Thedailymiaminews– Missouri has an infinite number of stories to tell, thanks to its history of European settlement, its residences of notable American authors, and its close connection to the notorious Route 66. Visitors can still experience Missouri’s history by seeing its well-preserved villages, even if some of these stories took place decades ago. These six storybook villages will take you to a different chapter in history, whether you want to step into the shoes of Tom Sawyer, an early French colonist, or are just passing through.
Hannibal
Hannibal is the ideal place to revisit the classic stories of American author Mark Twain, as it is where he grew up. The Mark Twain Cave Complex, which is the oldest cave in the state and a significant source of inspiration for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, is available all year round. Visitors can take a tour of the cave complex to learn more about the author and his writings. At the Cave Hollow Theatre, you may see one of Twain’s works come to life during a live play. Chocolaterie Stam is a local chocolate shop that has been in business since 1913. It offers an attractive European-style atmosphere and sells hand-crafted chocolates and gelato.
On December 13th, visitors can experience Hannibal’s Victorian Christmas event, which will take place in the downtown area. The event will include a range of activities inspired by history, such as a tour of a historic holiday home, carriage rides, and performances by carolers.
Ste. Geneviève
Ste. Geneviève was one of the most significant French settlements in the area. It started as a French colonial settlement in 1735. The town is still greatly impacted by its French colonial history today, and this is mostly due to the meticulous preservation of its 18th-century architecture. If you want to see original French colonial-style homes, you should go to the Beauvais-Amoureux House, which is a cedar log home that dates back to around 1792; the Felix Vallé House, which is an American-Federal style residence that was built in 1818; and the Bolduc & LeMeilleur Houses, which were constructed in the late 18th and early 19th centuries and are furnished with artifacts from that time period.
There is a lot to discover, even just a little bit outside of the city. If you want to see a variety of water birds, spend a day visiting Kaskaskia Island, which is home to species such as egrets, herons, and whooping cranes. It is less than a 20-minute drive from Ste. Geneviève. Another famous outdoor site is the Hickory Canyons Natural Area, where visitors may hike through Lamotte sandstone canyons that are 500 million years old.
Parkville
Parkville is located in a wooded location along the Missouri River, near limestone-carved bluffs. It has a historic dining and shopping district that dates back to the 19th century, giving it a fairytale-like feel. Visitors can enjoy a beverage at the Craic Irish Pub, which is located downtown in a building that was built in 1927 and used to be Parkville’s Post Office. If you’re looking for a vintage memento or gift, take a walk around Parkville’s antique stores and boutiques, such as La Bottega Vintage Market, Parkville Trading Post, and Cool Vintage Watches.
In addition, Parkville features five parks and two wildlife sanctuaries that you can explore across the area. Parkville Nature Sanctuary is well worth visiting. It is a 115-acre woodland preserve that has three miles of hiking paths that loop past waterfalls, springs, and a boardwalk. Pocket Park is a park located in the center of Parkville’s historic district. It is an urban park that features plants, a colorful mural, a terrace, and benches where visitors may relax.
Kimmswick
Kimmswick was governed by a number of European nations before it was ceded to the United States in 1803. The French were the first to hold it, followed by the Spanish. In 1859, a German immigrant finally resolved the issue. Visitors can stroll through the quiet lanes of the 19th century today, where buildings that date back to the establishment of Kimmswick in 1859 are located. The Burgess-How House & Museum, which is the oldest log building in town and has been restored and furnished to look like a farmhouse from the 1850s, is where travelers can begin their tour. The Historic Post Office is another delightful place to visit. It has been in operation since it was built in the 1850s. The El Camino Real sign at Jefferson Square Park is a tribute to the town’s heritage, which dates back to the late 18th century when it was located along an old Spanish road.
If you want to learn about the history of Kimmswick while enjoying a glass of wine, go to LaChance Winery. It is located in a log cabin that dates back to around 1770, and it serves as both a restaurant and a vineyard. From April to October, it has live music on its patio.
Hermann
Hermann, which was settled by a group of German immigrants in the 19th century, is still rich in German legacy today, as seen by its culture and its famous vineyards. The Deutschheim State Historic Site is home to many 19th-century German homes and workshops, many of which are furnished with furniture and artifacts from that time period. This site has maintained a significant amount of German heritage. Hermannhof Winery is a great place to visit if you want to experience the town’s famous German wineries. It has old stone cellars, mid-19th-century buildings, and a winemaking tradition that goes back generations.
Hermann really comes alive in December, when it celebrates the festive season in its old German village quarter. There are other activities scheduled to take place between December 19th and 22nd, including a holiday concert featuring musicians Nick Stoppel and Marques Ruff, a unique Santa Rides The Rails event on the Missouri River Runner Express, and a guided holiday carriage tour of the town.
Carthage
Carthage, which is located on the famous Route 66, captures the essence of the old-fashioned Western United States. Visitors will feel like they are in a movie when they stay at the historic Boots Motel. The motel features Streamline Modern Architecture and preserves the legacy of Route 66 with touches such as a radio in each room. Carthage is home to one of the last remaining drive-in theaters in the country, which is open from April to October.
Kellog Lake Park, which is located along Route 66, is 22 acres and provides an ideal setting for picnicking, fishing, or kayaking. Carthage Municipal Park is another outdoor option. It has been a community center since the 1930s and has features such as a skating rink and an outdoor amphitheater, both of which were built when the park was first established.
Because of the natural and historic preservation efforts of each of these towns, both residents and visitors will be able to appreciate the distinct stories of the towns for many years to come. These six villages have a storybook charm, thanks to the many attractions they provide, including cascading waterfalls, gorgeous herons, old-fashioned motels, and ancient caves. Missouri offers an immersive experience waiting for you, regardless of the type of tale you wish to get involved in.