These Towns in Missouri Have Rich Cultural Heritage

Although only officially founded in 1820, Missouri’s “modern” history started in the late 1600s with the arrival of the first Europeans from places like France. By the mid-1750s, communities were springing up across the state as settlers laid down roots and built the state’s first farms. Fast forward to today, and these now small towns paint a vivid portrait of the “Show-Me” state’s rich cultural heritage and history.

From Boonville’s treasure trove of antebellum architecture to Lexington’s role in the Civil War and the French colonial heritage of Ste. Genevieve, these seven attractive towns each offer a fascinating journey through the cultural richness of Missouri.

Weston

Weston is located on the banks of the Missouri River and is just a 40-minute drive northwest of Kansas City. Founded in 1831, Weston these days is one of the best day trips in Missouri for its attractive old architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Highlights include the Weston Historic District, which stretches across 24 blocks and is home to over 100 well-preserved structures dating back to the 19th century. Follow its cobblestone streets to the Weston Historical Museum, which presents a picture of the town's development and heritage.

Are you interested in arts and culture? The National Silk Art Museum showcases exquisite silk artworks, while the town's numerous galleries and artisan shops offer a glimpse into the local arts scene. Weston is also renowned for its thriving craft breweries and wineries. Open for tours and tastings, the Holladay Distillery, established in 1856, is a stand-out and is one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the U.S. Pirtle Winery, located in an old German Lutheran Evangelical Church built in 1867, is another must-visit and offers a unique wine-tasting experience in a charming setting. Work off all that beverage sampling at the nearby Weston Bend State Park, with its trails and scenic views of the Missouri River.

Boonville

Its location 25 miles west of Columbia makes Boonville a great add-on to a fun Missouri day trip. Founded in 1817 but inhabited long before this by Osage Indians, Boonville’s Missouri River setting ensured its strategic importance both militarily and economically. Top things to do in Boonville include visiting Mitchell-Sharp House; built in the 1850s, it’s one of the best-preserved antebellum-era Greek Revival-style homes in Missouri. Guided tours are available.

Boonville Bridge is another must-see. Constructed in 1873 and for decades a key transit point across the Missouri River, this attractive old bridge makes for a beautiful selfie backdrop. Other cultural highlights include the River, Rails & Trails Museum. Located in an old stone railway depot, this attraction includes exhibits and models relating to the town’s past as a transportation hub, as well as general tourist information.

Ste. Genevieve

Ste. Genevieve is the state's oldest permanent European settlement and is a must-visit for those wanting to learn more about Missouri’s rich cultural history. Located along the western bank of the Mississippi River, this charming town was established in 1740 by settlers from French-speaking Canada and boasts a sizable collection of French colonial architecture, something of a rarity in the United States. Must-sees include Jacques Guibourd Historic House, constructed in 1806, and a surviving example of the region’s unique "poteaux-sur-sole" (post on sill) architectural style.

Other historic homes such as the Bolduc & LeMeilleur Houses, the Jean-Baptiste Vallé House, and the Beauvais-Amoureux House also add to the story of the town's past and its French influence. Visitors interested in learning more about the town’s involvement in the Revolutionary War and the Louisiana Purchase can explore the Centre for French Colonial Life, while events like the French Heritage Festival add further to the town's tourist appeal.

Hermann

Hermann’s location just 80 miles west of St Louis makes it an ideal getaway destination for road trippers exploring the backroads and quiet corners of Missouri. Situated in the heart of “Missouri's Rhineland” – so-named for its deep-rooted German heritage – this popular tourist destination is known for its wine culture thanks to the many vineyards established by German immigrants in the 1800s.

Part of the Hermann American Viticultural Area, the region produces around one-third of the state's wine, with some of the best vintages included on the Hermann Wine Trail. This delightful experience leads to top-rated local wineries such as the Stone Hill Winery, the largest winery business in the state, and the Adam Puchta Winery, the oldest continually family-owned winery in the U.S. Both offer tours and tastings. Hermann also hosts several festivals throughout the year, with Maifest in May and Oktoberfest in October being particularly fun for their traditional German cultural vibes.

Carthage

Carthage has the distinction of being referred to as "America's Maple Leaf City," a title earned for the many different types of maple trees lining its picturesque streets. Founded in 1842 and named after the ancient city in North Africa, Carthage, MO, is notable for its part in the Civil War. This role can be explored at the Battle of Carthage Historic Site, the location of the first full-scale land battle of the conflict, through artifacts and exhibits that bring this tumultuous time in American history to life.

Other top attractions in Carthage include the Precious Moments Chapel and Gardens, a fun space inspired by the famous Precious Moments collectibles, and the Civil War Ranch, which offers glimpses into the region's rural heritage and lifestyle. Carthage is also well-known for its vibrant fall foliage, making it an ideal destination for autumn visits, especially during the annual Maple Leaf Festival held in October.

Arrow Rock

Really more a village than a town (less than 100 people call it home!), Arrow Rock has been designated a National Historic Landmark for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and historical significance. The centerpiece here is the J. Huston Tavern. Built in 1834, it’s the oldest continuously operated tavern west of the Mississippi and features authentic period furnishings and architectural flourishes.

The Lyceum Theatre is another great attraction to visit in Arrow Rock. Known for its high-quality theatrical productions, the theater attracts culture vultures from across the Midwest year-round for its plays and musicals. Arrow Rock State Historic Site is also a significant draw for visitors and features fascinating guided tours that shed light on the town's history.

Lexington

Just a short drive along the I-75 east of Kansas City, Lexington’s idyllic setting on the banks of the Missouri River has enshrined its popularity among day-trippers. Top attractions in Lexington include the Battle of Lexington State Historic Site. Known as the "Battle of the Hemp Bales," this pivotal battle in 1861 can be experienced through detailed accounts of how Confederate forces used water-soaked hemp bales as shields to storm Union lines.

Another must-visit site, the Lafayette County Courthouse was built in 1847 and is one of the oldest working courthouses west of the Mississippi River. Photo-worthy features of this imposing structure include its columns and distinctive clock tower. The Anderson House, which served as a hospital during the Battle of Lexington, is now a museum and is another historical landmark to include on your Missouri travel itinerary.

The Final Word

As this list of seven small towns in Missouri that have a rich cultural heritage demonstrates, there’s far more to the state of Missouri than just big city attractions. From Boonville's antebellum charm to Lexington's Civil War heritage, from Weston's 19th-century architectural charm to Ste. Genevieve's French colonial legacy, each of these picturesque towns offers a unique window into the past.