How to Spend a Day in Cole Camp, Missouri
- karleerenkoski
- Sep 1
- 5 min read
Most small towns in Missouri are underwhelming, to say the least. They're usually only good for a quick fill-up on gas ... IF they have a working gas station at all. So I was pleasantly surprised when I visited Cole Camp.
Cole Camp has a strong German heritage and is located off Highway 65 (which runs North and South). So you'll likely see its turnoff sign if you're driving from Springfield to Sedalia or vice versa, OR you might pass through it or nearby it on your way to the Lake of the Ozarks from Kansas City or vice versa.
Even though it's small, what I love about Cole Camp is that it seems complete. It reminds me of the type of town people would travel to years and years ago to do their buying, trading, selling and what have you because all their basic needs could be met. It has a school, a small grocery store/market, a post office, a bank, a gas station, a dentist, a vet, a pharmacy, a family clinic, a park, a library, an insurance company, etc., basically all on its Main Street. (And I can't not mention the golf course!)
There's a nostalgic kind of magic there, but beyond that, Cole Camp has some additional spots that travelers or passersby can enjoy. So if you need a place to pause your drive and stretch your legs, do some unique shopping, and eat some yummy food, take the Cole Camp exit and consider these local establishments.
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*Disclaimer: Be sure to look up when the following shops and restaurants are open. Many of the restaurants are closed on Monday and Tuesday; some stores are closed on Sundays. So the best days to visit this town are usually Wednesday through Saturday.
Grab Coffee from A Bushel and A Peck Bakery
Out of all the shops and restaurants in Cole Camp, A Bushel and A Peck Bakery is the one that opens the earliest. It has a chic tavern aesthetic with a variety of seating and offers coffee, tea, breads and sweet baked goods. My favorite menu item so far is the maple espresso icing cinnamon roll. It will give you a sugar high, but it's delicious!
Part of this bakery is also a shop with unique gifts and home decor pieces, so check out these offerings at your leisure.
Shop the Handel Haus's Three Floors
Across the street from the bakery is the Handel Haus, a boutique selling women's clothing, gifts, jewelry, home decor, local handmade pieces and antiques. There are roughly three floors, so don't forget to walk upstairs and downstairs to see everything. The store usually has holiday-specific items as well, if that interests you.
Handel Haus is also a tea room and serves lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can order wraps, quiche, soups and desserts. I really enjoyed a pear salad when I dined there.
Check Out the Stations at Rioak Western Design
Known for its handmade wooden signs with comical and cute sayings, RiOak Western Design offers a mix of items: women's clothing, home decor, kitchen supplies, children's clothing and books, gifts, and custom options. I love that there are distinct sections throughout the store and some fun "stations." For example, you can create your own charm bracelet or Scrabble tile word, customize a hat/shirt, or pot a succulent plant.
RiOak also has a coffee shop and some seating if you are interested in another cup of coffee or are finally ready for your first of the day.
Eat Lunch at a Pizzeria, Smokehouse, or Diner
If you feel like devouring pizza, Calgaro's is the place to stop. Its owner came from Chicago, started the joint in 2002 and has been serving homemade dough, sauce, meatballs and more ever since. My favorite item on the menu is the meatball pizza or meatball calzone.
For BBQ and smoked meats, try Hickmans Smokehouse at the end of Main Street. I've only had the pork nachos so far, but I was pleasantly surprised by the good flavor.
Or, if you're craving food from an old-fashioned burger joint/diner, A.J.'s Dairy Bar should be your go-to. I was so happy to learn that it has cheese curds on its menu, and I won't pass up an ice cream shake.
Learn About Cole Camp at its Museum
The Cole Camp Museum is a great spot to learn more about the town's history, culture and other historic sites. For example, I had no idea there was a Civil War battle in Cole Camp. I also learned where in Germany the immigrants to Cole Camp were from, that Cole Camp's band was a big part of its culture for many years, and that a railroad station used to be in the middle of town.
It shouldn't take you too long to get through the museum (maybe an hour tops), and don't forget to pick up some of the brochures before you leave. They offer more information about the historic buildings on Main Street and other historic locations you can visit in the area.
*Reminder: Be sure to check the Cole Camp Museum website for its hours, as they change monthly.
Peruse the Shelves at The Hotel Bellview
Previously a hotel, The Hotel Bellview is now your destination for antiquing. It's a short walk from Main Street and worth the stop. There are several small rooms filled with dishes, wall hangings, books, clothing, toys, home furnishings and other random items. I also found a room in the back with new boutique-type women's clothes.
Find Items Crafted Around the State at Missouri Made
Missouri Made offers products made by companies and individuals located in Missouri. There are a variety of items, from food and drinks to art to toys, and they can make for some thoughtful gifts. I love the idea of this store and the support they offer locals, and I have bought syrups/jams and home decor pieces there. I've also grabbed some ice cream from Missouri Made more times than I can count! It's from Central Dairy, which is located in Jefferson City, and it's delicious.
Missouri Made is also a cafe that sells sandwiches, soups, desserts and other meals as well as drinks like tea, slushies, and lemonade. There is plenty of seating, so this might be another great spot to eat lunch, dinner or finish your ice cream.
Enjoy German Comfort Food at The German Table
End your day at The German Table. As I mentioned in the introduction of this post, Cole Camp has a strong German heritage, and one way to get to know this cultural background is by eating dinner at this particular restaurant.
The German Table is only open on Fridays and Saturdays (as well as Thursdays during some months) and provides guests with German comfort food. My husband and I enjoyed pretty much everything we had there for dinner (bratwursts, schnitzel, salad, beer, potato-based sides, etc.), but I highly recommend the pretzel, one of the appetizers. I'm not usually a pretzel person, but this one is homemade, light and fluffy, and it pairs well with the flavorful beer cheese.
Because it's only open a few days a week, it is a busy restaurant. However, it never felt too loud for conversation, which I appreciated. I also really enjoyed the soft live guitar music in the background.