The state of Missouri is teeming with options for those looking for a romantic getaway. St. Louis alone has some of the best themed hotels and staycations. The neighboring cities and counties of Kansas, Branson, Fulham, Springfield and more offer a host of exciting activities like hiking, swimming, or visiting national museums and art houses. Whether you love the adrenaline rush or prefer chilling by the lake sipping on some exquisite wine, there is something for everyone a short drive away in Missouri. The following is a list of great destinations to visit around Missouri and some fantastic properties that make for a comfortable and luxurious stay for couples on a getaway. Find out more about these romantic getaways near St. Louis, Missouri.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to couple-friendly amenities and activities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 25, 2025.
1. Excelsior Springs, Missouri (from USD 222)
Almost four hours away from St. Louis is the city of Excelsior Springs, where picturesque parks seem to be in abundance. If you’re looking for a low-key weekend trip with your special someone, head over to this city and pay a visit to its many recreational facilities like Century Park and Get Fit Park. There’s even an off-leash dog park, Century Bark, in case you’re bringing your furry friend with you. One of the best accommodations for your romantic getaway here is the famous Elms Hotel & Spa, which is only a short walk from the Historic Hall of Waters.
The Elms Hotel & Spa, a Destination by Hyatt Hotel
Address: 401 Regent Street
197.03 km (122.5 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
2. Galena, Illinois (from USD 444)
One of the quirky little towns in Illinois that could be where you spend your romantic weekend is Galena. It’s about five and a half hours from St. Louis. Galena is known for its 19th-century structures, especially the 1826 Dowling House. Spend a day in Horseshoe Mound Preserve, a park with panoramic views of adjacent states. Get to know more about Galena and book a stay at Goldmoor Inn & Resort. The four-star resort offers a spa and a hot tub, perfect for cozying up with your loved one.
Goldmoor Inn & Resort
Address: 9001 North Sand Hill Road, Galena, Galena (IL), United States, IL 61036
506.34 km (314.7 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
3. Eureka Springs, Arkansas (from USD 11753)
Another place near St. Louis where you can peacefully enjoy your romantic getaway is Eureka Springs in northwest Arkansas. The well-maintained Victorian structures in its Historic District, which all surround the natural springs, are some of the must-sees in the city. When you find yourself on this side of the Ozark Mountains, you may find it worthy to stay at 1905 Basin Park Hotel, one of the preserved buildings in the Historic District. Splurge and get yourselves the deluxe king room, where you’ll have a nice view of the iconic street.
1905 Basin Park Hotel
Address: 12 Spring Street , Eureka Springs, Eureka Springs (AR), United States, AR 72632
214.12 km (133.1 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Hannibal, Missouri
Just a little less than two hours from St. Louis is Hannibal. It’s one of the cities by the Mississippi River. Some of the iconic attractions in Hannibal are Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum and Rockcliffe Mansion. Consider staying at Garth Woodside Mansion Bed and Breakfast when you visit the city. Besides the breakfast options of vegetarian or full English/Irish, the other conveniences provided are free Wi-Fi, parking, and flat-screen television. There’s also a cozy garden, as well as a lounge, where guests are encouraged to cap their day off.
Garth Woodside Mansion Bed and Breakfast
Address: 11069 New London Gravel Road
202.46 km (125.8 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
St. Louis Tour Guide
Melissa Smith
I began my guiding career as a teenager in St. Louis, where I was born and raised. I first volunteered as a guide for the Chatillon-Demenil Mansion in South St. Louis. There is where I fell in love with history and its effect on present day. From my teenage years as a volunteer, I progressed to a job at the Missouri Botanical Garden where I trained and supervised the School Program Volunteer Do... Read more
Tours by Melissa
%20-%20Melissa%20Smith.jpg)
5. Kansas City, Missouri (from USD 240)
Your next couple’s getaway near St. Louis could be in this vibrant city. Think Kansas City and think barbecue, jazz heritage and fountains. Time can both come to a stand still or fly past you in this bustling town. In about a 4-hour drive (250 miles, 400km), Kansas City sees a downpour of tourists through the year. Jazz lovers can spend a fine evening visiting the American Jazz Museum in the historic 18th & Vine Jazz District. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art houses nearly 40,000 works of art. Couples can enjoy a glorious sunset from the Liberty Tower atop the National World War I Museum. You can end the day by grabbing a pint at the Boulevard Brewing Co and enjoying a fine Kansas City barbecue. The Raphael Hotel is a luxury stay for a couple with a premium room view and great hospitality. The rooms comfortably sleep two guests and come with fresh linens, a coffee maker and free WiFi.
The Raphael Hotel, Autograph Collection
Address: 325 Ward Parkway
202.26 km (125.7 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
6. Independence, Missouri (from USD 129)
The city of Independence is at about a four-hour drive (240.3 miles, 390kms) from St. Louis, Missouri. This city near Kansas is famous for the Truman Library & Museum. The museum’s fascinating exhibits detail the life and career of the former U.S. president, Harry S. Truman. Couples with an interest in history and culture will have a great time at the Frontier Trails Museum, where artefacts and wagon tours illustrate the pioneer era. At the nearby Community of Christ Temple, one can trace the area’s Mormon heritage. Foodies will be spoilt for choice at the many Italian and American restaurants serving delicious cuisines. The Woodstock Inn is set in a quaint, quiet neighbourhood in the city. The rooms are large and spectacularly clean. The overall property has design elements borrowed from architecture all over the world. Breakfast is complimentary and provides a fresh start to the day.
