Top things to do in Augusta, Missouri

The nation’s first American Viticultural Area, or wine grape-growing region, Augusta charms on many fronts. Known for its award-winning wines, this historic village nestled in the Missouri River Valley also brims with talented artisans, wooded trails, distinctive shops, and breathtaking hilltop vistas. 

Leonard Harold, one of the settlers who followed frontiersman Daniel Boone to the area, laid out the town, then known as Mount Pleasant, on land he purchased in 1821. By incorporation in 1855, the river port was named Augusta. Situated in the heart of Missouri’s wine country about 45 miles west of St. Louis, the town is a popular destination along Highway 94, which is often called the Missouri Weinstrasse, or wine road.

Travelers heading west on Highway 94 toward Augusta can first stop near Defiance to tour the Historic Daniel Boone Home (pictured above). A village that includes the two-story stone house, a general store, a schoolhouse, and a gristmill gives a glimpse into Missouri frontier life.

For those looking for outdoor adventures, 250-acre Klondike Park just east of Augusta offers trails, camping, and fishing. America’s longest rails-to-trails project, the scenic Katy Trail State Park, passes through Augusta and is ideal for biking, hiking, and running.

Once in town, stroll Walnut and Locust streets, where most of Augusta’s storefronts are located, and stop at the visitors center for friendly tips and brochures. Meander over to the Sehrt House Museum on Webster Street to learn more about Augusta’s founding, German immigration, and the roles the area played in the Civil War and Prohibition. Carpenter and casket-maker August Sehrt built this split-level brick home in 1861.

Of course, no trip to Augusta is complete without a stop at one of the wineries in and around town, including Augusta Winery, Balducci Vineyards, Noboleis Vineyards (pictured at top), Montelle Winery, and Mount Pleasant Estates. A substantial new project that’s in the concept phase is slated to augment the wineries. The Hoffmann Family of Companies has been purchasing property and buildings in the area and is developing plans that could include a hotel, nine-hole golf course, restaurant, and more.

At Augusta Glass Studio (pictured above), artisan Sam Stang has been creating explosions of shapes and colors for nearly 40 years.

Go treasure hunting at Stone Ledge Antiques for unique collectibles and enjoy goodies from the kitchen of Centennial Farms market, located in a century-old timber-frame barn.

Augusta offers a growing number of dining options. Wake up to coffee and fresh-baked goodies at Kate’s Coffee House. And enjoy cheese and sausage plates, along with artisanal cuisine, at some of the area’s wineries.

The Augusta area boasts 14 bed-and-breakfast inns, many of which also focus on weddings, family reunions, and other special events. The Halcyon Spa, Salon, and Bed and Breakfast offers a studio for two and a guesthouse that sleeps up to seven.

For more information, call the Augusta Visitors Center at (636) 228-4005 or visit augusta-chamber.org. 

Be sure to designate a driver if you plan to drink alcohol.