Got an extra day or two on your St. Louis sojourn? Use the Gateway City as your springboard to explore the treasures of the “Show Me State” by embarking on some epic day trips from St. Louis, Missouri.
Whenever we’re passing through St. Louis on a road trip, we love heading out of the city to explore all the Midwestern gems nearby. Within driving distance, we had no problem finding breathtaking state parks, eye-popping historic buildings, wineries, and fun outdoor escapes. Revel in nature on the gorgeous Katy Trail, soak up the past in charming historic towns like Ste. Genevieve, explore the amazing caverns of Meramec, or take an awe-inspiring cruise down the majestic Mississippi River.
Ready to take in some Missouri marvels? Pick your playlist and hit the road with this guide to our favorite St. Louis side trips!
Hermann, MO
Feel like taking a trip into the past while sipping fine wine? Whether you’re a history buff or oenophile, we guarantee that you’ll love historic Hermann, MO. Just 90 minutes west of St. Louis, this charming town sprang up around the vineyards and wineries created by German immigrants in the 19th century.
While planning our Midwest road trip, we couldn’t help but be intrigued by this town with its German heritage and European vibes. And we knew it was exactly the type of spot we’d dig!
Set in the Missouri River Valley, picturesque Hermann is packed with popular attractions. Explore the town’s past at the Deutschheim State Historic Site, the Historic Hermann Museum, and the Gasconade County Courthouse.
Tour the lush Hermann American Viticultural Area, one of Missouri’s top wine-growing regions. Stuff in all the highlights by exploring the scenic 20-mile Hermann Wine Trail.
Aside from visiting the wineries, the Hermann Wine Trail also offers several fun events throughout the year. Sample chocolate paired with wines on the Chocolate Wine Trail, gobble down fruit and BBQ favorites at the Berries & BarBQ Wine Trail event, or help yourself to some smoky bacon at the Wild Bacon Wine Trail.
While you’re in hiking mode, check out the Hermann section of the beautiful Katy Trail, stretching 240 miles along the banks of the Missouri River.
Back in town, stroll the charming streets of German-tinged downtown Hermann to see dozens of beautifully preserved buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Browse the town’s inviting antique shops, art galleries, and microbreweries like Tin Mill Brewing Co. (114 Gutenberg St) or Turbulence Brewery (120 E 4th St).
Before heading back to St. Louis, unwind with some pampering at a local spa like the Eden Spa (2070 Village Lane).
Hannibal, MO
Want to see where the creator of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn cut his writing teeth? Put Hannibal, MO, at the top of your road trip list to get an inside look at the life of beloved 19th-century author Mark Twain.
Just two hours northeast of St. Louis, Hannibal, MO, sits on the banks of the mighty (and inspiring) Mississippi River. This charming town is home to a number of Twain-related attractions.
At the top of our list: A self-guided tour through the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. Besides the exhibits walking through Twain’s life, the museum hosts a collection of artwork from famed American illustrator Norman Rockwell, who was tasked with illustrating covers for special editions of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
Feeling adventurous? We also recommend exploring another visitor favorite: the system of caves dubbed the Mark Twain Cave Complex. The cave complex includes some of the caves that feature in Twain’s novels.
(While we were planning our road trip, we were shocked to find out there’s a small winery here, Cave Hollow West Winery, to enjoy a little tipple after checking out the caves.)
If you’re a true Mark Twain fan, here’s another must-do: settle back for a nostalgic cruise down the Mississippi River on the Mark Twain Riverboat. On the river cruise, discover the places that inspired his writing, and picture the stories of Tom and Huck coming to life.
Columbia, MO
If you want to pick up the pace and catch a youthful vibe (or you have some college prospects in your crew), carve out some time for Columbia, MO.
Just a two-hour drive west of St. Louis, Columbia, MO, offers a perfect blend of small-town feel and urban energy. It’s home to the University of Missouri – the state’s flagship college – as well as Stephens College and Columbia College.
Planning out a time-crunched trip to Columbia, we’d start by taking time to explore the remarkable architecture of the University of Missouri campus, much of it listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Check out Columbia’s historic landmarks, including the neo-Gothic-style Memorial Student Union and D. Richard H. Jesse Hall. Browse intriguing exhibits at the Museum of Art and Archaeology, featuring everything from Greek pottery to American and European art. Extend your Mizzou visit into the evening by catching a show at the Missouri Theatre Center for the Arts.
Explore the bounty of art galleries in Columbia’s beautiful North Village Arts District. Want to stretch your legs and get some fresh air? Zip five miles south of town to Rock Bridge Memorial State Park for some of the best hiking in Missouri.
Ready to wind down? Hit Ninth Street for some fun retail therapy and to relax with a cocktail at one of Columbia’s cool cafes and bars.
Springfield, IL
If you’re a history buff like we are, hop on the interstate, climb aboard the train, or cruise down the iconic Route 66 to Springfield, IL. Just 90 minutes from St. Louis, Springfield is the lively capital of Illinois – and for many years, it was the town Abraham Lincoln called home.
