River Ridge Winery is nestled in the hills where Crowley's Ridge joins the Mississippi River near Commerce.  Also in Commerce, visit the Becka Hunt Home, recently placed on the National Register, and the Anderson House, which offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the charms of this historic town first settled in 1790.  One of the oldest clapboard church houses in the County is the Methodist Church in Commerce, built circa 1860.

Among the first settlers of the County were German farmers.  The town of New Hamburg reflects this heritage.  Here you can visit the beautiful St. Lawrence Catholic Church, build in 1848, and get a cold drink at Schlindler's Tavern, known for hospitality since 1856.

If you are interested in tracing family roots, there are cemeteries that date from the 1700's.  St. Augustine Catholic Church in Kelso was built in 1878.  Guardian Angel Catholic Church of Oran, built in 1917, is also worth a visit, as is the gallery and art school of nationally known artist, Cleda Curtis.

Looking for fun and entertainment?  See local drivers compete at the Missouri International Race Park near Benton each weekend from April through September.  Check out the Kow Pasture Klassic in New Hamburg each spring and see how far you can "putt" a cow patty.  In Kelso, enjoy the three-day Kelso Classic Tournament of men's fast-pitch softball.  Held on the second full weekend in June, this event draws teams from a six-state area. 

Each fall, come and enjoy Diebold Orchard's Octoberfest in Benton.  Learn how delicious apple cider is made while sampling homemade apple butter.  Crafts, music and tours of their orchard provide a variety of activities for the whole family.

Go "Western" at the Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo held every August in Sikeston!  This PRCA sanctioned rodeo is the largest in the State and hosts nationally known country western music entertainment each night of the rodeo.  Enjoy the region's finest barbecue at the Redneck Bar-B-Q Cook-off while participating in family activities and entertainment throughout "rodeo" Saturday. 

While in Sikeston, travel the "King's Highway" or El Camino Real.  Nearly 200 years old, the El Camino Real was a major land route connecting New Orleans to St. Louis.  Near this important route stands the new and improved River Birch Mall, which is host to many craft fairs throughout the year.  Visit the Sikeston Factory Outlet Stores, the only factory outlet center between St. Louis and Memphis that offers a wide selection of quality merchandise at factory-direct prices.  If you enjoy homestyle cooking, be sure to visit Lambert's Cafe, home of the famous "Throwed Roll".

Celebrate the German heritage of Chaffee during August. Events include carnival rides, arts & crafts, and live entertainment.  Also, take advantage of the beautiful nature trail of Lake Tywappity.

In September, enjoy the railroad heritage of Scott City for this one day event.  Activities include exhibits, food and live entertainment.

Cotton is King... and it is again during the festive week.  This over 50 year old event features carnival rides, beauty pageants and nightly entertainment.  Also, on Saturday enjoy one of the largest parades in the state.

In June, come & experience the region's only pro golf tournament, at one of the areas newest golf courses.

In Kelso, the first weekend in August, enjoy carnival rides, concessions and live entertainment.

In August, experience a world class championship PRCA rodeo.  As Missouri's largest rodeo, this event attracts the country's top cowboys  and  the  best  in Nashville music.  On the last day of the rodeo, sample the area's finest at the Redneck Bar-B-Que.