Itineraries

Enjoy a Couples Getaway this Fall

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Fall is the perfect time of year to take a trip with your significant other. The cooler weather gives you an excuse to cuddle a little closer; the leaves are brilliant shades of red, orange and yellow; the outdoors are ready to be explored. This trip highlights the best places to visit as a couple this fall, with stops ranging from beautiful vineyards to charming small towns.

Day One

A. Katy Trail State Park

Take a hike or ride a bike along a section of the Katy Trail. This is a beautiful trail that winds almost 240 miles through the Missouri countryside, and is especially beautiful when the leaves change in the fall. The section near Rocheport passes the Missouri River, making for stunning views, and part of the trail passes through the Rocheport Tunnel.

B. Missouri State Capitol

After lunch, head on down to Missouri’s capital, Jefferson City, and explore the Capitol building. During fall, the grounds come alive with color. The building sits along the Missouri River, making this a can’t-miss stop. Interior tours are also available, where you can see beautiful works of art.

C. Governor’s Mansion

Both the grounds and the interior of the Governor’s Mansion are exquisite, particularly during the fall season. Located near the Capitol, make sure you take a tour of this 1871 home if you visit during the week. The home features beautiful architecture and fantastic period furniture.

Day Two

A. Missouri Highway 21

After you wake up refreshed and fill up on a delicious breakfast, it’s time to hit the road for one of Missouri’s most popular state parks. Part of your journey will consist of one of southeastern Missouri’s most beautiful routes. Highway 21, which follows the Jefferson County Scenic Byway, is especially stunning in fall, so make sure you have your camera ready. Note the phone number below is for the Ellington Chamber of Commerce.

B. Elephant Rocks State Park

True to its name, Elephant Rocks features giant, billion-year-old boulders standing end-to-end, making it the perfect place for exploration. Vibrant fall colors only make this park better, and it features an interpretive Braille trail for the sight impaired.

Night Two

A. Charleville Brewery & Winery

Take a step back in time and stay the night at Victoria's Place by the River, a 150-year-old designated historical landmark. Located near the Capitol and downtown Jefferson City, the inn sits on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River, so you are sure to have a beautiful view when you wake up in the morning while you enjoy your breakfast.

Rooms include two rooms that share a bath, and two suites with whirlpool tub and private bath.

Night Three

A. The Cabin at Charleville

You won’t have to travel too far to get to your final stop – this 1800s log cabin is situated right on Charleville’s property. This cabin offers two separate rooms for rent, so seclusion is guaranteed, and you’ll love waking up to gorgeous views from the top of one of the county’s highest hills, not to mention a hearty country breakfast.