Halfway Between Kansas City And St. Louis Is A Charming Destination With Unique Sights

Affectionately known as the Jeff, Missouri's state capital, Jefferson City, was once voted America's Most Beautiful Small Town by leading map publisher Rand McNally (per PR Newswire). Overlooking the Missouri River from limestone bluffs along its southern bank, Jefferson City also ideally situated on the northern edge of the Ozark Plateau. Despite its relatively small size, Jefferson City has plenty to keep visitors occupied. Iconic buildings shape the skyline of the historical downtown, while pretty parks full of blooming gardens and nature trails make the most of the riverside views.

The Missouri River itself is a favorite spot for kayaking and canoeing, drawing people into the water in the warmer months. Jefferson City also sits right next to the Missouri Rhineland, one of the largest wine-making regions in the Midwest. It makes the perfect destination for wine connoisseurs or those who simply want a taste of the lush, vine-covered countryside.

Named after the third president of the U.S., Thomas Jefferson, and officially incorporated in 1825, Jefferson City was once part of the homeland of the Osage Nation. Its position along the Missouri River meant it served as a major trade route, passing through French and Spanish control before finally being acquired by the U.S. in 1803 as part of the Louisiana Purchase. Jefferson City is around a two-hour drive west of the fun and budget-friendly city of St. Louis and almost two and a half hours east of Kansas City. The lively college town of Colombia is only a 30-mile drive north, as is this nearby hidden gem state park.

Jefferson City, home to around 44,000 residents, was once nearly named Missouriopolis, a futuristic sounding name that wouldn't quite have suited the historic downtown and its period buildings. Whether you're interested in the city's past or not, you can't help but be impressed by the commanding presence of the Missouri State Capitol and its 262-foot dome rising above the city. This immense building houses the Missouri State Museum, with some outstanding works of art reflecting Missouri's history and culture. The present capitol building is actually the third to have existed, as the previous two burned in devastating fires. Guided tours of the Missouri State Capitol are free, but reserve your place at least 24 hours in advance to avoid disappointment.

Another tour worth taking is the two-hour ghost tour around the historic site of the Missouri State Penitentiary. This spooky tour takes you through the same corridors where notorious inmates including James Earl Ray and "Pretty Boy" Floyd once walked. Tickets for the ghost tour begin at $40 per person, but be aware kids under 14 aren't allowed. There are other, more family-friendly tours focused on the penitentiary's history available as well.

For something a little less gruesome, pay a visit to the Missouri Governor's Mansion. This outstanding Colonial Revival-style mansion has been the residence of Missouri governors since 1872 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A tour around its richly decorated interior, as well as the immaculate Carnahan Memorial Garden next door, is well worth a visit, especially in spring or fall. Tours are free, but places need to be reserved. Or, you could simply take a stroll through Jefferson City's historic downtown. Packed with boutiques, antique shops, and the welcome sight of Central Dairy Ice Cream Parlor on a hot day, you'll find plenty to keep you amused.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Jefferson City has its fair share of activities both on and off the water. Binder Park is the city's largest park with more than 644 acres to explore. Around 15 miles of scenic trails for hiking or biking take you through woodland and open fields, and it's a great location for a family day out. There's a small lake for boating or fishing, and plenty of grassy areas for picnicking. The park also has its own campsite with 18 RV hookups. The smaller Deborah Cooper Park is a quieter, riverside park with nature trails, and can be reached over the Missouri Bicentennial Bridge, linking the State Capitol to Adrian's Island.

For the more adventurous, Katy Trail State Park stretches 240 miles from Clinton to Machens and passes right through Jefferson City and this other historic Missouri town. Ideal for hiking, biking, or horseback riding, it's the longest developed rail trail in the U.S. and was built on what was the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. Winding alongside the Missouri River, you can expect scenic riverside views and a glimpse into the state's rural history along the way. If you need to hire a bike, head to Red Wheel Bike Shop, where bike rentals cost $35 for a full day.

The Missouri River itself is just waiting to be discovered by canoe or kayak. Several access points along the riverbanks will get you into the water where you can explore some of the slower moving stretches of America's longest river. However, it's better suited to more experienced paddlers due to strong currents. Being so close to some of the best vineyards in the Midwest, no visit to Jefferson City would be complete without a wine tour. The Hermann Wine Trail is just a short trip away and can be reached by Amtrak's Missouri River Runner, which runs through prime Missouri wine country between Kansas City and St. Louis everyday.