Do you ever find yourself just struck by a massive case of wanderlust? Fortunately, we don’t have to travel far – or even beyond Missouri’s borders – to cure it. One of the best ways to experience all that Missouri has to offer is on a road trip. This road trip, for example, will take you to some of the best hidden gems in Missouri.

Here are the Google Map directions for this road trip. Just plug in your address to customize them to your needs. As always, you can add, remove, or switch up the destinations to meet your timeframe and your interests. Whatever you do, have fun!

Google Maps
Slip behind the wheel and see some of the most darling rural towns on this Missouri road trip. This road trip meanders just over 400 miles with seven hours of driving time. Don't forget to consider how much time you'll spend at each destination.

1. Chillicothe

Chillicothe, MO 64601, USA
Facebook/City of Chillicothe Missouri
Our first stop takes us to the Home of Sliced Bread. Stroll through the quaint streets of the old-fashioned downtown, and visit one of the town's museums, such as the Grand River Historical Society Museum. Make it a point to stop by the Sliced Bread Innovation Center, too. Take a peek at all that awaits by visiting the Visit Chillicothe website.

Go on a tour of downtown Chillicothe by watching this YouTube video by adammastproductions

2. Louisiana

Louisiana, MO 63353, USA
Facebook/City of Louisiana, Missouri
Our next stop on this road trip in Missouri will bring us to another darling town. Nature lovers will find an oasis in the quaint town of Louisiana, which also boasts a charming Victorian Main Street. You'll need at least a few hours to discover all that Louisiana has to offer, including the historic downtown, John B. Henderson Riverfront Park, and Henry Lay Sculpture Park. Read more about this adorable small town in Missouri in our previous article. It's perhaps one of the most enchanting rural towns in Missouri.

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3. Mexico

Mexico, MO 65265, USA
Facebook/Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce
We'll next head to Mexico, home of a variety of must-visit places, including Hickory Ridge Orchard and a slew of scrumptious restaurants. Explore Mexico's beautiful outdoors at one of its more than half a dozen parks, too. Find more information on one of the best rural towns in Missouri on the official website of the City of Mexico, Missouri.

Go on a drive through Mexico courtesy of this YouTube video by KCVids816

4. Higginsville

Higginsville, MO 64037, USA
Google Maps
Named one of the top 10 places to retire in Missouri, Higginsville is our next stop. If you're a history buff, you'll definitely want to visit the Confederate Memorial State Historic Site. Then sip wine and have a delicious bite to eat (try the pizza!) at Arcadian Moon Winery. Learn more on the Higginsville, Missouri website.

5. Richmond

Richmond, MO 64085, USA
Facebook/City of Richmond
Our final stop brings us to Richmond, a charming small town of just over 6,000 residents. Spend a few hours (or an entire day, if you have the time), exploring the quaint downtown. Stop by the farmers market (if you're in town on a day it's open), and check out the local arts scene. Find more information on the official website of Richmond, Missouri.

 

What are your favorite hidden gems in Missouri? Would you go on this road trip to rural towns in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! For a one-of-a-kind adventure that mixes history and the paranormal, visit this battlefield in Missouri.

Before you set off on this Missouri road trip, make sure you’ve packed everything you need. Check out our road trip essentials packing list, so you don’t forget anything.

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More to Explore

Life In Missouri

Beth Price-Williams | December 03, 2023

What are other must-visit small towns in Missouri?

If you’re looking for plenty of tranquility and the charm of yesteryear, be sure to also add these timeless small towns in Missouri to your must-visit list:

  • Stroll through the darling town of Kimmswick, which dates back to the 1800s.
  • Explore Ste. Genevieve, the oldest town in Missouri.
  • Nestled along the river, Parkville’s adorable downtown is perfect for a day of shopping, eating, and exploring.
  • With its throwback vibe, Fulton has earned distinction as being one of the most walkable small towns in America.
  • While you’re exploring the quaint small town of Augusta, be sure to visit Klondike Park, home to a white sand beach. (Unfortunately, swimming in the river is not allowed.)

What are some natural wonders in Missouri?

Some of the most amazing hidden gems in Missouri are its natural wonders. Here are some bucket list-worthy natural wonders in Missouri that you can check out for free:

  • Elephant Rocks State Park in Belleview is home to 1.5-billion-year-old boulders that look like circus elephants in a line.
  • Grand Gulf State Park in Koshkonong has been called the Grand Canyon of Missouri.
  • Hike to Mina Sauk Falls, the tallest waterfall in Missouri. It sits within Taum Sauk Mountain State Park in Middle Brook.
  • Snap photos of Blue Spring near Eminence. It’s the deepest spring in the state.

 

 

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