Most small towns in the world share quite a few things in common, like having one main street for shopping or a tighter community feel. Some tend to be extremely picturesque, filled with historical buildings, old homes and unmarred by Walmarts and other major chains. However, not all of them have what Hannibal, Missouri has. Not all can boast that they were the town who inspired one of the greatest American novels of all time, in addition to being the hometown that raised the author.
Founded in 1819 by Moses D. Bate, the small river town of Hannibal served as a port for boats traveling the upper Mississippi.
It wasn't until 1839, that Hannibal's most famous resident moved into town. The Clemens family moved 30 miles from Florida, Missouri to Hannibal, bringing their son Samuel Clemens, whom we now know today as Mark Twain.
Mark Twain wrote a number of novels, but his most famous was, "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." It is said that the town of Hannibal and Twain's experiences while living there is what inspired this classic American tale.
The town is so proud of Twain that they've worked hard to preserve much of his history. Visitors can go to The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum to learn more about Twain's ties to Hannibal.
Part of the museum includes the childhood home of Laura Hawkins. Hawkins and Twain played with each other as children and she is said to have inspired the character of Becky Thatcher in Twain's book.
And who could forget the fence? Visitors can walk by the fence that Tom Sawyer convinced his friends to not only paint for him, but also to pay him for having the opportunity to do so.
The fun doesn't just stop at the museum. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Mark Twain Riverboat and enjoy historical sightseeing or a live jazz band at night during the dinner cruise.
Whether you're a book nerd or not, Mark Twain and his book, "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" played a huge role in history. And for that, Hannibal is a town that is definitely worth checking out.
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum is located at 120 N. Main Street in Hannibal, Missouri. Not too far down the street from there, is the Mark Twain Brewery. This town sure does love their Mark Twain.
Christmas in Missouri is simply magical, with neighborhoods glittering in lights, Santa listening to little ones' holiday wishes, and spending time with family and friends. The holidays are all about making memories that will last a lifetime. Christmastime is also a picture-perfect opportunity to visit the enchanting town of Hermann, truly a Christmas town in every sense of the word and possibly one of the best Christmas towns in MO.
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Pull out your calendar, because Hermann is the place to be to celebrate the holiday season throughout November and December. The already-charming town transforms into a magical winter wonderland once November rolls around, promising a jam-packed menu of activities for the whole family. The holiday season in Hermann, MO, typically kicks off the third weekend of November. Join others celebrating the holidays in Missouri for the Holiday Fare Wine Trail along the Hermann Wine Trail (tickets are required). The Sounds of Starkenburg concerts and the Christmas market and the Children's Lantern Parade are also slated for November.
wonderfully wrapped Christmas presents under Christmas tree
December also boasts a ton of activities, from Holiday House Tours to a Hermann Farm Christmas, the latter of which offers insight into German Christmas traditions and a tour of homes decked out in 19th-century decorations. If you've got kiddos, climb aboard the Missouri River Runner Express on Dec. 19, 2024, for a scenic train ride with Santa. The little ones can pose for photos with Santa and, when you arrive back at the Hermann Amtrak Station, the whole family can enjoy hot chocolate.
Stop by the Historic Rotunda, too, to admire the Christmas tables during the annual "Tablescapes," a display of decorated Christmas tables. The event will be held during the first two weekends of December. If you need an adults-only evening out, join the Santa Rampage. Dress up as Santa as you join other revelers on an epic pub crawl on the second Saturday in December.
Portrait of Father Christmas Reading letters from children in his grotto
You'll probably also have a ton of shopping to do for the holidays, and Christmas in Hermann, MO, delivers in a big way with the German bake sale at the Historic Hermann Museum, the Christmas Market in the Loft at Fernweh, and Christkindl Markt at Hermannhof. Gear up for a day of shopping by setting off on the Hermann Cookie Walk, typically held on the third Friday and Saturday in December. Advanced tickets are necessary. One of my favorite ways to celebrate Christmas in MO is on a cookie walk. I love trying cookies I might not otherwise eat and, well, I can't resist a delicious sugar rush now and then.
For a full calendar of events to celebrate the holidays in Hermann, MO, visit the official website of Visit Hermann or go to the Visit Hermann Facebook page.
What's your favorite Christmas town in Missouri? Let us know by nominating it. Don't stop with a visit to Hermann, Missouri. Visit some or all of the other Christmas towns in Missouri that look like they stepped from the screen of a Hallmark Christmas movie.
If You Only Have One Day To Visit This Small Town In Missouri, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
Discover the best things to do in Washington, Missouri, in just one day! Explore local art, history, unique shops, train watching, and more in this small town.
