23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Washington (MO)

Washington is a metropolis located 50 miles West of St. Louis on the southern banks of the Missouri River in the state of Missouri, United States.

It is the most populous city in Franklin County, with an estimated population of fourteen thousand nine hundred and sixteen in July 2021.

Widely proclaimed as the world’s Capital of Corncob Pipe, Washington is a fast-growing city with many exceptional establishments.

Washington is recognized in different sectors, including education, entertainment, recreation, and shopping.

Some of the best places to visit in Washington, MO, are James W. Rennick Riverfront Park, Cowan’s Restaurant, the Gary R. Lucy Gallery, the Washington Farmers Market, Hillermann Nursery and Florist, the Rotary Riverfront Trail, and more.

Here are the top things to do in Washington, MO

Things to Do in Washington, MO

1. Washington Historical Society Museum

Washington Historical Society Museum
Credits: Washington Historical Society / Facebook
Washington Historical Society Museum

If you want to learn more about the city’s history, touring the Washington Historical Society Museum is among the top things to do in Washington, MO.

The Washington Historical Society Museum is committed to preserving, interpreting, and promoting the history and heritage of the town.

The Society’s mission is to offer the people access to the city’s heritage by conserving the public Museum, collecting artifacts, and enhancing educational programs.

This 6,000 square feet Museum has ample space for historical paper data, genealogy, and exhibits relating to the city’s past and surroundings.

The Washington Historical Society Museum showcases photographs, Schwarzer zithersz, advertising pieces, pottery, brewery items by John B. Busch, and more.

You will find artifacts relating to Native Americans, the Washington Turnverein, World Wars I & II, and the Missouri River.

Address: 113 E 4th St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

2. Missouri Meerschaum Company

Missouri Meerschaum Company
Credits: Ezume Images / Shutterstock

Washington is widely recognized as the world capital of the Corn cob pipe. You need to visit Missouri Meerschaum Company whenever you’re in the city, as it is one of the best things to do in Washington, MO.

Missouri Meerschaum Company was founded in 1869 with its brick three-story building. The company is known as the biggest producer of Corn Cob pipes.

Woodworker Henry Tibbes first crafted the pipes from corn cobs grown locally for his friends, and gradually the market or demand grew.

Woodworkers constructed Missouri Meerschaum Company, famous for selling the coolest smoking corn cob pipes globally.

Missouri Meerschaum Company is proclaimed as an Americana fixture, and there is an on-site museum that tells the story behind the production of pulse and more.

Address: 21 Cedar St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

3. Cowan’s Restaurant

Cowan's Restaurant
Credits: Cowan’s Restaurant / Facebook
Cowan’s Restaurant

Cowan’s Restaurant is renowned in Washington and the area for offering delicious meals.

The Restaurant has been serving the public sumptuous meals since 1930 in the downtown district of Washington.

They offer homemade dishes prepared using the freshest locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that all meals are rich and hearty.

Cowan’s Restaurant serves its signature homemade pies made on-site from scratch using hand.

The menu features classic burgers, fried chicken, roast beef, mashed potatoes, and more. In addition, Cowan’s Restaurant offers pies in different flavors like peach, blackberry, apple berry crumb, apple crumb, and more.

The Restaurant is a host for special events such as private celebrations, holidays, romantic dates, birthday dinners, family reunions, and more.

Address: 114 Elm St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

4. John G’s Bier Deck

John G's Bier Deck
Credits: Valentyn Volkov / Shutterstock

Are you bored and clueless about what to do in Washington, MO? John G’s Bier Deck is open and always ready to welcome you.

John G’s Bier Deck is a joint that specializes in serving the public varieties of local beers on draft with delicious traditional food.

The tavern offers incredible views of the Missouri River, with deck tables covered with an umbrella open to pets.

They serve meals like Fish and Chips, brisket sandwiches, French dip, Mushroom Steak Tips, Steak Nachos, Grilled Chicken Pasta, Buffalo Chicken Wrap, and chicken wings.

John G’s Bier Deck staff is friendly and helpful. If you’re confused about what to order, the team is ready to guide you through.

