Need a fun day trip or weekend escape in Missouri Wine Country? I always say: head to Augusta. I’ve sipped my way through many charming towns, but Augusta keeps calling me back. You’ll love the way it blends cozy small-town hospitality with vineyard views and riverfront trails. Whether you’re biking the Katy Trail, wandering past historic homes, or raising a glass at sunset, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. I sure did.

Augusta, MO Highlights (My Picks Just for You):

  • Katy Trail State Park – I’ve biked miles of this trail and always tell friends it’s one of the prettiest rides in the Midwest. If you love the outdoors, you’ll enjoy every stretch of the trail along the Missouri River. Whether you hike, bike, or just stroll, you’ll feel a little freer here.
  • Augusta Historic District – I’ve wandered these streets on lazy afternoons, ducking into shops and admiring old architecture. You’ll get a feel for Augusta’s past while exploring galleries and finding small treasures along the way.
  • Mount Pleasant Estates – If you’ve never been to Missouri’s oldest winery, you’re in for a treat. I’ve enjoyed wine tastings here under the shade of old trees while music played nearby. You’ll want to give yourself time—there’s a lot to take in.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re asking me, the sweet spots are spring and fall—April through June and again in September and October. I’ve been during every season, but these are when Augusta really shines. You’ll catch green vineyards or autumn colors, cool breezes, and lots of outdoor events. It’s perfect for wine tastings, trail rides, or just sitting on a porch with a good book and a better glass of wine. You’ll see why I keep going back.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: I usually drive in from St. Louis—it’s an easy 45-minute ride west on I-64 and Highway 94. You’ll know you’re getting close when the hills start rolling and the vines appear. You’ll love that drive.
  • By Train: I’ve taken the Amtrak into Washington, MO a few times. From there, I rent a car—it’s the easiest way to reach Augusta and explore at your own pace. You might like having that flexibility too.
  • By Plane: If you’re flying in, land at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL). I’ve done it before—it’s just about a 50-minute drive to Augusta, and I promise the scenery makes it fly by.

Where to Stay (Places I’d Recommend in a Heartbeat):

  • H.S. Clay House Bed & Breakfast – I’ve stayed here when I wanted romance and comfort all wrapped into one. You’ll get gourmet breakfasts, elegant rooms, and the kind of charm only a historic home can offer. I felt spoiled—and you will too.
  • Augusta Guest House – I love how central this one is. You can walk to everything, and the rooms feel like a cozy hug. If you like staying somewhere that’s steeped in character, this one’s for you.
  • Balducci Vineyards Farmhouse – I once stayed here with a group of friends and still talk about the views. You’ll be right on a vineyard, surrounded by fields and wine-sipping vibes. It’s rustic-chic, peaceful, and ideal for a girls’ weekend or couples’ retreat.

Best Things to Do in Augusta, MO

Explore historic architecture and walk scenic grounds for a meaningful trip into the past.

Daniel Boone Home

Daniel Boone Home

- Explore historic architecture and walk scenic grounds for a meaningful trip into the past.

Sip award-winning wines and relax on the terrace during a romantic afternoon escape.

Montelle Winery

Montelle Winery

- Sip award-winning wines and relax on the terrace during a romantic afternoon escape.

Taste bold reds and explore vineyard views perfect for a summer outing.

Balducii Family Vineyard and Winery

Balducii Family Vineyard and Winery

- Taste bold reds and explore vineyard views perfect for a summer outing.

Visit tasting rooms and enjoy live music during a lively weekend experience.

Augusta Winery

Augusta Winery

- Visit tasting rooms and enjoy live music during a lively weekend experience.

Sample handcrafted wines and stroll the vines on a peaceful retirement afternoon.

Noboleis Vineyards

Noboleis Vineyards

- Sample handcrafted wines and stroll the vines on a peaceful retirement afternoon.

Bike on scenic trails and hike through white cliffs during a colorful fall adventure.

Wesley/stock.adobe.com

Klondike Park

- Bike on scenic trails and hike through white cliffs during a colorful fall adventure.

Pick fresh apples and explore the orchard on a fun kids activity.

Centennial Farms

Centennial Farms

- Pick fresh apples and explore the orchard on a fun kids activity.

Tour underground cellars and sip local wines on a quick stop through wine country.

Angelov/stock.adobe.com

Mount Pleasant Winery

- Tour underground cellars and sip local wines on a quick stop through wine country.

Dine on seasonal dishes and enjoy crafted pairings perfect for couples.

Root Food and Wine

Root Food and Wine

- Dine on seasonal dishes and enjoy crafted pairings perfect for couples.

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