11 Storybook Towns In Missouri
Mark Twain learned to be a storyteller in Hannibal’s caves on the Mississippi. George Caleb Bingham painted in Arrow Rock. The German immigrants who built Hermann brought wine to the bluffs above the Missouri River. Glasgow’s railroad bridge was the first all-steel structure of its kind in the world. The eleven Missouri towns below all hold pages worth turning.
Arrow Rock
Arrow Rock is a fairytale town that seems to step right out of a historical novel. Though it currently has fewer than 100 residents, it has a long history that began with the Arrow Rock Bluff, a well-known landmark first appearing on a map in 1732. Many prominent Missourians came from the town in the 1800s, including artist George Caleb Bingham. The entire town is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
True to its character, the town features many preserved old buildings, and modern architecture often follows an older style. The Old Courthouse, Shelby Log Cabin, and Print Shop Museum all showcase the historical flavor of the town. Self-guided walking or driving tours are encouraged, and tram tours are also available. While in town, check out antique shops and trading posts such as Arrow Rock Antiques and Mercantile. Many bed and breakfasts, cottages, and other lodging options are also available, including the Missouri River Farmer’s Inn and Borgman’s Bed and Breakfast.
Carthage
Carthage is known as “America’s Maple Leaf City” thanks to the abundance of maple trees growing throughout the town. Situated on the historic Route 66 in southwest Missouri, the town features sites like the 66 Drive-In Theatre, which shows a double feature every weekend during its season, and the Boots Court Motel, which is famous for supplying a radio in every room. The Precious Moments Chapel is a point of interest on the south side of town. Those more interested in scenic destinations can explore Kellogg Lake, which provides ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and exploring nature.
Self-guided tours provide opportunities to explore the town’s architecture. The Historic Downtown District Walking Tour features many historic buildings, concluding with the Jasper County Courthouse. The Historic Homes Driving Tour showcases many residences with historical significance. Lastly, the Civil War Museum and Battle of Carthage State Historic Site provide information on the town’s war history. Those visiting in the fall can experience the reds, oranges, and yellows of maple foliage.
Eminence
Eminence is an Ozark town on the shores of several streams and rivers, most notably the Jack’s Fork River, which flows through the heart of town. It is known for its forested hills, springs, and waterways. Biking and hiking the various trails around town, such as the Alley Overlook Trail, are popular ways to enjoy the scenery. Fishing, hunting, and canoeing are other popular outdoor activities.
The downtown district holds a variety of local shops, such as Pickle Me Green and Grow in Grace Plant Boutique Company. After a day spent shopping, grab a meal at spots like TurnUp Greenz Eatery and The Dairy Shack. Local lodging options include Miss Barbie’s Guest House and Crystal Creek Ranch.
Excelsior Springs
Excelsior Springs is known for its mineral water springs, which attracted many people to the area in the 1800s. Today, most of the 40 mineral water wells are no longer visible, but a working town remains. Located about forty minutes from Kansas City, the region features rolling hills, woodlands, rock outcroppings, and fertile land around the Fishing River. In town, a historic downtown district features old-style architecture and many local shops and restaurants.
Visitors can learn more about the mineral springs at the Hall of Waters, the Superior Well Pagoda, and the Excelsior Springs Museum & Archives. Trolley tours provide a way to explore the town, and popular places to eat include Casa Di Vita. Places to stay overnight include The Elms Hotel and Spa and The Sundance Ranch.
Glasgow
Glasgow is a quiet river town that offers wide views over the water, especially at sunset. There are many ways to enjoy the sights, such as visiting local parks, taking a self-guided tour, or staying at Stump Island RV & Campground Park. Glasgow also has a deep historical background. The town is perhaps best known for the Glasgow Railroad Bridge, which crosses the river to connect Howard and Saline Counties. The original 1879 structure was the world’s first all-steel railroad bridge, designed by William Sooy Smith.
Visitors can tour historic mansions in the town, such as the Harrison House and Karbelle Mansion. The downtown district holds a variety of shops, restaurants, and overnight accommodations, with River Bend Family Restaurant a local standby for meals.
Hannibal
Hannibal takes “storybook town” to a new level. It is the childhood home of author Samuel Clemens, also known as Mark Twain. Located on the shores of the Mississippi River, the town carries many attractions centered on the author of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. While in town, be sure to visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, the Mark Twain Cave Complex, and the nearby Mark Twain Lake. Take a cruise on the Mark Twain Riverboat and enjoy a performance of Mark Twain Live at the Cave Hollow Theatre.
