Do the doldrums of winter have you down? A trip to America’s Hometown is just what you need to lift your ho-hum spirits!
Many of Hannibal’s attractions are open year-round. In fact, winter may be the best time to really get to know America’s favorite author, Mark Twain. You won’t have to elbow through crowds at the Mark Twain Museum and Gallery. You can explore the exhibits at your leisure, really taking the time to absorb all the information available. You can read some of his letters which give great insight into the man behind the pen. At the Interpretive Center, visitors often say they’re riveted by the Ken Burns documentary on Mark Twain. It plays on a continuous loop. The series runs more than 3 ½ hours. You can pick up a copy at the museum gift shop, or purchase any of Mark Twain’s books to take back home to read on a cold winter’s day.
Being outside on a crisp winter’s day is sure to wake you up. Even in the worst of weather, you’ll find people out enjoying the many trails that wind through Hannibal. We are also home to a top-notch disc golf course. Die-hard disc golfers will be out at the course no matter the weather for the Annual Disc Golf Ice Bowl.
January is peak season for chili and boy do we have you covered! The masters of this winter staple will serve up their best bowls of soup at the Chili Cookoff in January. The Hannibal Jaycees have been putting on this event for 39 years. They know chili! You’ll be able to vote on your favorite. And you might want to drink some of the ice-cold beer that’s available to cool the fire from some of the spicier versions.
Hannibal’s art galleries are open year-round. The Hannibal Arts Council often has displays to check out. Children will enjoy the Kids Art Adventure on February 3, where they can make their own creations. Every second Saturday of the month, Hannibal’s Art Galleries stay open late. Wander from gallery to gallery and enjoy special guest artists, food, friends, and extended hours.
Let’s not forget February is the month of love! A trip to downtown Hannibal’s shops will have you covered for Valentine’s Day gifts. We suggest a stop at Chocolaterie Stam if you want to give the very best quality chocolate. You can find handmade jewelry for him or her, spa products, or some off-beat gifts. A romantic stay at one of our top-notch B&B’s is a truly memorable experience. This story might give you some good ideas.
On a really blustery day, warm up in Mark Twain Cave! We can’t always claim the cave as a place to warm up, but hey, it’s always 52 degrees, so on most winter days it beats the elements!
