Just over an hour west of St. Louis you will find the small town of Hermann. Sitting on the banks of the Missouri River, you may think you have been transported to the Rhine in Germany. Oktoberfest is one of the most popular times to visit. The first four weekends in October have live music, German food, and excellent people watching. Not to mention arts and shopping. To get there, I drove, but you can also take Amtrak, which I can only imagine has amazing scenery. Filled with lots of local vineyards, you can get your fill of award winning, mostly sweet, wines, similar to German wines you would have from the Rhine River Valley. Make sure and check out each winery while visiting, as they are all a bit unique. Three of our family favorites are Stone Hill Winery, which is probably the largest and most well known, Hermannhof Winery, and Adam Puchta Winery. Stone Hill sits up on a hill not too far from the city campgrounds. By the way, I wouldn't say it is an easy walk up or down. It is a bit quieter here during Oktoberfest, but they have many festivals throughout the year, including Maifest and Cajun Fest in July. Adam Puchta is just outside of town, and a must visit. Hermannhof Winery is right in the middle of town. The Amtrak train stops right across the street, so this is always popular. Watch out for the girls in heels trying to walk up the grass hill, they may take you down when they fall. Make sure and visit the Hermannhof Festhalle to listen to local German music by the Loehnig Family. Try some Polka dancing, or just sit back and enjoy the entertainment. The Loehnig Family has a large following, so you can watch some very talented folks dance. Also, this building is a great place to be on chilly or rainy days. Hope you enjoy. Auf Wiedersehen!
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| Grandpa D and I at the Festhalle |
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