Weekend Getaways from St. Louis: 48-Hour Trips

At a glance

Destinations by how you get there

Hermann, MO

Hermann offers a blend of historical exploration and small-town charm, reflecting its German roots in the mid-19th century. It's a destination where you can step back in time and experience a different pace.

• Getting there. By car, about 79 miles and 1 hour 45 minutes without traffic. The Amtrak Missouri River Runner train also serves Hermann.
• Day one. A good starting point for day one is a guided tour of the historic houses at Deutschheim State Historic Site. These tours provide a deep dive into mid-19th century German immigrant daily life, showcasing traditions and early Missouri history.
• Day two. On day two, you might explore more of the historic site's exhibits, or wander through Hermann's streets, discovering its unique character.
• Worth knowing. Traveling by Amtrak's Missouri River Runner train offers a scenic route, and Wi-Fi is available onboard.

Jefferson City, MO

As Missouri's state capital, Jefferson City offers a focused look at the state's government and rich history, making it suitable for those interested in civics and heritage.

• Getting there. By car, about 133 miles and 2 hours 40 minutes without traffic. The Amtrak Missouri River Runner train also stops in Jefferson City.
• Day one. Day one could involve visiting the Missouri State Museum, located within the State Capitol building. This museum tells the story of Missouri's past.
• Day two. For day two, consider a tour of the State Capitol building itself to appreciate its architecture and significance. The museum is located within this building.
• Worth knowing. The Amtrak Missouri River Runner provides a car-free option, with Wi-Fi available during the journey.

Kansas City, MO

Kansas City, a longer journey, rewards visitors with an active urban landscape and significant historical sites. It’s an ideal choice for a more extensive exploration within your two-day window, blending history with city life.

• Getting there. By car, about 249 miles and 4 hours 45 minutes without traffic. The Amtrak Missouri River Runner train connects St. Louis to Kansas City.
• Day one. Your first day could be spent in Independence, exploring Harry S. Truman's presidential museum, which delves into his life and presidency, and visiting his birthplace.
• Day two. On the second day, in Kansas City, the KC Streetcar offers a convenient way to visit various attractions. Its route connects downtown, the Crossroads Arts District, and the River Market, allowing you to explore different neighborhoods and their offerings.
• Worth knowing. The train journey on the Missouri River Runner allows for relaxation and Wi-Fi access during your travel.

Springfield, IL

Springfield, Illinois, offers a direct path into the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, making it a compelling trip for history enthusiasts. It’s a chance to connect with a pivotal era of American history.

• Getting there. By car, about 96 miles and 1 hour 55 minutes without traffic. The Amtrak Lincoln Service train travels from St. Louis to Springfield.
• Day one. Start day one at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, which preserves the only home Lincoln ever owned and offers a window into his family life before the presidency.
• Day two. Day two offers the chance to walk through the four-block historic neighborhood surrounding Lincoln's home, which features various exhibits and provides context to his community.
• Worth knowing. Traveling on the Amtrak Lincoln Service provides Wi-Fi, making the nearly two-hour journey comfortable.

Columbia, MO

Columbia balances natural beauty with a lively university town atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking outdoor activities or a convenient car-free travel experience.

• Getting there. By car, about 126 miles and 2 hours 30 minutes without traffic. A car-free option is the Greyhound bus; the fastest trip takes around 2 hours 25 minutes and covers approximately 130 miles.
• Day one. Day one could involve time at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, known for its unique geological features like a natural rock bridge, a cave, and hiking trails. It's a good spot for a nature walk or quiet reflection.
• Day two. On day two, you might enjoy more of the outdoor opportunities the park offers, or explore Columbia itself, perhaps visiting its downtown area or campus.
• Worth knowing. The bus journey offers a similar travel time to driving, providing a convenient car-free travel choice directly to Columbia.

Carbondale, IL

Carbondale, in southern Illinois, is an appealing destination for those who appreciate unique natural landscapes and local flavors. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the region's outdoors.

• Getting there. By car, about 103 miles and 2 hours 5 minutes without traffic. A car-free option is the Greyhound bus; the fastest trip takes around 1 hour 50 minutes and covers approximately 105 miles.
• Day one. For day one, consider exploring Giant City State Park. It's known for its dramatic sandstone bluffs and narrow corridors that locals call a 'giant city,' offering scenic hiking and photography opportunities.
• Day two. On day two, you could visit Giant City Lodge, located within the park. This historic lodge serves family-style fried chicken for lunch and dinner, offering a hearty meal in a rustic setting.
• Worth knowing. The Greyhound bus provides a direct and efficient car-free way to reach Carbondale, with a travel time competitive with driving.

Ste. Genevieve, MO (Route Du Vin Wine Trail)

Ste. Genevieve County offers the Route Du Vin Wine Trail, a scenic driving and wine-tasting loop. It winds through historic rolling farmland and forested hills, making it a destination for those who appreciate picturesque routes and local wines.

• Getting there. By car, Ste. Genevieve County is about an hour south of St. Louis.
• Day one. Start by exploring one of the wineries along the Route Du Vin trail. Each offers a different setting and selection of local wines. You can enjoy the views and the process of winemaking.
• Day two. Continue your exploration of the trail, visiting additional wineries or taking in the historic countryside. The focus is on the journey and the tastes of the region.
• Worth knowing. The trail emphasizes scenic driving through rolling hills and historic farmland, reflecting the area's heritage.

Hannibal, MO

Hannibal, situated on the Mississippi River, is renowned as the hometown of Mark Twain. It offers a glimpse into the literary world that inspired many of his classic stories and characters.

• Getting there. By car, travel to Hannibal involves a drive north from St. Louis along the Mississippi River.
• Day one. Begin your visit at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum. This site preserves the author's childhood home and shares insights into the people and places that shaped his imagination and stories.
• Day two. Explore more of Hannibal's connection to Twain. You might walk along the riverfront or visit other sites connected to his life and stories. The town itself reflects a historical river port atmosphere.
• Worth knowing. Hannibal's charm lies in its strong ties to Mark Twain and its historic location along the Mississippi River.

How to choose

When planning your getaway, think about how much of your roughly two-day window you want to spend in transit versus at your destination. Destinations closer to St. Louis mean more time exploring, while longer journeys can turn the travel itself into part of the experience. Consider whether you prefer to walk around a historic district, hike in a state park, or explore a city center with public transport. Your ideal trip depends on your preferred travel mode, desired travel time, and the type of activities you seek.

For train travel, remember to check Amtrak's service alerts for any advisories that might affect your trip.