Romantic Getaways in Missouri

Located near the center of the nation, Missouri offers a number of romantic spots ideal for a couples’ getaway. Here there are historic places, luxuriant vineyards, scenic beauty and cultural attractions – in any other words, anything that figures as the embodiment of romance for you and your special someone.

Branson

The city of Branson is an epicenter for concerts, museums, theme parks, scenic beauty and other attractions all of which make especially good destinations for a romantic getaway. If you and your sweetheart are nature lovers, take a tour of the natural caves around Branson. Talking Rocks Cavern is in Branson West, about 12 miles west of downtown. Guided tours take visitors through the underground caves, where it's possible to see varied crystal cave formations. If you and your partner wish to bond together amidst the outdoors, head from Branson to the surrounding Ozark Mountains where you can Stay at one of the area's more romantic lodges or in a rustic cabin for two, occasionally venturing around town for one of its more romantic entertainments. Alternately you can view the mountains on a hot air balloon ride or chug along with your beloved on the Branson Scenic Railway. The trip covers 40 miles around the surrounding Ozark foothills and mountains and makes For a romantic ride in old-fashioned style, a cruise on the Branson Lake is another popular romantic activity Should you opt for a sightseeing cruise, it's likely you'll see local wildlife such as night herons, bald eagles or minks along the river banks, as well as notable Branson landmarks from the water. Apart from natural beauty, Branson is also a city of vibrant culture where big name entertainments perform along 76 Country Music Boulevard side by side with local talent. Broadway and Vegas style shows are fast becoming popular in this vacation Mecca. At the Shepherd of the Hills homestead visitors can relive Harold Bell Wright's classic novel and a play based on the book is held nightly. For a greater dose of fun, whisk your beloved to any of the multiple theme parks - pioneer themed Silver Dollar City, carnival and retro park Celebration City, and water park White Water are all part of the local scenery. Beautiful mountain scenery, many fine restaurants, and places off the beaten path all add to the romance of this lovely getaway.

Vineyards of Ozark Mountains

Ozark Mountain viticultural region is the sixth largest wine growing region in the country and one of the most favored destinations for couples. Some of the best known wineries here are the Stone Hill Winery and the Branson Ridge Winery. For spirits with real local flavor, head to Copper Run Distillery, nine miles outside Branson, where you can see how the artisan distillery turns moonshine into bourbon. If you wish to spend a couple of days amidst the scenic vineyards, stop at the small city of Hermann along the banks of the Missouri River. Here you can indulge in fine wines and bask in a European ambience. Just east of the state capitol at Jefferson City, Hermann's vintage buildings offer Old World Charm which means you can choose from many delightful bed-and-breakfasts and local inns, each with its' own unique style. Apart from the better known Hermanhof Winery and Vineyards, there are other small wineries in the surrounding hills which produce delightful wines for any palate. You can also pick up delicious bratwurst, other sausages, and cheese. Once you are done touring the wineries, stroll along the river bank hand in hand to watch the sun set into the Missouri and paint the landscape with a romantic orange glow.

St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri's largest city, offers something for every couple. Here  you can climb to the top of the Gateway Arch, explore the shopping and dining venues inside Union Station, gamble on a riverboat casino, play at Six Flags Over St. Louis, or visit one of the nation's finest zoos. The Butterfly House, Grant Farm and Shaw Natural Reserve are some other places in St. Louis which you can explore with your beloved. Laclede's Landing down near the riverfront offers old brick buildings and an ambiance that isn't duplicated anywhere else. There is a French flavor here but you can also find outstanding Italian food and culture in some of the city's ethnic neighborhoods. From steak to barbecue, you are sure to find something to pamper your palate and enjoy your time in St. Louis. Again if you cannot imagine romance without music, St Louis makes for the perfect getaway. The city offers a wide variety of musical venues featuring all kinds of talented artists, but nothing beats the unique ambiance at Jazz Bistro in the Grand Center Arts District. Here you can Experience some of today’s greatest jazz artists up close and personal in a warm, intimate setting while dining on delicious food; best of all, Reserve a ticket to a show and your dinner reservation is automatic. Finally what sets the stage for romance better than a bottle of the finest wine? If you think so too, then don’t forget to visit one of the area’s most romantic wineries, Chandler Hill. Located less than 30 minutes from St. Louis, this winery is truly a romantic escape from everyday life, featuring a vast selection of Missouri wines from West Coast wines to the owner’s reserve of fine wines.

Ste. Genevieve

If however you wish to explore a place where feel of the French heritage of Missouri still lingers, then Ste. Genevieve in the southern part of the state could make for a great romantic getaway. Founded as early as 1725, Ste. Genevieve predates St. Louis and retains a distinct French flavor. The Bolduc House is a rare remaining example of early French Colonial Mississippi Valley style homes. Birds mounted by John James Audubon during his residence are a highlight of the Ste, Genevieve Museum. Steeped in eighteenth century colonial history means that there are several charming bed-and-breakfast inns such as the such as The Inn St. Gemme Beauvais and Dr. Hertich's where you can put up for that old world feel. Additionally you can settle down for a romantic dinner at the Old Brick, a restaurant housed in the first brick structure west of the Mississippi.

Clarksville

For many couples though the ideal getaway is all about scenic location and romantic isolation; if this goes for you as well, then Clarksville could be your destination of choice. The tiny river town with population of less than 500 is perfectly secluded deep in Pike County. Cedar crest Manor is one of two plush houses on the 17,000-hectare Overlook Farm in Clarksville, offering home-cooked meals, a heated pool and walking trails. For Wildlife lovers Clarksville can be particularly rewarding as this is prime eagle watching territory, thanks to the nearby presence of Locks and Dam 24 and 25. Ice doesn't build up in this section of the Mississippi River, so hundreds of eagles fly here to fish in the waters during the winter. Even if bird watching does not figure at the top of romantic activities, at Clarksville you can bond with your beloved in the midst of scenic surroundings and quaint historical atmosphere.