Address: 107 W Main St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

5. Hillermann Nursery and Florist

Hillermann Nursery & Florist
Credits: Hillermann Nursery & Florist / Facebook
Hillermann Nursery & Florist

Hillermann Nursery and Florist, a family-owned and operated establishment in Washington, first began in 1951.

Hillermann Nursery and Florist was founded to become the city’s most distinguished garden, nursery center, and service.

As a vast nursery and garden center, Hillermann Nursery and Florist strive always to exceed customers’ expectations.

The company features many components: outdoor and landscape/irrigation equipment, gift shops, a garden, a nursery center, and floral shops.

Hillermann Nursery and Florist feature an impressive collection of non-native perennials, shrubs, aquatic plants, and native and tropical plants.

The garden center offers garden accessories, bee-keeping supplies, fertilizers & chemicals, garden tools, water garden accessories, and more.

The company offers beautifully designed flower patterns and floral gifts for various events and landscape services.

Address: 2601 E Fifth St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

6. The Bryan Haynes Studio and Gallery

Bryan Haynes Studio and Gallery
Credits: guruXOX / Shutterstock

The Bryan Haynes Studio and Gallery was founded by Byran Haynes, a famous award-winning artist.

Bryan is known for its national magazines, international advertising campaigns, CD covers, posters, and book covers.

He designed the murals for the Missouri Botanical Garden and the Westward Expansion Museum at Saint Louis Arch.

The Bryan Haynes Studio and Gallery showcase beautiful works, limestone lithograph prints, and original paintings.

The artist releases numerous authentic works annually focusing on family histories, corporate bequest murals unveiled by corporations, individuals, institutions, and farm landscapes.

Haynes’ artworks are made by hand and create different emotions in viewers. He creates art in large forms by enlargements or canvas paintings.

Address: 10 W 2nd St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

7. Triple 3 Vineyard

Triple 3 Vineyard
Credits: allstars / Shutterstock

Another spotlight in Washington city, Triple 3 Vineyard, is a one-of-a-kind winery that offers only the best wines.

Triple 3 Vineyard is the perfect place to have a delicious glass of award-winning wines and heartwarming cuisines.

It is a large but elegant venue with a spacious hall that can accommodate about three hundred persons for events like fundraisers, wedding receptions, corporate events, and more.

There is outdoor seating on the patio, which overlooks the shimmering lake with a space that can contain up to one hundred persons featuring a room for rehearsal dinners and other small events.

Triple 3 Vineyard features a full-service bar that serves a variety of signature wines and cocktails, which you can enjoy with friends on the patio or during a concert at the music pavilion or lawn.

The facility features a farmhouse with elegantly refurbished four bedrooms and three bathrooms which dates back to 1866.

Address: 3665 Sunny Rd, Washington, MO 63090, United States

8. James W. Rennick Riverfront Park

James W. Rennick Riverfront Park
Credits: FOTO Eak / Shutterstock

James W. Rennick Riverfront Park is a small but beautiful Park of three acres that offers individuals and groups an opportunity to have fun.

The Park offers you a chance to watch boats moving on the water, witness picturesque views of the city, and watch the gorgeous sunset.

As you stroll through the riverfront, you will understand why the early settlers were attracted to this land.

James W. Rennick Riverfront Park features a medium-sized pavilion, a massive lighted pavilion, picnic areas, and four small shelters.

It is inarguably one of the best places to visit in Washington, MO, with your family and friends if you want an amazing picnic experience.

The Park also features restroom facilities, a flag Plaza, and two boat docks. Do well to stop by.

 Address: Washington, MO 63090, United States

Are you considering exploring Missouri, here is a guide on things to do in Ozark, and things to do in Joplin for a fun vacation.

9. Sonic Drive-in

Sonic Drive-in
Credits: BongkarnGraphic / Shutterstock

If you’re still searching for the best place in town to dine, head to Sonic Drive-in.

Sonic Drive-in offers locals and visitors an amazing dining experience as they feast on their deliciously made American fares.

Unlike any regular restaurant in the city, Sonic Drive-in is a family-friendly place where you can create new memories with loved ones.

They offer a wide variety of meals such as Classic Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Crispy Tender Dinner, Hand Made Onion Rings, home fries, and more.

