A road trip through Missouri, no matter where it leads, pretty much guarantees a ton of fun and happy memories. From natural wonders and waterfalls to small towns and leaf peeping, there's a road trip in Missouri for everyone. Next time wanderlust strikes, pack up and pile your whole family in the car, and hit the road. Here are just a few of the best road trips in Missouri to get you going.
It’s surprising how Missouri’s busiest highway, the I-70 corridor, hides charming small towns that you might not know exist! Conveniently located along this major route, these hidden gems are easily accessible via scenic, tree-lined two-lane highways and rolling fields. Many of these towns are along the Katy Trail, a 237-mile scenic route following the Missouri River that offers beautiful hiking and biking. You can easily hop onto the trail during your trip to stretch your legs. At just 69 miles and under an hour and a half drive time, this small-town road trip is perfect for an afternoon, though I recommend extending your visit over a few days or a weekend to fully appreciate the historic towns.
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You can use this Google Maps link to guide you on the route. Feel free to customize it as needed.
1. Rocheport
Rocheport, MissouriPhoto Taken on October 22, 2022A view down Columbia Street in Rocheport, Missouri on a beautiful Autumn afternoon.
When I visit Rocheport, Missouri, it feels like I’ve stepped into another world. The town’s quaint, peaceful, and historic charm makes it seem like a movie set. It’s entirely walkable, with charming bed and breakfasts, the scenic Katy Trail, al fresco dining, and lovely shops and galleries, all nestled among the bluffs and hills of the Missouri River region. Be sure to stop at Les Bourgeois Vineyards on your way into the historic village; this award-winning winery and restaurant offers breathtaking views of the river.
2. Boonville
A detail of historic railroad Katy Bridge over Missouri River at Boonville with a lifted midsection
Boonville, Missouri, offers a variety of attractions for every interest. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Katy Trail State Park, ideal for hiking and biking, and admire the historic pedestrian rail bridge featured in the photo above. Visit the Budweiser Clydesdales Breeding and Training Facility at Warm Springs Ranch to see these impressive horses up close. For car enthusiasts, the town has the largest collection of Mitchell wagons, bicycles, and cars in the world at the Mitchell Antique Motorcar Museum. History lovers can enjoy a self-guided walking tour and visit the Rivers, Rails, and Trails Museum. Additionally, you can play a round of golf at the scenic Hail Ridge 18-hole course or try to get lucky at the Isle of Capri Casino.
3. Blackwater
historic town of Blackwater, Missouri, springtime aerial view
Blackwater, Missouri, is a quintessential railroad town where visitors can explore the restored Depot near the railroad tracks, a reminder of its rich history dating back to 1887 when the Missouri Pacific Railroad established the "River Route" connecting many towns along the Missouri River. Like many rural towns, it had its boom in the mid-20th century; the town now has about 200 residents. Luckily, the town’s community is passionate about preserving its history, with local businesses like boutiques, a coffee shop, the historic Iron Horse Hotel, and a quirky telephone museum—complete with a vintage phone booth, perfect for a photo op. The Blackwater Preservation Society’s website is a great resource for seasonal events, festivals, and more information.
Arrow Rock, Missouri, is one of the most charming tiny towns in the state. It is a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers. Nestled within the Arrow Rock State Historic Site, the town offers scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Missouri River valley right on the Katy Trail. Visitors can also enjoy a musical performance [off-Broadway quality] at the renowned Lyceum Theatre, one of Missouri's oldest regional theaters. The town’s rich history comes alive through engaging guided tours offered by the Friends of Arrow Rock, showcasing beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings and homes.
Historic downtown Fayette, Missouri, boasts a rich history with numerous 19th-century buildings and homes that reflect the town's architectural heritage. It's the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll. Be sure to walk past the architecturally impressive Howard County Courthouse. There are over 25 buildings on the National Historic Register, most of which are in the downtown area. After spending the day exploring nearby Arrow Rock or enjoying a performance at the Lyceum Theatre, my family often stays in Fayette, drawn by its quaint atmosphere. Hotel Frederick is a beautifully restored hotel in the heart of downtown. The hotel exudes charm with its vintage décor and has a reputation for being haunted, adding a touch of mystery. For guests looking to unwind, the hotel features an inviting basement bar that offers live music and a speakeasy vibe, a delightful surprise in this rural setting.
Are you ready to explore some of Missouri's most charming small towns on a road trip? This may be my personal favorite route. Nature, history, shopping, dining, theater, wineries, haunted hotels - what more could you ask for? Before you hit the road, make sure you check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for all you'll need for a lengthy ride in the car.
Autumn is the perfect time for a leisurely drive. The crisp air makes it just right for rolling down the windows as the golden sunshine isn’t quite as hot as it was just weeks ago. These Missouri fall foliage road trips are pure bliss in the fall, offering picture-perfect opportunities for leaf peeping. Pack a picnic, too, for your autumn adventure, and find a spot to pull over for a relaxing meal.
Go on a relaxing drive along the 24-mile Blue Buck Knob Forest Scenic Byway, which winds through Mark Twain National Forest. It's the perfect way to celebrate fall in Missouri. The byway features several overlooks, so you won’t have difficulty finding places to stop and admire the changing colors of fall. Read more about this scenic drive to take in the fall in Missouri.
Drive along the 15-mile Old Trails Road Byway, which boasts winding roads and journeys from Napoleon to Lexington. The byway hugs the Missouri River, offering sensational views along each mile. Lexington’s also the perfect fall day trip destination in Missouri if you have time to stop and explore. Find more on the official website of Lexington, Missouri.
Historic Route 66 meanders 293 miles from Joplin to St. Louis and offers a ton of scenic beauty along the way. You can drive the entire route or just a portion. Make sure you stop at Meramec State Park, where you’ll find Overlook Pavilion. It offers sweeping views of a gorgeous forested area. Read more about Historic Route 66. It's truly one of the best fall foliage drives in Missouri.
Absolutely stunning views await along the 23-mile Glade Top Trail. The two-lane scenic Missouri road journeys through Mark Twain National Forest and features several scenic overlooks. Don’t forget your camera to snap photos of the breathtaking forested area and open fields. Get a glimpse of the beauty that awaits on the Glade Top Trail. It's one of the best things to do in fall in Missouri.
Journey along the 28-mile Sugar Camp Scenic Byway for jaw-dropping leaf-peeping. Eight miles of the byway is a well-maintained gravel road. In addition to several scenic overlooks, the byway features two picnic areas, so don’t forget to bring lunch along. Read all about this gorgeous fall drive in Missouri in our previous article.
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What are your favorite Missouri fall foliage road trips? Let us know in the comments! Ready for some leaf-peeping adventures? Ready for more fall fun? Follow this road trip to see the best fall foliage in Missouri.
