Missouri is a beautiful state home to Kansas City, the “Live Music Show Capital of the World," iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch, and many state parks, perfect for hiking, camping, and numerous other outdoor activities. Missouri is in the midwestern states, bordered by popular destinations such as Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.
With summer quickly approaching, you might be in search of some of the best spots for endless adventure, exciting weekends, and beautiful beaches. Fortunately, Missouri offers all that, and more! If you are planning to spend your summer vacation in Missouri, discover the coolest small towns in which you can stay.
Underrated TownsA visit to one of these six underrated Missouri towns guarantees to have you uncovering some unexpectedly delightful locations that you may not have heard of before.
Parkville

Missouri River near Parkville, Missouri The town sits along the banks of the Missouri River, boasting access to the beautiful waterfront, ideal for evenings spent watching sunsets, boating trips, and relaxing on the shoreline. English Landing Park also sits along the riverside, with beautiful hiking and biking trails for an adventurous day trip. The Parkville Nature Sanctuary is another beautiful spot, with 5 kilometers of forested hiking trails ideal for a trip out with the family.
Hannibal

North Main Street Historic District, via Nagel Photography / Shutterstock.com Stroll through the town, admiring the Garth Woodside Mansion Estate local B&B, the Mark Twain and Cameron Caves, or even enjoy a ghost or vampire tour when the sun goes down. Hannibal sits along the Mississippi River, where you can swim, fish, and boat, or even travel to the Lover's Leap cliffside, taking in the scenic view of the waterway.
Weekend EscapesDiscover the 12 best small towns for a weekend escape in Missouri.
Blackwater

The Arrow Rock State Historic Site is just outside of town, where you can view historic buildings and visit some antique shops. Another stop nearby is Vintage Hill Farm, which is a beautiful nursery featuring over 1700 varieties of plants. You can even head towards Booneville and hike the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, enjoying the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Carthage

Enjoy refreshments at the White Rose Winery, and then head out for an afternoon of antique shopping or peruse through the Historic Carthage Square. For some unique entertainment, visit the Stones Throw Theatre or the 66 Drive-In Theatre, where you can check out live shows or old films.
Hermann

Peruse through the streets and enjoy the scenic streets, lined with clock towers and steeples, which rise from beautiful brick houses. The town also has a German history, making it a great spot to visit during Oktoberfest, so be sure to return to the town after your summer getaway!
Ste. Genevieve

Old brick Museum at Ste. Genevieve, Missouri Pay a visit to the Louis Bolduc House, a historic home museum site that is a beautiful example of 18th century French Colonial architecture. You will find unique designs in the building as well as objects that are from French colonies in the 18th century. Enjoy a few glasses of wine throughout the summer at the Chaumette Vineyards And Winery or the Cave Vineyard, which offer sights as tasteful as the wines.
Van Buren

Big Spring is another popular destination, as it is Missouri's largest natural spring, and even one of the largest in the world. Enjoy a more rustic stay and rent a spot on the Ozark Riverfront campground, where you can take in views of the stars, tell stories around campfires, and relish in the surrounding soundscape.
Retire in the USDiscover the best small towns to retire in Missouri.