Missouri is full of towns with historic,
thriving main streets. Especially this time of year when there are holiday
lights and celebrations going on, it’s a wonderful way to spend the day visiting
shops, grabbing a bite to eat, or learning about the history of the town.
Here are a few examples of Missouri’s Main Street or downtown culture.
1. St. Charles
Historic downtown St. Charles is always a great place to
visit, especially this time of year when they have their annual Christmas
Traditions festival. Shopping, historic buildings, great restaurants and
charming decorations make St. Charles a must-visit. But here’s a summary for
you:
2. Parkville
Parkvillmo.org
Visit historic downtown Parkville for the eclectic shopping
choices featuring art, antiques, boutiques, home décor, fashion and so much
more. You’ll also have some great food choices, and enjoy festivals like
Christmas on the River and Santa’s House (going on right now!) Visit
parkvillemo.org for more information.
3. Lexington
Lexington is a tribute to the past with four unique historic
districts. The Downtown Historic district is a great place to shop in antique
and specialty shops, dine in charming restaurants, and stay in an interesting
inn or bed and breakfast. They offer walking and driving tours and many of the
buildings go back as far as the middle 1800s, even from the time of the 1861
Battle of Lexington during the Civil War. The 1847 Greek Revival Courthouse is
the oldest of its kind in continuous use west of the Mississippi River, complete
with a cannonball that has become a symbol of the town. Visit
visitlexingtonmo.com
4. Chillicothe
Downtown Chillicothe is unique for their Main Street Murals,
a total of 18 original, hand-painted pieces of art depicting the town’s history
on the downtown buildings. Besides the best in food, shopping, and amazing
murals, you’ll also want to check out the Silver Moon Plaza. The plaza is a
multi-use outdoor gathering space complete with fountains, benches, and plenty
of room for concerts, events, and special occasions. There are two historic
districts in Chillicothe; the Courthouse Square Historic District and the
Commercial Historic District, with buildings dating as far back as the town’s
founding in 1837. For more information, visit downtownchilli.com.
5. Clinton
http://www.clintonmo.com
Clinton's Historic Downtown Square is Missouri's largest, and
is quite charming. Browse along the Victorian setting enjoying unique shops, a
historical museum, and all centered around the 1893 Henry County Courthouse.
Don’t miss the Memorial Bandstand, the Soldiers Memorial and the granite
Historic Fountain. During the holidays, enjoy Christmas lights, banners, lighted
snowflakes and other décor depicting the Christmas season. Check out this video
for more information.
6. Lee's Summit
Over 40 locally owned specialty shops and boutiques are just
some of what you will find in downtown Lee’s Summit. Amazing and varied types of
restaurants to choose from appeal to any palate. The Lee’s Summit Historical
Society Museum in the old train depot built in 1905 is also a must-see featuring
maps, photographs and artifacts from Lee’s Summit’s past. Special events such as
Santa Visits Downtown Lee’s Summit, and Farmer’s Market Holiday Mart, both
occurring now, are planned throughout the year. Visit downtownls.org for more
information.
7. Warsaw
www.welcometowarsaw.com
The Downtown Riverfront and Main Street Retail District in
Warsaw covers a 36 square block area. Featuring unique shops, antiques, and a
variety of local restaurants, this district is sure to provide a remarkable
experience.
8. Weston
Historic Main Street in Weston features a large variety of
shops, restaurants, entertainment and attractions. Don’t miss the Main Street
Galleria, a unique and special shopping experience, offering an array of
antiques, decor and giftware. The McCormick Country Store is the place to go for
McCormick products and gift items, and you can’t leave without checking out the
National Silk Art Museum, The Farmer’s House Market, the Tin Kitchen or the West
Historical Museum. Grab a bite to eat at the Avalon Café or the St. George
Hotel. For more information, visit westonmo.com.
9. Ste. Genevieve
Previously featured in great detail in a previous post,
beautiful historic small town Ste. Genevieve is filled with amazing
architecture, old world culture, wineries, shopping and so much more! Care has
been taken to preserve the past, celebrated through re-creations, celebrations,
and lots and lots of food. Don’t miss the Ste. Genevieve Museum, home to
everything from Native American Indian artifacts, a scale model train, an 18th
century French flute, and even some of John J. Audubon’s stuffed birds. Visit
visitstegen.com for more information.
10. Joplin
Joplin is a beautiful and dynamic community in southwest
Missouri with much to offer. The vibrant downtown provides opportunities for
great shopping, dining and just wandering. Visit Joplin Hope Wall, a graffiti
mural, a memorial for a horrible terrible that hit Joplin. You can also see the
Murals at City Hall, visit the Local Color Art Gallery or Phoenix Fired Arts,
see a concert at Pro Musica, or check out the antique and collectible mall
Reclaim It America. For more information, visit joplinmo.org.
