8 Picturesque Small Towns in Missouri for a Weekend Retreat

Whenever Missouri is mentioned, the first places that come to mind are the big, beautiful cities like Kansas City, St Louis, and Springfield. However, these cities are not all there is to Missouri. Right in this state are small picturesque towns with natural sceneries, notable history, captivating monuments, and relaxation parks.

From the historic Lyceum Theatre in Arrow Rock to Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park, there is an adventure waiting for you in each part of these towns. Prepare your picnic blanket and other essentials for an unforgettable Missouri weekend.

Arrow Rock

The village of Arrow Rock has a low population of 57. Despite its decline in population, it receives over a hundred thousand visitors annually because of the notable structures and monuments situated in the village. Most of these structures are registered in the National Register of Historic Places, such as the Santa Fe Trail, the Arrow Rock Ferry Landing, the Arrow Rock State Historic Site Bridge, and many others. Even the entire village is a National Historic Landmark.

Start your weekend adventure by visiting Arrow Rock State Historic Site, a park, museum, and restaurant in one. Here, you will learn all about the village, dine with friends, and go RV or tent camping. Interested in Black history? Check out the Black History Museum. Get yourself a keepsake or buy a souvenir for a loved one at Arrow Rock 1829 Gift Shop. The Lyceum Theatre is a great place to watch shows and performances while in town. Enjoy delicious local food at the famous J Huston Tavern before retiring for the night at Arrow Rock Station Bed & Breakfast or Down Over Inn.

Washington

Spend your weekend in the adorable river town of Washington. It is 50 miles west of the big city of St. Louis and the largest city in Franklin County. The town was named after George Washington and has over 500 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, including the John B. Busch Brewery Historic District and Locust Street Historic District.

If you are on a retreat with family, have fun while learning about trains from veterans at the Iron Spike Model Train Museum. Go for a picnic while taking in the scenic river at James W. Rennick Riverfront Park. Play video games at The Alley, where you can also order food and drinks. In Downtown Washington, you can shop for antiques at Vintage Trader. Spend the night at the pet-friendly Super 8 by Wyndham Washington Hotel or River Sirens Hotel.

Hannibal

Take a trip to the warm town of Hannibal. Have a pleasant retreat at Mark Twain’s Birth home. If you are curious about his life, make a stop at The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum during your retreat. Complete your Mark Twain tour by checking out the Mark Twain Natural Cave, Mark Twain Gallery, and Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse. In Hannibal, you will also see Tom and Huck's Statue, the two famous characters in Mark’s books.

There is more to see in this notable town. Visit Hannibal History Museum to see other noteworthy exhibits like that of Margaret Brown, the Titanic survivor, and the man behind the voice of Jiminy Cricket in Disney Parks. Shop indigenous jewelry at the Native American Trading Company. Stay overnight at Garth Woodside Mansion or Main Street Bed & Breakfast.

Lebanon

Lebanon is a city rich in agriculture and beautiful landscapes. It is known as the land that had only one vote for Abraham Lincoln when he ran for election. Lebanon is 90 kilometers from the big city of Springfield, which can sometimes make it seem inconsequential, but it is not. This town is littered with attractions and rich historical tales for visitors to get to know, like the healing stream that was once found in the town’s well in 1889 and the famous Rt 66 that served as a trail for transporting people and goods during World War II. Route 66 is no longer there, but you can go back in time to when it existed at the Route 66 Museum.

Boswell Park has a playground, pool, golf course, and water slides for both children and adults. Looking for a park with a walking trail? Visit Atchley Park for a fun and relaxing time. On the Ozarks Highland is the Lebanon I-44 Speedway Racetrack, where you can go to watch races. Shop Lebanon collectibles and keepsakes at Heartland Antique Mall before concluding your weekend vacation. Check-in at Hampton Inn Lebanon or Holiday Inn Express & Suites for a comfortable night.

