Our rich history is what makes up the very fabric of this beautiful state that we call home today. Here are some the oldest operating businesses in Missouri that’ll take you back in time.
1. Holladay Distillery - Oldest Vodka Distillery
In 1804, a pure limestone spring was found in Weston by Lewis and Clark during their expedition. However, it wasn't until 1856 that young entrepreneurial businessman, Benjamin Holladay, would team up with his brother to use it for a bourbon distillery. Visit the distillery today for a brief history lesson followed by a one-of-a-kind tasting.
Address:
1 Mc Cormick Ln. Weston, MO 64098
2. J. Huston Tavern - Oldest Restaurant
In 1834, Joseph Huston, Sr., an early Arrow Rock settler and civic leader, built a 4-room, two-story structure with a summer kitchen to serve immigrants heading westward on the frontier. Today, it is considered the oldest restaurant in Missouri and serves up some of the best fried chicken in the state.
Address:
304 Main St.
Arrow Rock, MO 65320
3. Temple Slug - Oldest Waterbed Store
Remember waterbeds? Temple Slug sure does. Though to many that fad has come and gone, Temple Slug still continues to sell them at their Kansas City store along with futons and other furniture.
Address:
4303 Jefferson St.
Kansas City, MO 64111
4. O'Malley's - Oldest Pub
Hidden almost 60 feet underground in the cellars of what used to house the Weston Brewing Company, lies O'Malley's Pub. You'll feel like you're in a speakeasy as you sip on a fine selection of craft beer and listen to a live band in this hidden bar that dates back to 1842.
5. Missouri Meerschaum Company - Oldest Corn Cob Pipe Manufacturer
This corn-cob pipe shop dates back to the late 1800's when Dutch immigrant woodworker, Henry Tibbe, began producing this carefully crafted pipes in Washington, Missouri. Soon after, Washington quickly became known as the "Corn-Cob Pipe Capital of The World."
Address:
400 W Front St. Washington, MO 63090
6. Crown Candy - Oldest Soda Fountain
In 1913, Greek immigrants Harry Karandzieff and Pete Jugaloff opened what is now considered St. Louis's oldest operating business and one of their most popular attractions. This soda fountain still serves homemade chocolates just like they did years ago. You can even stop by for lunch and dinner before indulging in all of the sweets!
Address:
1401 St Louis Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63106
7. Rinehart's Music & Video - Oldest Record Shop
Rinehart's has been selling music to the people of Kirksville since 1897. Customers can still come in to peruse their selection of vinyl, CD's, movies and video games. Have a record you don't listen to anymore? Come in and resell it or trade for a different one.
Address:
114 S Franklin St.
Kirksville, MO 63501
Do you remember any of these places? Maybe you went to them as a kid. What was your experience like? Let us know!
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Featured Addresses
304 Main St. Arrow Rock, MO 65320
1 Mc Cormick Ln. Weston, MO 64098
114 S Franklin St. Kirksville, MO 63501
1401 St Louis Ave. St. Louis, MO 63106
400 W Front St. Washington, MO 63090
4303 Jefferson St. Kansas City, MO 64111