For the nature lover seeking a small town aesthetic with a mountain backdrop, Middlebrook is a hidden gem. Located southwest of St. Louis and east of Mark Twain National Park, Johnson’s Shut-In State Park is the epitome of ancient beauty. It’s here where centuries-old rock formations form a rugged pathway into a secret clearing where the water and the mountains collide. Backlit by the St. Francois Mountains, this nature park was named after the water “shut-ins” rushing past the hardened, volcanic rock. Described as a “historic treasure,” the shut-ins form natural waterslides and swimming holes. Middlebrook is also near other incredible parks and trails including Elephant Rock State Park, the Buford Mountain Conservation Area, and the Scour Trail. If history is your forte, consider booking a stay at Thee Abbey Kitchen, a bed and breakfast that formerly served as a Civil War hospital and a Catholic school for nuns. Guests can enjoy freshly made cinnamon rolls and ice cream, as well as dishes made with ingredients from local farmers. And head to Twain’s Vineyard to sip a glass of wine in a relaxing atmosphere.
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Read More: Top 10 things to do while visiting Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park
An ode to the Old World, St. Gen is the oldest permanent European settlement west of the Mississippi River and a quaint getaway. Remnants of its rich past can be seen throughout the city, with colonial structures dating back to 1735. There are an array of museums to explore including the Ste. Geneviève Art Guild, Centre for French Colonial Life, and Guibourd-Vallé House, constructed in 1806. There’s also a thriving arts district, nearby parks for camping and hiking, and inviting shops and restaurants, including The American Custard Co. for frozen treats along the way.
Read More: Where to eat, play, and stay in Ste. Geneviève
At Fugitive Beach, a former quarry now serves as a sort of beach and waterpark, complete with slides, cliff jumping, and more. Beyond the beach, you can also go golfing, fishing, or ride go-karts. Rolla’s historic downtown is also full of shops and restaurants. And along Route 66, stop at Soda and Scoops, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor with vintage candy and frozen goodness.
Read More: 10 top swimming holes worth exploring near St. Louis
