7 Best Towns In Missouri For A Two-Day Recharge
When travelling through the Midwestern United States, tourists should definitely not overlook the great State of Missouri. An important regional cultural and economic hub, the “Show Me State”, is indeed a most fascinating place of discovery that all ages can come to appreciate. From wonderful encounters with American history to stunning natural features and rivers, Missouri is definitely an awesome destination for a special holiday. But while the major urban centers of St. Louis and Kansas City remain the most well known, guests can also see another side of the state through a visit to some of its equally captivating smaller communities. Here excitement and relaxation can both be experienced, giving travellers a chance to recharge before embarking on the next big leg of their trip. Charming and utterly delightful, these awesome Missouri towns will certainly leave a positive impression, so wait no longer and get acquainted with the great “Show Me State”!
Hannibal
Lovingly known as the boyhood home of iconic American author Mark Twain, the charmingly beautiful town of Hannibal is indeed one of Missouri’s prettiest destinations. Situated near the border of Illinois and along the mighty Mississippi River, Hannibal was established in the mid 19th century and today it maintains a modest population of just over 17,000 inhabitants. Featuring hot summers and cool winters, guests can enjoy time spent in Hannibal throughout the year where fun cultural events like the Harvest Hootenanny (September 18-19,2025) and the Folklife Festival (October 18-19,2025), will definitely delight all ages. And of course one cannot forget about the early summer Tom Sawyer Days and the Twain on Main Festival, which celebrate the continued legacy of Mark Twain.
Indeed, the town’s connection to this giant of American literature is most evident and guests will not want to miss exploring several landmarks dedicated to the author. Stop by the Twain Boyhood Home and Museum and then take a ride on the Mississippi River aboard the Twain Riverboat. Along the way pass the Twain Memorial Lighthouse all while experiencing a true immersion into the America of the mid to late 1800s. Finally for an authentic lodging atmosphere, consider a stay at the Huckleberry Inn (1891), a most charming Victorian style bed and breakfast that will undoubtedly create a most special set of memories to an already special holiday outing.
Lexington
Another beautiful river town, Lexington lies along the Missouri River in the northwest corner of the state where it serves as the seat of Lafayette County. Established in the 1820s and with a modern population of just nearly 5,000, the historic Lexington continues to attract guests looking for a recharge from Missouri’s big city attractions. Spend time along the river where activities like swimming and boating remain ever popular, while cycling and jogging along the water’s edge is a great way to simply unwind and relax amidst lush greenery.
Meanwhile, as a 19th century town guests can explore Lexington’s historic past through explorations of several landmarks and attractions. These include the Historic District, the Lexington Historical Museum, and the Battle of Lexington State Historic Site commemorating the same named battle in 1861 during the bloody Civil War. From there enjoy a meal at such proudly run local establishments like Ten Twelve Main and The Feed House, while a comfortable stay can be found at the Hotel Lexi Hill conveniently located near the highway.
Boonville
Named for the prominent Boon family of pioneers (which included Daniel Boone), Boonville was established in the early 1800s where today is serves as the seat of Cooper County. Located roughly at the mid way point between St. Louis and Kansas City, just under 8,000 call this welcoming community home that is a great place to recharge after spending time in the big cities. A fascinating historic town, Boonville has an incredible collection of upwards of 500 sites that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places! These include the Hanging Barn (1848), the Hain House, the Katy Depot Spanish Mission (1911), and the Hannah Cole Fort, amongst many more. One can even lodge at the Hotel Frederick (1905), where the past meets the present for a most unique accommodation experience in the heart of Boonville.
Finally, the outdoor lovers will not want to miss out on time spent at the Katy Trail State Park which is open year round. Enjoy hiking, cycling, and jogging, while exquisite views of the Missouri River’s northern banks never cease to amaze the young and old alike.
Ste. Genevieve
Ste. Genevieve also lies along the Illinois border and the Mississippi River, where it serves as the seat of the same named County. Founded by French Canadian settlers in the mid 1700s, today this most unique historic community boasts a humble population of some 5,000 inhabitants where wonderful natural beauty and fascinating American history come together. Explore the Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park, which immerses guests in the late 18th and early 19th centuries through its wonderful collection of preserved French Colonial style architecture. And of course the chance to eat some great French-American Cajun cooking should not be missed, and great local establishments include the Anvil Restaurant & Saloon and Audubon’s. Add in cute local boutiques like The Antique Mall, and a special gift for oneself or another is never far away.
