The Most Unique Towns in Missouri
Admitted to the Union in 1821, the “Show Me State” of Missouri is a key part of the Midwestern United States known for its integral role in the expansion of America. With a human history dating back thousands of years and loads of stunning natural wonders, including the Missouri River, the State and its pretty towns are indeed treasures for anyone to discover. From musical genres to Civil War stories and more, Missouri’s unique towns are great examples of quintessential Americana. So prepare your bags and come see what makes these destinations so special!
Rocheport
Long the home of indigenous peoples and formally established as a trading post in the early 1800s, the lovely and historic town of Rocheport today maintains a very humble population of just some 200 permanent residents. A place of quiet beauty and rustic charm, visitors can enjoy a slower pace of life and explore the wonderful Rocheport Historic District and its array of early 19th century buildings. Situated along the lengthy and picturesque 240 mile Katy Trail State Park, Rocheport is also a great spot for outdoor lovers where opportunities for biking, hiking, and jogging are popular year round. Meanwhile some inviting and tasty local vineyards can be found in the area making a stop in Rocheport a truly memorable, historical, and relaxing Missouri destination to discover.
Fulton
Seat of Callaway County, the town of Fulton was established in the 1820s and is now the home of just under 13,000 inhabitants. Site of the Missouri School for the Deaf as well as William Woods University and Westminster College, Fulton is a welcoming community where guests can enjoy typical small town life with a dose of unique American and world history. Known for a successful defense from Union troops during the Civil War, tourists can learn more about the conflict and Missouri’s history at the Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society Museum. Meanwhile at the National Churchill Museum (on the campus of Westminster College), one can learn more about the famed British wartime leader and explore the campus where he delivered his famous “Iron Curtain” speech in 1946. Amongst the other exhibits to discover here include a section of the Berlin Wall that was installed on site after the barrier’s fall in 1989.
Arrow Rock
Considered more of a village than a town proper, Arrow Rock is one of Missouri’s most fascinating historic places that is listed in its entirety on the National Register of Historic Places. Established in the 1820s, Arrow Rock continues to exist as a type of time machine to the 19th century where thousands of tourists visit every year. And indeed with less than 100 permanent residents, most of those in town are visitors from the outside looking for an authentic slice of old Americana. Explore such landmarks like the Old Tavern (1834), the Bingham House (1837), a portion of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, and the Lyceum Theatre (1872), amongst many others. And with numerous charming and inviting bed and breakfast establishments, there is always a reason to want to spend time in this true marvel along the Missouri River.
Boonville
Boonville is the seat of Cooper County and is situated roughly at the mid point between the cities of Kansas City and St. Louis. Established in the early 1800s and today the home of just under 8,000 inhabitants, this historic town has nearly 500 individual sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Hain House and the Old Jail and Hanging Barn (1848), which together with many others transport visitors to the important and tumultuous 19th century. Meanwhile for the nature lover, a portion of the Katy Trail State Park passes through Boonville where trails galore are the perfect way to enjoy a vigorous exercise or a relaxing walk. And with a number of intriguing festivals year round, including fall’s Festival of the Leaves or the summer Heritage Days, there is always something delightful to discover in Boonville.
Hannibal
Known as the childhood home of American literary icon Mark Twain, the town of Hannibal is a most charming locale situated along the mighty Mississippi River. Incorporated in the mid 1800s and today home to just over 17,000 residents, Hannibal is a scenic and welcoming destination that offers some of the very best of Missouri. Of course with its ties to Mark Twain, guests cannot miss out on visiting his Boyhood Home and Museum, the eponymously named Historic District, and a splendid ride on the Mark Twain Riverboat! And with numerous other attractions and landmarks named for the author and his fictional characters there is always a healthy dose of American culture on display here. Enjoy the Tom Sawyer Days and the Twain Memorial Lighthouse, or take an old fashioned trolley ride through town, when in Hannibal there is really never a dull moment.
Lexington
For those looking to discover important sites of the American Civil War, then Lexington is indeed the place to be. Seat of Lafayette County, the famed Battle of Lexington (1861) was fought here, and tourists can learn more about this crucial event at sites like the Lexington Civil War State Historic Site and the Lexington Historical Museum. Meanwhile in the historic district, an assortment of 19th century edifices can be found like the County Courthouse (1849). And with Lexington’s beautiful location along the Missouri River, opportunities for relaxing strolls along the waterfront and at the nearby Riverfront Park Marina are great ways to spend an afternoon.
Branson
Situated within the Ozark Mountains, the town of Branson was established in the 1880s and today boasts a modest population of nearly 13,000 inhabitants. Known for its hot summers and mild winters, Branson is widely celebrated for its eclectic range of museums and attractions which include the Titanic Museum, the Hollywood Wax Museum, Silver Dollar City Amusement Park, the Branson Scenic Railway, and the Andy Williams Performing Arts Centre, amongst many others. Enjoy picturesque helicopter tours around the area of the White River, while fun activities like go-karting, mini golf and more are offered at the many entertainment centres across town. Indeed for a most unique mix of wide ranging entertainment, Branson is not only one of the best places to visit in Missouri, but in all in the United States.
Missouri is also known as the “Show Me State”, and with its rich mix of natural beauty, fascinating history, and welcoming American charm, it is no wonder why it deserves to show off. Here many beautiful and awe inspiring towns can be found each with their own reasons to want to visit. From the endless entertainment options of Branson to the historic allure of Arrow Rock and beyond, these unique Missouri towns are testaments to the wide ranging attractions of America. Wait no longer and come visit Missouri and these special towns, where lasting memories are sure to be made and cherished.
