Bike Katy, Ride Amtrak: Explore Wine Country Via Rail or Trail
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Missouri, Hermann is the perfect place to make that dream a reality, with two different, yet memorable ways to enjoy the countryside and soak up everything Wine Country has to offer.
Hermann is close to the Katy Trail, the nation’s longest rails-to-trails project, and marks a spot on Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner, which runs daily between Missouri’s bookend cities of St. Louis and Kansas City. The Lincoln Missouri River Runner extends to Chicago, with one train to Chicago every day, and one train from Chicago every day.
Whether you’re traveling by rail on Amtrak, or trail via the Katy Trail, exciting adventures await.
Grab Your Cycling Gear and Get Exploring
Spanning 240 miles, the Katy Trail runs through some of Missouri’s most diverse landscapes. Closely following the Missouri River, trail goers have the opportunity to see and travel through dense forests, wetlands, valleys, farm fields, and prairies. Rusty steel bridges stand out among the remnants of the trail’s railroad history, providing a glimpse into the past.
Whether you’re jumping on or off the trail, the McKittrick trailhead is just three miles from Hermann. You will find dining, shopping, and lodging in Hermann. The Hermann Bridge offers a protected bike lane to get from the trail to town with ease. Once you’re in Hermann, you can walk, cycle, or stroll to nearly every restaurant, shop, or tasting room in town.
If you’re a history buff or outdoor enthusiast, you’d be remiss if you didn’t stop to enjoy some of Hermann’s museums, historical sites, and parks. The city offers several self-guided walking tours, where you can tour the city at your own pace, along with state parks and conservation areas nearby, and access to the Missouri River.
Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner
Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner stops in Hermann daily. Unwind in spacious seating, enjoy the company of fellow travelers, and revel in the convenience of city-to-city transportation without the stress of driving.
The scenic beauty of this journey is a standout feature, offering passengers the chance to witness picture-perfect landscapes along the Missouri River. From river views and expansive farmland to charming small towns, the changing scenery can be enjoyed from the comfort of your seat, providing a serene travel experience.
Beyond the captivating views, the Missouri River Runner encapsulates historical charm. As the train glides through the state, it treats passengers to glimpses of the region’s railroad heritage. The journey becomes a historical exploration, allowing travelers to connect with Missouri’s past.
When you step off in the heart of downtown Hermann, you’ll find yourself at the Visitor Information Center, located inside the Amtrak station. Open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, you’ll find a restroom, water fountain, city information, rack cards, maps, local restaurant menus and hours of operation, visitor guides, and more. You can also chat with a local expert, plan all the things you want to see and do, and enjoy every minute.
Traveling with luggage? The Visitor Information Center has free luggage lockers available right outside the building. Be sure to claim your free “Bike Katy, Ride Amtrak” decal to add to your collection.
Stay a Night or Two
When there’s too much to do in a single day, we invite you to stay overnight in Hermann. Most bicyclists wish they would have made Hermann a 2-night stay! With more than 650 guest rooms – from luxurious suites to charming cottages, historic homes, and welcoming inns – there’s something for everyone. And, whether you’re traveling with family or friends, Hermann has options spacious enough to accommodate groups of almost any size to ensure a cozy and memorable stay.
Need help planning your visit? Contact the Visitor Information Center at 573-798-0771 or email TourismServices@VisitHermann.com. Visit us online to use the free trip planner tool.
