Make Hermann Your Hop-Over Destination

Happy New Year!

2026 isn’t just another new year – it’s a milestone moment for travelers. With the 100^th anniversary of Route 66 and the 250^th birthday of the United States, families across the country will rediscover the fun of road trips, celebrate our nation’s history, and create memories of time spent together. It’s the perfect time to plan a meaningful getaway, including a memorable stop in Hermann, Missouri.

Make Hermann Your “Hop Over” Destination

While Route 66 doesn’t run through Hermann, its spirit of exploration and community fit the theme of the all-American road trip. Perched along the Missouri River, Hermann is wine country. The lush rolling hills and scenic views are what road-tripping is all about. Route 66 is not as much about getting to your destination as it is seeing all the interesting places along the way. It’s about slowing down and enjoying the ride, with the windows down and the music turned up. Hermann is a short scenic detour away. Weary travelers can take a break from their journey and take in the sights of Hermann.

Whether you are stopping for a few hours or planning to linger, Hermann offers exactly what road-trippers are looking for: good food, beautiful scenery, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Take time to browse Hermann’s locally owned shops and boutiques, where you’ll find handmade goods, unique gifts, nostalgic treats, and souvenirs that reflect the town’s craftsmanship and character—perfect reminders of your visit.

Visit one of our award-winning wineries, fill up with delicious foods, and stretch your legs with a walk around the town. Spend a night or two, and hit the road, refreshed and recharged with a few new memories to take along. When you choose to stay in Hermann, you’ll find a wide variety of welcoming places to rest, from charming B&Bs to cozy guesthouses and elegantly appointed suites, making it easy to turn a quick stop into a relaxing getaway.

Sip and Savor in Missouri Wine Country

For many visitors, a Hermann getaway begins with raising a glass and taking in the view. Our wineries and distilleries offer a relaxed way to unwind and experience Missouri wine country.

Enjoy a glass of some of the best Missouri wines at Adam Puchta Winery, Dierberg-Star Lane-Three Saints Tasting Room, G. Husmann Wine Company, Hermannhof Winery, Stone Hill Winery, and Reserve Cellars of Hermann.

For those who enjoy exploring local flavors beyond the vineyard, Hermann’s craft distilleries offer another way to experience the region’s creativity and tradition. Hermann’s distilleries, including Copper Mule Distillery, Lionheart Whiskey Co.,  Fernweh Distilling Co., & Black Shire Distillery Tasting Room, offer spirits including hand-crafted whiskeys, bourbons, vodka, and more. Tin Mill Brewery brews authentic German-style beers according to the German Purity Law of 1516, importing their barley, hops, and even their copper brewing kettles from Germany.

Dining in Hermann

Dining in Hermann is part of the experience. From traditional German favorites to international flavors and family-friendly classics, our locally owned restaurants make it easy to gather around the table and refuel before your next adventure. With so many options, you may feel like a world traveler—without ever leaving town:

• Ainsley’s Place for breakfast and lunch, as well as specialty French toast flavors
• Concert Hall and Barrel Tavern serves seafood, steak, pizza, and German specialties.
• Dos Primos Mexican Restaurant and El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant feature authentic Mexican recipes and south-of-the-border fare.
• 4th Street Pizza hand-tosses pizzas within full view of guests. They also offer pasta, sandwiches, and salads. Gluten-free and vegan options, too.

• Hermann Wurst Haus is a deli-style restaurant inside a meat shop featuring their award-winning bratwurst, hickory-smoked pulled pork, and house-made German sides.
• Doxie Slush has coastal fare like fish & chips, lobster boils, and shrimp, as well as many different varieties of Smashburgers. Don’t forget to pair them with one of more than ten different flavors of slushie!
• Try a Philly Cheesesteak at WIllie’s Philly’s, or one of their unique offerings like the Reuben Quesadilla or Beef & Lamb or Chicken Gyros.
• Turbulence Brewery has traditional and unique wing flavors – like Honey BBQ, Jamaican Jerk, Ghost Rider, and Teriyaki – as well as tacos, sandwiches, burgers, and po-boys. Try craft beers made in-house on tap as well.
• Kick it up a notch at Zydeco, which features Cajun and Creole cuisine and cocktails.

Festivals, Events, and the Best Times to Visit Hermann

Timing your visit adds another layer to the experience. Plan your trip around Maifest, Independence Day Celebrations, Hermann Blue Oval Rally, River City Cruisers Cruise-In, Oktoberfest, or any of Hermann’s festivals to experience the town at its most lively—or choose a weekday visit for a quieter, more relaxed pace. Between meals, tastings, and events, Hermann’s historic sites and outdoor spaces offer plenty of opportunities to explore, learn, and enjoy at your own pace.

• The Deutschheim State Historic Site is a treasure trove of Hermann’s history. Visitors can learn about the daily life and traditions of the German immigrants who settled here in the mid-19^th Century.
• The Historic Hermann Museum is housed in the German School building, constructed in 1871. The clock atop the museum has been operating continuously since 1890, and its works can be seen from inside the museum. Historic Hermann is closed for the winter break, but will open again in Mid-March.
• The Gasconade County Courthouse is a striking structure both inside and out and is believed to be one of the few US courthouses built entirely with private funds. Step inside and admire the hand-painted murals, the wrought iron balustrades, and the beautiful wood floors. Outside on the lawn is the cannon that was used to defend Hermann during the Civil War.
• Hermann Farms is not only a gorgeous place to tour, but it is also a place to discover the legacy of Charles Teubner, George Husmann, and Charles Manwaring, who were influential in the early days of winemaking in Missouri.

Long before Route 66 became a symbol of American road trips, towns like Hermann were already welcoming travelers, settlers, pioneers, and dreamers. Founded by German immigrants seeking opportunity along the Missouri River, Hermann grew through its craftsmanship, agriculture, hospitality, and strong sense of a tight-knit community. This spirit of building a life – a future together – is what draws families to set out on the open road today. Visiting Hermann isn’t just a stop along the way; it’s a chance to visit small-town Americana at its finest.

Celebrate America’s Journey in 2026

In 2026, everyone—especially travelers—will have rare reasons to celebrate: 100 years of Route 66 and 250 years of American history, and countless opportunities to explore the places that make our country truly unique. Road trips will once again be about more than miles traveled. They will be about the time spent together and the memories made along the way.

Whether you’re planning a multi-generational family adventure, a nostalgic drive inspired by Route 66, or a fun getaway that blends history, scenery, and small-town charm, Hermann offers a nostalgic place to pause, connect, and recharge. Add Hermann to your 2026 travel plans and discover how a short detour can become one of the most memorable parts of your journey.