We already know what many of you are going to say, but there are mountains and mountain towns in Missouri. Located in southeastern Missouri is the ancient St. Francois Mountain formation. This mountain range was formed roughly 1.485 billion years ago making them much older than the Appalachian or the Rocky Mountains. Thus, the formations aren’t as tall as they once were. Yet, they still take the title for the highest point in our state. Tucked into these beautiful forested mountains is the quaint town of Arcadia. The mountains are calling, but this time you don’t have to leave state lines for a relaxing weekend getaway. Here are some of the best things to do in Arcadia, Missouri.

Surrounded by the gorgeous rolling hills of the St. Francois Mountains is the little town of Arcadia, MO. This quiet little Lead Belt only has a population of 600 people but it's the perfect place for a weekend escape.
Keith Yahl/Flickr
When you get to town, which is one of the most charming Missouri mountain towns, you'll want to check out the visitor center. The center is located in a beautiful old train station and displays a lot of great historical items from Iron County.
Iron County Historical Society - Arcadia, Missouri/Facebook
After exploring the visitor center, head to Arcadia Academy and check into one of their beautiful rooms for a relaxing and comfortable stay. You may not get up once you lie down on the overstuffed recliner couches, though!
Arcadia Academy/Facebook
This stunning campus was built in 1846 and spent most of its years as an all-girls Catholic boarding school.

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Today, this amazing facility is a wedding venue, bed and breakfast, bakery, creamery, restaurant, and event center. You'll have a great lunch at Thee Abbey Kitchen​!
Trip47960588960/TripAdvisor
Plus, breakfast in bed doesn't get much better when served this gigantic, sweet sticky bun!
Arcadia Academy/Facebook
No matter what you decide to have, only the finest ingredients are used to prepare every delicious treat.
Most of all, explore the natural beauty of the St. Francois Mountains. Take a long scenic drive along the winding mountain roads or take a hike to Missouri's highest point on the Taum Sauk Mountain Trail.
Iron County Historical Society - Arcadia, Missouri/Facebook
In Arcadia, it seems as though time moves slower. Moments last longer and memories last forever. Plan a weekend trip to Arcadia for a relaxing getaway in the Missouri Mountains. It's one of the most scenic small towns in Missouri.
ARPwildlifebio/Wikimedia
Find the Acadia Valley Visitor Center at 630 Highway 21, Arcadia. The Woods is located at 135 S. Main St., Ironton. For more information about bed and breakfast accommodations, visit the Arcadia Academy webpage.

Before leaving the area, be sure to check out other parts of the beautiful Arcadia Valley. There are so many things to do and see, you may decide to stay for longer than a weekend or plan a second trip! Have you been to Arcadia, Missouri? What about the St. Francois Mountains? Tell us about your road trip to this little mountain town or share what your favorite trail is on this ancient mountain range. We think you’ll find it to be one of the most charming mountain towns in Missouri, as well.

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More to Explore

Mountains In Missouri

AnneMarie | October 04, 2022

Where are the best views in the Missouri mountains?

Some of the best views in the Missouri mountains are found at Table Rock Lake, which is located in the Ozarks of southwestern Missouri, and at the top of Knob Lick Mountain, where you will see Saint Francois Mountain scenery. With as many as 549 peaks in the state, however, there are so many possibilities to choose from. Our list of 10 epic mountain views in Missouri is a good starting point. It includes these two views and eight more.

Does Missouri have mountains?

Missouri has an abundance of mountains. Taum Sauk Mountain, Wildcat Mountain, Buford Mountain, Lead Hill, and Ketcherside Mountain are the state’s major peaks.

What are some of the other Ozark mountain towns in Missouri?

Does Missouri have mountain towns? Clearly, and Arcadia Township is just one of the Ozark mountain towns in Missouri - in addition to being one of our favorite small towns in Missouri to visit. Another one is Branson, which is a popular family vacation destination and probably most famous for its live entertainment. It also offers plenty in the way of shopping, outdoor recreational activities, and many attractions, including the Branson Scenic Railway. Ozark is the most obvious mountain “town,” technically a city with a small-town feel. It has experienced rapid growth in the last decade and was recently nominated as the best place to go antiquing in southwest Missouri by Rural Magazine. In addition to the shopping, however, you’ll find outdoor activities, amusement parks, history, and more.

 

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