The Arcadia Valley abounds in natural attractions and recreation. This region is a nature lover's paradise with three magnificent Missouri State Parks, the Mark Twain National Forest, the Ozark Trail, float trips on Black River and numerous conservation and wilderness areas. If you're looking for lodging near the best Missouri hiking trails, Plain & Fancy House is a convenient location for exploring Missouri's trails and natural wonders. Plain & Fancy also serves as convenient bed and breakfast lodging for several southeast Missouri Wineries. Go shopping for antiques or enjoy Branson-style entertainment. Plain & Fancy is a great place to be any season of the year for your summer, spring, fall or winter getways in Missouri. Join us for your winter getaway near St. Louis now!
Missouri State Parks - Conservation and Wilderness Areas - Mark Twain National Forest - Ozark Trail
We're only 5 miles from Missouri's highest point, Taum Sauk Mountain which has rugged hiking trails (part of the Ozark Trail the premier hiking trail in the Midwest). Many easier trails are also nearby. In addition to Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, other popular state parks in the area include Elephant Rocks and Johnson's Shut-ins, where the granite formations create striking scenery. Also nearby at Park Hills is St. Joe State Park, which has an off-road vehicle riding area, equestrian trails, and nature trails. Mark Twain National Forest within our region provides many beautiful places to drive, picnic, relax and enjoy everything mother nature has to offer.
Millstream Gardens, a Missouri Conservation area, affords a lovely walk along the St. Francis River. Tiemann Shut-Ins provides a dramatic view. Rarely crowded, you can sit along the water's edge and enjoy a picnic lunch and listen to the stream gurgle or stick a line in the water. Visit this site to learn more about several other Missouri Conservation Areas and Millstream Gardens. Plain & Fancy provides lodging for all of these wonderful hiking and nature areas.
Black River Float Trips And Water Sports
Plan your float trip in canoes, rafts or tubes on the pristine Black River. Black River floating, easy enough for novice floaters, provides interesting scenery and great views of birds and wildlife along the way. You may even observe magnificent bald eagles nesting along the Black River. For more information and to book your floating visit http://missouri-vacations.com/missouri-float-trips/index.htm. Our bed and breakfast lodging is close to Lesterville and Black River. Other water sports in the area include Missouri's only whitewater, within minutes of the B&B. Springtime hosts kayak time trials on the St. Francis River. The Corps of Engineers operates Clearwater and Wappapello Lakes which are about 30 minutes away. Boat rentals and fishing are available. To learn about other fishing and hunting opportunities in our region please visit www.missourihuntingfishing.com.
Fort Davidson State Historic Site - Missouri Historic Towns, Landmarks & Historical Places
For Missouri Civil War history, visit our page about Fort Davidson State Historic Site, scene of the pivotal Battle of Pilot Knob in 1864. Reenactments of the Battle of Pilot Knob commemorating the Civil War Sesquicentennial will be held in September of 2010 and again in 2014. Be sure to make your reservations early for these exciting events. U.S. Grant was promoted to General while at Ironton; his statue stands near the courthouse square (see left). Gads Hill, scene of Jesse James' first train robbery, is about 20 miles away. Please visit our Missouri historic towns and landmarks page. Our region is rich in Missouri history. Learn about Missouri Native American history, early Missouri setlements in our region and much more. Many travel to our area to explore footprints of the past. Enjoy a Missouri history vacation at Plain and Fancy Bed and Breakfast!
Golf Courses
If golf is your thing, there is a nine-hole semi-private course, Arcadia Valley Country Club, less than two miles away; or a 30 minute drive will take you to Crown Pointe in Farmington or a slightly longer drive to Fourche Valley in Potosi.
Shopping, Antiques and Entertainment
Main Street in Ironton has several nice antique shops as well as craft stores and gift and collectible shops. There are also antique shops and flea markets just outside of town. Plunder Palace is a favorite junk store. Read more about shopping on this page and find a link to tour the shops in our region.
Come join the fun every Friday night, 6 p.m. (May-Oct) at the Iron County Courthouse Gazebo. Amateurs show off their talents at “Pickin’ on the Square”. The Plummer Family Show, formerly Branson performers, also have a theater about 20 miles away. Schedules and shows vary.
Lodging - Missouri Wineries
Check out our child and pet friendly cabins next to Plain & Fancy Bed & Breakfast.
Follow the Route du Vin to several unique Missouri wineries in Ste. Genevieve County; just a 35 mile drive through rolling hills and scenic valleys. Take a day and tour wineries!
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Twin Oaks Vineyard is family owned. The tasting room is a lovely spot to relax for an afternoon where you can enjoy their delicious wines or have a cold premium beer.
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Charleville Vineyards is a family owned vineyard, winery and microbrewery. Its rustic country setting overlooks the Saline Creek Valley. Plenty of outdoor seating with panoramic views.
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Chaumette Vineyards and Winery is the ultimate French experience: shop in the elegant French gift shop and lunch where the chef has prepared special French delicacies. A variety of Missouri wines available.
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Cave Vineyard is family owned; the name is derived from the Saltpeter Cave located on the property. Legend has it, that the cave was used by Jesse James as a hideout after he robbed the bank in Ste. Genevieve in 1873. Fine wines available.
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Crown Valley Winery is located on 600 spectacular acres. Producers of many award winning wines.
- St. Francois Winery and Vineyards - Official Site
Area Tourism and Business Links
Additional Links