Sonic Drive-in offers drinks like Green Apple Slush, Watermelon Slush with Rainbow Candy, Strawberry Limeade, Orange Juice, Iced Green Mountain Coffee® with French Vanilla, and others.

They offer various ice creams such as Cheesecake Master Shake, Chocolate Classic Shake, Hot Fudge Classic Shake, Caramel Sundae, Strawberry Sundae, and more.

Address: 545 E Fifth St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

10. Nature’s Roots

Nature’s Roots
Credits: Nature’s Roots / Facebook
Nature’s Roots

Nature’s Roots, one of the newest establishments in Washington, officially opened its doors in 2021.

Nature’s Roots is a wellness center and metaphysical supply shop which offers several essential services.

They offer handmade skincare, Crystal healing sessions, wellness classes, handmade skincare items, and more.

The company was established to provide natural treatments for common illnesses. Nature’s Roots is focused on offering an incredible metaphysical supply store moment.

Nature’s Roots offers self-care classes and meditations led by professionals and experienced personnel.

Address: 550 E Fifth St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

11. The Old Dutch Hotel and Tavern

Old Dutch Hotel and Tavern
Credits: Old Dutch Tavern / Facebook
Old Dutch Hotel and Tavern

The Old Dutch Hotel and Tavern, which started operating about eighty years ago, is currently open to the public for a new age. 

The Old Dutch Hotel and Tavern, a nicely refurbished restaurant, is located in the middle of the downtown shopping district of Washington.

The Restaurant features a hotel upstairs that offers fourteen comfortable rooms with a full bar and menu.

Their dining room offers an old-fashioned feeling in a setting designed with a tin ceiling, oak floors, and flatscreen TVs.

The Old Dutch Hotel and Tavern offers beer lovers an extensive collection of European and domestic brews such as Goose Island Matilda, Dogfish Perfect Disguise, Avery White Rascal, and Odell Sippin’ Pretty Sour.

The Hotel features rooms with king or queen-sized beds, comfortable sofas, tables, coffeemakers, microwaves, and more.

Visiting the Old Dutch Hotel and Tavern solves your accommodation and dining issues without having to cut deep into your pockets.

Address: 227 Elm St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

12. The Tilted Skillet

The Tilted Skillet
Credits: The Tilted Skillet / Facebook
The Tilted Skillet

The Tilted Skillet is a popular destination for foodies in the city as they serve unique and well-prepared gourmet food.

It is a family-friendly restaurant that offers a wide variety of dinner and lunch options. So if you want to enjoy diverse culinary styles and inventions, the Tilted Skillet is the best place to dine with your loved ones.

The Tilted Skillet features a full-time bar that offers delicious beers, wines, and liquors, including rum, gin, bourbon, tequila, whiskey, and mixed drinks.

Their extensive menu features a wide variety of appetizers, desserts, sides, and entrees, so there is something for everyone. The Restaurant serves the best sandwiches, pizzas, steaks, soups, and more.

Address: 323 W 5th St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

13. Rothschild’s Family Restaurant

Rothschild's Family Restaurant
Credits: Vezzani Photography / Shutterstock
waffles

The Rothschild family has been delighting the residents of Washington for more than fifty years through Rothschild’s Family Restaurant.

Rothschild’s Family Restaurant began in 1963 after the A&W Rootbeer Stand was sold to the family, with no indoor eating.

They are the best in serving homemade cuisine made on-site from scratch using the finest locally grown ingredients.

The Restaurant has tremendously expanded to meet up with the demand of customers; they offer full meals.

Rothschild’s Family Restaurant offers waffles, Country Fried Steak, biscuits & gravy, Country Scramble, Corned Beef and Cabbage, catfish fillet sandwiches & Breaded Shrooms, and more.

Address: 1026 E Fifth St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

14. Iron Spike Model Train Museum

Iron Spike Model Train Museum
Credits: Iron Spike Model Train Museum / Facebook
Iron Spike Model Train Museum

If you’re one of those who are interested in trains and all the facts surrounding them, one of the best things to do in Washington, MO, is to explore the Iron Spike Model Train Museum.

Trains have been a significant part of the city’s history way before the Civil War, and the old train depot is still functioning up to date.

