The Amtrak route out of St. Louis is about as visually striking as it gets. Not only is the train affordable and a great alternative to traveling by car, but it also gives passengers a new perspective on the cities along its route. And you can’t beat the classic combination of river views and free train WiFi, especially if you’re looking to work as you ride.
Whether you’ve booked your first trip aboard the Missouri River Runner or are a seasoned pro, the following activities and local businesses are worth a visit if you’re headed to Washington, Sedalia or Warrensburg, Missouri.
Washington, Missouri
Just 50 miles west of St. Louis lies Washington, Missouri, a quaint town located on the southern banks of the Missouri River. True train enthusiasts should visit Washington’s Iron Spike Model Train Museum. Visitors can also explore the Kohmueller Farmstead, a brick structure that housed German emigrants in the 1800s.
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For food and drink, check out UnderGROUNDS Espresso Bar, a coffee, brunch and bourbon spot that uses small-batch, locally roasted coffee beans. The best part? Its outdoor space sits at the edge of the river, offering prime water views. The food is just as good: Try the avocado toast on artisan multigrain bread, with arugula pesto, radish and Olivino balsamic drizzle.
UnderGROUNDS Espresso Bar, 330 W. Front St., Washington, Missouri, 636-432-1333, undergroundsespressobar.com
Sedalia, Missouri
When people think of Sedalia, Missouri, their immediate thought might be the Missouri State Fair, which is held there each August. The city also houses the Carnegie Library and Daum Museum of Contemporary Art.
After riding the rails all morning, it’s a short walk to No. 5 Bistro & Bar, which is across the street from the Amtrak station. Located in the historic Lamy’s building, No. 5 has high, tiled ceilings, hardwood floors and a cocktail menu infused with local spirits. Try the Missouri Manhattan, made with whiskey from West Bottoms Whiskey Co. in Kansas City. For a suitable pairing, order the No. 5 burger: The classic patty comes topped with provolone, bacon jam and garlic aïoli.
No. 5 Bistro & Bar, 108 W. Pacific St. Suite 102, Sedalia, Missouri, 660-250-0555, lamymfg.com
Warrensburg, Missouri
Home to the University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, Missouri, is known as a college town with several fun and funky bars. Spots like The District and Fitter’s Pub – both on Pine Street – are great options for beer, cocktails and late-night snacks.
Consider also venturing a few blocks east to Sabai Thai Cuisine, one of the hottest restaurants in town – and one with more than a few glowing reviews. Sabai’s calamari appetizer, lightly breaded and fried until golden, makes for a great starter. Or try the larb, a popular Southeast Asian salad made with ground chicken, pork or tofu, toasted rice powder, mint, green onion, lime, cilantro and iceberg lettuce.
Sabai Thai Cuisine, 214 E. Culton St., Warrensburg, Missouri, 660-362-1871, sabaithaicuisinewarrensburg.com
