This Historic Airbnb Is the Perfect Home Base for Missouri’s Best Wine and Rail Trails

When you think of wine country, places like Napa and Tuscany might come to mind, but Midwesterners don’t have to travel to these far-flung locales to find scenic vineyards and a picturesque town. Known as Missouri’s Little Germany, Hermann is a delightful destination for hitting the state’s best wine trail with the bonus of having easy access to the Katy Trail, the nation’s longest rail trail. Whether you prefer to spend your days strolling, sipping, or cycling on one of Hermann's trails, I’ve found the perfect Airbnb for you.

Located at the historic heart of downtown Hermann, Suite B of the Drayton Guest Suites Airbnb is one of four private apartment rentals in a brick home that dates to the 1800s. Brick walls, large windows, rustic wood accents, and chic decorations add to the charm. Not only will you have a cozy spot for visiting Hermann, you’ll feel like you are staying in a piece of its history.

I’ve learned that the best way to explore a destination is by putting your feet on the ground, and Hermann is the perfect location for this. Established in 1838, its streets are lined with over 150 historic brick buildings. Step out of the front door of your suite to find downtown Hermann at your fingertips, whether you stroll the antique shops, find the best German cuisine, or sample the spirits. If you visit during the fall, you can join in a boisterous Oktoberfest.

A short walk from Drayton Guest Suites leads to the Hermann Trolley, a popular way to explore the wine trail. Leave your car behind and let the air twirl your hair on this open-air trolley. Spend the day tasting your way through award-winning vineyards while admiring the undulating green hills along the Missouri River. The resemblance to Germany’s Rhineland brought the early settlers who shaped Hermann’s culture, still visible in the town's festivals, foods, and furnishings.

When you’re up for activity, cross the Missouri River to find the McKittrick Trailhead for the Katy Trail, a statewide 240-mile rail-to-trail conversion that crosses mid-Missouri. Instead of sampling local vintages, you can spin your wheels or put your shoes in the gravel to take in more of the Show-Me State scenery. Roll through canopies of trees and wind your way along the tranquil waterways. 

If I’ve won you over with the idea of making Hermann your home base for exploring some of Missouri’s best trails, the Drayton Guest Suites are a perfect fit for couples, families, or friend groups. While Suite B has one bedroom and sleeps four, larger parties may want to check into Suite C, which has two bedrooms and sleeps six. No matter which you select, they've all been ranked "guest favorites" on Airbnb, with nearly perfect reviews.

After a day wandering through wine country or cruising the Katy Trail, what could be better than soaking in a deep clawfoot tub? Several of the beautifully restored bathrooms in the Drayton Guest Suites feature vintage tubs, including one that is over 100 years old and original to the home. These tubs are so deep you can immerse yourself in steaming water, letting the bubbles tickle your earlobes. Utter relaxation awaits.

Just as brie and chardonnay make the perfect cheese and wine pairing, Suite B at Drayton Guest Suites pairs perfectly with your visit to Hermann, providing easy access to the city’s wine and rail trails, modern comforts, and all of the historic charm of the town itself. Make your reservations and get ready to explore all the best of Missouri's Little Germany.