Maryville Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Maryville, Missouri with our comprehensive travel guide featuring places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Maryville is a charming city in the heart of Missouri’s rolling hills, known for its historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and friendly locals. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Maryville has something to offer. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Maryville, Missouri, with details on places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

Introduction to Maryville

Maryville is a city located in the northwest part of Missouri. The name of the city was derived from Mary Graham, the wife of the city’s founder, Amos Graham. Today, Maryville is a growing city with a population of approximately 12,000 people.

List of Places to Visit in Maryville

Maryville offers visitors a variety of interesting places to explore. Here are some you won’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Nodaway County Historical Society Museum: Located in the center of Maryville’s downtown, the museum showcases the history of the county and the region through exhibits that include artifacts, photographs, and documents.

  • Missouri Ruralist Historic District: A well-preserved district from the early 20th century, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This historic district features more than 80 buildings, including former banks, saloons, and stores, from the time when Maryville was a rural trading center.

  • The Beal Cemetery: This cemetery is the final resting place of several Union soldiers and is a unique Civil War landmark. Visitors can learn about local history and pay their respects to the soldiers.

Natural Attractions of Maryville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mozingo Lake Recreation Park: A destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with over 1,000 acres of water to explore for kayaking, paddle-boarding, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s hiking trails, beach, and camping facilities.

  • Maryville Community Trail System: For those who enjoy biking, hiking, or walking, Maryville also has over 15 miles of trails that wind through different natural landscapes and offer beautiful views of the surrounding areas.

  • Maryville City Park: This park features a beautiful lake and a variety of outdoor activities, including disc golf, picnicking, and a playground for children. Visitors can also take a stroll around the park’s paved paths or relax in the shade of the trees.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maryville

If you’re looking for a more active outdoor adventure, Maryville offers a variety of hiking and biking routes for every skill level. Here are some popular options:

  • Tarkio Prairie Natural Area Trail: This 1.5-mile trail is perfect for hiking and leads through a remnant prairie ecosystem with beautiful wildflowers and grasses.

  • Mozingo Lake Trail: A 3.2-mile trail designed for hiking and biking that follows the shoreline of Mozingo Lake and offers beautiful views of the water’s surface.

  • Maryville Community Trail System: With over 15 miles of trails that connect different parks and natural areas in Maryville, this system is perfect for hiking, biking, or just a leisurely stroll.

Best Things to Do in Maryville: Activities and Tours

Beyond hiking, biking, and exploring the city’s natural attractions, Maryville offers many other activities and tours to entertain visitors. Here are some of the best options:

  • Missouri Star Quilt Company: If you’re interested in quilting or sewing, don’t miss the opportunity to visit this iconic company. It offers guided tours, a vast selection of fabrics, and you can take classes or attend special events.

  • A Walk in History Tour: This tour will take you on a journey through Maryville’s downtown and reveal the city’s history and the architectural landmarks of the region.

  • Maryville Cinema: A locally-owned movie theater that shows the latest blockbusters and classic movies. A great way to spend a rainy day in Maryville.

Week-Long Itinerary for Maryville

If you’re planning to spend a week in Maryville, Missouri, here’s an itinerary that allows you to experience the city’s best attractions and activities:

Day Activities
1 Visit The Nodaway County Historical Society Museum, explore Missouri Ruralist Historic District, and enjoy the downtown restaurants and shops
2 A day in Mozingo Lake Recreation Park: kayaking, fishing, hiking, and camping
3 Biking on Mozingo Lake Trail, visit Maryville Community Trail system, and have a picnic at Maryville City Park
4 Take a Walk in History Tour, visit the Beal Cemetery, and have dinner at a local restaurant
5 Experience Missouri Star Quilt Company and attend one of their classes or events
6 Go to Maryville Cinema and watch a movie, then go to a local brewery for dinner and a drink
7 Visit Northwest Missouri State University, take a campus tour, and have lunch at one of the campus restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Maryville

Maryville features a variety of restaurants and eateries that will satisfy any palate, from fast food to fine dining. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bennie’s Pizza and Pub: Known for their unique pizzas that use local ingredients like Amish chicken and organic vegetables. A must-try for pizza lovers.

  • Smokin’ G BBQ: A popular BBQ joint that offers delicious smoked meats, sauces, and sides.

  • Joshua’s Chop House: A fine dining restaurant that offers a menu of premium steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine list.

Local Beverages

  • Golden Triangle Lager: A locally-brewed beer that’s light and refreshing, perfect for a hot day in Maryville.