The Iron Spike Model Train Museum was founded to celebrate the train heritage in the city. It manages model trains from numerous eras and records.

The major Museum showcases many train layouts with animation, light, and sound. At the same time, the research library features magazines, videos, books, and vintage.

Its restored railroad store offers train materials, vintage trains, tracks, cars, buildings, and many more for sale.

The Iron Spike Model Train Museum operates HO-, G-, N-, TY-, and O- gauge trains. Don’t hesitate to check it out.

Address: 1498 High St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

15. The Rotary Riverfront Trail

Rotary Riverfront Trail
Credits: soft_light / Shutterstock

One highlight of Washington is its charming riverfront. If you want to explore the city exclusively, add a visit to the Rotary Riverfront Trail to your list of fun things to do in Washington, MO.

The Rotary Riverfront Trail goes across the eastern and western parts of the downtown region with a nicely paved route in opposite directions.

This Trail of 8.4km takes an hour and thirty-one minutes to finish, making it a perfect place for many activities.

Benches and rest areas directly overlook the trails; users can stop by for a break to rest and breathe.

The Rotary Riverfront Trail is a favorite place for running, biking, hiking, and bird watching, with amazing views of the Missouri River and the Highway 47 river bridge.

April to October are the perfect times to stop by the Trail. Dogs are also allowed.

Address: Washington, MO 63090, United States

Are you planning an exploration of Missouri? here is a guide on things to do in St. Charles, and things to do in Sikeston for a fun trip.

16. The Washington Town and Country Fair

Washington Town and Country Fair
Credits: Phebe Khalil / Shutterstock

Although it depends on when you visit the city, make sure you don’t miss Washington Town and Country Fair by including it on your list of fun things to do in Washington, MO.

The Washington Town and Country Fair is one of the most significant events in Missouri, which has been practiced since 1872.

As one of the most famous events in Washington that draw hundreds of visitors and locals alike, Washington Town and Country Fair is held annually in August.

The Fair is held in the City Park at the fairgrounds. It vastly involves lots of entertainment, including livestock competitions, exhibits, concerts, a fairway, food stands, and traditional rides.

You get to witness bullfighting, a petting zoo, barrel racing, bull riding, agriculture exhibits, a tractor pull, carving demonstrations, and so on.

The Washington Town and Country Fair features shows by local artists. You can also join the egg drop contest, cornhole tournament, and pedal tractor pull.

Address: Washington, MO 63090, United States

17. The Washington Farmers Market

Washington Farmers Market
Credits: Ana Blazic Pavlovic / Shutterstock

Are you wondering what to do in Washington, MO? Ensure to shop at Washington Farmers Market, as your visit will be incomplete if you don’t check it out.

Washington Farmers Market is a seasonal Market that is open from April to October only on Saturdays in the downtown region.

There are vendors available in the market offering handcrafted items, baked goods, fruits, and vegetables such as tomatoes, broccoli, carrots, and peppers.

The Market offers a wide variety of jewelry, cards, eggs, candles, homemade treats, beauty products, and more.

Washington Farmers Market features Schroeder Greenhouse, where patrons can pick chrysanthemums, alfalfa hay, geranium cuttings, and more.

Visit Spinning Blue Skies for some houseplants, delicious Jams & jellies, and bedding plants. At the same time, Zeh’s Cottage Craft offers potholders, pillows, and children’s aprons.

Address: 317 W Main Street, Washington, MO 63090, United States

18. The Fort Charrette Historic Village and Museum

Fort Charrette Historic Village and Museum
Credits: Hoefel Haus B&B and Bike Hostel / Facebook
Fort Charrette Historic Village and Museum

The Fort Charrette Historic Village and Museum, an original trading post and village, consist of antique furnishing and period gardens.

Joseph Chadron, a French trader, founded the Fort Charrette Historic Village and Museum. It was pointed out by Clark and Lewis, two explorers during their Missouri River exploration.

This attraction was formerly a Native American and French trading post featuring five log houses consisting of American antiques from the 1700s.

One of the five log houses is known as the oldest log house in the western part of the Mississippi River.

It has been refurbished and split into a trading room, a blacksmith shop, and a borderline blacksmith’s shop featuring an extensive collection of artifacts and furnishing from the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Fort Charrette Historical Village and Museum feature a knowledgeable tour guide who offers a well-detailed property tour.

