Fayette MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fayette, Missouri.
1. Howard County Courthouse
HISTORIC COUNTY LANDMARK
The Howard County Courthouse anchors Fayette's historic commercial center. It serves as the centerpiece of the courthouse square with historic significance to the area. The surrounding blocks feature numerous commercial buildings that have been documented in the National Register Historic District.
2. Central Methodist University Campus
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Central Methodist University, founded as Central College in 1854, is a historic campus that abuts the north edge of Fayette's historic commercial center. The campus was listed in the National Register as the Central Methodist College Campus Historic District in 1980. Today, it stands as Fayette's largest employer while maintaining its educational legacy.
3. Fayette City Park Swimming Pool
HISTORIC RECREATIONAL FACILITY
The Fayette City Park Swimming Pool is a notable recreational attraction that was nominated to the National Register in 1999. The pool offers visitors a place to cool off during hot Missouri summers. It represents an important part of the community's recreational history.
4. Coleman Hall
PRESERVED HISTORIC BUILDING
Coleman Hall is a significant historic structure in Fayette that received National Register recognition between 1982 and 1987. The building showcases the architectural heritage of the town. Visitors can appreciate its historical significance to Fayette's development.
5. St. Mary's Episcopal Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS SITE
St. Mary's Episcopal Church is a historic religious building that was individually listed on the National Register between 1982 and 1987. The church represents an important piece of Fayette's religious and architectural history. Its preservation helps maintain the historic character of the community.
6. Oakwood
HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
Oakwood is a historic property in Fayette that gained National Register recognition between 1982 and 1987. The site exemplifies residential architectural styles from Fayette's past. Its preservation contributes to the town's reputation for 'timeless character.'
7. Dr. Uriel S. Wright Office
HISTORIC MEDICAL PRACTICE
The Dr. Uriel S. Wright Office is a historic medical office building that was individually listed on the National Register between 1982 and 1987. The building offers insight into historical medical practices in small-town Missouri. It stands as a testament to Fayette's professional heritage.
8. Edwin and Nora Bedford House
SOUTH MAIN HISTORIC HOME
The Edwin and Nora Bedford House is located on South Main Street and was approved for the National Register in 1998. This residential property represents the architectural styles prevalent during Fayette's development. The home contributes to the South Main Street Historic District's overall historic character.
9. South Main Street Historic District
PRESERVED RESIDENTIAL AREA
The South Main Street Historic District received National Register designation in 1999. The district features numerous historic homes that showcase Fayette's residential architectural development. Visitors can enjoy walking through this area to experience the town's historic charm.
10. Downtown Fayette Shopping District
CHARMING RETAIL EXPERIENCE
Downtown Fayette offers a variety of retail stores, galleries, and shops for visitors to explore. Visitors can spend the morning strolling and shopping in this charming commercial area. The historic downtown maintains the small-town appeal that characterizes Fayette.
11. Fayette City Park
COMMUNITY RECREATIONAL AREA
Fayette City Park provides recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The park includes the historic swimming pool and other amenities for outdoor enjoyment. It serves as a gathering place for community events and leisure activities.
12. Arrow Rock State Historic Site
NEARBY HISTORICAL VILLAGE
Arrow Rock State Historic Site is located near Fayette and features a 19th-century village with more than a dozen historic structures. Visitors can explore the J. Huston Tavern, Missouri's oldest continuously operating restaurant dating back to 1834. The site offers living history demonstrations and events that showcase Missouri's frontier heritage.
13. Columbia Art League
REGIONAL ART CENTER
The Columbia Art League is located in nearby Columbia, which is part of the same metropolitan statistical area as Fayette. The gallery features rotating exhibitions of work by local and regional artists throughout the year. Visitors can view and purchase original artwork while learning about the vibrant arts community of mid-Missouri.
14. Rocheport Tunnel
HISTORIC RAILROAD MARVEL
The Rocheport Tunnel is a historic railroad tunnel now incorporated into the Katy Trail State Park near Fayette. Built in 1893, the tunnel cuts through solid limestone and represents an impressive feat of 19th-century engineering. Today, hikers and cyclists can pass through this historic structure while enjoying the scenic Missouri River views nearby.
15. Les Bourgeois Vineyards
REGIONAL WINERY EXPERIENCE
Les Bourgeois Vineyards is located near Rocheport, a short drive from Fayette, and offers visitors a chance to experience Missouri wine country. The winery features a tasting room, bistro, and A-frame venue with spectacular blufftop views of the Missouri River. Guests can sample award-winning wines while enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.