The journey is part of the adventure when you climb aboard Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner. The route is perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
The train travels across the Show-Me State, paralleling the Missouri River part of the way. The route – bookended by the state’s two largest cities – takes you through a series of charming small towns. Cities on the route include Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Warrensburg, Sedalia, Jefferson City, Hermann, Washington, Kirkwood and St. Louis.
Here are a few suggestions for trips you can take on the Missouri River Runner. Be sure to check Amtrak’s schedule for a full slate of departure and arrival times as you plan your rail-riding adventure.
See Missouri’s Statehouse
Hermann to Jefferson City (45 minutes)
A late-morning train out of Hermann gets you to Jefferson City right about lunch time, which is ideal, since no visit to Missouri’s capital is complete without filling your plate (well, multiple plates) at Arris’ Pizza.
From there, head over to the statehouse for a tour and to view exhibits in the Missouri State Museum. Stroll past the Governor’s Mansion and tour the Soldiers Memorial Plaza at Lincoln University.
Make time for a banana split at Central Dairy or a locally crafted drink at Prison Brews.
The train departs Hermann after the end of the business day and has you back home in time for a late supper – which is fine after a day of pizza and ice cream.
A Tribute to Man’s Best Friend
Kansas City to Warrensburg (80 minutes)
The train leaves Kansas City shortly after 8 a.m., so you have plenty of time in Warrensburg to learn about Old Drum and the court case inspired the phrase, “A dog is a man’s best friend.” Visit the Johnson County Courthouse, where the case was heard, and the Old Drum Monument.
For lunch, have a casual meal at Fitter’s Pub or Old Barney’s.
Take time to relax in Blind Boone Park and experience the creativity on display at the Gallery of Art and Design at the University of Central Missouri.
An early afternoon departure will get you back in Kansas City in time to sample the burnt ends at one of the city’s barbecue restaurants.
Escape to Wine Country
St. Louis to Hermann (94 minutes)
A mid-morning departure and short ride time mean you’ll have almost a full day to explore the historic German settlement of Hermann.
When you hop off the train, much of the town is just steps away. Find food and drink at Tin Mill Brewery, Hermann Wurst Haus and Hermannhof Winery, to name a few.
A little farther from the station are the Historic Hermann Museum, Deutschheim State Historic Site and abundant shopping options.
Spend the night at one of the town’s charming inns, including Hermann Hill Vineyard Inn and Spa or Murphy’s Bed and Breakfast.
On day two, make your way out to the Hermann Farm Museum to learn more about the area’s German heritage. Or spend the day sampling the vino along the Hermann Wine Trail.
On day three, rent a bike and pedal a scenic stretch of Katy Trail State Park along the Missouri River. Then catch the late afternoon train back to St. Louis.
These are just a few of the adventures waiting for you along the Missouri River Runner’s route. Plan your getaway at VisitMo.com.