New Haven on the Missouri River

New Haven combines the Missouri River with a diverse local history and unique insights into the region’s past. At New Haven Access at river mile 82, you can reach the Missouri River. A single-lane concrete boat ramp and the opportunity to fish along the adjacent riverbank give the town a clear connection to the water. There are also museums, historic buildings, and a short river walk along the levee in the town center.

Missouri River, Access, and River Walk

If you would like to begin your stay by the water, New Haven Access is an important point of reference. The access is located at river mile 82 in New Haven and has a single-lane concrete boat ramp. Fishing is possible along the adjacent riverbank. This allows you to plan your day according to your interests, for example with time by the river or a combination of a water experience and exploring the town.

A scenic ¼-mile-long river walk also runs along the levee in the town center. The route offers another way to include the Missouri River in your daily plans. Those who want to combine exercise and history can then explore the town’s historical themes: The Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through the site of present-day New Haven, and the town’s development is closely connected to the river.

Museums with Regional and Historical Themes

The Springgate Museum displays porcelain from New Haven’s historic Central Hotel. The “New Haven School Days” exhibit includes a classroom furnished to scale. These two areas focus on different aspects of local life and make the museum an interesting destination for travelers who do not want to limit their stay to the landscape alone.

The “The Journey Begins” gallery presents a timeline with exhibits on early Indigenous culture, Lewis and Clark, fur trappers, and the early settlers. At the John Colter Museum and Visitor Center, you can see exhibits featuring artifacts of the Indigenous peoples of North America. The museum is named after a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Important information for your visit: Access to the museums in New Haven is available to the public by appointment. Plan these appointments carefully as part of your stay.

Historic Buildings and Memorial Sites

A prominent historical landmark is Anna Bell Chapel. Built in 1893, the church served New Haven’s African American community for more than 100 years. It stands at 225 Selma Street on a hill overlooking the Missouri River. The former AME Church of New Haven has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1992. Its history can therefore be viewed both in the context of the community and in connection with the river landscape, without assuming that the building is currently accessible.

New Haven’s origins are also connected to the Missouri River. Philip Miller established a wood landing for steamboats along the river. This became Miller’s Landing, which was later called New Haven. The “Steamboat Room” documents this development with models, paintings, and photographs. Travelers interested in historic transportation routes, river commerce, or the development of small towns will find another focus for their trip here.

When to Travel and Choosing Accommodation

A special date in the annual calendar is New Haven’s Candlelight Christmas House Tour. It has been held annually on the first Sunday in December since 1988. If you would like to experience this event, plan your search for a vacation rental or vacation home in New Haven around this period. For other trips, you can focus on the Missouri River, the river walk, the museums, or the town’s history.

For further comparison, you can also look at Sullivan, Saint Clair, Pacific, Union, and Villa Ridge.

For the broader travel overview: Franklin County.