Between St. Louis And Kansas City Is A Midwest City With Historic Charm, Tasty Eats, And A Lake To Fish In

A trip to California is no doubt at the top of countless travel bucket lists. The lure of palm trees on Venice Beach and possible celebrity sightings in Hollywood make the Golden State a top choice for tourists. But many people won't know that there is actually another California way out in the Midwest. If you're looking for more of a slow-paced, small-town kind of adventure, then set your sights on Missouri, where the teensy city of California is tucked snugly amidst the grassy Midwestern prairies. From fun by the waterfront to chowing down on tasty grub, California is an ideal spot for relaxation.

Though people might assume so, California wasn't named after the Golden State. In fact, the city once bore a different name entirely — Boonesborough – and according to local legend, back in the 1840s, a man named California Wilson tried to bribe the townsfolk to rechristen Boonesborough with his eccentric name. Tourists should take a gander through California's quiet streets, which will gradually reveal the city's subtle historic charm. From the red-brick Finke Theatre on High Street to stately old mansions throughout the tiny downtown area, sightseers will be surrounded by Victorian architecture.

Meanwhile, outdoorsy travelers will also be able to enjoy themselves in California. Just south of the city is Proctor Park, where anglers can cast a line from the grassy banks of a small lake. More fishing can also be found at the Prairie Home Conservation Area not far away, where the swaying meadows serve as a peaceful backdrop for hikes and camping. California's array of local watering holes will refuel you for more adventures. Travelers to the west in Kansas City can drive to California in just a little over two hours, while St. Louis road-trippers to the east are a similar distance away.

If you're the kind of traveler who craves a small-town experience, then California is a great place to explore. Start by wandering around to admire the city's historic architecture. The main thoroughfare slicing across California is Oak Street, where much of the city's old buildings still stand. Around the corner from North Oak Street is where you will find the Finke Theatre, a Victorian-era edifice included on the National Register of Historic Places. Dating back to the 1880s, the California townsfolk have long gathered at the theater to enjoy all kinds of entertainment, from dances to musicals and even vaudeville.

Next, make your way southwards along North Oak Street for a leisurely stroll amidst shady trees and rustic clapboard cottages. Of particular interest is the Rice House, a two-story Victorian stunner set against a manicured lawn. While the house is private property, travelers can still stand on the street to gaze up at the towering white facade topped with brick chimneys. As North Oak Street merges into South Oak Street, the clapboard cottages suddenly transition into colorful brick facades painted in pastel shades. With tall windows, storefront awnings, and patterned trim along the rooftops, the street could almost be a scene from a Wild West film.

For even more rural excitement, visit California at the end of September for the annual Ozark Ham & Turkey Festival. The event showcases the local meat industries, and in particular California's two largest employers: Burgers' Smokehouse and Cargill. Watch as the community comes to life with a barbecue cook-off, a car show, and plenty of smoked meats to snack on. A parade and games mean children can also have fun. Next, continue your adventures over in Jefferson City, known as "America's most beautiful small town."

If small-town sightseeing and local festivals don't float your boat, then the picturesque Missouri countryside awaits for exploration. Anchoring the southern edge of California is Proctor Park, an oasis of grassy lawns surrounding the calm waters of Proctor Park Lake. Beneath the leafy branches of the trees dotted all around, anglers can find a comfy spot to cast a line into the lake. Bring a lawn chair and wait for a nibble. A dock stretching across the water makes it even easier to fish the lake's depths, which are stocked with crappie, bass, channel catfish, and redear sunfish.

When you start feeling hungry, California offers a handful of local joints for a tasty meal. Right opposite Proctor Park is the Grind Coffee & Bistro, where you will find "awesome drinks and food served by amazing people," according to a previous customer. Order off the seasonal menu for a taste of quirky concoctions like the Liberty Latte or a Mango Smoothie Sunrise, or peruse the breakfast menu for avocado toast, French toast, burritos, or pancakes. For lunch, try hearty options like a turkey wrap or a smokehouse salad.

For more zingy flavors, stop by La Rosa Taquería & Pizzeria, where the offerings are "fresh and tasty," in the words of a previous diner. Live music sets a jolly atmosphere to chow down on nachos and calzones, while weekly specials include beef tacos on Tuesdays and boneless wings on Wednesdays. Wash it all down with a cold beer or even a blueberry mojito. Find your next small-town Missouri adventure in nearby Sedalia, a hidden gem with unique downtown festivities. Nature fiends can also make their way to Laurie, a Lake of the Ozarks gem with endless outdoor fun.