The Essential Guide to Hermann, Missouri

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.

Known for its brick red buildings, Hermann was established in 1837 by German immigrants, who thought the area’s rugged river bluffs resembled the Rhine River valley. Soon, the newcomers built the town’s iconic brick buildings along the Missouri, established wineries, and fostered a deep sense of community that can still be seen and felt, nearly two centuries later.

Today, Hermann, with a population of a little over 2,000, is a lively destination and hosts one of the country’s oldest Oktoberfests, which will celebrate its 45th year in 2026. But there are plenty of other reasons to visit, too. Outdoor enthusiasts love cycling the nearby, 240-mile-long Katy Trail. The area’s dining and accommodation options are top-notch, and though the town’s wineries were heavily affected by Prohibition, there are now a variety of places to sample the area’s vintages. It’s easy to be drawn in by its charms.

“People visit us, they fall in love, and sometimes, they even decide to stay,” said Tammy Bruckerhoff, director of economic development and tourism at Visit Hermann. “They’ll buy a home, start a business, or retire here. We say you might first come to Hermann as a stranger, but you leave as a friend.” 

Here’s everything you need to know before planning a trip to Hermann, Missouri.

Best Hotels & Resorts

The Inn at Hermannhof

Conveniently sited in the heart of downtown, the Inn at Hermannhof has eight fully-furnished suites located on the second and third floors above the town’s 1860s-era, red-brick Festhalle. Each space has period furniture, original millwork, and all of the luxe amenities discerning travelers expect. As it’s just steps away from the Amtrak station, the Inn is a convenient option for train travelers. There are also five Hillside Cottages with 20 suites, for those with larger groups.

The Cottage

For a lofty Hermann holiday, head to the The Cottage. This unique property has three treehouses where guests can rest and refresh, surrounded by dense forests and morning birdsong. A cabin with a treetop deck and a jetted hot tub is also available. Breakfast is delivered before guests arrive and placed in the mini-fridge, so it can be enjoyed the next morning at their leisure. 

Hermann Hill

Located above the Missouri River alongside vineyards, the 20-room Hermann Hill has a variety of accommodation options, including cottages, suites, and condominiums, all with cozy fireplaces and stunning views. And if you’re looking for some time to focus on wellness, the on-site spa has a variety of body treatments. Homey touches, including evening ice cream and cookies, are guest favorites.

The Schiller House

Built atop an 1880s bowling alley, the lovingly restored three-bedroom Schiller House is the perfect place for a girls ‘weekend, while the sweet mother-in-law cottage out back is a cozy spot for couples. Primitive antiques meld seamlessly with modern creature comforts throughout the bright, airy home. Instead of typical “bed and breakfast” service, Schiller House leans into Hermann’s viticulture, instead offering a “bed and beverage” service with local wines. 

Best Things to Do

Visit a winery.

Hermann’s wine roots run deep. Wine production in the area began around 1837, when German immigrants realized that Hermann was ideal for growing grapes. There are several places around town where you can sample the best that the area has to offer. Founded in 1855 just outside town, Adam Puchta is the oldest continuously owned family winery in America, and is known for its drier options, such as its vidal blanc and chambourcin. G. Husmann Wine Co., was founded by George Husmann, the father of Missouri viticulture—it has a tasting room located conveniently in downtown Hermann. Finally, Stone Hill Winery, was established way back in 1847, predating Napa. It has an excellent norton, gorgeous vineyards, and informative cellar tours. 

Explore downtown.

The downtown district is quaint and compact. Most of its buildings date back to the 1840s, so keep your eyes peeled for architectural gems. Today, many of them are occupied by a variety of shops, cafes, and antique markets just waiting to be explored. 

For a sweetly-scented memento of your time spent in town, be sure to stop in at Lavendel Dame. The shop sells locally-grown lavender products, including bath salts, soaps, and dried arrangements. If you visit in the warmer months, First Friday Art Walks showcase local creatives and their works.

Head out on the Katy Trail.

Missourians love their Katy Trail State Park, the former railroad track turned pancake-flat trail stretches some 240 miles across the state, skirting the river, winding through farmlands, and passing through other small towns. Constructed on the former site of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, it’s the longest developed rail-trail in the country

The nearest trailhead is just three miles from Hermann in nearby McKittrick, Missouri. Of course, you can bring your own bike for easy trail access via the town’s Missouri River bridge, or you can rent your wheels. At Pedego Electric Bikes Hermann, snag an e-bike—permissible on the trail—so you can cruise in comfort. For an additional fee, the shop will even pack a picnic lunch for you and mount it in an insulated bag right on your bike before you ride off on your adventure.

