Holiday Getaway – Northeast Missouri

If you're visiting Northeast Missouri, this museum is a great place to learn more about one of America's most-beloved authors. Twain grew up in Hannibal and used it as inspiration for famous works

For the culture lover on your shopping list, check out this shop, which features Native-American-made merchandise including works by Herman Adams, Bev Doolittle, J.D. Challenger, and bronze sculptor Mark Hopkins. You also find prints, sculpture, pottery and beadwork.

The nation's tallest monument at 630 feet, the Gateway Arch has beckoned visitors since June 1967. The Gateway Arch commemorates Thomas Jefferson and the role St. Louis played in the westward expansion of the United States. A visit to St. Louis isn't complete without standing at the Arch's base and playing professional photographer, but the view from the outside is only half of the experience.

If you'd rather spend time outdoors, head to Steinberg Skating Rink, located in Forest Park. This is the largest outdoor ice skating rink in the Midwest, offering public skating everyday it is open, including all holidays no matter what the weather or temperature may be.

Cap your day in Northeast Missouri at one of the state's most award-winning wineries. Enjoy wine tasting in one of three tasting rooms, then dine at the on-site The Vintage Restaurant, which serves German and American cuisine.

Once named "the Williamsburg of the West" by Southern Living magazine, this Main Street region is Missouri's first and largest nationally registered historic district. Running parallel to the Missouri River, the brick-paved streets are home to one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants housed in restored buildings that date to the 1800s.

This building housed Missouri's first state government from 1821 until 1826, before Jefferson City became the capital. While you're in the area, explore the rest of downtown St. Charles, one of the state's great holiday destinations.