This Is The Friendliest Small Town in Missouri
Hermann, Missouri, is home to a warm and welcoming spirit that many generations of German immigrants have shaped. On any given weekend, local residents can be found sipping wine at one of the town’s many vineyards, enjoying live music at the local piano bar, or crafting artisanal wursts to share with family and friends. The best part? Visitors don’t just observe this close-knit community; they’re invited to join in and experience the traditions that make Hermann the friendliest town in Missouri.
German Culture and Heritage
Hermann was founded in 1837 by German immigrants who were met with rocky, hilly terrain that made farming nearly impossible. Despite unfavorable conditions, they persevered, turning to viticulture, planting vineyards, and transforming the land into a thriving winemaking region. This enduring spirit continues to be present in Hermann today, with the community coming together for numerous annual cultural festivals.
Each March, for example, the town celebrates its roots during Wurstfest. Sausagemakers from all over the state come to Hermann for this event, and the festival hosts sausage-making competitions, dance and music, and a kraut-making class. About two months later, Hermann hosts the annual Maifest, a traditional festival that celebrates the arrival of spring. Maypole dancers, food, dancing, music, and a parade are a few of the festive activities that attendees can expect. And, of course, in October, visitors can look forward to a lively Oktoberfest! Food, beer, and music are sure to get you into the spirit.
Missouri Wine Country
Hermann’s immigrants left a lasting mark on the wine industry, resulting in Hermann being the second-largest winery in the United States and the third-largest in the world. Today, the region produces more than 178,000 gallons annually, which is more than 20% of the state’s total production. This thriving wine scene undoubtedly contributes to the town’s relaxed and friendly atmosphere, where there’s always a glass ready to enjoy.
Stone Hill Winery is a great starting place for those wanting to explore Missouri’s wine country. This winery is not only the oldest in the state but also the highest awarded. Visitors can enjoy a free guided tour through the cellars, which are among the largest in North America, before sipping a glass on the hilltop and appreciating incredible views of the town below. Those who admire tradition will also enjoy a visit to the Adam Puchta Winery. This winery, sitting along Frene Creek, is the oldest continuously operating farm winery in the country, running under the Puchtas family for over seven generations. In addition to offering delicious Missouri-made wine, it also hosts occasional special events, live music, and some of the best small-town Missouri hospitality travelers could ask for.
Locally-guided Experiences
Even if you are only visiting Hermann for the weekend, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved with the local culture and community. Those wanting to learn how to make some traditional cuisine can sign up for a class with Hermann Wurst Haus, which offers a Wurst Making 101 Class that is friendly for sausage makers of all levels! Some of the techniques that the course will teach attendees include mixing and grinding techniques, types of casings, smoking and cooking times, ideal ingredients to use, and more.
Because agriculture played such an interesting role in Hermann’s heritage, make sure to check out one of the nearby farms. Hermann Farm offers tours to visitors of the town’s historic farm homes and of the Hermann Farm distillery. As visitors tour the farm grounds, a friendly and knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories from its history, including Civil War tales and the farm’s role in shaping the wine region. Some of the historic buildings that travelers will see include the Teubner-Husmann Greek Revival home, built in 1847, and the Rasche family homestead, a recreated home.
Restaurants
Hermann’s longstanding local restaurants are at the heart of the tight-knit community that thrives today. A local favorite since 1979, The Vintage 1847 Restaurant was established when Stone Hill Winery transformed its original barn and carriage house into a charming, historic restaurant. Here, guests can enjoy both classic German and American dishes. The Concert Hall and Barrel Tavern is another historic dining spot in town. This tavern is the oldest to continually operate west of the Mississippi River and offers visitors steaks, seafood, and specialties in a cozy and old-timey environment. Craving a bit of music? Grab dinner and a drink at The Piano Bar, which features live piano music in the evenings accompanied by dishes like pork ribs and fish and chips.
Embracing Hermann's Warmth and Community Spirit
In a country that is becoming increasingly urbanized, finding genuine small-town hospitality can be a challenge. Yet, Hermann stands as a refreshing exception. Visitors will quickly feel at home in this tight-knit town, surrounded by friendly farming and vineyard communities, local and cozy taverns, and lively festivals. If you are looking for a friendly and welcoming spot to visit for your travels in 2025, Hermann is the place to be.
