Formerly a trading post for area settlers and Native Americans, Rocheport (pronounced “roach-port”) dates back to the 1830s. Increased steamboat travel along the Missouri River contributed to Rocheport’s 19th-century growth. The small town boasts a population of just over 200, but Rocheport’s prime location along the bluffs of the Missouri River and the Katy Trail have made it a favorite historical escape for travelers eager to explore the past. Celebrated Native American author William Least Heat Moon is a Rocheport native.

The town of Rocheport is located 10 minutes west of Columbia, Missouri, on I-70, approximately a one hour, 40-minute drive from Kansas City. Because Rocheport is small, you can easily see it in a day and head back to Kansas City, or continue on to Columbia to explore the home of the University of Missouri–Columbia.

To take advantage of the wealth of recreational options like biking on the Katy Trail or canoeing on the Missouri River, however, you may opt to spend more time in Rocheport and book a room at one of the town’s charmingly quaint bed-and-breakfasts.

Getting to Rocheport, Missouri

Head east from Kansas City on I-70, and after an hour and 40-minute drive take the Rocheport exit and turn left to head into town. If you want to start your day with a winery tour or glass of Riverboat Red on a patio perched atop a river bluff, Les Bourgeois Winery is just to the north of I-70.

You can plan to park and explore Rocheport on foot—the town’s small size allows for the shops, restaurants, and sights to be clustered fairly close together. Hikers are welcome on the Katy Trail, but to cover the most amount of ground in the least amount of time, bike rental is the best option.