The town also provides many places to eat and stay. Grab dinner at Rumor Has It Bar and Grill, then stop in for dessert at Becky’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor and Emporium. Lodging options are available at places like Garden House Bed and Breakfast and The Huckleberry Inn.
Hermann
The town of Hermann promotes itself as “Missouri’s Most Beautiful Town.” It features many wineries and tasting rooms, such as Stone Hill Winery, Black Shire Distillery, and the Hermann 1837 Cellar Bar. These and other businesses are often housed in preserved brick buildings that evoke another time.
There is no shortage of attractions in Hermann, which features everything from annual festivals like Oktoberfest to local museums like the Hermann Fire Company Museum. Those interested in nature can explore the scenery at Graham Cave State Park and Grand Bluffs Conservation Area. Many local parks and recreation facilities offer outings for the whole family. Restaurants like the Hermann Wurst Haus and Ainsley’s Place are good spots to enjoy the local cuisine.
Kimmswick
Kimmswick is a friendly little town on the Mississippi River about half an hour south of St. Louis. The town is steeped in history, with many of its old houses and buildings, including a blacksmith shop from 1847 and a winery from 1859. The Anheuser Estate and Museum, built in 1867, sits on a hill overlooking the river. Tours are available each spring and summer, and individuals or groups can rent the house for events.
The town hosts various events each year, including the Strawberry Festival and the Vietnam Veterans Day Parade. Visitors can grab a bite to eat at local restaurants such as The Dough Depot and Blue Owl Restaurant & Bakery. Downtown shops include Ellyn’s Boutique.
Parkville
Parkville is a storybook town on the Missouri River. It is home to Park University, which features stone buildings of old-style architecture. The town’s location on the river gives it plenty of natural scenery, too. Visitors can explore nature via waterfront parks such as English Landing Park and Platte Landing Park. Two nature preserves, the Parkville Nature Sanctuary and Sullivan Nature Sanctuary, provide spots to hike and watch wildlife.
Historic downtown Parkville houses various businesses and events. Shop at downtown businesses like Cheeky Bird, La Bottega Vintage Market, and the Parkville Trading Post. Stay at spots like the Main Street Inn B&B. Enjoy food and drink at many local restaurants, such as the Prima Facie Bistro and The Baker’s Table.
Ste. Genevieve
Ste. Genevieve is an old French colonial town on the Mississippi River. Located in southeast Missouri, it is a small community founded around 1735. Many of the town’s original buildings are still standing and available for viewing at the Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park. Two state historic sites, the Felix Valle House and the Bossier-Shaw House, are also points of historic interest.
Elsewhere in town, there are many opportunities to shop, explore, and soak up the culture. The Saint Genevieve Museum Learning Center contains a collection of life-sized dinosaur replicas that fascinates both children and adults. The French Heritage Festival and the Ste. Genevieve County Fair are just a couple of annual events the town hosts. Many dining options are available, from Mimi’s Homestyle Kitchen to Audubon’s of Ste. Genevieve. Consider staying at spots like the Southern Hotel Bed & Breakfast or Dr. Hertich House.
Weston
Weston is a small town with rolling hills and bluffs, deciduous woodlands, and wetlands that attract wildlife. Hiking and biking trails crisscross the town, providing opportunities to explore the sights. The nearby Weston Bend State Park offers viewing areas and outdoor recreation options. Snow Creek Mountain Resort is a popular ski resort, with snow machines that can keep the slopes covered as long as temperatures stay below freezing.
The Weston Historical Museum and Herbert Bonnell Museum let visitors explore the town’s past, and the National Silk Art Museum holds the largest collection of woven silk tapestries in the world. Weston also houses several vineyards and wineries, such as the Riverwood Winery and the Historic Weston Orchard and Vineyard. The Farmers’ House Market provides a place where individuals with developmental disabilities can sell goods and crafts. The downtown area houses many local businesses and restaurants, such as Happy Endings Bookshop and Avalon Cafe.
Missouri’s Storybook Towns
There are plenty of storybook towns in Missouri. From the natural beauty of Eminence to the historical depth of Arrow Rock and Kimmswick, these towns are waiting to be discovered. They offer places to relax from the hustle and bustle of life and take a moment to breathe. Most of all, they offer an invitation to come and explore the stories they contain.
