3 minute read
Day Trip
story by Connye Griffin
Weston for the win
Advertisement
Once the second largest port in Missouri, Weston had to reinvent itself when the mighty Missouri River changed course, leaving Weston on dry ground and the navigable river two miles away. Now Weston is a fine destination just a morning’s drive from the lake, perfect for a winter getaway, especially if skiing is a sport you love. Vicki Wood photos
Snow Creek Ski Area
For 35 years, Snow Creek has made good use of a 300foot vertical drop with 60 snowmaking machines to blanket the slopes with snow in 72 hours. It opened for its 36th season on December 18, 2021. Five lifts and twelve trails from beginning to expert carry skiers and snowboarders of all ages and experience up and down elevations. A lodge and dining options are also part of the resort.
Snow Geese near Weston
Just 90-minutes from Weston is Loess Bluffs Wildlife Refuge (formerly known as Squaw Creek Wildlife Refuge) where birds thrive. Eagles are as common there as they are here at Lake of the Ozarks through the winter. However, wetlands in Missouri now provide winter homes to snow geese, and Loess is one place to see them as they migrate or settle for a winter home. Many other species thrive at Loess and are accessible by car or hiking trails. The state’s own Weston Bend State Park has more hiking and wintry beauty for tourists to enjoy.
Shopping in Weston
One of Weston’s charms is its quaint Main Street. Historic buildings dating from the 19th century house 21st century shops where visitors can buy Irish sweaters, Polish pottery, and collectibles. Main Street is also home to a tobacconist where more than 600 different cigars are for sale.
Another Main Street outlet brings the farm to town at The Farmer’s House Market. The store provides “vocational and community integration services for youth and adults with developmental disabilities.” They are the Farmers who grow and sell local products, including meals-togo, baked goods, and kitchenware.
More info
www.skisnowcreek.com www.westonmo.com www.fws.gov/refuge/loess_bluffs www.mostateparks.com/park/weston-bend-state-park www.thefarmershouse.org www.greendirtfarm.com www.westonirish.com www.holladaydistillery.com/tours www.jowlercreek.com www.riverwoodwinery.com
Located along Main Street, Renditions has the largest selection of Polish Pottery in the midwest.
Dining and Drinking, Weston
Weston is home to Green Dirt Creamery, well-known for sheep’s milk and cheeses. The creamery has a retail storefront and hosts special events there. In late January or early February, the exact date yet to be set, Green Dirt will stage a Build Your Own Cheeseboard workshop where enrollees will learn to create a party centerpiece while enjoying a glass of wine as they fill a wood tray with snacks, condiments, and cheese. At the end of the 90-minute workshop, guests will have tray ready to enjoy at home.
Varied and extensive menus are available from the Weston Brewing Company at its restaurant, America Bowman, featuring authentic Irish fare, and at O’Malley’s Irish Pub, home to musical acts, pub grub, and fine Irish whiskeys.
McCormick products are distilled and bottled at the Holladay Distillery on rolling hills a short drive from Main Street. Holladay, named in honor of a Weston founding father, provides tours for its bourbon-making process and McCormick’s bottling business. Tours begin and end at the welcome center where, at tour’s end of the tour, visitors can taste and purchase McCormic spirits.
For wine enthusiasts, Weston is near two: Jowler Creek Vineyard and Winery in Platte City and Riverwood Winery in Rushville. A full beverage tour of the Weston area allows guests to sample fine Irish whiskey, Holladay bourbons, and local wines made from grapes grown in Missouri soil.
Weston has so much to offer, anyone can fill a weekend with outdoor and indoor fun.
