a delight. Explore a number of 18th and 19th buildings, including many French Colonial-style homes in the town’s Historic District. These include the Green Tree Tavern (1791) and La Maison de Guibord (1800), amongst many others listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Add in a charming array of local restaurants and shops (many of which celebrate their ties to the French culture), and a special sojourn will surely be had in Ste. Genevieve.
Finally at the nearby Hawn State Park (some 20 miles away), a beautifully expansive area of 5,000 acres welcomes guests looking to bask in the outdoors. Enjoy opportunities for biking, hiking, fishing, and picnicking in this scenic recreation area that all ages can enjoy.
Rocheport
The town of Rocheport was founded as a trading post in 1825, in central Missouri’s Boone County, and today only some 200 permanent residents call it home. Still, for what it may lack in size, Rocheport remains a charming and quaint community where a quieter pace of life thrives. Enjoy the rustic ambiance of town and spend time at the Rocheport Historic District, where several 19th-century buildings continue to give the town a special character.
Meanwhile, at the nearby Katy Trail State Park (which spans some 240 miles), a picturesque outing awaits all those who love nature. Go cycling, hiking, and jogging while sections of the Manitou Bluffs and the Missouri River create a spectacular natural framing.
Fulton
Nearly 13,000 residents call the town of Fulton home which was founded in the 1820s and named for the inventor of the steamboat. The seat of Callaway County, Fulton, is known as the site of the Missouri School for the Deaf (1851), William Woods University (1870), and Westminster College (1851). Indeed, this charming and welcoming college community is a great place to enjoy a quieter pace of life, with a fascinating sampling of American and world history. Visit the Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society Museum and learn more about Missouri’s role in the Civil War through an impressive collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits.
Meanwhile, for those intrigued by international affairs, a stop at the National Churchill Museum (on the campus of Westminster College) is a must. The site of the former British Prime Minister’s 1946 Iron Curtain speech, this museum chronicles the wartime leadership of Winston Churchill as well as the enduring legacy of the Cold War. View such objects as a portion of the Berlin Wall and encounter the stories of the brave men and women who confronted dictatorship.
Hannibal
Hannibal is beautifully located along the length of the famed Mississippi River, and it is definitely one of the scenically alluring and culturally charming places in Missouri. Founded in the mid-1800s and near the border with the State of Illinois, today, nearly 17,000 people call Hannibal home. Beloved as the childhood home of American literary giant Mark Twain, Hannibal openly celebrates its ties to the author through a number of attractions. Visit the Twain Boyhood Home and Museum (designated a National Historic Landmark) while riding on the River on the Mark Twain Riverboat, which is a truly special excursion the young and old can appreciate. From there, explore the Twain Memorial Lighthouse and its awesome views of the town and the mighty Mississippi.
Add in fun festivals like Tom Sawyer Days and a cute assortment of shops, galleries, and restaurants, and a visit to Hannibal will surely be one filled with awesome memories. Do not forget to take a ride on an old fashioned trolley through the Historic District, creating a magical time travel like experience.
Branson
A veritable entertainment capital, the town of Branson is widely known by tourists and native Missourians alike for its eclectic range of unique attractions. Beautifully sitting within the Ozark Mountains, just under 13,000 residents call this exciting place home, where hot summers and mild winters are the norm. Visit such places as the Hollywood Wax Museum, the Silver Dollar City Amusement Park, the Titanic Museum (including a giant half replica of the famed ship), and the Branson Scenic Railway, amongst many more. Meanwhile, for the truly adventurous tourist, why not take a helicopter ride of the area for some spectacular views of the Ozarks and the White River? Add in fun mini golf courses, movie theatres, a great range of tasty restaurants, and awesome shopping opportunities, and there is surely no better place than Branson for pure, fast-paced entertainment!
Arrow Rock
Also considered a village more than a town proper, the charming community of Arrow Rock is indeed a nice hidden gem in the heart of the “Show Me State.” Founded in the early 1800s, Arrow Rock is home to under 100 permanent residents and is listed in its entirety as a National Historic Landmark District. Despite its small size, thousands descend on the town annually looking for a special time travel-like experience to the 19th century. Including landmarks like the Old Tavern (1834), the Lyceum Theatre (1872), and the Bingham House (1837), amongst many others, an immersive experience awaits all who travel to Arrow Rock.
In addition, a fine assortment of welcoming bed and breakfast businesses populate the area, making for a quaint weekend. Add in charming views of the nearby Missouri River, and a unique and relaxing destination vacation awaits all those who visit the splendid Arrow Rock.
Experience the Charm of Missouri’s Small Towns
A central component of the Midwestern United States, Missouri is a wonderful place of discovery where fascinating history meets splendid natural geography. From the Ozark Mountains to the banks of the mighty Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, Missouri and its wonderfully whimsical smaller towns are must-visits for anyone searching for real Americana. From the historic allure of Ste. Genevieve and Arrow Rock, along with the riverside beauty of Hannibal and Lexington, are among the other similar Missouri towns that are part of the reason it is also known as the “Show Me State.” Do not wait any longer then, and come experience the great State of Missouri, where a fun, informative, and utterly delightful holiday experience awaits all ages of curious travelers!