Celebrate Oktoberfest.

Hermann has always loved a good party. Way back in 1848, the town celebrated its first Weinfest, which morphed into the annual Oktoberfest. It’s a festive month-long bash, and Hermann puts its German heritage on full display for residents and guests alike. Folks show up in full lederhosen, while polka and oompa tunes waft out of the town’s pubs and wineries. Participants can take part in the town’s stein hoisting contest to see who can hold a full tankard of beer the longest. Of course, there’s plenty of sausage, sauerkraut, and pretzels to fuel all the fun. While it’s one of the most jovial times of year in Hermann, it’s also the busiest. If you want to make a night or weekend of it, book your accommodations well in advance.

Learn About the Town’s History.

Needless to say, Hermann residents are proud of their heritage. To better understand what life was like for the town’s first families, visit the Deutschheim State Historic Site. There, period homes allow you to gain an understanding of early German immigrant customs. The 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 inside the 1871 German School building is also worth a stop for curious visitors.

Best Time to Visit

With 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. The fall leaves are at their most brilliant in October, and Hermann’s bluffy landscape and surrounding forests of hickory, oak, and maple make it a prime leaf peeping locale once cooler temperatures finally hit after summer’s heat. Plus, if you’re a first-time visitor, you won’t want to skip the Oktoberfest fun.

Best Restaurants 

Ainsley’s Place

For the best brunch in town, head straight to Ainsley’s Place. This spot has you covered, whether you’re craving a sweet treat or something savory (perhaps to chase away a touch of the “wine flu”). I recommend the Eggs Benny, which are served with scratch-made blue crab cakes. Bonus: There are gluten-free and Alpha-gal-friendly options on the menu as well.

Doxie Slush

All wined out? Then hit up Doxie Slush for a taste of the tropics. This whimsical spot, named for the owners’ two dachshunds, serves up tacos, burgers, and other bar bites, but the real standouts are the frozen cocktails. Flavors change regularly; some favorites include the Banana Bread Old Fashioned and Dragonfruit Gin and Tonic. 

Fernweh Distillery Co.

Hermann’s craft distillery scene is thriving, and Fernweh Distilling Co. is one of the best in town. While it cranks out quality spirits and makes solid cocktails from them, food options are strong, too. Power bowls, salads, and wraps are good light-bite options, and Sunday brunch is yummy, especially when served with a housemade Bloody Mary, of course.

Hermann Wurst Haus

No visit to Hermann is complete without a stop to the Hermann Wurst Haus. Carnivores rejoice: this shop has 65 varieties of brats and sausages, along with award-winning house-smoked bacon. Head to the deli for the best sweet bologna sandwich you’ve ever had, and be sure to snag a few packs of brats to take home.

Tin Mill

Housed in a former flour mill, the rustic Tin Mill is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. The menu deliciously leans into Hermann’s German heritage, with schnitzel, sausages, and roulanden offered daily. Service is friendly and portions are well-sized, making this a great place to stop for a post-winery meal.

How To Get There

Just 90 minutes west of St. Louis, and less than three hours east of Kansas City, Hermann is an easy overnight road trip from both of Missouri’s largest cities. A short 15-mile jog south from I-70 on State Highway 19 will take you straight into town. However, if you’re flying in from another part of the country, St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is the closest major airport, though you may find more flight options at Kansas City International Airport (MCI).

For an alternative, no-worry option, you can also ride the rails. Amtrak runs daily Missouri River Runner routes from St. Louis and Kansas City into Hermann’s downtown. The trip is gorgeous both ways, with river views and stunning scenery. Bonus: You can also bring your bike on board if a Katy Trail ride is on your itinerary.

How To Get Around

Hermann is incredibly walkable. You could park your car and leave it for an entire weekend because nearly everything you’ll want or need is within striking distance. That said, some wineries and accommodations are perched atop steep hills or a bit further out of town. Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are available, though you may experience longer wait times, since Hermann is a small town. There’s also the Hermann Trolley, which provides hop-on hop-off service to the town’s wineries.