I've Lived in the Midwest for 20 Years and This Is Its Most Charming Small Town-With Mineral Springs and Rolling Hills

"For generations, people across the country have come to this Midwest town to visit and bathe in the " healing waters " of its mineral springs, which are rumored to have curative powers. At the height of its popularity, there were 40 mineral water springs peppered throughout town, and its flagship hotel, The Elms Hotel & Spa, once attracted celebrities, underworld big shots, and even U.S. presidents with its legendary spa and baths."

"Home to a little over 10,000 people, Excelsior Springs is a tight-knit, homey community, and the best way to experience it is by strolling its downtown, which is lined with dozens of local shops and restaurants. Adventurers at heart will be pleased to find that there are over 90 acres of parkland located within the town and that it is surrounded by rolling hills and gorgeous river valleys."

Excelsior Springs sits less than 30 miles from Kansas City and grew famous for its mineral springs and "healing waters," once numbering about 40 across town. The Elms Hotel & Spa, built in 1888 in Tudor Revival style, attracted celebrities, underworld figures, and presidents and still offers mineral-water treatments. The downtown features early-1900s red brick buildings, murals, dozens of local shops and restaurants, and a friendly, small-town atmosphere. The town has just over 10,000 residents, more than 90 acres of parkland, and is surrounded by rolling hills and scenic river valleys, offering both relaxation and outdoor activities.

Read at Travel + Leisure