6 Most Memorable Small Towns in Missouri

Sandwiched between the Mighty Mississippi (East) and Missouri (West) Rivers and covered by the lush wilderness of the Ozark Mountains, the "Show Me State" indeed has a lot to unveil. Though easy to overlook in Middle America, Missouri has exotic, charming, and entertaining towns. French-Candians settled some, others by German immigrants, some have a quintessential English aesthetic, and plenty are true-blue modern Americans (Branson, I'm looking at you). So, if you're looking to explore some of the lesser-known regions of the United States, float on by these six memorable Missouri towns.

Ste. Geneviève

Founded in 1735, this French-Canadian village made history as Missouri's (and the Ozark's) first permanent, non-indigenous settlement and as one of the oldest European settlements anywhere west of the Mississippi. Get a sense of the look and feel of Ste. Geneviève's colonial past by visiting the national historic park, the Felix Valle House State Historic Site, and the Centre for French Colonial Life & the Bolduc House Museum - all within a few blocks of each other in the heart of the historic district. Another appeal to this charming East-Central (now) city is that, in true French fashion, it is surrounded by no less than eight wineries. And while exploring the peripheral countryside, why not make a stop at Hickory Canyons Natural Area or Hawn State Park - both less than 20 miles to the West - to experience the beautiful hikes of the Ozarks?

Hannibal

Hannibal will always be remembered as the hometown of famous American writer Samuel Langhorne Clemens (aka Mark Twain) and as the setting for some of his most beloved novels: The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Bibliophiles and history buffs alike can unite at the century-old Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, followed by the Mark Twain Museum Gallery, before boarding the Mark Twain Riverboat for an old-fashioned cruise down the Mississippi River, and then capping it off with a one-hour subterranean tour of the Mark Twain Cave Complex. Switching gears: a fun and spooky way to get a feel for Hannibal's non-Twain tales is to take the Haunted Hannibal Ghost Tour, which runs (or rather, walks) nightly starting from the Hannibal History Museum.

Hermann

Founded by German immigrants in the mid-19th century in the Missouri River Valley, Hermann specializes in authentic Bavarian cuisine and viticulture. This quaint city is filled with red-brick, green-roof buildings (most strikingly, the Gasconade County Courthouse) and is surrounded by a landscape of bushy trees and undulating vineyards and farms. In fact, approximately one-third of the state's wines are produced in this region. Given its proud heritage, Hermann hosts several popular annual events. Time your visit for Wurfest in March, Maifest in May, or Oktoberfest in (well, what do you think?), and you'll forge even stronger memories with this always-enjoyable community. Before leaving town, explore some more of the river valley by hiking or biking part of the 237-mile Katy Trail (i.e., the longest "rails-to-trail" recreational project in the country), which rolls right past Hermann (cross the Christopher S. Bond Bridge).

Branson

Although Branson has fewer than 13,000 residents, it attracts over seven million visitors annually thanks to its many attractions. Located in Taney County/Stone County on the north side of the White River/Lake Taneycomo near Table Rock Lake's eastern shore, visitors are drawn by the promise of a good time. Known as "America's Top Live Music Show Destination," Branson offers more than 100 live shows weekly, including theater performances, musicals, magic acts, and comedies for all tastes. Entertainment begins early, with numerous family-friendly attractions spread throughout the town. Key spots include the TITANIC Museum with a ship replica, Ripley's Believe it or Not!, Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure, zoos, aquariums, theme parks, go-karts, historic downtown shopping, a scenic overlook tower in the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area, outdoor activities in the Ozarks, and various eclectic sites. One thing's sure: when you visit Branson, boredom is not an option.

Hollister

You won't have to travel far from Branson to find Missouri's next charming small town. Hollister, technically a small city, is situated on the south shore of Lake Taneycomo. While Branson buzzes with activity and energy, Hollister provides a calmer, more laid-back environment. For instance, the Downing Street Historic District showcases stonemasonry and Tudor-style architecture resembling an authentic English village. Enjoy hearty fare at local pubs and relax at Ye Olde Inn for a peaceful evening. If you prefer the fresh Ozark air, rent a kayak or canoe—available locally—and explore the serene White River or nearby Table Rock Lake, which features a popular public beach and scenic shoreline walking trails. Moreover, Table Rock State Park, on Hollister's side of the river, offers a campground and an extensive network of hiking paths.

Weston

Founded in 1837 as a port on the Missouri River, Weston has retained its nostalgic charm, highlighted by its well-preserved historic downtown, antebellum homes, restored tobacco barns, and the oldest distillery west of New York's Hudson River. This Platte County town is one of Missouri's most charming and perfect for a relaxing visit. Weston is celebrated for boutique shopping, craft drinks, and wholesome homemade food. Connecting to the south side of town via Weston Bend State Park and hugging the reverse-C bend of the Missouri River, visitors can explore extensive forest trails, three paved bike paths, numerous campsites, and scenic viewpoints, ensuring a memorable and meaningful experience.

A Journey Through Missouri's Most Captivating Towns

Missouri has a lot to boast about. Its natural landscape is enthralling, its history is rich, the sub-cultures are plentiful, and the small towns are distinct. Whether you want wet and wild river adventures, to scream your head off night after night at live concerts, to visit the remnants of early-American colonies, to retrace the steps of some of your favorite Mark Twain characters, or to gently pedal past countryside vineyards, these six memorable, "Show Me State" small towns have you covered.