This Is the 'Little Germany' of the Midwest-and It's One of the Oldest Winemaking Regions in the U.S.

"Upon arrival, visitors to the small city of Hermann, Missouri, might feel as if they've been transported back to a simpler-but cuter-time. Known for its brick red buildings, Hermann was established in 1837 by German immigrants, who thought the area's rugged river bluffs resembled the Rhine River valley. Soon, the newcomers built the town's iconic brick buildings along the Missouri, established wineries, and fostered a deep sense of community that can still be seen and felt, nearly two centuries later."

"Today, Hermann, with a population of a little over 2,000, is a lively destination and hosts one of the country's oldest Oktoberfests, which will celebrate its 45th year in 2026. But there are plenty of other reasons to visit, too. Outdoor enthusiasts love cycling the nearby, 240-mile-long Katy Trail. The area's dining and accommodation options are top-notch, and though the town's wineries were heavily affected by Prohibition, there are now a variety of places to sample the area's vintages."

Hermann, Missouri was founded in 1837 by German immigrants who likened the area's river bluffs to the Rhine Valley and constructed iconic red-brick buildings along the Missouri River. The town established wineries and a strong community that endures nearly two centuries later. Today the town of just over 2,000 residents hosts one of the country's oldest Oktoberfests and attracts outdoor enthusiasts to the nearby 240-mile Katy Trail. Dining and accommodations are high-quality, and local wineries, once harmed by Prohibition, now offer diverse vintages. The Inn at Hermannhof provides period-furnished suites above the 1860s Festhalle and easy Amtrak access.

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