With its beautiful rolling hills and quaint shop-lined streets, Hermann has become the ideal destination for those who appreciate fine wine and wish to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Often referred to as the Missouri Rhineland because of its resemblance to Germany’s Rhine River Valley, Hermann has been called the best small city destination and most beautiful town in Missouri by readers from AAA magazine and Rural Missouri magazine, respectfully. This beloved town offers spectacular views, award-winning wines, delicious food and warm hospitality. 

Hermann and the surrounding community are home to several wineries including Adam Puchta Winery, Bias Winery and Gruhlke’s Microbrewery, Endless Summer Winery, Hermannhof Winery, Kuenzel Valley Winery, Martin Brothers Winery, McKelvey Vineyards, OakGlenn Winery, Röbller Vineyard and Winery and Stone Hill Winery. 

If you enjoy great-tasting wines paired perfectly with delicious foods, schedule your visit to coincide with one of the Hermann Wine Trail events occurring on six weekends throughout the year. These signature events feature chocolate, cheese, bacon and other mouth-watering selections. 

Hermann is definitely worth the drive, but why not leave your vehicle at home and opt for convenience when you travel? Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner travels twice daily between St. Louis and Kansas City, stopping at Hermann along the way. Step off the train and catch a ride to several of the area’s wineries on the Hermann Trolley. 

Delve into the town’s past by exploring several museums including the Deutschheim State Historic Site.  Deutschheim features four-square demonstration gardens and two historic homes that capture the culture and heritage of the Germans who migrated to the area. Next door, see one of the few remaining carved wine casks in the Midwest. A remarkable collection of treasures from Hermann's past are on display in the Historic Hermann Museum. Hermann Farm is an open-air museum dedicated to preserving the agricultural, social and economic history of the Germans who settled in the area in the mid-1800s. The property was once home to George Husmann, a world-renowned pioneer in the American wine industry.

There are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Hermann, including the nearby Katy Trail State Park, the nation’s longest rails-to-trails project. Lace your sneakers and learn more about the community’s history during one of several walking tours.  If you’re a golfer, bring your clubs to the Loutre Shore Country Club, a semi-private 9-hole course. Or choose to explore nature from 250 feet up in the air as you zipline on one of Missouri’s longest, highest and fastest courses.  

Stroll through downtown Hermann and you’ll discover 19th century store fronts that hug the sidewalks as they do in Germany. Many of these brick buildings are listed with the National Register of Historic Places. Shop for one-of-a-kind treasures in the cute boutiques and satisfy your food cravings at a number of casual to fine dining restaurants. You’ll find a variety of dining options ranging from sandwiches and pizza to authentic German fare. And if a traditional bratwurst or summer sausage at the so-called “Sausage Capital of the World” is on your list of items to experience, you’ll find hundreds of flavors at the Hermann Wurst Haus. Those with a sweet tooth will be delighted to discover fresh baked pastries and homemade chocolates, candies and pies within walking distance of downtown.     

Hermann hosts several festivals throughout the year, including Oktoberfest where the town celebrates its German heritage with traditional music, dancing and food. The town’s Wurstfest, Maifest and Wine and Jazz Festival are also popular events. If you’re looking for a magical place to celebrate the holidays in November and December, you won’t want to miss this special time in Hermann. 

With so much to see and do, it may be difficult to see everything that this great town has to offer in one day. Consider extending your getaway and staying at one of the accommodations in town. Hermann is home to a number of charming bed-and-breakfasts. Or you can relax after a day of winetasting without leaving the winery. A couple of the wineries have onsite lodging ranging from rustic cabins to luxurious villas.  

The next time you are looking for a getaway in Missouri wine country, head to the picturesque village of Hermann, a charming river town that has it all – breathtaking views, delicious food and award-winning wines. 

For your convience, download this trip itinerary.