If you want to get an inside look at Honest Abe, you’re in the right place. Springfield, IL, is packed with major attractions connected to the life and legacy of the 16th American President.
Feel the great man’s presence at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln’s preserved homestead. Take time to browse the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. When we popped in on our last road trip through Illinois, we couldn’t get enough of all the interesting exhibits and films highlighting Lincoln’s legacy.
Outside of the obvious Abraham Lincoln attractions, we found plenty more to discover, too. Take a stroll through the splendid 1902 Dana-Thomas House, a creation of Frank Lloyd Wright, whose work always catches our eye on our travels throughout the USA.
View the stately 100-year-old Governor’s Mansion and the Old State Capitol State Historic Site to the north. A few blocks over, tour the magnificent domed State Capitol Building, featuring a stunning Renaissance Revival style that we found impossible to ignore.
After exploring all the downtown attractions, drive five minutes north to Oak Ridge Cemetery, the Lincoln family’s burial grounds, and take in Lincoln’s striking bronze effigy. (According to local lore, rubbing his nose brings good luck.)
Not sure how to map out your sightseeing route? Guided walking tours are popular and plentiful in Springfield, so take your pick!
Saint Charles, MO
If you’re looking for a destination steeped in American history, we think you’ll find it in Saint Charles, MO. Just 30 minutes away from St. Louis, this charming town was originally founded in 1769, making it the oldest incorporated town in Missouri.
And Saint Charles enjoys another claim to fame: It was the departure point for the 1804 Lewis and Clark expedition, which sparked the opening up of the Western Frontier.
Once a favorite roost for explorers and pioneers, Saint Charles, MO, is rich in historic attractions. Pay a visit to the Lewis & Clark Boat House Museum and check out life-sized replicas of the expedition boats, as well as intriguing trip artifacts.
Another must-see site in Saint Charles is the 200-year-old First Missouri State Capitol Building. This historic treasure features the original hewn timber and dark wood floors that housed the state’s first government.
On our visit to Saint Charles, we also loved strolling through the beautiful Main Street District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Meander the brick-lined streets and explore the town’s beautifully preserved frontier-era buildings to immerse yourself in a bygone era.
Browse dozens of unique shops, antique stores, restaurants, and wineries. To recharge after a long day of sightseeing, we recommend snagging a seat at a riverfront favorite like Farmer’s Home Tavern, The Western House, or Eckert’s Tavern – all dating back over 200 years. Raise a glass to the past as you drink in fabulous views of the mighty Missouri.
Ste. Genevieve, MO
Ready to do some time traveling? Take a 30-minute road trip to Ste. Genevieve, MO, to be transported back nearly three centuries. Originally founded in 1735 by French Canadian colonists, this charming town exudes an irresistible blend of history and romance.
Set in the heart of the gorgeous Missouri Wine Country, Ste. Genevieve, MO, is the oldest European settlement west of the Mississippi and home to the largest collection of French Creole Colonial architecture in the US.
Wander the streets of this living history museum and feast your eyes on over 150 beautifully preserved structures. Or take an informational tour of the town’s beautiful historic homes.
Want a change of pace? Relax with a picnic in Pere Marquette State Park or take a short side trip to Hawn State Park and immerse yourself in 5,000 acres of natural beauty.
When it’s time to refuel, Ste. Genevieve gives you loads of delicious restaurants to choose from. We’re always on the lookout for great Mexican food, so it should be no surprise that we recommend stopping off at El San Felipe Mexican Grill (21454 State Hwy 32). Located just south of town, this Mexican restaurant dishes out delicious burritos, tacos, and quesadillas, washed down with epic margaritas.
Ready to sample some tasty libations? Scope out the amazing family-run wineries and intimate tasting rooms that Ste. Genevieve is known for. A few of our favorites include Chaumette Vineyards & Winery (24345 State Rte WW) and Charleville Brewery & Winery (16937 Boyd Rd).
After all that, we’re willing to bet you might not be in the mood to leave. No worries. Settle down for the night in a cozy bed and breakfast. There’s a good chance you’ll even get to bunk in a National Historic Landmark building!
Meramec Caverns, MO
Are you drawn to mysterious hidden spaces? Missouri is renowned as “The Cave State.” Make the most of it with a side trip to Meramec Caverns. Located just an hour from St. Louis in Sullivan, MO, this site is Missouri’s most spectacular “show cave.”
First discovered by European pioneers in the 18th century, the Meramec Caverns continue to draw thousands of visitors every year. Legend has it that at one time, they served as the hideout for the infamous outlaws Frank and Jesse James – a legacy that’s been immortalized in a nearby wax museum.
Ready to go deep? Take the 80-minute guided Cavern Tour to explore the amazing rock formations of Meramec Caverns. The accessible area of the cave system spans 1.25 miles, so there’s plenty to take in. Check out the Hollywood Room, which highlights areas that have been used as settings for films like Deep Impact.
