Missouri boasts a rich culture, and one charming small town recently earned props for having an outstanding small town culture scene. Readers of USA Today recently voted on the 10 Best Small Town Cultural Scenes, with Ste. Genevieve coming in second. Whether you’re a frequent visitor or haven’t stopped by in a while, you’ll definitely want to head to this historic town to see what the fuss is all about.

USA Today recently asked its readers to rank the best small town culture scenes in the United States, voting on small towns with a population of less than 25,000 residents.

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El Dorado, Arkansas, scored the top spot with Ste. Genevieve coming in second, ahead of Haddonfield, New Jersey. Ste. Genevieve boasts a population of less than 4,500.

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Earning recognition as the oldest European settlement in Missouri, Ste. Genevieve dates back to 1740 when it was founded by the French Canadians. During its rich and storied history, Ste. Genevieve has become a cultural center.

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A stroll through the historic downtown, a National Historic Landmark District that features gorgeous 18th century architecture, offers a peek into the past.

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Delve deeper into Ste. Genevieve’s rich history with a visit to The Centre for French Colonial Life, the Sainte Genevieve Art Center and Art Museum, or one of the historic homes that welcomes visitors.

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Ste. Genevieve also hosts a variety of events throughout the year – the Holiday Christmas Festival, for example.

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Even if you don’t feel like visiting the historic spots, you’ll find plenty of darling shops and charming restaurants that are worth checking out.

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Start planning your trip on the official website of Visit Ste. Genevieve. Or, go here for Facebook.

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Do you agree with USA Today’s readers that Ste. Genevieve has one of the best small town cultural scenes in the United States? Let us know in the comments! Small towns dot the Missouri landscape, providing an idyllic getaway all year around. Here are 10 small towns in rural Missouri that are downright delightful.

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Address: Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670, USA