Located in the Missouri River valley lies a town taken out of a child's storybook. Founded by German immigrants in 1837, the area soon became covered in vineyards. Still full of that German influence, Hermann is a blend of 19th century brick buildings that house unique restaurants, bars and shops. There are over 600 guests rooms for those wanting an extended stay, ranging from Inns and guest houses to B&B's.
Hermann still produces over 178,000 gallons of wine each year and is home to a number of wineries for visitors to tour and partake. If wine isn't your drink of choice, there's also distilleries and breweries.
The friendly town welcomes thousands of visitors each ear. For history buffs, museums and historical sights and locations are plenty. Outdoor activists can participate in a walking tour, rent an electric bike and explore the Katy Trail, paddle, or fish the Missouri River. There's plenty of hiking trails and a campground that accommodates both RV and tent camping.
Signs of the arts and theater are abundent in Hermann, and there's a festival almost every weekend. There's both amateur and professional theatre groups. The historic bandstage at the City Park and The Clara Eitmann-Messmer Amphitheater play host to larger concerts and music festivals.
When visiting, don't be surprised to see a bride and groom as Hermann has become a prime destination for the perfect event to tie the knot. Whether it's large or small, dramatic or intimate, there are both indoor and outdoor venues to choose from.
Tammy Bruckerhoff has served as the Tourism & Economic Development Director for Hermann since 2018. In addition to leading the marketing efforts for the town, she oversees the Visitor Information Center at their Amtrak Station and serves on MORPAC (Missouri Rail Partners Advisory Committee) as the Chairperson of the Marketing Committee and Team Member of the Legislative Committee.
Born and raised in Hermann, Bruckerhoff said the best part of her job is numerous. "I love our history and culture," she explained. "I love when visitors come for the first time and come back again, when couples choose to have their wedding here, musicians who come to Hermann to share their talents, that live music during the peak season is offered seven days a week, that we have a diversity of lodging establishments for visitors to stay, and we have a beautiful park system with a RV and tent campground."
The small town with a population of 2300 people has pickleball courts, tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields, a basketball court, a public swimming pool and several playground areas.
Hermann is a welcoming community for both visitors and entrepreneurs who want to call Hermann "home", Bruckerhoff said. "We have so many attractions and yet we still have so much room to grow. I love the beauty of our area, and the people who work so hard to continue what our ancestors started. The people are the ones who may start as your host in Hermann, but soon become your friend."
Getting There:
Hermann is less than a two-hour drive from the Lake of The Ozarks.
For those who prefer to sit back and relax, The Amtrak Missouri River Runner is a short 40-minute ride from Jefferson City to the Hermann train station, located just one block from the downtown area.
Festivals:
Some of the main festivals and events in Hermann:
Hermann Wine Trail
February, April, May, July, November, December
The Hermann Wine Trail offers an exciting wine experience for novice or expert wine lovers. This event offers six popular wine and food pairing events each year at charming family-owned wineries. Advance tickets required.
HermannWineTrail.com
Maifest
Third weekend in May
Held each May for more than 70 years, this event is an old-fashioned celebration of spring and the town's German heritage. It includes a parade, German music and dancers, open-air shopping and demonstrations, children's games, food and drink.
MaifestHermann.org
Hermann Garden Tours
First weekend in June
An opportunity to walk into private gardens of early summer flowers, herbs and vegetables. Attendees can visit with the gardeners, enjoy a walking tour of the town gardens, and drive to country gardens in the hills surrounding Hermann.
HermannGardenTours.com
FreedomFest
July 4-6, 2024
Celebrate America's independence in Hermann with the city parade, a city band performance and a fireworks show over the Missouri River on July 5. Other events take place throughout the weekend.
VisitHermann.com/events
Smokefest
Third Saturday in September
This charity event is held annually at the Clara Eitmann-Messmer Amphitheater. It features an amateur BBQ competition, whiskey tastings, live music, cigars and a silent auction.
HogsHeadCigars.com
Oktoberfest
Every weekend in October
Take in the breathtaking fall foliage while attending this annual celebration of German heritage. Traditional German music and dance, stein hoisting contests, delicious food, beer garden and arts and crafts are some of the offerings.
VisitHermann.com/events
Christmastime In Hermann
Mid-November through December
This is the most magical time of the year in Hermann. View ornately decorated shop windows, and twinkling lights throughout the town. Shop the German Christmas markets and stores for crafts and specialty gifts, grab treats at the German Bake Sale, attend the Hermann Holiday House Tour or the Children's Lantern parade, take in a festive concert and more.
The town of Hermann was recently the set for the movie "A Christmas Vintage." Filmed almost entirely in Hermann, those who know the town will recognize many of the sights and locations in the film.
Other Events:
First Friday Art Walks - May, September and October
Hermann Plein Air Festivel - June 8-14
Hermann Whiskey Trail - June 14-15 and December 6-7
Missouri Bourbon Festival - August 3
Hermann Blue Oval Rally - August 23-24
River City Cruisers Cruise-in - September 14
German Town Jams - September 14
Hermann Harvest Festival - September 28
Arts & Crafts Festival - October 12-13
Witches & Wine Festival - October 24
The Great Stone Hill Beast Feast - December 13
For a complete listing of events, visit the website at:
https://visithermann.com