The history of the Boone’s Lick region dates to the early 1800s, when Daniel and Nathan Boone, sons of frontiersman Daniel Boone, processed salt from what’s called Boone’s Lick Spring. Other prominent figures from the area include artist George Caleb Bingham and secesionist governor Claiborne Fox Jackson. This section of the Boone’s Lick focuses on Miami, Glasgow, Fayette, New Franklin, Rocheport and Boonville.
Morning
A. Explore the Boone’s Lick Region – Part II
Take a late-morning mid-day trek to Bushwhacker Bend Winery (about 40 minutes from Miami) to experience a true taste of the Boone's Lick region. Special selections include River Rat Rose, which is a sweet red wine, and Wheelhouse White, a semi-dry wine that includes flavors of pineapple and citrus. The outdoor seating area offers a great view of the Missouri River; cheeses and snacks are available.
B. Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park
After an overnight in Marshall, take the 15-minute drive north to Van Meter State Park to see an area that once was home to Missouria Indians. See remnants of a Missouria Indian village that sat at the Great Bend of the Missouri River and explore the American Indian Cultural Center.
Evening
A. School House Bed and Breakfast
Built in 1914, this beautiful three-story brick building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It features 11 guest rooms, each with a private bath, and four with jetted tubs - a great way to unwind after a day riding the Katy Trail.
B. Explore the Boone’s Lick Region – Part II
Enjoy a restful night, and a dose of local history, in this circa Civil-War-era mansion, built from 1864-69. This iconic home provided the layout on which the Missouri Governor's Mansion was patterned. It boasts 10 guestrooms, offers 12,000-square-feet of space and features 11 Carerra marble fireplaces that were hand-carved in France. It's situated on seven acres adjacent to Katy Trail.
C. The A-Frame Winegarden at Les Bourgeois Vineyards
If you're not ready to settle in for the evening, you'll be wowed by the sunset views, and the wines, at Les Bourgeois' blufftop A-frame location. You can sample and purchase wines inside, then enjoy the spectacular views outside. The Les Bourgeois Bistro is adjacent.
D. Isle of Capri Casino and Hotel – Boonville
Your trip through the Boone's Lick has come full circle; you're back to Boonville, which is where the trek began. Enjoy your night with gaming action, dining options and live entertainment at the Isle of Capri Casino. Want to play late? No worries; there's a hotel on-site, you can turn in when you like.
Afternoon
A. The Ashby-Hodge Gallery of American Art
Explore works of art on the beautiful campus of Central Methodist University in Fayette. Located in Classic Hall, this gallery features an extensive collection, including many works by mid-Missouri artists.
B. Katy Trail State Park – Statewide
Spend part of your afternoon on the Katy Trail, the longest rails-to-trails conversion in the U.S. Along the trail, you find beautiful scenery, including vistas of the Missouri River, and will find plenty of opportunities to give your camera a workout. You can work out yourself if you've planned ahead and are traveling wtih your bicycle!
C. Beckett’s Restaurant
Settle in for lunch at Beckett's, a local favorite featuring American cuisine such as open-faced roast beef sandwiches and fried chicken. Daily lunch specials offered.