11. Branson
Historic Downtown Branson is a destination with a wide
variety of restaurants, retail shops, entertainment, and unique attractions.
With special events like Branson’s Downtown Christmas, and so much to see, well,
let’s let Sparky tell you about it…
12. Jackson
http://www.jacksonmo.org
Historic uptown Jackson, centered around the stately
courthouse square has remained a thriving commercial hub throughout Jackson's
history. It features a variety of specialty stores, businesses, restaurants, and
so much more. Uptown Jackson Revitalization Organization is dedicated to
preserving the history and supporting local uptown businesses, and puts on
events like Small Business Saturday, and a grand Holiday parade. For more
information, visit jacksonmo.org.
-------------------------------------------
Odessa MO is like stepping into Bedford Falls or Stars
Hallow.
-------------------------------------------
I was so disappointed that Sedalia didn't make the list. It
is certainly old and historic (at least in my mind)
-------------------------------------------
Plattsburg MO
-------------------------------------------
Was surprised Hermann Mo wasnt on the list or Hannibal???
Love both
-------------------------------------------
I would add Herman, MO! It is charming and there is much
activity!
12 Inexpensive Road Trip Destinations In Missouri That
Won’t Break The Bank
Missouri is a great place for an inexpensive adventure. In
bigger cities, there are many free museums and modern city parks. Out in rural
Missouri, you can find amazing state parks and historical sites well worth a
visit. Even if you have already splurged a little this summer, you don’t have to
stop having fun under the summer sun. This list of 12 inexpensive road trip
destinations features a lot of great free attractions that will only cost you a
tank of gas!
Forest Park was recently named the best city
park in the nation. It's easy to see why with
well maintained grounds, endless opportunities
for exercise, and the amazing free museums.
Spend your day visiting the free zoo, art
museum, history museum, or catch a showing at
the Muny.
Cost: Free (including zoo and museums).
Find the park at 5595 Grand Dr., St. Louis.
Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a great place to camp,
hike, or swim at the Lake of the Ozarks. The
main attraction at Ha Ha Tonka is the castle
ruins that sit on the bluffs overlooking the
lake.
Cost: Free
Find Ha Ha Tonka State Park at 1491 State Rd. D,
Camdenton.
Meramec Caverns is one of Missouri's most
visited caves. This amazing cave formation is
open year round and is always a cool 65 degrees.
At one point in its long history, the cave was
thought to be a hideout of the outlaw Jesse
James.
Cost: $21 Adults, $11 Children
Visit the caverns at 1135 Highway W, Sullivan.
4.
Danial Boone Home - Defiance
Daniel Boone moved to Missouri with his family
in 1799. His home and other buildings from the
early 1800's are now part of a small pioneer
town in St. Charles County. Learn about what
living in Missouri was like before it became a
part of the union.
Cost: $8 Aults, $5 Children
Visit the Daniel Boone home at 1868 Hwy F,
Defiance.
5.
Kauffman Memorial Gardens - Kansas City
The Kauffman Memorial Gardens are a small and
beautiful oasis in Kansas City. This city garden
is tended to by Powell Gardens staff which means
you will always find stunning and well
maintained grounds.
Cost: Free
Find the gardens at 4801 Rockhill Rd., Kansas
City.
Johnston's Shut-Ins is located in southeast
Missouri and is one of the best natural swimming
destinations in the state. Hike the trails
through the park on a hot summer day then cool
off with a swim before you head home!
Cost: Free
Visit Johnston's Shut-Ins at 148 Taum Sauk
Trail, Lesterville.
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum sits on
the banks of the Mississippi River in Hannibal.
Mark Twain is a beloved American author who
penned The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. See the homes of
the people who inspired some of the most popular
characters in American Literature.
Cost: $11 Adults, $6 Children
Visit the museum at 120 N. Main St., Hannibal.
It can be a bit costly to see an MLB game but
minor league games are just as fun and half the
cost! The Springfield Cardinals are a minor
league affiliate to the St. Louis Cardinals.
Hammons Field is considered one of the best
minor league parks in the nation, there isn't a
bad seat in house.
Cost: $8 - $49 (weekend games)
Find the stadium at 955 East Trafficway,
Springfield.
9.
Grand Falls - Joplin
You can find Missouri's largest waterfall in
Joplin. The falls are located just downstream
from Wildcat Park that has a wonderful yet easy
nature trail to hike.
Cost: Free
Visit the falls at 5400 S. Riverside Dr.,
Joplin.
Mark Twain Splash Landing is a great little
water park north of Hannibal. This water park
has fast water slides for thrill seekers and a
great wave pool for those just looking to cool
off.
