While there are many things to love about the Show Me State, it doesn’t get any better than waterfalls, local wineries, and road trips. So, we sat down and combined all three! For an adventure that you are going to remember for years to come, embark on this multi-day road trip to some of the best waterfalls and local wineries in Missouri. We will take you from one end of the state to the other and to several Missouri destinations that you can cross right off of your bucket list.
This road trip in Missouri takes you approximately 870 miles and requires nearly 16 hours of drive time. You will want to plan for multiple days to complete this trip in its entirety, but we’ve got you covered. We’ve listed several conveniently located Best Western Hotels in Missouri along the way. Gas up the car, grab some snacks, and make sure your camera is ready to go — we are going on an adventure!
1. Van Till Family Farm Winery, Rayville
The Van Till Family Farm Winery is the perfect place to relax, admire Missouri’s natural beauty, sip a glass of wine, and enjoy some incredible food. This family-owned winery not only produces quite a selection of wines, but you can also devour a tasty wood-fired oven pizza with your drink. You will have a full experience during a stop at this Missouri winery.
After visiting this vineyard, you can always drive to Kansas City for the night and stay in one of the many stunning properties like Best Western Independence Kansas City, or you can continue down the road to the Best Western Plus Columbia Inn.
2. Belmont Vineyards and Winery, Leasburg
Belmont Vineyards is a family-owned vineyard and winery that sits along historic Route 66. Here, you can sample boutique, quality wines and admire European antiques and local art. There are plenty of options at this winery that range from dry to sweet, making it easy to find a glass of wine that you can't do without.
3. Seven Springs Winery, Linn Creek
Seven Springs Winery in Linn Creek is going to impress you in every way. This beautiful winery sits on 160 acres of Missouri foothills and features a gorgeous covered porch and patio area where you can enjoy the views with a glass of wine in hand. Stop by the tasting room to sample the wines and grab a few delicious food items off of the light menu.
Whether you choose to visit the last two wineries in a single day or you stop by these local wineries on separate days, book a stay at the Best Western Coachlight in Rolla for a chance to unwind before you continue on your trip.
4. Twin Oaks Vineyard, Farmington
Twin Oaks is a vineyard and winery located right on Highway F in Farmington. This 180-acre, family-owned vineyard is the perfect place to stop, relax, and enjoy. During your visit to this premier vineyard, you can taste the award-winning wines in the tasting room, covered porch, or glass house. You can always take a tour of the vineyards or even sit under one of the Oak trees that are nearly 400 years old.
5. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, Reynold’s County
Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is not only where you will see some beautiful waterfalls, but it is also where you will fall in love with Missouri all over again. This is an outdoor lover’s paradise with waterfalls, hiking trails, overlooks, picnic areas, and more. In fact, we recommend you spend quite a bit of time at this stop on our road trip — it’s too beautiful to rush through!
6. Hodgson Water Mill Waterfall, Dora
You definitely won’t want to forget your camera at this waterfall stop. While the waterfall is small, the historic mill in the backdrop creates the most picturesque setting. This gorgeous waterfall is connected to a spring and when the mill was in operation, it would discharge approximately 23.5 million gallons of water in a single day. While the waterfall is quite beautiful, spend some time exploring the area. You’ll also find remarkable bridges and creek views that are stunning.
After exploring so many waterfalls in one day, stay the night at the Best Western Plus Landing View Inn and Suites to get a good night's sleep.
7. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, Lampe
You may want to plan a full day to visit the Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. This beautiful Missouri attraction features 10,000 acres that are filled with waterfalls, trails, creeks, and so much more. You can spend your day admiring the waterfalls on a hike, bike ride, or even a horseback riding tour. However, be aware that there is an admission fee to enter Dogwood Canyon Nature Park.
Before venturing on the last leg of our trip, you can always head back to Best Western Plus Landing View Inn and Suites or even book a stay at the Best Western Branson Inn and Conference Center.
8. Grand Falls, Joplin
Our waterfall road trip would not be complete without a stop at Grand Falls in Joplin. This waterfall is found just minutes from downtown Joplin and it is the largest continuously flowing waterfall in Missouri. It’s only 12 feet tall but is still magical and the perfect way to conclude our multi-day road trip.
And for one last night on this waterfall and wineries road trip in Missouri, relax and recharge at the Best Western The Oasis at Joplin.
What do you think of our wineries and waterfalls road trip in Missouri? Are there any stops you would add to this itinerary? If so, let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments! And, during any of your travels or additional road trip adventures, make sure to book a stay at the closest Best Western property to you!
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