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Hermann, MO A Slice of German History in Central MO
Nestled in the Missouri River Valley lives the little historic town of Hermann, MO. a picturesque village of 19th century brick buildings resembling the quaint streets in Germany. Around 1847 our German ancestors settled in this area because of its close resemblance to the Rhine River Valley. The rolling bluffs and hills delivered an ideal palette for planting vineyards; and the hard work and determination of the German culture contributed to making the town survive and thrive.
If searching for a camping getaway filled with history, architecture, good wine and people; there is no other place like Hermann! The lively festivals and arts will restore your soul and warm your heart! So let's pack a picnic basket and explore why this great town is a perfect visit in any season!
Growing up not too far from Hermann; it is a cherished honor to know the story and live so close to this historic beauty. With so many things to do and see in the area; it makes for a great weekend getaway! There are countless historic B&B's that line the streets which are quaint and wonderful; but for those with an adventurous soul; bringing your RV just adds to the fun!
Now Hermann may be a small town and area; but it comes alive with visitors during the peak seasons. There are only a few campgrounds nearby so booking early or nabbing a last minute reservation is.a good idea! I for one like to last minute book :) but if you are booking for any festival they go fast!
Hermann City Campground is right in the heart of the town. It has 51 full hookup reservable sites and tent campsites that are first come first serve basis. The campground has a swimming pool, restrooms, bathhouses, a dump station, basketball courts and playgrounds. It is well kept and convenient to the area's attractions with even sites and a few trees for shade. For a city park campground it is a good little place!
Lazy Day Campground in Danville, MO is about 19 miles from Hermann and a more scenic option away from the crowds. It has over 50 sites mostly full hookup and pull through accommodations.
As you can see it is very open. The grounds are so well kept with colorful landscaping throughout the grounds. The newly remodeled bathrooms! Oh my! Any road warrior can appreciate the license plates, cars and nostalgia decor in the bathhouses. The park has a nice swimming pool, a fishing lake and a few good hiking trails; plus it is conveniently located right off of I-70. The owners work hard to keep this place nice and make each camper feel at home. I highly recommend this super cute and fun place!
Now that we are all settled at the campground; we need to plan the day! Pick your pleasure. We have antique stores, wineries, distilleries, breweries, historical museums, adorable little shops, a historical farm, art galleries, spas and great little restaurants. They even have a zip line! If it were me; I like to start out in the town and just stroll the streets. I love walking past the old victorian homes, stroll down to the riverfront and grab a beer or a bite at Tin Mill Brewing Company. There are two locations both serve their award winning brews! The restaurant is right by the riverfront and the Brewery is up the street; be sure to check out both if you have time!
Pop in the many antique shops and find a treasure or two during your stroll. I love Missouri's Trading Post, Hermann's Antique Mall and Antique's Unlimited! For boutique and specialtyl shopping check out Rachel's Rustin Room, The Vine Boutique, TerraFlora Botanicals and Gifts, and Hogshead Cigars and Fine Tobaccos.
The Wineries!
Hermanhof Winery is a favorite place of mine to visit. It is like stepping into the historic German traditions of old. Tour the historic wine cellars and building (both are on the National Register of Historic places), wander through the stone pathways and grounds and appreciate the simple details of days gone by. Hermanhof offers great service (always offered with a smile and midwest welcomes), tasteful wines and local sausages plus great entertainment; and all of this is set into a steep hillside. Live music plays on a sunny day and wine goers gather, dance and sip the some of the best wines in the state.
Gosh there are so many wineries to explore in this area it is hard to name them all! Best bet is to follow the Hermann Wine Trail and take in each of their wonders! But just to list the highlights here are a few of my personal favorites that you simply must check out!
For the best wine around (in my humble opinion) visit Adam Putcha Winery. It will not disappoint! I mean the Cat's Meow? Need I say more? This quaint little stop reminds me of a 50's farm with red roofs and a rustic homestead feel; you will enjoy it so much!
For epic scenery and views visit Oak Glenn Vineyards and Winery. Settled on a steep hillside this magnificent place overlooks the Missouri River and always has the prettiest flowers blooming in the summer! It's a great place to relax the day away! Also featured in Southern Living Magazine!
For a great time with family and special festivals visit Robler Winery This special winery has many memories for me. Voted Best Winery in Mid-Missouri in Feast Magazine, it's a great family atmosphere where children can run and dance without too much crazy! My favorite time is to come here in September and watch the New Haven Hot Air Balloon Races. It is magical!
For Missouri's oldest and most award winning winery check out Stone Hill Winery. Set on top of the town sits this historic and beautiful place. An afternoon can be spent dining at the Vintage 1847 Restaurant featuring authentic German recipes, shopping in the gift store area for unique finds, or tasting and touring the old wine cellars (temporarily closed). It's a beautiful place filled with history and will warm your heart.
Dining in Hermann
There is so much charm to be had in this amazing town and the history is blooming but for a few modern new favorites and some of the best eats in the area I have a little list for that too!
Doxie Slush is the cutest little modern stop filled with wine and cocktail inspired slushies lining the wall! It has a great menu featuring burgers and coastal faire! I love ordering the Flight for a taste of three cocktail slushies lined up on a board! So much fun!
Fernweh Distillery is my new absolute favorite! The food is amazing! In addition to the bourbon and whiskeys made on site this stop has the craftiest cocktails and a menu to die for! I love the Southwest Fusion Bowl, the goat cheese appetizer and the daily smoked brisket! Seriously do not miss this place!
Hermann Wursthaus is a must for a snack and to bring some goodies home! We love our smoked meats in Missouri and this is the best place to find them! When you enter this stop you will be greeted with the sights and smells of fine sausages hanging about. It is a magnificent site. A great pit stop for deli style lunch or to pick up snacks for the wineries!
Wings a Blazin' oh my gosh the wings! I love the Top Gun vintage decor in this place and well...you try the wings and get back to me on that :)
I could go on about the dining but when you get here you will see! There are so many of the cutest little coffee and sweets shops; bakeries and ice cream dives that will make it a welcome visit for any of your cravings!
Festivities
One of the greatest and most fun things and why the crowds all swarm to this sweet little town is to join in the many festivals and events that Hermann hosts! They honor their ancestors well in the merriment of music and wine! It's so much fun and you really get caught up in the culture and happiness of it all!
So whether you are a wine aficionado, a food lover, a historian, an explorer or you are just looking for a great getaway with your partner or friends I hope you come and savor this sweet little town! There is so much to do and see! Happy Wine Trails to you!
As they say in German Prost! (Cheers!)
Lauren
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