Cost: $25 Adults, $20 Children
Find Mark Twain Splash Landing at 42819 Landing
Ln., Monroe City.
Watkin's Mill is a historical site near
Excelsior Springs where wool was produced into
textiles. The mill opened in 1860 and is the
only mill in the nation with it's original
machinery.
Cost: Free
Visit Watkin's Mill and Homestead at 26600 Park
Rd. N, Lawson.
Grand Gulf State Park near the Arkansas boarder
is one of the most breathtaking spots in
Missouri. This mini grand canyon was created
after a cave system collapsed after centuries of
natural erosion.
Cost: Free
Find the park off Hwy. W in Thayer.
Here Are The 19 Cheapest Yet Great Places To Live In Missouri
Overall, Missouri has a lower cost of living than a lot of
the country, and according to areavibes.com, these are the places in Missouri
with a population over 1,000 with the lowest overall cost of living. See
if your town makes the cut!
Clarkton
Clarkton is located in Dunklin County, about 16 miles north of Kennett, and has
a population of just 1,288 residents. It is the oldest city in the county. One
of the most interesting historical sites in town is the Birthright House, the
home of two successful former slaves that for forty years dedicated their lives
to the community of Clarkton, located at 109 N Main Street.
Princeton
Princeton in Mercer County is the county seat and largest city in the county,
even with just 1,166 residents. Named in remembrance of the Battle of Princeton
during the Revolutionary War, it is also known for being the birthplace and
childhood home of Calamity Jane. Calamity Jane, or Martha Jane Canary was an
American frontierswoman and scout who was most known for her acquaintance with
Wild Bill Hickock. On the third weekend of September each year, Princeton
celebrates Calamity Jane Days with a town-wide fall festival.
Kennett
Kennett is the county seat of Dunklin County and it is located in the southeast
corner ("Bootheel") of Missouri, 4 miles east of Arkansas and 20 miles from the
Mississippi River. It is an agricultural hub producing goods like cotton,
soybeans, rice, and watermelon that are distributed nationwide, and while only
home to just under 11,000 residents, it is the main source of business and
commerce for up to 100,000 people within a 30-mile radius.
Nevada
Nevada is the county seat of Vernon County, with a population of 8,386
residents. Nevada suffered greatly during the Civil War. In fact, the entire
town was burned to the ground in 1863 by pro-Union militiamen from nearby Cedar
County. Nevada is the home of Cottey College, an independent, liberal arts and
sciences college for women. It also has a Community Center, golf course, and
several city parks, including Walton Skate Park and Walton Aquatic Center.
Carthage
Carthage, nicknamed “America’s Maple Leaf City,” is the county seat of Jasper
County and has a population of 14,378. The city was established in 1842, burned
to the ground during the Civil War, then reconstructed during the Victorian era.
The result is a legacy of architectural marvels now featured in four historic
districts and a total of over 600 buildings listed on the National Registry. The
city celebrates their heritage through a variety of family fun and seasonal
events and cultural activities throughout the year including Independence Day,
Marian Days, the Maple Leaf Festival, and
Christmas festivities. Along with the shops and restaurants in the historic
district, the city also hosts the Precious Moments Chapel, Route 66, and Civil
War sites.
These 12 Towns In Missouri Have The
Best Main Streets You Gotta Visit
Missouri is full of towns with
historic, thriving main streets. Especially this time of year when there
are holiday lights and celebrations going on, it’s a wonderful way to spend the
day visiting shops, grabbing a bite to eat, or learning about the history of the
town. Here are a few examples of Missouri’s Main Street or downtown
culture.
1. St. Charles
Historic downtown St. Charles is always a great place to
visit, especially this time of year when they have their annual Christmas
Traditions festival. Shopping, historic buildings, great restaurants and
charming decorations make St. Charles a must-visit. But here’s a summary for
you:
2. Parkville
Parkvillmo.org
Visit historic downtown Parkville for the eclectic shopping
choices featuring art, antiques, boutiques, home décor, fashion and so much
more. You’ll also have some great food choices, and enjoy festivals like
Christmas on the River and Santa’s House (going on right now!) Visit
parkvillemo.org for more information.