Address: 966 Charrette Lane, Washington, MO 63090, United States

19. The Gary R. Lucy Gallery

Gary R. Lucy Gallery
Credits: Monkey Business Images / Shutterstock

Are you a fan of art? Then, the Gary R. Lucy Gallery is a place you would absolutely love to visit.

The Gary R. Lucy Gallery is one of the city’s most outstanding galleries, showcasing the city as a prominent art location.

When you visit the Gallery, you will be stunned by the beautiful river, farmland, and it’s wildlife that blossom on canvas.

Gary Lucy always includes elegance and glamour in every of his work, and he sinks himself into the research of wildlife.

He got his inspiration from the river’s history, which shows in the detailed wildlife he made, such as wild turkeys, buffleheads, bluebirds, cottontail birds, ducks, and Cardinals.

Gary R. Lucy made historic paintings that depict the steamboat era, 19th-century Washington, the holiday tradition of the 19th century, and the Clark and Lewis expedition.

Address: 231 W Main St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

20. The Grazing Board

Grazing Board
Credits: MaraZe / Shutterstock

This destination is a famous charcuterie company. The Grazing Board is located in the city of Washington and has existed since 2021.

The Grazing Board offers customized charcuterie engravings and boards. The company was founded to provide visitors with an extensive collection of wines, meats, beers, cheeses, and more.

They specialize in offering food sourced from Missouri and unique produce in the city, assuring visitors a great charcuterie experience.

Address: 216 W Main St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

21. Vintage and Antique Furniture Store

Vintage and Antique Furniture Store
Credits: Aris-Tect Group / Shutterstock

Are you planning a makeover for your personal space? If you answer yes, shopping at Vintage and Antique Furniture Store is highly recommended.

Vintage and Antique Furniture Store offer not just beautiful but the highest quality items for affordable costs.

It is the number one place for vintage furniture and home decor, which would help elevate the look of your office, sitting room, and so on.

Aside from selling vintage items, Vintage and Antique Furniture Store also offer restoration, reclaiming, and remodeling services.

Vintage and Antique Furniture Store is packed with a variety of timeless pieces which can as well serve as gifts.

The Store is located in the downtown district of Washington. It is open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm.

Address: 204 Elm Street, 63090, Downtown Washington, MO, United States

22. Beautiful Journey

Beautiful Journey
Credits: Beautiful Journey / Facebook
Beautiful Journey

For all your shopping needs, make a stop by Beautiful Journey. Beautiful Journey is an excellent choice for special occasions, including birthday parties and others; gift cards are also available.

The store is packed with vintage furniture, garden items, rugs, modern furniture, linens, lighting, and furniture painting.

They also offer beautiful gifts, garden items, and more, adding elegance and luxury to your home or office.

Beautiful Journey is owned and operated by Lynn, who spent two and a half years building the store to the desired standard; she wanted everything in one space. It is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am-4 pm.

Address: 216 Elm St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

23. Shop Around the Corner

Shop Around the Corner
Credits: Adisa / Shutterstock

Are you planning a shopping pilgrimage? Visit Shop Around the Corner, which is more than just a consignment store.

Shop Around the Corner takes pride in being Christians dedicated to serving God and offering assistance to people.

They have a goal and have continuously worked to meet expectations by providing quality products for pocket-friendly costs.

The store offers a welcoming and exciting atmosphere which is second to none, with live music entertainment usually on weekends.

The Shop Around the Corner offers household items; new recliners, lift chairs & sofas, new mattresses, frames, and furniture.

They also offer overstock items, jewelry, collectibles, purses, household items, clothing & shoes, kitchen items, and more.

Address: 1910 E Fifth St, Washington, MO 63090, United States

Check out more cities in Missouri. Here is a guide on things to do in Cape Girardeauthings to do in Rolla , and fun things to do Chesterfield in for a fun time.

Plan Your Trip to Washington

Washington is an excellent tourist location in Missouri, with many amenities that guarantee visitors and locals a fantastic experience.

If you explore all the items listed above, you will surely have an unforgettable moment, especially with your friends and family.

A scintillating vacation experience awaits you!