Missouri's 'Main Street Of The Midwest' Is A Charming City With Shops And Tasty Restaurants

While many travelers no doubt dream of visiting Mexico, with its ancient historic landmarks and tropical landscapes, what many don't realize is that you don't even need to leave the country to spend time in Mexico. If you look across the map to the Midwest, another Mexico reveals itself amidst the sprawling grasslands of Missouri. Tucked between a merging of small lakes and winding creeks is Mexico, a charming city that calls itself the "Main Street of the Midwest."

As soon as you step into downtown Mexico, it's easy to see why the city bears such an inviting nickname. Anchoring the very heart of Mexico is the Audrain County Courthouse, an imposing brick edifice surrounded by a square of manicured lawns. Framing the courthouse square on all sides are rows of red-brick facades and quaint storefronts painted in pastel shades, many featuring simple Italianate architecture. Benches along the sidewalks surrounding the courthouse lawn beckon visitors to stop and rest amidst the small-town surroundings. Eager shoppers will be distracted by the handful of local shops and antique stores tucked within the rustic buildings. Spend the day browsing for vintage collectibles, household decor, and fun souvenirs.

Meanwhile, history fiends should stop by the Ross House Museum just south of the courthouse square. Situated within a stately clapboard mansion surrounded by tree-shaded lawns, visitors can tour the mansion's various rooms for a journey back in time. Outdoor enthusiasts can head further south of town to Lakeview Park, where the calm waterfront invites anglers to cast a line. Paved trails weaving through the trees beckon for a leisurely stroll. At the end of the day, Mexico's handful of local watering holes offer drinks and tasty meals. Being just under two hours by car from St. Louis makes Mexico a great day trip option.

While sightseers are busy snapping photos with Mexico's brick architecture, keen shoppers can spend the day indulging in a spot of retail therapy. Mexico's downtown square is scattered with a bevy of local businesses to support. Find new outfits and accessories at The Sparkly Pig, a fashion boutique with "something for everyone no matter your budget," according to a previous customer. Other reviews have also mentioned the friendly and helpful staff. Pick out quirky, patterned dresses or graphic shirts with fun slogans, not to mention everything from strappy sandals and comfy sneakers to heeled boots. There's even an entire display dedicated to hats, tote bags, and purses in an array of designs.

Thrifters will delight in the choice of vintage stores in Mexico. Just a short walk from the town square is Coal Street Antiques, sporting a weathered, red-brick facade. "This is a terrific place for digging out the oddball item," says a previous customer. Inside, numerous shelves are crowded with all kinds of knickknacks. Grab some patterned tableware, colorful pottery, and elegant candlesticks, or pick out a few vintage dolls and delightful wicker baskets. A little further away is A Blast From The Past, another antique store specializing in comic books, collectible toys, and movies on VHS tapes.

Meanwhile, trading card geeks shouldn't miss a visit to Cardtaku, a collectible cards emporium with great reviews on Google. Disney fans can look for Lorcana box sets to grab their favorite hero or villain, while the shop also stocks Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon cards. Stop by on the weekends to catch the weekly card game tournaments. Enjoy more thrifting just a 90-minute drive away in Kirksville, a lakeside city home to America's oldest record store.

After a day of shopping, it's time to find something to eat. In a city with a name like Mexico, it makes sense to grab some Mexican bites. Just a short drive from the courthouse square is Dos Arcos, which is highly rated on Google. The menu offers numerous choices, including cheese or shrimp nachos,  as well as chicken or steak fajitas. There are also burritos and quesadillas with various fillings. "The food and drinks are always amazing, and the staff [is] always friendly," says a previous diner. There's even a kids' menu for tiny tots to enjoy hot dogs and chicken fingers, while adults can top off their meal with a round of beers or pitchers of margaritas.

For burgers and fries amidst a retro atmosphere, try The Drunken Pig near the courthouse square. "Good fun, good food, great service," says a previous customer. Order a Philly cheesesteak with onion rings, or try the fish po' boy with a side of pickle chips. Find a seat by the bar, where the brick walls create a rustic vibe, or opt for outdoor seating under the fairy lights. Stop by on a Friday to sing your heart out at karaoke night.

Anyone craving a sweet treat should pop into The Cookie Club, also near the courthouse square. Pick out a few snickerdoodles or chocolate chip cookies, or perhaps even a cake pop. If you're not in the mood for baked goodies, then grab a few scoops of ice cream instead. For more adventures in the area, less than an hour away by car is Columbia, an artsy college town called the "Athens of Missouri." Not much further away is Rocheport, a quaint small city with waterfront fun and a thriving arts scene.