Follow The Missouri River Along This Scenic Drive Through Missouri

A scenic drive through Missouri, depending on the route, could take a few days, all day, or even just a few hours. No matter how long you have or where you want to explore, you’ll likely find a beautiful Missouri drive to match. If you don't have a lot of time, slip behind the wheel and follow the Old Trails Scenic Byway, the best scenic drive through Missouri.

You don’t need a whole lot of time to drive the Old Trails Scenic Byway, a short 15.3-mile route that travels from Lexington to Napoleon.

If you just drive straight along Route 224, you could finish the entire drive in just under 20 minutes, not taking traffic into account. However, why not explore a bit instead?

Old Trails Scenic Byway meanders along the Missouri River, the same path that countless others – troops during the Civil War, farmers and miners, and pioneers traveling west – have throughout history.

Before you get too far into your journey, spend a bit of time checking out Lexington, home to four historic districts, a World War I memorial, and a Civil War Battlefield.

Depending on how much time you have, you could spend hours in this darling town that’s also dotted with shops and restaurants. If you don’t have a lot of time, make sure you plan a future daytrip or weekend getaway to Lexington.

Route 224 wanders through Wellington, too, a small city that’s home to less than 750 residents. The city is perhaps best known for Labella Vineyards & Winery, where you can stop for wine tastings and a bite to eat.

As you continue your drive along Old Trails Scenic Byway, you’ll pass Waterloo and Napoleon, the latter of which is a small town with a population of around 211. Get out, stretch your legs, and perhaps head back to Lexington for a bit more exploring.

If you’re planning to explore Lexington, find more information on the Visit Lexington, Missouri website. Or, stop by the Lexington Missouri Tourism Bureau.

Have you followed the Old Trails Scenic Byway, the best scenic drive through Missouri? What did you think? Where did you stop? Let us know in the comments! Make sure you save time, too, to explore the Battle of Lexington Historic Site.