Tourism

There is so much to see and do in the Farmington area. Wineries, historic sites, cultural channels and entertaining venues for the whole family can all be found in and near the Farmington community.

Take part in tastings, enjoy a tour of the vineyards or just relax with some delicious foods and live music at one of the area’s many wineries. Farmington itself is home to two quality wineries and vineyards – Crown Valley Champagne House and Twin Oaks Vineyard. Nearby wineries not to miss include The Cave Vineyard, Charleville Vineyards, Chaumette Winery, Crown Valley Winery and Sainte Genevieve Winery – all located in Ste. Genevieve.

History buffs can revel in the area’s interesting historical sites, including the Missouri Mines Historical Site and the Fort Davidson State Historic Site. The Missouri Mines Historic Site, situated in Park Hills, is the site of an old milling complex that was utilized by the St. Joe Minerals Corporation during the time that the state’s “Lead Belt” manufactured approximately 80 percent of the U.S.’s mined lead.

In 1864, the now serene Arcadia Valley in nearby Iron County was the site of the Battle of Pilot Knob. While en route to the St. Louis region, Confederate Major General Sterling Price and his 12,000-men army attacked the poorly protected Fort Davidson, a 1,450-men Union post overseen by General Thomas Ewing Jr. During this large battle, the Confederates lost around 1,000 men. Patrons today can view the preserved Fort Davidson and the Pilot Knob battlefield, along with perusing the Visitor Center, which highlights exhibits, a research library and more. A picnic area and playground are also available on site.

For some performing arts entertainment, whether it be theatrical, musical or dance, make sure to visit the Centene Performing Arts Center. The center is situated adjacent to the Farmington Civic Center and offers auditorium seating for around 725 (525 permanent seats and 200 movable seats). Small concerts, local drama performances and more can all be found here.

Further sites for family-friendly entertainment include the Farmington Family Fun Center, offering bowling and arcade games; Roller Zone, the area’s premier indoor skating rink; Kerasotes Showplace 4 movie theater; and the St. Francois County Raceway, one of the top small track facilities in this Missouri region.

Farmington is on the TransAmerica Trail bicycle route.  In our effort to support the bicyclists who travel along the trial, Farmington has opened “Al’s Place”.   "Al's Place," is a bike hostel named in recognition of local bicycling enthusiast Al Dziewa who died of cancer. The hostel has 14 bunk beds in three bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen and laundry room, Internet connectivity and cable television.  An estimated 1,200 bicyclists travel through Missouri each year on the TransAmerica Trail.

After a day of taking in the features of Farmington, it’s easy to work up an appetite. No problem, because the area is home to an array of restaurants, from fast food fixes and casual dining to ethnic cuisine and sweet treats. There is certainly something to please every palate in Farmington.

And for comfortable resting, the area is home to a number of lodging options. Economic rooms and suites are available at one of the local hotels or motels, while more private accommodations can be found through the White House Bed and Breakfast, which offers two cozy guest rooms with private bathrooms.