8 Most Unconventional Towns In Missouri
Defy convention by exploring a gem hidden in plain sight: Missouri. Off-the-beaten-path destinations, small towns, and rich and compelling histories are commonplace here. Missouri has a fascinating story and unique attractions that are sure to captivate any visitor.
Hermann
Located along the shores of the Missouri River, Hermann is a lively German-themed town in Missouri's stunning wine country. This unconventional town is home to a unique culinary scene for a taste of Germany. Hermann Wurst Haus' menu highlights many European-inspired delights, such as a classic bratwurst on a bun, craft beer, and local wine. Conveniently located in the renowned Stone Hill Winery, Vintage 1847 Restaurant's specialties include Schweineschnitzel or Grilled Chicken Spaetzle. Hermann hosts an energetic selection of year-round events. Wurstfest or Oktoberfest is ideal for getting a fix of the typical German cuisine of hearty meats and refreshing beer.
Founded in 1837 and later populated by German immigrants, Hermann boasts a rich heritage with many historical landmarks still gracing the area today. See the stunning collection of artifacts, ranging from vintage toys to tools and medical equipment from Hermann's past, at the Historic Hermann Museum, located in the German School Building built in 1871. While exploring the old school building, hear the hourly bell toll of the town clock. It's been ringing its bells since 1890. Afterward, explore where it all began at Deutschheim State Historic Site. Tour the Pommer-Gentner House, an 1840 classic, and the Carl Strehly House, constructed in 1842.
Cuba
Established in 1857, Cuba is bursting with color. This quirky Missouri gem is perfect for art lovers with its striking collection of murals. Search and find all 15 murals around Cuba. Some of the artistic masterpieces include murals of Amelia Earhart, Bette Davis, and the Civil War. Beautifully painted handiwork can be found all around Cuba. Traverse through the city and see the decorated traffic control boxes. Stop by Cuba Bakery & Deli and gaze in awe at the stunning landscape and daily life artistry
Kimmswick
Kimmswick is a charming Missouri city famous for its Levee High Apple Pie from The Blue Owl Restaurant & Bakery. Oprah Winfrey has called the Levee-High Caramel Apple Pecan Pie one of her favorites, and this world-renowned masterpiece has received praise from Forbes Magazine, Food Network, and the Wall Street Journal. Grab the biggest dish available to eat this colossal delight, as each pie is filled with around 18 apples.
Founded in the 1850s, Kimmswick has a long, rich heritage. Located along the banks of the Mississippi River, walk through the elegance of the Anheuser Museum and Estate. Book a Saturday appointment and tour the incredible collection of Anheuser family keepsakes and portraits, antique items, and a striking library. Due to historical significance, Kimmswick has many old-style buildings offering incredible photo opportunities. Built in 1858, the Historic Post Office in Kimmswick is still being used today and is a cute little structure. Afterward, visit the Burgess-How House, a cozy log home built in the 1840s.
Stay a few nights at the magical Greenhouse Inn. Formerly a functioning greenhouse, the accommodation has been transformed into an adorable cottage for up to four guests. Immerse in the farmhouse atmosphere and rest on the vintage rod iron featherbed after cooking a warm meal in the kitchen.
Richmond
Have a fun time with the fungi in Richmond, known as the mushroom capital of the world. Celebrate shrooms of all different shapes and sizes at the Annual Mushroom Festival. This lively celebration kicks off at the beginning of May with food, craft vendors, face painting, live music, and excitement. Get some exercise and foster a sense of adventure with a Richmond mushroom hunt. From late March until early May, trek through the Missouri wilderness and see how many morels there are to collect.
There is no better way to dive into Richmond's history than visiting the Ray County Museum. Explore three floors in this former farmhouse and see early life from the 1800s to the present. Uncover Richmond's past through Civil War artifacts, Mormon history, and the coal mining era. Cap off this historical journey by catching a show at the historical Farris Theatre, which has entertained audiences since 1901. Step back in time and relish the sophisticated and timeless interior.