PRO TIP: The cave temperature sits at a constant 58°F (14°C) throughout the year. We recommend bringing a light jacket and sweater to stay comfortable. Non-slip walking shoes or hiking shoes are also a good idea.
After touring the cave, head back above ground and jump into some family-friendly fun in Meramec State Park. Activities we discovered here while planning our trip include soaring through the air on a zipline, trying your hand at gem mining, or hopping aboard a riverboat for a cruise down the Missouri River.
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Worked up an appetite? Grab burgers, BBQ, or ice cream at the park’s Southern-style restaurant.
If you want to make a night of it, book into the on-site motel or stake out a spot in the campground for a night under the stars.
Washington, MO
Want a day trip that’ll hit the spot with both history buffs and wine enthusiasts? We suggest charting a course for Washington, MO. Less than an hour from St. Louis, this picturesque town is the gateway to Missouri’s wine country.
Originally founded in 1839, Washington, MO, is home to a rich collection of historic houses and businesses featured in guided walking tours provided by the Washington Historical Society. Stroll through the former home of John B. Busch, the legendary local brewing magnate. Browse the art displays housed in a converted 1923 railway depot, and explore the town’s history museum.
If you’re craving a shot of greenery, we found plenty to see in Washington’s many parks. Hike the trails, spread out for a picnic, or let the kids loose on the playground. Want to work up an appetite? Tee up on the local greens, swing a racquet at Phoenix Park, or hit the nearby Katy Trail for a jog or cycle.
When you’re ready to refuel, check out Washington’s great selection of delicious restaurants. And, of course, when in wine country… since this region is packed with wineries, we suggest carving out time to do some touring and taste the luscious local produce at wineries like Triple 3 Vineyard or Balducci Vineyards in nearby Augusta, MO.
Katy Trail State Park, MO
Ready to hit the trail in a big way? Then we’d recommend taking a 45-minute jaunt from St. Louis to Katy Trail State Park, home to the longest recreational rail trail in the US. Whatever our choice of transportation – foot, bike, or horseback – we can revel in miles of stunning trails and gorgeous scenery along the banks of the Missouri River at Katy Trail State Park.
Built on what was once the corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (MKT, or “Katy”), the Katy Trail is 240 miles long and features 26 separate trailheads as well as four completely restored and renovated depots.
When we found our way to the Katy Trail on our last trip through Missouri, we enjoyed the thrill of following in historic footsteps: a large part of this generous stretch of land has been designated an official part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Katy Trail is also part of the American Discovery Trail and is a Millennium Legacy Trail.
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Hit the trailhead in the city of Machens, and follow the route along the Missouri River through historic towns like Jefferson City and Columbia. As you wend your way along the river’s edge, you’ll pass through some of the most beautiful areas in the state. And you’ll get an intriguing glimpse into Missouri’s rich rural heritage in the small towns that were brought to life by the MKT.
Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, MO
Up for an outdoor adventure and a peek into the ancient past? Then pack your gear and head for Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park. Less than 100 miles from St. Louis, this stunning natural wonder was formed millions of years ago by the cooling of volcanic rock.
The result: An awesome natural waterslide fed by the crystalline Black River as it tumbles over and around massive igneous rock boulders. Hit the visitor center at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park to get your bearings and stock up on supplies at the General Store.
Then sling your backpack and stroll the boardwalk for spectacular views of rapids, rock slides, and waterfalls. It’s beautiful to look at, and amazing to swim, slide, and splash in!
Rock hounds can feast their eyes on over 1.4 billion years of earth-shaking history, and fans of climbing will be thrilled to test their skills on the rugged rock faces. More to our own speed, hit the trails on foot or horseback to explore this geological gem and take in spectacular views of the sweeping Ozark Mountain landscape.
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After your day of adventure, unpack your General Store goodies, spread out the picnic blanket, and dig in. Don’t want to call it a day? Hook up your RV or pitch your tent, and call it a night.
Elephant Rocks State Park, MO
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff with a fondness for rocks (and rock climbing), head to Elephant Rocks State Park. Located 90 minutes from St. Louis, this intriguing site sits just outside the beautiful Mark Twain National Forest. These extraordinary rock formations have fascinated geologists for generations—and when we first saw them, we understood why!
The stars of Elephant Rocks State Park are massive pink boulders formed from 1.5-billion-year-old granite. Today, the rocks stand end-to-end like a passel of circus pachyderms. Decades ago, this was a bustling quarry that shipped rock to St. Louis. When we looked closely, we could see the names of master stone carvers etched into some of them.
The rocks are elephantine, but, from our experience, the site is very visitor-friendly. Hit the easy-going Braille Trail, designed specifically for visitors with visual and physical challenges. Wend through the largest groupings of these incredible geological formations.
Want to see more? Take the path that veers off the main trail, and you’ll discover the remnants of an old railway depot that was once used to ship the quarried rock.
Still got energy? Cruise down the road and burn it off in the 1.5 million acres of Mark Twain National Forest. Or, if you’re craving some chill time, we’d suggest heading for the cooling waters of Black River in Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park. It’s just 20 minutes away by car.