  • Missouri Redbud Wine: A dry red wine with a fruity aroma, made from locally grown grapes.

  • 5 Alarm Fire Bloody Mary Mix: A spicy and flavorful Bloody Mary mix made in Missouri that’s perfect for brunch or happy hour.

Where to Stay in Maryville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Maryville offers several accommodation options, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are some popular options:

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Maryville: Located near Maryville’s downtown, this hotel offers comfortable and modern rooms, a fitness center, and free breakfast.

  • Nodaway Inn: A locally-owned motel that offers clean rooms, affordable rates, and easy access to the city’s attractions and activities.

  • Maryville Bed and Breakfast: A charming and historic B&B that offers cozy rooms, a homemade breakfast, and a warm welcome from the owners.

What to Buy in Maryville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for some souvenirs or unique gifts to bring home, Maryville offers several options. Here are some suggestions:

  • Handmade Quilts from Missouri Star Quilt Company: A unique and lasting souvenir that you can purchase at the Missouri Star Quilt Company.

  • Locally Grown Produce from the Farmer’s Market: You can buy delicious and fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers at Maryville’s weekly farmer’s market.

  • Personalized Apparel from House of Print: You can custom-design and print t-shirts, hats, and other apparel at House of Print, a local printing shop.

Local Culture and Customs of Maryville

When visiting Maryville, it’s essential to respect the local culture and customs. Maryville is a small town, and people here are friendly, welcoming, and proud of their heritage. Here are some tips:

  • Be courteous and polite to everyone you meet, whether it’s a shopkeeper, a waiter, or a stranger on the street.

  • Dress appropriately for the season and the occasion.

  • Follow local customs, like tipping at restaurants and bars.

Best Time to Visit Maryville

The best time to visit Maryville is during the summer months from June to August, when the weather is warm, and the parks and lakes are open. However, tourists can also enjoy visiting during the fall and spring seasons when the foliage is beautiful and the town has fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maryville

When visiting Maryville, tourists should keep in mind the following do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Do say hello and smile at locals.

  • Do explore the natural beauty of Maryville.

  • Do try local specialties like BBQ and beer.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural resources of Maryville.

  • Don’t disrespect local customs or traditions.

  • Don’t behave in a loud or disruptive way that can affect the peacefulness of the town.

Safety and Health

Maryville is a safe place to visit, but tourists should always be aware of their surroundings and take basic safety precautions. Here are some tips:

Safety in Maryville

  • Lock your car and don’t leave valuables in plain sight.

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, in isolated areas or deserted parks.

  • If you’re hiking in the woods, inform someone of your trail plans.

Health in Maryville

  • Make sure to drink enough water to stay hydrated, especially during hot summer months.

  • Wear sunscreen and apply bug spray to protect yourself from the sun and insects.

  • If you have any health concerns, visit a local clinic or hospital. Maryville has several medical facilities available.

Getting to Maryville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Maryville is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here are some options:

Airports Near Maryville

  • Kansas City International Airport (MCI): Approximately 106 miles south of Maryville.

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM): Approximately 121 miles north of Maryville.

Bus Stations Near Maryville

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located approximately 75 miles east of Maryville, in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a great option for guests that want to tour the city and the surrounding area at their own pace.

  • Taxi/Uber Services: Maryville doesn’t have a lot of taxis available, so Uber or Lyft may be a better option.

How to Get Around in Maryville

Maryville isn’t a big city, making it easy to get around. You can rent a car, take a taxi, or use the Maryville Public Transit System (MPTS), which offers fixed routes throughout the city for a small fare.

Where to Go Next from Maryville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Maryville is located in a beautiful region of Missouri with many other small towns and attractions worth visiting. Here are a few:

  • St. Joseph: Located approximately 75 miles east of Maryville, St. Joseph is a charming river town with many historical landmarks and attractions, including the famous Pony Express Museum.

  • Atchison: Located in Kansas and approximately 30 miles west from Maryville, Atchison offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s past through museums, historic homes, and a trolley tour.

  • Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge: Located approximately 30 miles east of Maryville in northwest Missouri, is one of America’s largest and most visited wildlife refuges that offers bird-watching, hiking, hunting, and fishing opportunities.

Conclusion

Maryville is a hidden gem nestled in the beautiful rolling hills of Missouri’s northwest region. From its scenic beauty, natural attractions to its history landmarks, and delicious cuisine, Maryville has something for everyone. By following this travel guide, visitors can plan their trip and look forward to experiencing the best of Maryville.