PLAY
Just a two and a half-hour drive west of St. Louis, Arrow Rock, Missouri, was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1963 and a certified site on the Lewis and Clark and Santa Fe Trails. Begin your day at the Arrow Rock State Historic Site Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the history of this village, which has just 62 residents. Arrow Rock Landing Site marks the former landing spot of the Arrow Rock ferry, which played an integral role in river crossing for early settlers. Today, it’s a stop along the Santa Fe National Historic Trail. From the historic site, walk downtown to take in the architecture. Lyceum Theatre has a lineup that includes concerts and musical theater—you may even want to plan your visit around its schedule. The Little Studio and Gallery features a variety of landscape paintings and small works. Arrow Rock also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including a historical presentation on the first Saturday of every month, boardwalk concerts, and a children’s craft festival.
EAT
For a taste of the past, head to J. Huston Tavern at Arrow Rock State Historic Site. The menu includes old-fashioned favorites, such as fried chicken and country fried pork, as well as tortellini pastas and stuffed mushrooms. Open on weekends and before matinee performances at the Lyceum Theatre, Catalpa is a noteworthy option, with gold and teal walls offset by modern light fixtures, as well as a menu with pizza, sandwiches, and boozy milkshakes. The Badger’s Hideaway is the go-to place for ice cream and whimsical window art. And if you’re in the mood for a beverage, it also offers a beer and wine list.
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STAY
Between Arrow Rock and nearby Boonville, there are several historic options. The Grand Victorian Manor and Cottage B&B is located in a classic Victorian Manor and exudes historic charm, with a large front porch, antiques, and French design. There are eight rooms in the bed and breakfast, and guests have access to the parlor and gardens overlooking the Missouri River. Its owners also serve up decadent breakfasts, with such dishes as scones and tiramisu French toast. And Hotel Fredrick, in Boonville, spans 30 rooms, with hardwood floors, bold wall colors, antiques, and modern amenities. Guests can hang out in the lobby, with its black-and-white checkered floors and comfy seating, though the hotel also rents bikes for those who want to take a ride on the nearby Katy Trail.