In addition, nature enthusiasts cannot miss the sprawling Hawn State Park (a short half hour’s drive from town center) and its 5,000 acres of stunning nature. Marvel at awesome local creeks and waterfalls, while chances to go camping, picnicking, fishing, hiking, and biking amongst a raw and pristine natural environment is the perfect way to relax and recharge. Finally for those who want to stay in town a few days, consider the Main Street Inn Bed & Breakfast and the cute Aunt Katie’s Corner Airbnb.
Fulton
Founded in the 1820s, Fulton was named in honor of the inventor of the steamboat and today some 12,600 residents call it home. Seat of Callaway County, for those looking for a welcoming college town ambience then Fulton is indeed the place to be. Home of William Woods University (1870), Westminster College (1851), and the Missouri School for the Deaf (1851), a quieter pace of life and a definite recharge can be enjoyed here, where guests can experience both American and world history. Indeed amongst the cultural attractions related to these school campuses include the National Churchill Museum and the Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society Museum, amongst others. At the former learn more about the British Prime Minister’s visit to Fulton in 1946 and his delivery of the famed “Iron Curtain” speech, while the latter commemorates Missouri’s role in the Civil War through a vast collection of items and exhibits.
Meanwhile, with warm summers and cool winters spending time outside in Fulton can be enjoyable throughout the year. Enjoy time spent at the lovely Veterans and Memorial Parks, while cute local businesses like Smockingbird’s Unique Gifts give the downtown area a special sense of Americana. Finally why not complete the charm by staying a night or two at the Loganberry Inn, an awesome bed and breakfast housed in an 1899 mansion!
Arrow Rock
Listed entirely as a National Historic Landmark, the extraordinary village of Arrow Rock is certainly one of Missouri’s most special destinations. Situated in Saline County, this preserved 19th century community attracts many guests with its unique ability to transport visitors back in time. Explore such lovingly preserved landmarks like the Lyceum Theatre (1872), the Bingham House (1837), and the Old Tavern (1834), amongst many more while a variety of totally charming bed and breakfasts dot the landscape.
These include Arrow Rock Station and Borgmans that are always ready to create a cozy weekend experience and a perfect recharge from the busyness of big city life. And with splendid views of the Missouri River and the spacious Arrow Rock State Historic Park, visitors can unwind with relaxing opportunities for picnicking, camping, fishing, and cycling.
Parkville
Parkville lies near the border of Kansas and is conveniently located just some 10 miles from the major urban center of Kansas City. Home to around 8,500 residents and established in the 1840s, Parkville is a nice place to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life all while in the vicinity of the comforts of big city amenities. Spend time along the Missouri River while a range of preserved 19th century buildings frame the downtown and shopping district. Enjoy a meal at proud local establishments like Park Place Grille and the Wild Flour Bakery, while cute stores like the Cheeky Bird and La Bottega Vintage Market offer true Americana to bring back home. And of course do not forget about the beautiful English Landing Park, where picnicking, hiking, biking, and simple relaxation are the orders of the day. For lodging options while in Parkville consider the 16 Main in the heart of the historic Main Street and The Exchange in the historic district.
Affectionately known as the “Show Me State”, the Midwestern treasure of Missouri is an adventure waiting for all ages of traveller. Full of cultural allure, historic intrigue, and plenty of natural splendor, Missouri stands out as a place of genuine Americana where the young and old can find something extraordinary to discover. And when looking for a quick recharge away from the hectic pace of big city life, Missouri’s smaller towns should definitely not be overlooked. From the river community of Lexington to the special historic ambience of Arrow Rock, these small towns are perfect places to enjoy a Missouri holiday by relaxing and recharging. So wait no more and come see the great State of Missouri through a journey to these awesome towns, and experience firsthand why it has long been a favorite of many travellers through the Midwestern USA.
