Hermann, Missouri: The Essential Guide

Upon arrival, visitors to the small city of Hermann, Missouri, might feel as if they’ve been transported back to a simpler—but cuter—time.

Hermann is known for its brick red houses. It was founded by German immigrants in 1837, who thought that the rugged river bluffs of the area resembled those found along the Rhine River. The newcomers soon built the iconic brick buildings in the town along the Missouri River, founded wineries, fostered a sense of community, which can still be felt and seen nearly two centuries after.

Hermann is one of the oldest Oktoberfests in Germany. It will be celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2026. There are many other reasons to visit Hermann. Cycling enthusiasts will love the nearby 240-mile-long trail. Katy Trail. There are many places to taste the local wines, even though Prohibition had a major impact on the wineries in the area. You’ll be captivated by its charms.

Tammy Bruckerhoff is the director of tourism and economic development at Visit Hermann. “They’ll retire, buy a home or start a new business here. You may arrive in Hermann as strangers, but you will leave as friends. 

This is everything you should know about Hermann, Missouri before you plan your trip.

Best Hotels & Resorts

The Inn at Hermannhof

The Hotel is located right in the middle of the city. Inn at Hermannhof The hotel has eight suites that are fully furnished and located on the 2nd and 3rd floors of the red-brick Festhalle, which dates back to 1860. Each suite has period furnishings, original millwork, as well as all the luxury amenities discerning travellers expect. The Inn offers a convenient choice for travelers who use trains, as it is located just a few steps from the Amtrak Station. There are also five Hillside Cottages with 20 suites, for those with larger groups.

The Cottage

If you’re looking for a Hermann vacation that is both luxurious and fun, then head to the The Cottage. Three treehouses are available on this unique property, where guests can relax and refresh surrounded by dense forest and the morning birdsong. A cabin with an treetop deck and a jetted hot tub Also available is a breakfast. Breakfast is placed in the fridge before guests arrive, so they can enjoy it the following morning. 

Hermann Hill

The 20-room Hotel is situated above the Missouri River and vineyards. Hermann Hill There are many accommodation options available, including suites, cottages, and condos. All have cozy fireplaces with stunning views. The on-site spa offers a range of body treatments for those who want to take some time out and focus on their wellness. Guest favorites include evening cookies and ice cream.

The Schiller House

This lovingly renovated three-bedroom home was constructed on top of an old bowling alley dating back to the 1880s. Schiller House The sweet mother-in law cottage in the back makes a great place for couples. Primitive antiques blend seamlessly with the modern creature comforts in this bright, airy home. Schiller House, rather than a typical “bed and Breakfast” service, leans on Hermann’s wine culture, and instead offers a “bed with beverage” service. local wines. 

What to Do in Best Things to See

Visit a vineyard.

Hermann has a long history of wine production. Hermann’s wine production began in 1837 when German immigrants realized the ideal conditions for grape growing. You can find the best of the region in several locations around the town. Established in 1855 outside the town, Adam Puchta It is the oldest family-owned winery in America and is famous for its drier wines, like chambourcin and vidal. G. Husmann Wine Co., was founded by George Husmann, the father of Missouri viticulture—it has a tasting room located conveniently in downtown Hermann. Stone Hill Winery is the oldest winery in Missouri, dating back to 1847. It was even established before Napa. It’s a good norton. gorgeous vineyardsYou can also take part in informative cellar tours. 

Explore Downtown

The downtown district has a charming and compact feel. The majority of the buildings in this district date back to 1840, so be sure to keep an eye out for architectural gems. Many of the buildings have been transformed into shops, cafes and antique markets. 

Visit for a sweet-smelling souvenir to remember your visit. Lavendel Dame. The shop offers locally grown lavender products such as bath salts and soaps. You can visit during the warmer months. First Friday Art Walks Local creatives and their work are highlighted.

Explore the Katy Trail.

Missourians love their Katy Trail State ParkThe former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad site was transformed into 240 miles of pancake-flat trails that skirt the river and wind through farmlands. It also passes through small towns. Constructed on the former site of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, it’s the longest developed rail-trail in the country

Three miles away from Hermann, Missouri is McKittrick. Bring your own bike to the Missouri River bridge for easy access, or rent wheels. Renting wheels is also an option. Pedego Electric Bikes Hermann, snag an e-bike—permissible on the trail—so you can cruise in comfort. The shop will pack your picnic lunch and place it in a insulated bag on your bike for an extra fee.

