Boonville blends historic roots with modern-day appeal
Settled along the southern banks of the Missouri River, Boonville is a city of 8,000. Founded in the early 19th century, this seat of Cooper County has an atmosphere that attracts potential homeowners looking for a low-key way of living. “We get a lot of families,” says Mitch Leonard, a Re/Max Unlimited broker who’s served the area for over 20 years. “Quite a few people come from out of state looking for a slower lifestyle.” Work tends to bring locals as well, whether it’s with well-established local industries or more recent developments like tourism. “We were a jumping off point of the Santa Fe Trail, so we have a long history of manufacturing,” says Jim Gann, Boonville native and the city’s Economic Developer. “We also have Central Missouri’s only casino, and we’re home to the Budweiser Clydesdales. That’s a tourist attraction all on its own.” About 25 miles from Columbia , Boonville can also boast a convenient proximity to city amenities and a major university. Gann says combining these factors leads to a city where people are welcoming and content. “You can see a fabric in the community that people really like,” he says. “That charm is significant – it attracts people.”
Homes range from fixer-uppers to brand new developments
The city center is surrounded by various turn-of-the-20th-century architectural styles, including Cape Cod, National Folk and Victorian. Conditions range from neglected fixer-uppers to fully restored centennials with modern amenities. These homes are generally priced between $20,000 and $340,000. Midcentury ranch-style homes are also popular in the area, selling from $130,000 to $300,000. Homes off Logans Lake Road frequently have 21st-century styles with lake views and lots that are an acre or larger. Prices here often range from about $240,000 to $440,000.
Trails, sports fields and a casino boost local amenities
Rolling Hills Park is one of Boonville’s largest public parks. In addition to playground equipment, athletic fields and a picnic pavilion, it stands out with a paved mile-long trail with scenic views of the surrounding greenery. Lions Park is home to the area’s aquatic center, which features water slides, diving boards and a lap pool. Veterans Memorial Park is the site of a trailhead for the Katy Trail. At 240 miles, it’s the longest continuous trail in the country and stretches from one side of Missouri to the other. The Isle of Capri Casino and Hotel is the only casino in Central Missouri, and Gann says it drives a great deal of tourism to Boonville. “And with money from places like that, we’ve invested in our park system and other local amenities,” he says. “I like to think that our amenities are bigger than the community itself.”
Public schools serve all grades with a reputation for sports
Students in the area will start at Hannah Cole Primary School, which offers prekindergarten through second grade, and has a B from Niche. From there, they’ll attend David Barton Elementary School and Laura Speed Elliott Middle School, both of which have a C-plus. Finally, students will enroll at Boonville High School, which has a B. The high school’s football team made the playoffs in 2024, while the girls’ basketball team was the state champion in 2021. “The school offers a lot of sports,” says Leonard. “Those games draw a lot of people from out of town.”
I-70 gives easy access to Columbia and medical services
According to Gann, location and transportation have always been the city’s biggest advantages, right down to its founding. “The river played a big part in our history, and then that gave way to the railroad,” he says. “Today, we’re right on Interstate 70, so we’re easy to get to from anywhere.” Columbia is about 25 miles away, a fact that University of Missouri students and other commuters take full advantage of. Columbia’s University Hospital has the region’s only trauma center and medical helicopter services.
Downtown Boonville offers casual eats and locally owned stores
Much of the local shopping centers around Main Street, including locally owned eateries, boutique shops and grocery stores like C&R Supermarket. “Our downtown has an eclectic mix of retail-focused businesses,” says Gann. Maggie’s Bar and Grill features a no-frills menu and a fully stocked bar to accompany karaoke nights and the annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party. The Cove serves Hereford beef steak and hosts a summer lineup of regional bands and musical acts.
Heritage Days includes car shows, tournaments and reunions
Held the fourth weekend of every June, Heritage Days draws residents for a three-day event of family fun, including a parade, games and food booths. Locals can participate in the golf tournament, attend a car show or just hang out with a glass in the wine and beer garden. “That’s typically when grads of Boonville High School hold their reunions,” says Gann. “So it really gets the community together.”