Ste. Geneviève
Bonjour and welcome to Ste. Geneviève, Missouri's oldest European settlement.This old-world, unconventional town in Missouri is flowing with French charm. Colonized in 1735, venture back to the past with Ste. Geneviève's historical French colonial style architecture. Explore the area's enchanting past at The Centre for French Colonial Life. Walk through exhibits and artifacts ranging from daily 18th-century life in Ste. Geneviève to the early 19th century. Discover unique and original heirlooms at the Louis Bolduc House and the LeMeilleur House, also on the property. Afterward, continue a historic home tour at Felix Vallé House, just down the street. Constructed in 1818, Felix Vallé House is filled with 1830s items to encapsulate daily life back in the day.
Despite the small population of just over 5,000, according to the U.S. Census, Ste. Geneviève has a lively events calendar with unique features spread throughout the year. Watch history brought to life with a reenactment at Geneviève Militia Encampment. Reach the other side of the spiritual realm with a chilling and thrilling experience at Déjà vu Spirit Reunion. Enjoy a night of music and dancing, French-style, at the annual The King’s Ball.
Hannibal
Located along the Mississippi River, classic book lovers unite in Hannibal, Missouri. The city is iconic due to its deep connections with world-renowned American writer Mark Twain. An essential stop is venturing around The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum. Uncover the humble beginnings through exhibits featuring Mark Twain's written works. Pick up a book written by the legend himself afterward at the museum's gift shop. Before leaving, take a photo with the statue of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, adding flair to the area since 1926. Around the corner from the museum, Tom Sawyer's Fence on Hill Street makes another fantastic photo. Visit Hannibal at the end of May and celebrate the literary megastar at the annual Twain on Main Festival. This energetic event is packed with food, music, crafts, and endless fun in honor of Mark Twain.
Hannibal is a thriving community for paranormal enthusiasts. Learn about the area's history, eerie encounters, and ghostly tales at the Haunted Hannibal Ghost Tour. Walk along the historic Main Street, the mansions on Millionaires' Row, and explore the Old Baptist Cemetery, filled with gravestones from fallen soldiers in the Civil War. Experience a potential spook at the Garden House Bed and Breakfast. Built around 1895, this stunning Victorian structure has reports of unexplained happenings in the middle of the night. Sprawl out on the classic featherbed and witness the paranormal side of Hannibal.
Joplin
Joplin is an animated town with a unique itinerary. See where all the action happened back in 1933 on Oak Ridge Drive. Snap a photo of the iconic Bonnie and Clyde Hideout, a historical symbol in Joplin. The duo spent 13 days in the home before leaving the area. Today, the garage apartment is available for rental on Airbnb, a huge selling point for history buffs and true crime enthusiasts.
The Joplin History & Mineral Museum sounds like an average attraction, but its contents are eccentric and enchanting. Say hello to the 6-foot dinosaur statue, greeting visitors at the front doors. Spend a magical day wandering the grounds and be fascinated by woolly mammoth fossils and glowing rocks. See other eclectic thrills in the other museums located in the Joplin Museum Complex. From the National Historical Cookie Cutter Museum to a miniature circus display, the Joplin Museum is truly one-of-a-kind.
Branson
Hugged by the Ozark Mountains, Branson is a hotspot for family-friendly activities. Kids and adults alike will love going sky-high on the Branson Ferris Wheel. See the wheel light up the Branson night skies with thousands of LED lights or be enchanted by hundreds of flying critters at The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure. Branson is home to the World's Largest Titanic Museum. The museum itself is inside a replica ship. Experience life on the Titanic in a real lifeboat, hang tight on the sloping decks, walk elegantly down the grand staircase, and touch an iceberg. The interactive museum is a must-see when in Branson.
Coined as the Live Music Capital of the World and the Broadway of the Midwest, Branson is all about live entertainment for all ages. Marvel at a diverse range of performances catering to all genres and tastes. See an Elvis Presley impersonator, ventriloquist Todd Oliver, Escape Reality Dinner and a Magic Show, or WhoDunnit Hoedown Murder Mystery Dinner Show. Whether it's comedy, country, or festive Christmas shows, there's always something exciting happening on stage in Branson.
Discover Unconventional Fun in Missouri
Missouri's small towns effortlessly combine old-world charm with intriguing history. Go mushroom hunting in Richmond or see the eccentric sights in Joplin, such as a mini circus and Bonnie and Clyde's famous hideout. There are endless Missouri towns filled with quirky attractions and fun.