Woodstock Inn Bed & Breakfast
Address: 1212 West Lexington Avenue
193.5 km (120.3 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
7. Lake Ozark, Missouri (from USD 158)
Delicious breakfast, enjoyable brunch, good food options at the restaurant and bar, but limited menu. Some complaints about the quality of food and service at the restaurant. Coffee shop with friendly staff and tasty muffins.
Great value for the cost, especially during off-season. Higher pricing for spa treatments and jet ski rentals.
Beautiful waterfront location with easy access to bars and restaurants, but limited off-site options. Long and winding road to the property. Convenient for a weekend getaway.
Spacious rooms, on-site restaurants, bar, boutique, spa, lakeside access, live entertainment, pool area, pet-friendly, balcony with lake view, kitchenette, washer/dryer in some rooms.
Lake Ozark in Camden County is another worthy place for your next romantic outing. One of the top attractions in the area is Lake of the Ozarks, a man-made lake that was a result of the impoundment of Osage River in the early 1930s. Add boating around the lake to your itinerary when you decide to stay in the city. Other attractions that you may be interested in seeing are Bridal Cave, Bagnell Dam, and Ha Ha Tonka State Park. We recommend that you stay at Camden on the Lake Resort for your getaway, and be greeted with excellent hospitality and top-notch amenities!
Camden on the Lake Resort
Address: 2359 Bittersweet Road
17.54 km (10.9 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
8. Fulton, Missouri (from USD 123)
Fulton County is a place of historical importance located at a two hour’s drive (105 miles, 220 kms) from St. Louis, Missouri. It was here that Sir Winston Churchill once gave the fiery ‘Iron Curtain’ speech. This and many other glimpses from the past unfold at the amazing National Churchill Museum, Brick District and Backer Auto World Museum. For couples, there are plenty of ways to stay entertained in Fulton. Fine artists and craftsmen, small businesses, wineries, and great hotels are just some of the attractions here. There is also an abundance of natural beauty, like that of the Katy Trail State Park. Baymont by Wyndham is a premium couples’ stay in Fulham County. It’s located on the highway and is known for its clean rooms, great service and excellent breakfast. The rooms come equipped with all the modern amenities required for a comfortable stay.
Baymont by Wyndham Fulton
Address: 2205 Cardinal Drive
102.07 km (63.5 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
9. Springfield, Missouri (from USD 180)
Springfield is a city in southwestern Missouri. Couples interested in nature will find this a perfect destination and can reach here in just over three hours ( 215 miles, 346 km). One of the major attractions is the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, teeming with trails and botanical gardens. The curious minds should also visit the Discovery Center of Springfield, a science centre with interactive exhibits on everything from the DNA to dinosaurs. Couples with children will especially enjoy Dickerson Park Zoo, in the north. It features animals from around the world and a train ride to see them all. If you’re looking for more magic, head to Fantastic Caverns and hop onto a Tram running through a cave filled with stalagmites. The Walnut Street Inn is a peaceful and quiet house in Springfield. The property is rustic and huge with indoor fireplaces and tasteful rooms. The air-conditioned rooms contain a mini-bar, wardrobe and a coffee machine.
Walnut Street Inn
Address: 900 East Walnut Street
116.31 km (72.3 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
10. Columbia, Missouri (from USD 84)
Rich and excellent breakfast with a good selection of hot and delicious items.
Good value for the price, especially with free breakfast and comfortable beds.
Convenient location near the interstate, but traffic noise may be a concern.
Newly renovated with clean rooms, hot tub, and 24-hour snack shop.
Columbia is the capital city of South Carolina. The city makes for a beautiful romantic getaway if you are looking for the peace and quiet of nature. The city is set amidst huge parks with animal enclosures and botanical gardens. Columbia Museum of Art hosts a diverse collection of art forms dating back to centuries. An 18th-century marvel, Robert Mills House is another famous mansion, surrounded by beautiful flower gardens. Columbia is just two hours away (125 miles, 200 km) from St. Louis. Once there, Best Western Plus Columbia Inn makes for a great stay for couples. It is located on Clark Lane, Columbia and it has a swimming pool and a fitness centre on its premises. Couples can also bring their pets along if they are staying here. The rooms are spacious and come equipped with all the modern amenities.
Best Western Plus Columbia Inn This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 2904 Clark Ln
99.4 km (61.8 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
11. Ridgedale, Missouri (from USD 280)
Ridgedale is an ideal getaway for couples who wish to have a peaceful time away from the world’s stress. This suburban community is famous for Top of the Rock, a mountain peak overlooking the ethereal Table Rock Lake. If you’re the adventurous type, this outdoor behemoth has areas for hiking, cycling, and climbing. When you’re leaning toward Ridgedale for your next romantic vacation, we highly recommend making D’Monaco Resort on Table Rock Lake your next home away from home. Spend an unforgettable time with your partner and make it your best memory yet!
D'Monaco Resort Condos on Table Rock Lake
Address: 4125 State Highway 86
186.03 km (115.6 mi) from Lake of the Ozarks State Park
Explore these great romantic getaways
If you are in Missouri and are looking for romantic getaways, you have plenty of options. Places like Oakmont, Columbia and Fulton take you to the tranquillity of nature. Hermann and Kansas City take you down memory lane with their historic exhibits and the Osage Beach sets you up for some thrilling outdoor adventures. Whatever your pick, these stays will help you make the most of it.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data