Why go there

Early in its existence, Weston, Mo., appeared destined to be a big city. In the 1850s it had a population of 5,000 — larger than Kansas City — and its Missouri River port docked more than 300 steamboats a year. Today, the community of 2,000 people is fine with being a small town. A quaint Main Street that allows nearby Kansas City metro residents to escape to a slower pace is its biggest attraction.

What to do there

About 25 shops occupy turn-of-the-century buildings along Main Street. The business district has received national attention for its antiques. Businesses featuring home furnishings and accessories also are prominent, along with several bistros and the Weston Brewing Co., which has its roots to 1842.

Must see

For a small town, Weston has a large number of historic homes. The city’s 22-block historic area has 91 historic antebellum homes and buildings. The Weston Information Center helps visitors take a self-guided tour of the city. An audio CD tour also is available for a small fee.

Save the date

Homemade foods and crafts are the rule of the day for Weston’s annual Apple Fest, slated for Oct. 2-3 this year. Organizers of the festival require all booths to sell handmade items. Among the perennial favorites are apple butter and apple cider.