What was once a significant site for Native American arrow production, now sits strong as a national historic site as well as a landmark for travelers on the Lewis & Clark and Santa Fe trails. A noteworthy remnant of America's Westward Expansion, Arrow Rock was named after a massive flint stone bluff located on the river. Evidence shows that Native Americans gathered flint for making arrowheads beginning almost 12,000 years ago. History has it that Lewis & Clark passed through this erstwhile river town during their travels, Clark proclaiming upon a return visit in 1807 that the bluff was a "handsome spot for a town". After a ferry was established in 1811, the Arrow Rock became an important jumping off point for travelers along the Santa Fe trail. Home to the iconic George Caleb Bingham House, this heritage vestige is a striking reminder of strategic town-planning, where its winding, ancient thoroughfare seemingly carries the imprints of merchants, traders, and travelers who frequented it. Some of the olden buildings yet survive, including churches, museums, and the legendary Lyceum Theatre. A certain sense of Boonslick charisma pervades the town, where antiquity yet blooms in all its fervent glory.

Located in Missouri's Platte County, Parkville is a historic city dating back to the year 1844. Named after George S. Park, the first settler in the region, Parkville is home to a number of historic buildings that have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Downtown Parkville is known for its lively rustic streets flanked by unique local shops, eateries, and beautiful views of the Missouri River. The English Landing Park in the town located along the river is one of its most iconic landmarks and attractions, along with Parkville Nature Sanctuary.

Ste. Genevieve is a charming city and the county seat of Missouri's Ste. Genevieve County. Founded by French Canadian colonists in 1735, the city became the first organized European settlement west of the Mississippi River. Named after the patron saint of Paris, Ste. Genevieve reflects its French origins through the old French Creole colonial buildings that adorn its rustic landscape. Most striking structures in the town include the Louis Bolduc House, Jacques Guibourd Historic House, and the Beauvais-Amoureux House. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy attractions like the Pickle Springs Natural Area and Hawn State Park.

The largest city and county seat of Missouri's Callaway County, Fulton is a historic city whose settlement dates back to the year 1809. Known for its lively, bright Christmas events, Fulton attracts many visitors during the holidays. Dotted with cozy restaurants, cafes, pizza places, quirky local stores and wineries, Fulton makes for a vibrantly touristy destination in the state. Steeped in history and making for a delightful treat for history buffs, the city is home to a number of attractions like the Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society, the Auto World Museum, and the National Churchill Museum.

Founded by the German Settlement Society of Philadelphia in 1837, Hermann is a city and the county seat of Missouri's Gasconade County. A beautiful town resembling a fairytale setting, Hermann is home to old rustic streets flanked by historic residential and commercial buildings that are reminiscent of its German heritage. Cozy accommodations, award-winning wineries and specialty breweries define the landscape of this city renowned for its annual Oktoberfest and Maifest. The Deutschheim State Historic Site, a historic complex, acquaints visitors with Hermann's bygone era. Other must-visit attractions include Historic Hermann Museum and Hermann Farm Museum.

Travel back to the bygone era of Missouri with a visit to this rustic old city. Kimmswick was platted in 1859 by Theodore Kimm, after whom the city gets its name. Kimmswick is home to the Kimmswick Historic District and Windsor Harbor Road Bridge, which find a mention on the National Register of Historic Places. Take a heritage walk down the district to admire the historic buildings and local shops while soaking in the quaint atmosphere of the town. The Anheuser Museum and Estate is another historic attraction in the town that explores local history and culture.

Once a trading port for colonial settlers as well as Native Americans, Rocheport is now a charming, thriving city in Missouri's Boone County. The Rocheport Historic District in the city, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is home to a number of historic buildings that define its quaint, rustic landscape. When in town, take a walk in the district to explore its streets and structures and soak in the charming atmosphere of the town. Shop for unique souvenirs, relish delicious local cuisine, or explore the outdoors at the Katy Trail State Park.

A stunning blend of art, history, culture and architecture, Carthage is an idyllic destination in the state of Missouri. Located in Jasper County, Carthage charms visitors with its rustic old-world charm and historic sites such as the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site. It is also home the iconic Precious Moments Chapel, a popular attraction featuring unique paintings and depictions of porcelain figurines. Other popular landmarks include the beautiful courthouse building and Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum.

A gem born in southwest Missouri's stark Ozark badlands, Branson is a mutlipronged destination with a lot to offer. Branson's unabashed touristy landscape is largely dominated by a dialed-down, family-friendly version of Nevada's Vegas, also known as the '76 Strip' – a brightly illuminated stretch on the highway filled with an eclectic assemblage of cheap motels, strip malls, parks, shops, diners, museums and live music venues. For those few who do not merely regard Branson as a recreational pit stop, Branson's three lakes serve as an outdoor mecca, packing in everything from trout-fishing adventures, to hiking, hunting and skin diving excursions. A cavalcade of tourist indulgences await travelers who visit this lakeside city, whether it is miniature golf, a sightseeing tour on the Branson Scenic Railway, a ride on the city's very own entertainment water-cruiser, or a thrilling trip to Silver Dollar City.

Located along the beautiful Mississippi River, Hannibal is a charming city in Missouri. Originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, the beautiful riverside town is now famous for being the boyhood home of the celebrated American author Mark Twain, who drew inspiration for his iconic novels from the places in Hannibal. Today, visitors can trace the history and life of Mark Twain and his works at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum. Other attractions like the Mark Twain Cave and Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse have also been named after the author. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit attractions like the Sodalis Nature Preserve and Big River Train Town.

Overlooking the Missouri River, Boonville is a charming city that is steeped in history and heritage. Located off I-70 in the heart of Missouri, the city is an eclectic blend of quirky local shops, restaurants and eateries, vibrant inns and bed and breakfasts, and exciting attractions. Visit the Warm Springs Ranch to see the Budweiser Clydesdales breeding facility, explore local history at River, Rails & Trails Museum, enjoy exciting outdoor activities at Katy Trail State Park, and witness antique wagons and cars Mitchell Antique Motorcar Museum.

Take a step back in time with a visit to Weston, a melange of antique shops, local delicacies, historic streets, museums, and entertainment options. With a landscape of undulating verdant hills and archaic locales, Weston has something in store for everyone. Take a heritage walk in the Downtown District, taste local cheeses at Green Dirt Farm Creamery, shop for delicious jams and pies at the Farmer's House Market, or embark on wine tasting tours in the lush vineyards and wineries in town. Art and culture lovers can indulge in visits to attractions such as National Silk Art Museum and Weston Historical Museum.