Rolla, MO
We lived in Rolla for three years and still visit occasionally. It is a small, college town that is known for the annual St. Pats celebration. When we visit, we stay at the Fairfield Inn which is a great, newer hotel. There are many parks and great nature near Rolla. Our favorite parks outside of Rolla are Lane Spring Recreation Area and Maramec Spring Park. Both have beautiful, spring water. In town, Ber Juan Park and Lions Club Den and Park are our favorites.
Our favorite restaurants are El Maguey, Alex’s Pizza Palace, Colton’s Steakhouse, Tater Patch, Koi, and Kyoto. A Slice of Pie is a delicious treat. Public House is a great brewery, and they also have a location in nearby St. James next to St. James Winery which is an excellent winery with a huge selection of delicious wines.
One great thing about Rolla is the central location in the state. There are many great weekend trips that you can take from Rolla such as Columbia, Lake of the Ozarks, Jefferson City, Kansas City, Springfield, Branson, Southern Missouri, and St. Louis.