Start with Lunch in Downtown Boonville
To start your day, head less than two hours east of Kansas City on I-70 for an early lunch at Coco Loco Cuban Café in downtown Boonville. It’s such a fun, vibrant and happy place. You really can’t go wrong with a traditional Cuban sandwich or the picadillo. For something a little different, try a build-your-own bowl with your choice of rice or greens, protein, toppings and sauces. Yum!
Explore the River, Rails & Trails Museum
Next, make your way about four blocks down to the River, Rails & Trails Museum and Visitor Center. The museum has several interesting exhibits, plus a nice selection of locally themed items for purchase in the visitor center. It’s also located right next to the Katy Trail trailhead, making it the perfect spot for a quick stroll while you’re there.
Meet the Budweiser Clydesdales at Warm Springs Ranch
From there, head about 15 minutes east to Warm Springs Ranch, where the famous Budweiser Clydesdales are bred and raised. Set on more than 300 acres of rolling hills, the ranch is home to more than 70 Clydesdales.
We took the History and Horses tour, which gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how the horses are cared for, what it takes to make the hitch team and more. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see a foal or two. Plus, each guest receives one complimentary beer to enjoy during the tour. It is Budweiser, after all.
Reservations are required, and tours and experiences generally range from $20 to $75.
Discover the Charm of Arrow Rock, Missouri
Next, make your way to Arrow Rock, a tiny Missouri town about 30 minutes west of Boonville. And by tiny, I mean a population of around 60. But what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in charm.
Shop at Arrow Rock Antiques & Mercantile
At Arrow Rock Antiques & Mercantile, you’ll find a plethora of beautiful home decor and kitchen items, along with children’s clothing, stuffed animals, piggy banks, leather-bound journals and more. They truly have something for everyone.
Browse Village Gifts
Next door, Village Gifts offers toys, puzzles, towels, candles, jewelry, books and countless other gift items. It’s the perfect place to pick up a little something for someone else or yourself.
Enjoy Dinner at Historic J. Huston Tavern
While in Arrow Rock, you must stop by J. Huston Tavern, the oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi. Open since 1834 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the tavern still maintains its mid-1800s atmosphere with original wood floors, period furniture and historic decor.
The menu features American favorites like burgers and salads, along with comfort food staples such as its highly rated fried chicken. On performance days at the local Lyceum Theatre, the tavern also offers a buffet.
To round out your Missouri day trip, J. Huston Tavern is a wonderful place to enjoy dinner before heading home. Be sure to check the tavern’s Facebook page for current operating days and hours.
Take a look at the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre’s show lineup as well. We’re already making plans to go back for one of its Broadway-caliber productions.