Missouri Small Towns Highlighted in WorldAtlas
- June 18, 2024
Outside of its two major cities, Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri offers diverse landscapes, beautiful lakes, and small-town charm. WorldAtlas’ 6 Breathtaking Towns To Visit In Missouri, takes a look around the state at Missouri’s history-rich small towns.
WorldAtlas’ tour of Missouri’s most breathtaking towns begins in Southwest Missouri with Carthage. Carthage is known for its beautiful maple tree-lined streets, Civil War history, and charming Victorian-style architecture. Tourists visit Carthage for the Precious Moments Chapel and the Battle of Carthage Civil War museum and sites.
About 100 miles southeast of Carthage, but still in the southwest region of the state, is Hollister, Missouri. Hollister, not to be overshadowed by neighboring Branson, Missouri, carries its own unique charm and history. From antiquing to water sports, to beautiful scenic views, Hollister offers a small-town feel with quick access to endless entertainment options.
Heading over to the eastern side of the state, Cape Girardeau, Missouri is noted for its quaint downtown with views of the 4,000-foot bridge over the Mississippi and plenty of trails and parks to explore. Home to Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau is also a great college town that’s close enough to Memphis and St. Louis to allow for easy access to larger cities.
About 40 miles north of Cape Girardeau is Perryville, Missouri. Located in Perry County, which was named the Best Rural County in the state by Annie C. Casey Foundation’s Data Book, Perrville has a lot to offer as a small but growing Midwest town. Perryville has several historic attractions and opportunities to enjoy nature and fresh air near the Mississippi River.
Heading north towards St. Louis, you’ll find the smallest town on the list, Kimmswick, Missouri. Historic attractions, festivals, museums, and shopping make Kimmswick a great place to visit for a history lesson and a day of hunting for unique gifts and decor.
Continuing north along the Mississippi, you’ll end WorldAtlas’ tour of Missouri’s 6 Breathtaking Towns in Hannibal, Missouri, the childhood home of Mark Twain. Plenty of historic attractions and bluff-top views of the town and the river make Hannibal a hot spot for tourists throughout the year.