With its prized wineries, multitude of outdoor recreation opportunities and proximity to state parks, Farmington has a lot going for it. Visitors can experience the exhilaration of a water slide, the beauty of a scenic hiking trail or the challenge of a unique golf course. In addition, a wide variety of stores and more than 400 hotel rooms provide shopping and lodging opportunities for every taste.
Places to visit
Farmington boasts 15 of Missouri’s best wineries, several stimulating golf courses, a water park, and nine stunning state parks within close proximity to the city. Some popular attractions include:
Twin Oaks Vineyard and Winery
This family-owned Missouri winery contains a tasting area surrounded by a 25-acre vineyard and 155 acres of additional farmland. During a visit at Twin Oaks Vineyard and Winery, sample their perfectly aged wine and beer, order mixed drinks from the full bar, tour the farm, or simply relax in their newly covered patio.
St. Joe State Park
As Missouri’s third largest state park, St. Joe offers abundant outdoor activities. In addition to 15 miles of forested horse paths and a 2,000-acre ATV area, the park provides opportunities for hiking, swimming and fishing. More daring things to do while you are visiting St. Joe State Park include scuba-diving and off-road riding.
Farmington Disc Golf
Farmington’s newest green is more than a traditional golf course. This free facility features disc golf, which is played with a flat disc similar to a Frisbee. Rather than hitting a ball with a club, players attempt to toss their disc into a basket using the fewest number of throws possible.
Lodging
Amenity-packed lodging abounds in Farmington, and with options ranging from budget hotels to upscale inns, there is something for everyone. Local options include:
Hampton Inn
This deluxe hotel is sure to please even the most particular traveler. Located within 10 miles of Twin Oaks Winery and Vineyard and just a few miles from the Farmington Family Fun Center and the Civic Center, the Hampton offers hot breakfast, an indoor pool and high-speed internet access.
Crown Pointe Lodge
An idyllic lodge on the edge of a four-star golf course, Crown Pointe is of three stories, has 48 luxurious rooms and a great room featuring a double-sided fireplace. In this 100-percent smoke-free facility, guests enjoy a free continental breakfast as well as swimming, tennis and golf.
Dining
Restaurants in Farmington range from simple cafes to sophisticated steak houses, and travelers can even sample handmade chocolates. Check out some of these local eateries that are sure to tickle the taste buds.
12 West Bar and Grill
A gourmet grill with menu options ranging from seafood and steak to sandwiches and hamburgers, 12 West is perfect for either a casual meal or a formal dinner. The chefs are professionally trained, the environment is comfortably cosmopolitan, and bartenders offer the finest drinks around.
Pad Thai Kitchen
For fresh, authentic Thai food, Pad Thai can’t be beat. Entrée options include noodle, rice and curry dishes as well as special entrees that can be made with beef, chicken, pork, shrimp or calamari. Spicy menu options are available in mild and medium versions for those with a more delicate palate.
While you are in Farmington, make sure you check out the Discover Farmington app for your iPhone to enhance your experience.
Written by Tiffany Marler, marketing consultant to the Farmington Tourism Board.
The post The Weekend Guide to Farmington appeared first on VisitMO Spotlight.