Welcome to America's Heartland
Nestled along the beautiful banks of the Mississippi River in historic Northeast Missouri are the three dynamic communities of Hannibal, Louisiana and Clarksville. Linked by history,heritage and Route 79, these communities offer the professional artist a unique opportunity to live and work. 50 Miles of Art is an arts corridor where fine artists, craftspersons andartisans use their skill to create one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Route 79 offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River, soaring rock cliffs, rolling hills and colorful landscape.
All activities in Clarksville are centered around the rich river heritage and everyone in the family will find something interesting to do. The downtown district, listed on the National Historic Register, is along the banks of the Mississippi River and allows visitors a wonderful atmosphere with a unique opportunity to "touch the Mississippi." Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the tree lined streets and find a remarkably high concentration of artists and craftsmen that live and work in the area producing a variety of hand made goods. A walking tour brochure of First, Second and Howard Streets is available in most shops. The Visitor's Center, River Front Park, Lock and Dam #24, the Sky Lift, antique dealers, restaurants, museums, B&Bs and restored historic homes can also be found close by. Natural beauty abounds and the area hosts one of the largest populations of wintering bald eagles in the country as well as many other species of migrating birds throughout the year. Clarksville is a welcoming small town that has much to offer its visitors.50 Miles of Art Gallery and Studio Tour – March
Regional Chili Cook-Off – June
Applefest – Second weekend in October. Wonderful craft fair with lots of handmade items and a parade!
50 Miles of Art Gallery and Studio Tour – November
Stuff Your Stock'n' - Friday, Saturday, Sunday after Thanksgiving. Kick off your holiday shopping and enjoy the entertainment this event hosted by the artists in town!
Eagle Watching – December, January, February are great times to view eagles along the Mississippi.
Eagle Days – Last weekend in January
Hannibal is home to many artists and artisans…and a famous writer named Samuel Clemens. Hannibal is a community alive and well today as a thriving regional center nestled on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi. Historic homes, artisans and artists, museums, gift shops, and a thriving downtown area can all be found here in “American’s Hometown”, better known as Hannibal. There are also numerous attractions dedicated to Mark Twain and his legacy, including Twain’s boyhood home. Hannibal is a charming hamlet that maintains the past while appealing to those of the present. Come to this friendly riverside town any time of year, you’ll find something for everyone; an active arts community, tons of special events, theater, artwork, cave explorations, antiques, and plenty of good ole fashioned food. Take a moment to enjoy the natural beauty as well and sit along the river and enjoy the views from Riverview Park and Lover’s Leap.
Winter Bluegrass Festival – February
50 Miles of Art Gallery and Studio Tour – March
Just Girls Getaway Weekend – April
River Arts Festival – Memorial Day Weekend. Kick of the Summer season at this Fine Art festival featuring 100 exhibitors from the Midwest.
Juneteenth Celebration - June
National Tom Sawyer Days – 4th of July
Autumn Historic Folklife Festival – Third full weekend in October. Welcome in Fall at this award-winning festival of traditional and fine art, performances, homemade food, and fun for the entire family.
50 Miles of Art Gallery and Studio Tour – November
Land of Mark Twain Bluegrass Festival – November
Hannibal for the Holidays – December
Annual Trail of Lights – Thanksgiving to Christmas
Come visit and stay the night! Click here to connect to Hannibal lodging.
Louisiana’s first settler John Bryson built the first residence in 1817 and 1818 sold some land to Samuel Caldwell and Joel Shaw, this area became the original plat of Louisiana which was mainly river-front property. Louisiana boasts nearly 4,000 residents, many whom are descendants of the early settlers. Louisiana’s streets are lined with numerous beautiful antebellum homes revealing their architectural charm of years past, many which are listed on the National Historical Register of Historic Places. The State Department of Natural Resources has noted that Louisiana has "the most intact Victorian Streetscape in the state of Missouri". Downtown Louisiana commonly known as the Georgia Street Historical District is listed as well on the National Historical Register of Historic Places. The Louisiana Mural Organization has completed over 20 community murals. A sculpture park featuring international and acclaimed American sculptors is located outside Louisiana. The project was started by Henry Lay, alumni of Saint Louis University, who wished to use his estate as a place to promote the arts in Northeast Missouri.50 Miles of Art Gallery and Studio Tour – March
Louisiana Winter River Festival - Last weekend in January.
Autumn Colorfest – Third full weekend in October
50 Miles of Art Gallery and Studio Tour – November
Links to Other Sites...City of Clarksville -- Hannibal Visitors & Convention Bureau -- Louisiana Chamber of Commerce
Hannibal Arts Council -- Mainstreet Clarksville -- Missouri Division of Tourism -- Pike County Development
Louisiana Mayor’s Office of Economic Development -- Pike County Tourism -- Raintree Arts Council
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