Tucked along the banks of the Missouri River, Washington, Missouri, is the perfect destination for a one-day adventure. With its rich history, thriving arts scene, and local charm, this small town offers a taste of everything that makes Missouri special. In just one day, you can explore a National Historic Trail, browse locally-made goods, take in local art, find unique old books, step into a historic factory, and even watch trains rumble by, all while soaking in Washington’s small-town hospitality. Best of all, nearly every must-see stop is within walking distance, so lace up your sneakers and get ready to explore!
Your first stop in Washington should be WashMO On the Go, a one-of-a-kind shop that doubles as the town’s unofficial visitors center. Owner Toni has thoughtfully curated a space that’s more than just a shopping experience; it's an insider’s guide to all things Washington. She knows the town like the back of her hand, so don't be shy if you have any questions. You’ll be hard-pressed to stump her!
Housed in the historic 1888 Water Works Building, the shop is a treasure trove of local history. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on Lewis and Clark, Daniel Boone, Native American history, and even a model train exhibit that kids (and adults!) will love, especially given its location right next to the railroad.
The shop showcases goods from over 72 local artisans and crafters, offering everything from handmade gifts to vintage finds, antiques, and seasonal decor.
The shop is family-friendly, featuring a 2,000-gallon fish tank with local Missouri River fish, dioramas of local animals, a Lewis & Clark boat replica, and a train car to sit in. Plus, a tactile exhibit featuring locally resourced bones, insects, rocks, and furs.
Open seven days a week, WashMO On the Go is the perfect place to grab a snack, pick up maps of the area, and even get your National Parks Passport stamped (the shop is located on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail). I was surprised this stop made it on the National Parks list, and it made me want to explore further what parks are included in the National Parks system; check out the link.
Take in Local Art in Washington, Missouri
If you’re going to visit a local art gallery, you’d want to go to the one owned by the head of the local arts council, right? Room for Art in Historic Downtown Washington, Missouri, has some of what you might expect: beautiful oil paintings, watercolors, and photography, much of it showcasing local scenery. But I love this gallery's approachability and community-driven spirit through the goods it offers. In addition to fine art, local artisans can make usable pieces, like handcrafted leather keychains, wallets, walking sticks, greeting cards, and fiber arts (they make great gifts). It's the perfect blend of art you can admire and art you can take home.
Visit a Historic Factory, the First and Last of Its Kind
One of Washington's most unique stops is the Missouri Meerschaum Company, the only remaining factory in the world that still manufactures corn cob pipes. I know, corn cob pipes? Stick with me here; this place has over 150 years of rich history!
The on-site museum tells the story of the company’s beginnings in 1869 and features an impressive collection of documents and correspondence from famous literary figures and military personalities who enjoyed their pipes. A tour guide will walk you through the factory’s history and the craftsmanship that has kept the company thriving for over a century. Even if pipes aren’t your thing, it’s hard not to respect the legacy of this factory. They sell tobacco, “cob wear,” and natural pipes from their Cornabis Collection, a nod to Missouri’s legal cannabis scene. This was one stop that local guide Toni from WashMO On the Go insisted you can't miss!
Washington Is One of the Best Places in Missouri to Watch Trains
Even if you’re not a rail fan, there’s something captivating about watching trains in Washington, Missouri. I feel like the steady rhythm of the wheels on the tracks, the distant whistle, and the sheer power of these machines can be mesmerizing. Trains evoke a sense of exploration and movement, a reminder of the open road or, in this case, the open rails. The anticipation of spotting a train builds excitement; hearing it approach, seeing it emerge in the distance, and feeling it rumble by is exhilarating, much like birdwatching when you spot a rare species.
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Here Are Three Ways You Can be a Trainspotter in Washington, Missouri:
1. The Amtrak Station
Housed in the historic 1923 Missouri Pacific Railroad Depot: Amtrak Train Station Washington, Missouri, also serves as a visitor center and home to the Mid-Missouri Fine Arts Gallery. Here, you can watch trains go by while waiting in the passenger room or exploring the depot’s history.
2. Rennick Riverfront Park
Just a block from downtown, this riverfront park in Washington, Missouri, is steps away from the railroad and offers an unobstructed view of trains passing by, with the Missouri River in the background. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in both natural and mechanical beauty.
3. Marquart's Landing
For a more up-close-and-personal train-watching experience, grab a bite to eat at Marquart's Landing, a restaurant practically perched on the railroad tracks. Sit out on the amazing patio, and you’ll feel the vibrations and hear the sounds of trains passing right next to you.
And here’s a bonus stop for train enthusiasts: while it’s not the real thing, the Iron Spike Train Museum is still worth a visit. The museum features model trains of various scales on working tracks, exhibits on train history, and a library dedicated to railroading.
If you only have one day to spend in Washington, Missouri, you’ll be amazed by how much this small town has to offer. From its rich history to its vibrant arts scene, Washington is a perfect mix of heritage and local charm. What are some of your favorite small towns in Missouri?