Celebrate Oktoberfest

Hermann loves a party. The town’s first Weinfest was held in 1848. It has since evolved into an annual event. Oktoberfest. Hermann’s German heritage is on display all month long for both residents and visitors. The town’s wineries and pubs are filled with polka, oompa and other tunes. The town holds a stein-hoisting competition to see who can keep a tankard of beer for the longest. There’s also plenty of sauerkraut, pretzels, and sausage to keep you going. It’s a busy time of year, but it is also one of Hermann’s most joyous. Book your accommodation well in advance if you’re planning to stay for a weekend or a whole night.

Discover the history of your town.

Hermann is proud of its heritage. The Hermann Museum will help you understand the life of the first families in the town. Deutschheim State Historic Site. The period homes will give you a better understanding of the customs of early German immigrants. You can learn about the early German immigrant customs by visiting period homes. Hermann Farm museum also includes a collection of historic buildings along with beautiful Shire horses—large, gentle animals bred, raised, and trained on the farm. Downtown, the Historic Hermann Museum The 1871 German School Building is worth a visit for curious visitors.

The Best Time to Visit

The following are some alternatives to the word “Advantage” Maifest in the spring and quaint holiday traditions in the winter, there’s always something to do in Hermann, Missouri—but autumn is an absolute must-visit. As the mid-Missouri heat and humidity finally subside, any outdoor activity—from the perfect wine picnic to a Katy Trail hike—is much more pleasant. Hermann, with its bluffy landscape, hickory and oak forests, and maple and hickory trees, is a great place to go leaf-peeping in October. You won’t want miss Oktoberfest if this is your first visit.

Best Restaurants 

Ainsley’s Place

The best brunches in town are at Ainsley’s Place. If you want something sweet or savory to beat the “wine influenza”, this place has it all. The Eggs Benny is a must-try, served with homemade blue crab cakes. You can also find gluten-free options and Alpha-gal-friendly items on the menu.

Doxie Slush

Have you had enough wine? Then hit up Doxie Slush For a taste of tropical paradise. This quirky spot is named after two owners’ dachshunds. They serve tacos and burgers as well as other bar snacks, but their frozen cocktails are truly outstanding. Some of the flavors are always changing. Banana Bread Old Fashioned or Dragonfruit Gin and Tonic are two favorites. 

Fernweh Distillery Co.

Hermann’s craft-distillery scene is thriving. Fernweh Distilling Co. It is the best of its kind in town. It is known for its quality spirits, and it makes great cocktails with them. The food selections are also excellent. Light bites like salads, wraps and power bowls are great. Sunday brunches with housemade Bloody Marys also taste good.

Hermann Wurst Haus

Hermann wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Hermann Wurst Haus. This shop offers 65 different types of sausages and brats. It also sells award-winning bacon that is house-smoked. The deli offers the best sweet-bologna sandwiches you’ve ever tasted. Also, grab a few brats for home.

Tin Mill

Housed in an ex-flour mill, the rustic Tin Mill Locals and tourists alike love this restaurant. Hermann’s German heritage is reflected in the menu, which includes schnitzel and sausages. roulanden Everyday. Friendly service and generous portions make this an ideal place to stop in after visiting a winery.

How to Get There

Hermann, Missouri is a short overnight drive from Kansas City and St. Louis. State Highway 19 is a short 15-mile drive south of I-70 to get you into the town. If you are flying into St. Louis Lambert International Airport, you will find that it is the nearest major airport. However, Kansas City International Airport, which has more flight options, may be closer.

As an alternative option to worry-free shopping, you can also ride the rails. Amtrak Missouri River Runners run daily routes between St. Louis and Kansas City, into Hermann’s downtown. Both directions, the trip is beautiful with stunning scenery and river views. Bonus: Bring your bike if you plan to ride the Katy Trail.

What to Do Around

Hermann is an incredibly walkable city. It’s possible to park your car in Hermann and not use it for the entire weekend. Nearly everything is within striking distance. Nevertheless, there are some wineries or accommodations that are situated on steep hillsides and a little further away from town. Uber and Lyft can be used, but you might have longer wait times because Hermann has a smaller population. You can also take the Hermann TrolleyThe service provides a hop-on-hop-off service between the wineries of the town.