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Missouri boasts many nicknames: The Ozark State, The Mother of the West, The Cave State, The Iron Mountain State, and more. Why does one state have such a variety of names? Visitors soon discover the answer as they explore Missouri's rich historical sites, stunning natural wonders, and vibrant cultural heritage. From the French colonial charm of Ste. Genevieve to Van Buren's scenic riverways, each town offers a unique experience. With summer quickly approaching, these six towns make perfect summer getaways for those seeking a refreshing break.

Ste. Genevieve

Visitors will feel like they are stepping outside the United States when they visit Ste. Genevieve. The town鈥檚 French colonial past has left many remnants in the town鈥檚 architecture and culture. In the historic district, French colonial buildings, including poteaux-en-terre and poteaux-sur-sole homes, abound, showcasing the fascinating use of massive timber logs in their construction. From June 10 to 11, travelers can participate in the annual French Heritage Festival, which offers French foods, history reenactors, live traditional music, historic home tours, and more.

Nearby natural wonders await in Ste. Genevieve as well, such as the gorgeous Hickory Canyons Natural Area, where hikers can see sandstone box canyons that formed over millions of years. Just slightly outside of Ste. Genevieve, visitors can also take a trip to visit Kaskaskia Island, which is home to a wide array of bird species, such as egrets, herons, and stray whooping cranes. Although Kaskaskia Island is within the limits of Illinois, visitors can reach it only from Missouri!

Cape Girardeau

Cape Girardeau is the perfect summer spot, filled with ice cream shops, picnic places, and hiking trails. Eight beautiful trails surround the Cape Girardeau area, such as Maple Hollow Trail, which takes hikers through gorgeous, heavily wooded hills, beautiful streams, and fascinating rock formations. Spots like Cape County Park North make perfect picnic destinations, featuring shady groves, a disc golf course, a fishing hole, and a nature center!

Returning from hiking and picnicking, visitors can stop by Andy鈥檚 Frozen Custard, a highly-rated ice cream joint, to enjoy a cold treat. Nearby in town, antique and jewelry shops, gift stores, boutiques, and art galleries await to be explored. Outdoor art murals and sculptures are scattered around town as well.

Van Buren

Those looking to have a relaxing vacation and slow down will love Van Buren. The nearby Ozark National Scenic Riverways consist of a beautiful, protected river system that is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, boating, fishing, or swimming. The Current and Jacks Fork rivers are two must-visit water systems, although the park also hosts an abundance of caves, freshwater springs, and historic sites that are fascinating to explore. Alley Mill, dating back to 1893, is just one example of a stunning historic site located in the park.

For activities within the town, the 21 Drive-In Theatre is open seven days a week and will remind travelers of simpler times as they enjoy a movie on the big screen from their car. For those traveling with their families, Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo promises a fun-filled day with various interactive exhibits, including free roaming kangaroos, gem mining, and guided tours of an impressive river cave.

Boonville

Boonville鈥檚 vibrant culture and small-town hospitality make it a memorable and underrated destination in Missouri. Restaurants like The 87 Diner offer classic, mouthwatering American cuisine that will satisfy every traveler鈥檚 hunger. In town, visitors can also stop by the historic district, which features buildings with historic architecture, hosting cozy flower shops, antique shops, and souvenir stores.

One of the most memorable activities visitors can do in Boonville is visit the Warm Springs Ranch, which is the official breeding facility for the Budweiser Clydesdales. A variety of unique experiences await on the ranch, such as cuisine and beer-tasting experiences and opportunities to see the horses up close, grooming, harnessing, and prepping them as well as learning about their history and legacy.

Kimmswick

Kimmswick may be tiny, with a population of just a little over 100 people, but it is bursting with history, architecture, and landmarks. Having once been in the possession of both the Spanish and the French, the town has a blend of culture and history that visitors will still feel when visiting today. The Anheuser Estate, El Camino Real Marker, Burgess-How House & Museum, and the Historic Post Office are just a few of the historic attractions worth visiting, dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries.

What better way to kick off the summer than with a Strawberry Festival? Those who visit at the beginning of June will be able to indulge in fresh strawberries, strawberry shortcakes, and strawberry iced tea, among other strawberry delights! Craft booths, pony rides, garden vendors, and a petting zoo are some of the other attractions that will be at the festival as well.

Carthage

Carthage, affectionately known as America鈥檚 Maple Leaf City, wonderfully preserves its rich history and culture, which travelers will immediately notice upon visiting. The Carthage Stampede & Rodeo, for example, happening at the beginning of June, will feature bulls, steer wrestling, barrels, a calf scramble, and more! History buffs can indulge in Civil War history by visiting the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum, which features a diorama, a plethora of artifacts, and a massive mural painted by a local artist.

Just a couple miles outside of Carthage, travelers can visit Red Oak II, a fascinating historic attraction, featuring a plot of land speckled with a collection of early 20th-century buildings, such as a Phillips 66 Station, general store, old school house, and an old cemetery. Strolling past the quaint, old buildings will feel like a trip back in time!

Final Thoughts

Although many people鈥檚 summer plans consist of beach days, Missouri offers unique alternatives that promise equally memorable experiences. Whether you want to ring in the summer with fresh strawberries, canoe down a cool river in the Ozarks, or brush out a Budweiser Clydesdales, one of these cool Missouri towns is sure to draw you in with its fascinating attractions. So, look no further than the midwestern state of Missouri for an unforgettable, historical, relaxing summer!