Sedalia

The picturesque town of Sedalia was believed to have been the home of the American Indians even before it was founded. It was eventually purchased by Mr. Smith in 1856 and named after Sarah, his daughter. In 1860, it was incorporated and named Sedalia.

It is home to the Missouri State Fairgrounds, where the annual Missouri State Fair takes place in August. During the first full weekend in June, Sedalia hosts the Scott Joplin International Ragtime Festival in honor of America’s Ragtime music. During your retreat, enjoy Sedalia’s sumptuous BBQ at Kehde's BBQ. Go swimming at Sedalia Parks Liberty Pool. If you are feeling down, get rejuvenated at Serene Space Massage of Sedalia. Check out The Sedalia Farmers' Market for some fresh farm produce and learn some black history at Rose M. Nolen Black History Library. Get some rest at Hampton Inn Sedalia.

Kimmswick

At Kimmswick, get ready to attend events, historical monuments, and cultural festivals, and shop till you drop. These are some of the exciting things to do in this charming town. Kimmswick dates back to 12000 years ago. It was said to have been around during the Ice Age. However, it was founded in 1859 by Kimm Theodore, who named the town after himself.

Start your mini vacation at Anheuser House, a museum and ancestral home of Fred and Mabel Ruth Anheuser. Visit the Mastodon State Historic Site to sightsee age-old archaeological preserves. If you love tea, coffee, and natural spice, shop for them at The Spicery of Kimmswick. Go winetasting at LaChance Winery of Kimmswick and enjoy burgers and sandwiches while at it. Lovers of home decor and casual fashion should check out Mississippi Mud Gallery & Gifts to shop for some flowers and clothes. Get cozy at Quality Inn & Suites Arnold, 2 miles from the State Historic Site.

Hermann

The wineries at Hermann are one of the major tourist attractions of this old-charm town. Hermann’s winery popularity started way back when the Germans arrived in the town and planted vineyards across the hills. As time went on, Hermann became known for its wines and won medals and competitions across the world. World War I soon brought the town’s success to an abrupt end. However, Hermann’s wineries still remain a major industry today.

Start your retreat with a winery tour. Visit the legendary Stone Hill Winery for wine tasting and cellar tours. Check out Dierberg, Star Lane, Three Saints Tasting Room, Hermannhof Winery, and Reserve Cellars of Hermann. Go for a picnic or swim at Hermann City Park, where you can play sports with residents and visitors. Enjoy delicious German food at Vintage 1847 Restaurant—shop souvenirs at Hermann's Attic Antique Mall. Take a tour of the town on an electric bike from Pedego Electric Bikes. Retire for the night at Hermann Crown Suites or The Inn at Hermannhof.

Sainte Genevieve

Sainte Genevieve was settled in 1735 and is known to be Missouri's oldest permanent European settlement. Its people were crucial in helping the Americans defeat the British during the Revolutionary War by providing relief. There are six buildings in Ste. Genevieve is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, such as the Jacques Guibourd House, the Bolduc Museum, the Felix Vallé State Historic Site, etc.

Get all the essential information about Ste. Genevieve at Ste. Genevieve Welcome Center, where you can get acquainted with the town's attractions, history, and culture. Next on the list is the National Historical Park for more history lessons. Visit the Museum Learning Center to see life-sized dinosaurs. Go wine-tasting at Chaumette Vineyards & Winery. Eat delicious pasta and watch sports with your kids at Sirros before going to your hotel at Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham or Main Street Inn B&B.

Your Next Missouri Adventure Awaits

Whether it's the historic allure of Arrow Rock, the scenic beauty of Washington, or the cultural richness of Hermann, each town has its own unique story to tell. From savoring local cuisines to exploring historic sites and enjoying outdoor adventures, these eight picturesque towns are perfect destinations for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle. So, pack your bags, set your sights on Missouri's hidden gems, and prepare for a retreat filled with discovery, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.