The Best Small Towns in Missouri to Chill Out
Known as the Show Me State, Missouri has several charming small towns that show visitors how to chill out and relax. These small towns are the perfect places to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and enjoy a relaxing getaway surrounded by nature, history, and culture. From the picturesque vineyards in Missouri wine country to the many attractions in the Ozark Mountains and scenic views of the Mississippi River, these small towns offer something for everyone. These towns also provide exciting annual festivals, local history museums, and historic downtowns filled with unique shops. From the midwestern hospitality the towns offer to the natural beauty in each community, here are the seven best small towns in Missouri to chill out and unwind.
Boonville
Located along the banks of the Missouri River, Boonville is a great place to relax, view nature, and explore history. Named after American pioneer and frontiersman Daniel Boone, the town was the site of the first Civil War battle in the state of Missouri. Along with its rich history, the historic downtown area has several unique shops and restaurants that are perfect spots to relax. For history buffs, a stop at the River, Rails and Trails Museum in the historic depot district is a must. For those looking for outdoor adventures, the Katy Trail State Park offers a great biking, walking, and hiking trail with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy a relaxing walk in the town’s Rolling Hills Park. Boonville also celebrates annual festivals, including the Missouri River Festival of the Arts and the Heritage Days Festival in the summer.
Branson
A popular tourist destination, Branson is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy nature in the Ozark Mountains. The town is known for its live music shows, theme parks, and outdoor activities. Music lovers enjoy live shows at the Andy Williams Performing Arts Center and the Grand Country Music Hall. The town also offers several shopping options, local restaurants, and summer events at the town’s lakeside mall, Branson Landing. For those looking for more excitement, Silver Dollar City is a family-friendly theme park that boasts record-breaking roller coasters, entertainment, and water slides. If you are looking to relax in nature, Table Rock State Park is a great place to swim, boat, and fish. Visitors can also hike or bike around Table Rock Lake or at Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area. The wilderness area has 140 acres of woodlands and hills, 5.3 miles of trails, and scenic views of Lake Taneycomo.
Hannibal
If you are looking to chill out in a historical town, look no further than Hannibal, Missouri. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, the town is best known as the birthplace of Mark Twain. Steeped in history, the town offers visitors a chance to learn about the life of one of America's most beloved authors at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. Hannibal is also home to several cultural attractions, including the Hannibal Arts Council Gallery and the Bluff City Theater, which hosts live performances throughout the year. Nature lovers can take a riverboat tour of the Mississippi River or stroll through the town's beautiful parks, including the 465-acre Riverview Park and 63-acre Huckleberry Park. Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and viewing wildlife at the Steyermark Woods Conservation Area.
Hermann
Since Hermann is a picturesque town located in the heart of the Missouri wine country, it is the perfect destination for those looking to relax and indulge in some fine wine. In fact, you can enjoy tastings year-round on the Hermann Wine Trail, a group of seven family-owned wineries in the area. The town also boasts the oldest Missouri winery, Stone Hill Winery, which began in 1847. The town also has a rich German heritage which is showcased at the Deutschheim State Historic Site and during the annual Oktoberfest. For visitors looking to explore nature, the Katy Trail State Park runs through the town and offers nature lovers a chance to explore the scenic Missouri River. The park has several hiking and biking trails that wind through the rolling hills and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Kirksville
Located in northeastern Missouri, Kirksville is an excellent destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The town is surrounded by beautiful lakes, parks, and natural attractions, making it a great place to explore and unwind. Located in Kirksville is Thousand Hills State Park, which offers 3,215 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to camp, hike, and view Native American petroglyphs from 1,500 years ago. Visitors can also chill out while fishing, boating, or swimming in Forest Lake located within the state park. Kirksville is also the site of an important 1862 Civil War battle and cultural attractions, including the Kirksville Arts Association Gallery, which showcases the work of local artists. In addition to its natural beauty and cultural attractions, the charming town also hosts several annual events and festivals, including the NEMO Fair in the summer and the Red Barn Arts and Crafts Festival in the fall.
Kimmswick
Nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River is Kimmswick, a charming town renowned for its historic buildings, antique stores, and local eateries. One of the restaurants that any visitor must dine at is the Blue Owl Restaurant and Bakery. Known for its incredible pies and comfort food, the Blue Owl satisfies any appetite. Along with tasty restaurants and local shops, the Kimmswick Historical Society Museum is located downtown and showcases the town's rich history and culture. A trip to Kimmswick must also include a walk on the Windsor Harbor Road Bridge. Built in 1874, it is the oldest wrought iron span bridge in the state. Visitors can also view the Mississippi River and take a step back in time at the museum in the Anheuser House. Built in 1867, the estate was home to the famous Anheuser family who founded the Anheuser Brewing Company.
Steelville
The charming town of Steelville is found along the Meramec River in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. The town is surrounded by beautiful forests, rivers, and parks, making it a great place to explore and unwind. Unofficially known as “the floating capitol of Missouri,” there are plenty of floating, swimming, kayaking, and fishing options in the Meramec River at Birds Nest Beach Park. Outdoor enthusiasts can also stroll through nature along paved walking paths at Steelville City Park or enjoy the trails at Steelville Bike Park. For those looking to relax in the town’s charming downtown, Hoppe Spring Park offers views of refreshing spring water and a walking trail in historic Steelville. The town also provides plenty of relaxing options indoors at local restaurants, shops, and music performances at the Meramec Music Theatre.
The Show Me State has plenty of small town charm to show all visitors. With their historic downtowns, local eateries, and scenic views of nature, these Missouri small towns are the perfect places to relax and unwind. From enjoying delicious treats at the Blue Owl Restaurant in Kimmswick to taking float trips down the Meramec River in Steelville and exploring Missouri wine country in Hermann, these Missouri small towns offer great options for anyone looking to get away.
