7 Missouri Towns That Rival Europe's Best
Who doesn’t love the idea of the romantic Mediterranean coastline or rolling Tuscan hills? For a family vacation or couple's getaway, it is difficult to imagine a more beautiful landscape. But instead of making the trek across the Atlantic, consider staying closer to home. In fact, imagine taking a short flight to the American Midwest, specifically Missouri, speckled with beautiful, small towns reminiscent of Europe’s best. The money you save on flights can be spent on charming bed and breakfasts, surprisingly delicious wine tastings, or one-of-a-kind souvenirs from locally made shops. Ditch the Mediterranean and head for Missouri!
Hermann
Hermann, Missouri, is dubbed the “German Wine Capital of Missouri”, and it certainly delivers. The Hermann AVA, or American Viticultural Area, is responsible for an astonishing one-third of the state’s wine production. Home to just over 2,000 people, it is more of a village than a town, with a main drag made up of red brick buildings and storybook surroundings.
Located in the Missouri River Valley, Hermann offers a stunning landscape full of attractions to keep you and your family entertained. Apart from the vibrant wine scene, Hermann offers a lively art and theatre district. Head to the Clara Eitmann Messmer Amphitheater to catch an open-air performance. If you’d prefer to stay active in Hermann, stroll or bike along the Kit Bond Bridge Walking Path, with river views and beautiful sunsets. The main attraction of this town is, of course, wine, so be sure to save time in your itinerary for a sip (or several). Book a tasting and tour at the award-winning Hermannhof Winery - you won’t be disappointed!
Sainte Genevieve
Ste. Genevieve is set in the rolling foothills of the Ozarks and is one of the most unique wine destinations in the country. Like a tiny French village in the winter, the small town is reminiscent of a series of snow-dusted gingerbread houses. To learn more about the area, head to Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park, which is located within the town and offers the historical context behind the French colonial architecture.
Before arriving, check the town’s calendar of events. They celebrate several traditions dating back to their early French roots, like La Guiannée, a French medieval New Year's Eve celebration; the King’s Ball, a night of music and dancing; and their Mardi Gras parade. This town lacks chain hotels, but it’s for the best! All of their lodging is locally owned and oozes with historic significance. Dr. Hertich’s House on Main Street and The Main Street Inn are popular choices, and for good reason. They are well-appointed and conveniently located right in the heart of the Historic District.
Hollister
What Hollister lacks in size, it more than makes up for in natural beauty and attractions. The Downing Street Historic District will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a fairytale town. Tudor-style buildings line the streets, and places like Ye Olde English Inn are a must-stop for a night, a meal, or even just a pint at The Downing Street Pour House.
If you’re visiting in the summer and in the mood to catch some sun, head to the shores of Moonshine Beach or play 18 holes on Payne’s Valley Golf Course, designed by Tiger Woods' TGR Designs. For water activities, you might consider renting a boat at Table Rock Lake and enjoying the cool, clean water. When it's time to cool down, treat yourself to a small-batch ice cream from the Sweet Shack on Downing Street.
Rocheport
From the French words for rock and port, Rocheport was established as a trading post in the early nineteenth century. This small town has all the character of a French village with the conveniences of a modern hamlet. A trip to Les Bourgeois Vineyards will transport you to the French countryside. While there, be sure to stop at The Bistro for a glass of wine and a bite to eat overlooking the river.
The lovely, Victorian-style Amber House is an excellent choice for luxury lodging, and for breakfast or a latte and pastry, head to Meriwether Café and Bike Shop, after which you can rent one of their bikes and explore the beautiful landscape along the Katy Trail.
Hannibal
Hannibal is located along the Mississippi River and made famous by its most notable resident, Mark Twain. Hannibal looks like it popped out of the pages of a novel, with Victorian style rowhouses colorfully sprinkled along its main street. An obvious attraction during your stay is The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum for a self-guided tour. The Huck Finn Freedom Center is also certainly worth a visit. It is the only African American history museum in Northeast Missouri and shares the story of Daniel Quarles, the enslaved person by whom the character of Jim was inspired.
Meanwhile, those who love the outdoors can head to Riverview Park and explore more than 45 acres of hiking and biking trails with remarkable vistas. Then, head to Becky’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor and Emporium for a sundae, soda, or shake, while you browse unique souvenirs and take in live parlour music outside the store.
Branson
Branson is one of the most beautiful towns in the entirety of the Midwest, located very close to Hollister, Missouri. From aerial views, it presents like a town in the Dutch countryside, making it one of Missouri’s most popular vacation spots. Stroll historic downtown’s Main Street or hop on the free downtown trolley that will take you on a 12-stop route throughout the town. Transportation enthusiasts will enjoy the Branson Scenic Railway, which turns into the Polar Express in November and December. The Historic Owen Theatre is located in the heart of downtown and runs several shows year-round. For a truly unforgettable trip, book a meal aboard the Branson Dinner Cruise. This will feel like a European river cruise where you will enjoy delicious food with gorgeous views of the Ozarks.
Weston
Weston offers lovely views and a lively downtown steeped in history, due in large part to this town being a stop on the Lewis and Clark expedition. Visit Green Dirt Farm & Creamery to try some local goodies like gourmet ice cream and award-winning cheeses. History buffs will enjoy a trip to the Weston Historical Museum on Main Street. The museum is completely free and discusses regional history, from Native American culture to steamboats and westward expansion. For those who prefer locally-owned and historic lodging, try Coal House Lodge or Weston Wanderlust Bed & Breakfast. Weston is also full of unique shopping opportunities along Main Street, like Missouri Bluffs Boutique and Backroads Art for one-of-a-kind treasures and souvenirs.
The natural beauty often associated with Europe’s most picturesque cities can be found in America’s backyard. From Lake Como to Mark Twain Lake or Cinque Terre to Moonshine Beach, Missouri offers parallel beauty at a fraction of the cost. Instead of buying an expensive flight across the pond, consider flying into St. Louis or Kansas City and hopping in a car to enjoy the natural beauty and small town charm of these sweet seven towns!