3. Lexington
Lexington is a tribute to the past with four unique historic
districts. The Downtown Historic district is a great place to shop in antique
and specialty shops, dine in charming restaurants, and stay in an interesting
inn or bed and breakfast. They offer walking and driving tours and many of the
buildings go back as far as the middle 1800s, even from the time of the 1861
Battle of Lexington during the Civil War. The 1847 Greek Revival Courthouse is
the oldest of its kind in continuous use west of the Mississippi River, complete
with a cannonball that has become a symbol of the town. Visit
visitlexingtonmo.com
4. Chillicothe
Downtown Chillicothe is unique for their Main Street Murals,
a total of 18 original, hand-painted pieces of art depicting the town’s history
on the downtown buildings. Besides the best in food, shopping, and amazing
murals, you’ll also want to check out the Silver Moon Plaza. The plaza is a
multi-use outdoor gathering space complete with fountains, benches, and plenty
of room for concerts, events, and special occasions. There are two historic
districts in Chillicothe; the Courthouse Square Historic District and the
Commercial Historic District, with buildings dating as far back as the town’s
founding in 1837. For more information, visit downtownchilli.com.
5. Clinton
http://www.clintonmo.com
Clinton's Historic Downtown Square is Missouri's largest, and
is quite charming. Browse along the Victorian setting enjoying unique shops, a
historical museum, and all centered around the 1893 Henry County Courthouse.
Don’t miss the Memorial Bandstand, the Soldiers Memorial and the granite
Historic Fountain. During the holidays, enjoy Christmas lights, banners, lighted
snowflakes and other décor depicting the Christmas season. Check out this video
for more information.
6. Lee's Summit
Over 40 locally owned specialty shops and boutiques are just
some of what you will find in downtown Lee’s Summit. Amazing and varied types of
restaurants to choose from appeal to any palate. The Lee’s Summit Historical
Society Museum in the old train depot built in 1905 is also a must-see featuring
maps, photographs and artifacts from Lee’s Summit’s past. Special events such as
Santa Visits Downtown Lee’s Summit, and Farmer’s Market Holiday Mart, both
occurring now, are planned throughout the year. Visit downtownls.org for more
information.
7. Warsaw
www.welcometowarsaw.com
The Downtown Riverfront and Main Street Retail District in
Warsaw covers a 36 square block area. Featuring unique shops, antiques, and a
variety of local restaurants, this district is sure to provide a remarkable
experience.
8. Weston
Historic Main Street in Weston features a large variety of
shops, restaurants, entertainment and attractions. Don’t miss the Main Street
Galleria, a unique and special shopping experience, offering an array of
antiques, decor and giftware. The McCormick Country Store is the place to go for
McCormick products and gift items, and you can’t leave without checking out the
National Silk Art Museum, The Farmer’s House Market, the Tin Kitchen or the West
Historical Museum. Grab a bite to eat at the Avalon Café or the St. George
Hotel. For more information, visit westonmo.com.
9. Ste. Genevieve
Previously featured in great detail in a previous post,
beautiful historic small town Ste. Genevieve is filled with amazing
architecture, old world culture, wineries, shopping and so much more! Care has
been taken to preserve the past, celebrated through re-creations, celebrations,
and lots and lots of food. Don’t miss the Ste. Genevieve Museum, home to
everything from Native American Indian artifacts, a scale model train, an 18th
century French flute, and even some of John J. Audubon’s stuffed birds. Visit
visitstegen.com for more information.
10. Joplin
Joplin is a beautiful and dynamic community in southwest
Missouri with much to offer. The vibrant downtown provides opportunities for
great shopping, dining and just wandering. Visit Joplin Hope Wall, a graffiti
mural, a memorial for a horrible terrible that hit Joplin. You can also see the
Murals at City Hall, visit the Local Color Art Gallery or Phoenix Fired Arts,
see a concert at Pro Musica, or check out the antique and collectible mall
Reclaim It America. For more information, visit joplinmo.org.
11. Branson
Historic Downtown Branson is a destination with a wide
variety of restaurants, retail shops, entertainment, and unique attractions.
With special events like Branson’s Downtown Christmas, and so much to see, well,
let’s let Sparky tell you about it…
12. Jackson
http://www.jacksonmo.org
Historic uptown Jackson, centered around the stately
courthouse square has remained a thriving commercial hub throughout Jackson's
history. It features a variety of specialty stores, businesses, restaurants, and
so much more. Uptown Jackson Revitalization Organization is dedicated to
preserving the history and supporting local uptown businesses, and puts on
events like Small Business Saturday, and a grand Holiday parade. For more
information, visit jacksonmo.org.
What is your favorite Main Street to
visit in Missouri? Have you been to any of these towns? Are there
others we may not have included this time? Share in the comments below.
-------------------------------------------
Odessa MO is like stepping into Bedford Falls or Stars
Hallow.
-------------------------------------------
I was so disappointed that Sedalia didn't make the list. It
is certainly old and historic (at least in my mind)
-------------------------------------------
Plattsburg MO
-------------------------------------------
Was surprised Hermann Mo wasnt on the list or Hannibal???
Love both
-------------------------------------------
I would add Herman, MO! It is charming and there is much
activity!
