Boonville is a charming city rooted in history that offers visitors an unexpected experience, nestled high atop the wooded bluffs overlooking the Missouri River. With three exits off Interstate 70, it is conveniently located in the heart of the state, roughly halfway between Kansas City and St. Louis. You'll enjoy a vibrant and stimulating cultural scene, as well as the charm and hospitality of a small town that was recently named the "Friendliest Small Town in Missouri" by Missouri Life Magazine readers. Boonville is one of central Missouri's oldest towns, dating back to Hannah Cole, who settled here in 1810, at the start of the westward expansion.

Following in the footsteps of Daniel Boone and his family, who blazed the trail for those daring pioneer settlers. Boonville developed into a bustling city rich in commerce and culture, which is still active today. Its citizens have done an excellent job of preserving that history, with over 450 sites and structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as a fantastic walking history tour to help you experience it for yourself. Boonville is home to some nationally recognized attractions, including the 237-mile-long Katy Trail State Park, which runs right through town, attracting thousands of cyclists to experience Missouri's beautiful rolling countryside.

Boonville is also home to the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales breeding and training facility, which is open for guided tours by appointment from April to October, as well as a festive lighted tour during the holiday season. Begin your adventure at the Visitor Center and River, Rails & Trails Museum in the Historic Depot District. It is housed in a renovated industrial building and features a great little family friendly museum with interactive exhibits on steamboats, railroads, and early trails and highways in the area. Its focal point is a half-scale Lewis and Clark keelboat, as well as a full-size wagon and model trail display.

Most small towns around the world have a few things in common, such as a single main street for shopping or a more intimate community feel. Some are extremely picturesque, with historical buildings and old homes that are unspoiled by Walmarts and other major chains. However, not all of them can compete with Hannibal, Missouri. Not everyone can say they were the town that inspired one of the greatest American novels of all time, as well as the author's hometown. The small river town of Hannibal, founded in 1819 by Moses D. Bate, served as a port for boats traveling up the Mississippi.

Hannibal's most famous resident did not move into town until 1839. The Clemens family relocated 30 miles from Florida, Missouri to Hannibal, bringing with them their son Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain. Mark Twain wrote several novels, the most famous of which was "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn". It is said that the town of Hannibal and Twain's experiences there inspired this classic American story. Because the town is so proud of Twain, they have worked hard to preserve much of his history. Visitors can learn more about Twain's ties to Hannibal at The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum.

Laura Hawkins' childhood home is part of the museum. Hawkins and Twain were childhood friends, and she is said to have inspired the character of Becky Thatcher in Twain's book. And who can forget about the fence? Visitors can walk by the fence that Tom Sawyer persuaded his friends to not only paint for him, but also to pay him for the privilege.

Carthage, located on the historic Route 66, is a town with a rich history. If the name sounds familiar, it's because the Battle of Carthage was the Civil War's first official battle. Carthage comes to life at the Jasper County Courthouse and Square. The courthouse's architecture is stunning, with medieval-style turrets and towers. People congregate here, and the town hosts open markets and events. Mother Road Coffee is a fantastic coffee shop where people will tell you stories from the past and the owners couldn't be nicer.

In the square, there is also a small but interesting Civil War Museum, and the staff is extremely knowledgeable. The next stop for you to try, Red Oak II, has a unique story as well. Lowell Davis grew up in a nearby small town called Red Oak, but it had become a ghost town after World War II. Davis relocated and restored many of the buildings from the ghost town to a new location called Red Oak II. The area is fascinating to explore. Davis still lives there and has some fantastic eccentric sculptures outside his house. You must also drive through Carthage's historic district, which features beautiful Victorian homes. There's also the elegant Grand Avenue Bed and Breakfast. The nearby Historic Phelps House has wonderful seasonal events and tours, and the charming staff will arrange special events, lunch, or high tea for groups.

Missouri's landscape is breathtaking, from its chiseled caves to its sweeping mountains. Visiting Missouri's many small towns is one of the best ways to get to know the state's heart. Life frequently moves at a slower pace. Rocheport is a picture-perfect day trip destination and one of Missouri's most beautiful small towns. Feel at ease in the charming small town of Rocheport. The small town's motto is "come be our guests", and it exudes the friendliness and warmth for which the Midwest is famous. Rocheport, with a population of less than 250 people, is a small town in every sense of the word.

Visit Katy Trail State Park if you enjoy being outside. Rocheport is located along the statewide Katy Trail, so you can hike a portion of it or simply enjoy the scenery. Wine enthusiasts should plan a visit to the charming Les Bourgeois Vineyards winery. Take a tour of the winery, participate in a wine tasting, or dine at The Bistro. It is perched on a bluff and provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Make time to visit a Rocheport institution. The Rocheport General Store and Café has a shop as well as a delicious menu with classic dishes, local favorites, wine, and ice cream.

Rocheport's historic downtown is ideal for a little retail therapy in its eclectic shops. It also has a number of restaurants, so you're sure to find something to your liking. If a day of pure relaxation isn't enough, spend the night in this charming Missouri town. Check into the School House Bed and Breakfast for a one-of-a-kind stay.

Fulton, a charming small town, is a picture-perfect destination all year, with one of Missouri's most walkable downtowns to boot. Put on a pair of comfortable shoes for a day of exploring Fulton, a walkable town of just under 13,000 people. You'll find plenty to do no matter what time of year you visit, including visiting an eclectic mix of museums. Museums in Fulton include the National Churchill Museum and the Auto World Museum. The Historic Brick District in downtown Fulton has a lot to offer, and you can walk too almost everything. There are several parking lots in town.

Stroll through the Brick District, which has a wide range of shops selling everything from books to one-of-a-kind gifts. Check out the Brick District Playhouse's calendar for a list of upcoming events. Visit Saults Drug Store, which houses an old-fashioned soda fountain. Get a milkshake, a banana split, or a sundae for yourself. If you get hungry, go to one of the downtown restaurants. Fulton's restaurants have something for everyone, from pizza and hoagies to Chinese and American cuisine. If you're in town on a Saturday morning during the summer, stop by the Fulton Farmer's Market to stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goodies.

Weston, with a population of just over 1,760 people, harkens back to a simpler time with its old-fashioned charm and hospitality, historic downtown, and a full menu of attractions. Weston, located along the Missouri River, dates back to before the Civil War. It was established in 1837. Visit downtown to learn about Missouri's coolest small town. Stroll through the charming shops, which sell everything from vintage items to gifts, and get to know the locals. Shops are generally open Tuesdays through Sundays, with Mondays being off. Keep this in mind as you plan your trip.

The warmer months are ideal for a picnic at Green Dirt Farm, where you can stock up on your favorite cheeses, sip a craft beer, and sink your teeth into a hearty sandwich. If you're visiting during the holidays, don't forget to stop by Fulk's Tree Farm to get your Christmas tree. While you're there, visit the farm's store, the Red Barn. Weston hosts special events throughout the year, so any time of year is ideal for a visit. While you're in town, stop by O'Malley's 1842 Pub for a delicious meal. Whatever your interests are, you'll be able to find something enjoyable to do. Wineries, farms, museums, and spas can be found in this small Missouri town.