Exploring Missouri by Train, Boat, or Hot Air Balloon
Missouri’s landscape unfolds with a mix of rolling hills, expansive rivers, and historic towns that come alive when explored by train, boat, or hot air balloon. Just a short drive southwest of St. Louis, the town of Hermann offers a quintessential river valley experience along the Missouri River. Known for its wineries and German heritage, visitors can board the Hermann Scenic Railway, which chugs through the picturesque countryside on a narrow-gauge track. The ride covers about five miles round-trip and showcases views of vineyards, the river bluffs, and autumn colors that are especially vivid in October. What sets this route apart is its blend of natural beauty and cultural history, as passengers learn about the area’s 19th-century settlers while enjoying the gentle rhythm of the steam engine.
Further west, near Kansas City, the Katy Trail State Park stretches over 240 miles and follows the path of the old Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. The trail is best known for its flat, crushed limestone surface, making it a favorite among long-distance cyclists and hikers. Starting around Rocheport, about 30 minutes west of Columbia, travelers can explore a scenic segment that winds through limestone bluffs and tunnels along the Missouri River. A notable highlight is the Rocheport Tunnel and the nearby Les Bourgeois Vineyards overlook, offering panoramic views of the river valley. The spring and fall offer ideal weather for trekking here, with wildflowers and vibrant foliage enhancing the landscape.
Downriver from Hermann lies the majestic Ozark National Scenic Riverways, roughly a two-hour drive south of Springfield. This federally protected area encompasses the Current and Jacks Fork rivers, both popular for canoeing and kayaking. Visitors can launch boats from Big Spring, the park’s namesake and one of the largest springs in the country, which pumps out an impressive 286 million gallons of water daily. Floating down these clear streams, paddlers often spot deer, eagles, and herons amid towering limestone bluffs. The quiet serenity and crystal-clear water distinguish this river system from larger, busier waterways, making summer mornings the perfect time to avoid crowds and experience the cool mist rising from the springs.
Near St. Louis, the Mississippi River offers a historic waterway experience aboard the Becky Thatcher, a paddlewheel riverboat that cruises the Mississippi’s bend just north of the city. Named after Mark Twain’s famous character, this vessel retraces the heyday of river travel, combining traditional jazz music with river lore narrated along the route. Seeing the iconic Gateway Arch from the water, especially around dusk, offers a striking contrast between urban development and the timeless flow of the river. The warm months bring comfortable balmy evenings perfect for a leisurely cruise, while winter trips provide a quiet, reflective atmosphere with mist hovering over the water.
On the rail front again, the St. Louis Terminal Railroad Association’s Grand Central Station, now a historic site in downtown St. Louis, offers a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel. Although no longer a passenger hub, the station’s architecture and vintage detailing speak to its past importance, and nearby the National Museum of Transportation showcases an extensive collection of steam and diesel locomotives. Located about two miles southwest of the city center, this museum allows visitors to walk among restored engines and even climb aboard some cars, immersing themselves in the evolution of rail technology. Cooler months make indoor exploration more comfortable, though spring and fall bring pleasant park surroundings outside.
For those seeking a thrilling aerial perspective of Missouri’s diverse terrain, the town of Weston, about 30 minutes northwest of Kansas City, is a popular launch point for hot air balloon rides. Drifting over the Missouri River bottoms and the rugged bluffs of the Platte Purchase region, balloonists enjoy sweeping views of farmland, forest, and the historic town itself, which is known for its antebellum architecture and lively winery scene. Early morning flights are favored to catch the sunrise and take advantage of calm winds, resulting in a serene and unforgettable experience that contrasts beautifully with the grounded adventures along Missouri’s rivers and rails.
A picturesque hot air balloon experience also awaits near Branson, nestled in the southern Ozarks about three hours south of Springfield. The rolling hills and shimmering Table Rock Lake create a patchwork of greens and blues visible from above, while the peaceful Ozark foothills stretch into the distance. Branson’s vibrant entertainment scene and natural beauty combine uniquely when viewed from the sky, providing travelers with both excitement and tranquility. Late spring through early fall offers the best weather for ballooning, with clear skies and mild temperatures enhancing visibility.
Finally, heading to the northeastern corner of the state near Hannibal, about two hours north of St. Louis, visitors can embark on riverboat tours that celebrate the Mississippi’s riverboat heritage. The Becky Thatcher and other vessels here often include stops at historic river towns or offer themed cruises that explore the life and times of Mark Twain. The Hannibal Riverfront Trail also invites walking or biking along the riverbanks, where interpretive signs tell stories of steamboat pilots and 19th-century commerce. Summer evenings bring warm breezes and often music festivals that spill into the riverfront parks, making this a lively place to connect with Missouri’s river history.
Whether rolling along on old rails, floating down pristine rivers, or drifting quietly above the landscape in a colorful balloon, Missouri reveals its character through distinct places that invite exploration. Each mode of travel offers a unique window into the state’s heritage and natural splendor, promising memorable journeys for visitors from all walks of life.