Boonville, MO

About 35 miles west of Columbia and about 8 miles north of 1-70, sitting nicely on the Missouri River lays Boonville.

Most visitors come to the town for the Isle of Capri Casino nested along the river. However, the antebellum town and site of the civil war Battle of Boonville, has a rich history to offer visitors not in the mood to be risky.

Many of the antebellum houses have survived along the riverbanks and make for a great driving or walking tour.

The KATY station reminds passersby of the early 20^th railroad history of the area. The old KATY line has been converted into a trail that is very user friendly for pedestrians, cyclists, walkers, wheelchairs and electric scooters.

The town also sports the Thespian Hall, claiming to be the first live theatre built west of the Alleghenies. Boonville is also famous for the Old Cooper County Jail and Hanging Barn, but The Ample Traveler^© was unable to find it in an afternoon trip.

Just driving around the beautiful hills, reading historic plaques about the Boone's Lick Bridge and the KATY railroad line, passing by the beautiful homes and enjoying the tree-lined streets made for a nice Sunday afternoon.

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