This Small Missouri Town Has The Best Downtown
A small village in the Missouri River Valley, Hermann sits in a quiet stretch of countryside. Its setting drew the founders who arrived in 1837 from the German Settlement Society of Philadelphia. They saw a resemblance to the Rhine Valley, so they purchased land and soon built a river port and wine-making hub.
Hermann’s early history remains visible in its downtown. Historic brick buildings line the streets along with wineries, museums, boutiques, and galleries, creating a compact area that reflects the town’s past while supporting a steady flow of local activity.
Things to Do in Downtown Hermann
One of the most notable buildings downtown is the 1871 German School Building. The Town Clock sits at the top of this structure and has kept time since 1890. It is still wound by hand twice a week. Inside, the building houses the Historic Hermann Museum, a small museum with exhibits that include the Kinder Room, the Heritage Room, and the Music Room.
Heading north toward the water is the Hermann Wurst Haus, a deli and marketplace linked to Hermann’s European roots. It serves more than 65 types of Bratwurst and German sausage, as well as craft beers, gifts, wines, and specialty foods. If you are in town on the weekend, the All You Can Eat Breakfast is a popular addition to the menu.
A few blocks west of the Wurst Haus is the Hermannhof Winery, which continues the town’s long history of grape cultivation. The winery’s stone cellars and red brick building were built between 1848 and 1852, and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can sample wines in the Hermannhof tasting room or pair a bottle with small bites from the onsite deli.
Farther along the riverbank, east of the winery, is the Hermann Farm Museum. The property marks the site of Hermann’s first settlement and includes an 1847 Greek Revival-style home, a farm, a homestead, and a Visitors Center. Visitors can tour the historic houses or book an excursion with one of the museum’s shire draft horses. These horses pull a carriage on a guided 30-minute tour around the estate.
Downtown Recreation Areas
There are several green spaces in Hermann’s downtown where you can walk, enjoy a picnic, or let the kids release some energy. Sesquicentennial Park is the site of many Hermann festivals and events. Dedicated in 1986 for Hermann’s 150th anniversary, the park has picnic benches and a sandy play area.
Riverfront Park is a quiet place to stroll beside the Missouri River. The Riverfront Walking Trail leads to a historical marker that notes the travels of Lewis and Clark, artwork created by local students, and views over the water. The park also has two ramps for launching kayaks, canoes, and boats. A pavilion, picnic tables, and restrooms sit near the riverbank, giving visitors small conveniences without changing the open feel of the area.
Events and Festivals Downtown
Given its German heritage, the biggest event on Hermann’s calendar is Oktoberfest. This month-long celebration of German food, beer, wine, and local traditions fills downtown on weekends in October. Events include the Tapping of the Keg to start the festivities, a Lederhosen and Dirndl competition, live music, and polka dancing.
In spring, downtown hosts another major event. Wurstfest, now in its 45th year, takes place at the end of March in 2026 and centers on sausage making and related traditions. The three-day event features sausage samples and sales as sausage artisans from across Missouri present their work. The schedule also includes professional and amateur sausage-making competitions, a kraut-making class, German dancing, and the Wiener Dog Derby.
If you are in town in September, the Hermann Wine and Jazz Festival brings wine and live music to the Clara Eitmann Messmer Amphitheater. This one-day annual event supports the Camp Rainbow Foundation, which helps children with cancer or blood disorders.
Accommodation in Downtown Hermann
It is difficult to see all that Hermann has in one day. If you plan to stay overnight, the town has several places to stay that combine older architecture with modern comforts.
The Wohlt House is an 1884 mansion overlooking the Missouri River and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally the home of Hermann’s first mayor, the property is now a small guest house with three king-sized suites, an attic guest room, a parlor, a dining room, and a large deck.
Not to be confused with its presidential namesake, the White House is a boutique hotel that first opened to guests in 1868. It has three guest suites, a courtyard, a ballroom, a lounge, and a speakeasy. The property has been restored with care, and many of its original Victorian features remain in place. Tours are available on select dates during festival weekends.
Hermann’s Downtown Character
Hermann is an eclectic town with a long history, creating a mix shaped by early immigrants, wine-making traditions, and many 19th-century historic buildings. Its setting and preservation give the community a clear sense of place. Whether you plan a day out, a weekend away, or a longer break, the town has enough depth and steady activity to fill your time. A visit shows how the area’s past remains tied to the streets, landmarks, and daily life that define downtown.
