Explore Lafayette from two perspectives: from wooded river terraces and on horseback. Baltimore Bend Conservation Area is situated on wooded river terraces overlooking the Missouri River in northeastern Lafayette County. A tourism article by the Missouri Division of Tourism dated January 8, 2026, reports that at Big River Ranch in Lexington, you can bring your own horse or rent one and ride along the Missouri River. The same article describes the ranch as a property spanning 2,100 acres with 65 miles of riding trails.
Civil War History at Its Historic Sites
The Battle of Lexington State Historic Site preserves a Civil War battlefield and the Anderson House. During the battle in September 1861, the house served as a field hospital. A self-guided interpretive trail runs across the battlefield; guided tours include both the Anderson House and the battlefield. Tours are offered seasonally, so check the current schedule before your visit.
The Confederate Memorial State Historic Site offers a different perspective on history. It was once home to the Confederate Soldiers Home of Missouri, which provided shelter and refuge to 1,600 Civil War veterans and their families for nearly 60 years. The site's park road is suitable for walking and cycling. Together, the sites present two distinct historical perspectives: the events of the battle and the former care provided to veterans and their families.
Museums, Cemetery, and Memorials
The Lexington Historical Museum is housed in a Cumberland Presbyterian church built in 1846. Its exhibits cover the Osage, the Pony Express, steamboats, the Civil War, coal mining, and Wentworth Military Academy. The topics span different chapters of history, from steamboat travel and the Civil War to mining and the military academy.
Machpelah Cemetery was established in 1849 by an act of the Missouri General Assembly and is one of Missouri's oldest continuously operating corporations. In Heritage Park, the Saluda Memorial commemorates the Saluda disaster of April 19, 1852. Visitors wishing to explore Lexington's historic districts can take “Legends of Lexington” audio tours through the neighborhoods of Lexington, Missouri.
Wine Tastings and Lafayette County Produce
Fahrmeier Family Vineyards offers wine tastings in a restored 1930s tasting barn. Check the tasting room's current availability before your visit. Since 1947, the Fahrmeier family has produced fresh seasonal produce, as well as garden plants and flowers, in the fertile hills of Lafayette County.
In northeastern Lafayette County, Baltimore Bend Vineyard invites visitors to sample Missouri wines on its wine terrace. Check the current availability of the tasting room and events before your visit. The two tasting venues offer different settings: a restored 1930s barn and a wine terrace.
At Lexington Riverfront Park
Lexington Riverfront Park has a paved boat ramp and a picnic area. Before your visit, check locally whether the current condition of both facilities suits your plans.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Napoleon, Higginsville, Odessa, Cape Girardeau County, Ripley County, Cass County, Monroe County, Daviess.
For the broader travel overview: Missouri.
