Travel Across Missouri By Train
I Took a 4-Day Train Trip Across Missouri—And You Should Too
I hopped aboard Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner for a 4-day, car-free escape across Missouri, and let me tell you—this was one of the most relaxing and surprisingly magical trips I’ve taken in a long time. It’s a scenic ride that lets you slow down and soak up some of Missouri’s most charming small towns: Washington, Hermann, and Jefferson City.
Whether you’re solo, traveling light, or just craving a slower pace, this train trip might be your new favorite Midwest getaway! I am sharing everything I did and how I booked it here.
How to Book the Missouri River Runner
Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner runs twice daily between Kansas City and St. Louis with stops in towns like Lee’s Summit, Sedalia, Warrensburg, Washington, Hermann, and Jefferson City.
Tickets & Schedule:
Book at Amtrak.com, on the Amtrak app, or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL
Coach fares are usually very affordable (under $50 for most legs!)
Trains depart Kansas City around 8:40 AM and 4:00 PM
Return trips run twice daily as well so you can really pick the schedule that works best for you!
WiFi, outlets, snacks, and big seats make the ride extra comfy
Pro tip: There’s no security line or baggage claim. You just show up, hop on, and go.
Stop 1: Washington, MO – River Views & Cozy Vibes
This was my first stop—and it totally charmed me.
🚉 Arrival Time: Around 1:30pm. This was the longest stretch on the train throughout this entire itinerary.
🚶♀️ Walkability: 10/10 – everything is within a 10-15 minute stroll from the train station
What I Did in Washington:
🛏️ Stayed at Elbert Haus Airbnb – It’s a quaint, historic home just a short walk from downtown. Super quiet, very clean, and felt like a true local stay.
🛍️ Downtown Boutiques – So many gems, including antiques, handmade gifts, and vintage finds.
🍴 Marquart’s Landing – I grabbed lunch here on the patio overlooking the river. Their wings are legendary and the vibe is very local!
🧵 Missouri Meerschaum Factory Tour – This corn cob pipe factory has been around since 1869, and you can take a free self-guided tour. I didn’t expect to love it, but it’s quirky and fascinating.
📚 Neighborhood Reads – The coziest indie bookstore ever. Great selection, friendly staff, and a great selection of books and gifts!
🍔 Wimpy’s Sandwich Shop – Think old-school diner meets small-town hospitality. The cheeseburger and handspun milkshake hit the spot.
🏘️ Evening Walk – I wandered through blocks of historic homes at sunset—brick beauties, wraparound porches, and all kinds of preserved charm.
☕ Undergrounds Espresso Bar – Cute, cozy, and the perfect place to fuel up before catching the train the next morning.
✅ Bonus Tips:
There are plenty of sidewalks, and the town is very pedestrian-friendly.
If you stay overnight, I recommend checking out Sunset Park for river views.
🍷 Stop 2: Hermann, MO – Wine, History & German Charm
Known as the “Napa of Missouri,” Hermann is a riverfront town with deep German roots, charming architecture, and more wineries than you can count. You don’t need a car here—just a wine glass.
🚉 Arrival Time: Around 9:57 AM
🚶♀️ Walkability: 10/10 – Slight hills, but everything’s close or accessible via trolley
My 24 Hours in Hermann:
🛏️ Stayed at the Vinchester Inn – Great location right in the heart of town. Clean, affordable, and perfect for travelers who want to be near everything.
🍫 Ricky’s Chocolate Box – I started the day with truffles and coffee. Their chocolate is handmade and so decadent.
🚋 Hermann Trolley – $25 for all-day hop-on-hop-off rides to and from the wineries. The drivers are super friendly and keep the vibe going.
🍷 G. Husmann Wine Company – Beautiful patio, delicious wine, and warm hospitality. A hidden gem.
🍇 Hermannhof Winery – Historic, scenic, and very popular for a reason. Wine tastings with river views? Yes please.
🌭 Lunch at Hermann Wurst Haus – A must-stop. Homemade sausages, mustard bar, craft beer, and a fun, casual vibe.
🍽️ Dinner at Tin Mill Restaurant – Set in a 150-year-old mill, this place feels like you’ve crossed into Bavaria. I had schnitzel with spaetzle and a German lager.
🏘️ Walking Tour – The GuidiGO app offers a free self-guided historical tour of the town’s landmarks and architecture.
☕ Espresso Laine – I grabbed a coffee here before hopping back on the train. It’s a local favorite with great pastries, too.
✅ Bonus Tips:
If you have more time, check out Adam Puchta Winery or Stone Hill Winery
The trolley makes it easy to see a lot in one afternoon—even solo
👻 Stop 3: Jefferson City, MO – Capitol Sites & Ghost Stories
My final stop surprised me the most. Jefferson City is Missouri’s capital, and it’s packed with history, hidden gems, and surprisingly spooky stories.
🚉 Arrival Time: Around 11:49 AM
🚶♀️ Walkability: 7.5/10 – The core is walkable, though some hills and longer stretches exist
My Day in Jeff City:
🏛️ The Missouri State Capitol – I took a free guided tour of the Capitol (just show up!) and explored the Missouri State Museum inside. The architecture is jaw-dropping.
🍔 Lunch at Towne Grill – A local institution. It’s simple, nostalgic, and always busy with locals.
🛍️ Downtown Shopping –All of the boutiques downtown are so charming and easily walkable!
☕ Plate & Pour – Super cute café for a midday recharge. Try their seasonal lattes and pastries.
🍦 Ice Cream at Central Dairy – An iconic stop. Massive scoops and always a line (worth it).
🍻 Dinner at Prison Brews – Housed in an old prison building, they brew on-site and serve up hearty dishes in a relaxed, playful setting.
👻 Missouri State Penitentiary Ghost Tour – Highlight of the night. It’s spooky, fascinating, and packed with true crime stories and eerie vibes.
🥐 High Rise Bakery – Before heading home, I grabbed a cinnamon roll the size of my face. Soft, gooey, and perfect for the train ride back.
✅ Bonus Tips:
Most hotels and Airbnbs are within walking distance of the station. I stayed at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jefferson City and it was close to everything, but it was better to uber than walk with the hills!
You can also visit the Governor’s Mansion if you’re into historic homes
🚂 Final Thoughts
This train trip across Missouri was like hitting pause on real life—in the best way. No car, no traffic, no rushing—just beautiful views, friendly people, and historic towns waiting to be explored. Whether you do it in a weekend or stretch it like I did, this is such an underrated way to explore the Midwest.
Don’t forget:
Book your Amtrak ticket in advance at Amtrak.com
Pack light and wear comfy shoes
Enjoy the ride—it’s part of the adventure!
