Bourbon is a city in Crawford County, in the Saint Louis metro area. The community is in the Central Standard time zone. The latitude of Bourbon is 38.154N. The longitude is -91.243W. One tradition says the community was named for the whiskey; another says it was named for Bourbon County, KY. Bourbon is a small community, with a population of 1,348, in the Ozarks region.

The Meramec Region is an eight-county area located in the southeast-central portion of Missouri. The area covers over 5,131 square miles and includes 32 municipalities. The region, comprised of Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties, is marked with gently rolling hills, deep valleys and plateaus. Numerous rivers and streams traverse the region, creating a natural draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Many of the small towns are industrial havens, yet the small farmer is still prevalent. An abundance of wineries dot the countryside, making it a popular draw for tourists.

There are plenty of opportunities to play in the Meramec Region. If you like water, there are plenty of clear, meandering streams, perfect for boating, floating, swimming and oh yes, fishing, regardless of whether its trout, bass, catfish or crappie that you prefer. And there’s an abundance of campgrounds if you want to stay right there with nature. Wooded areas abound and are filled with deer and turkey if hunting is your obsession. The region is filled with parks that offer an array of sights and sounds. Places like Maramec Spring, a former late 1800s iron works operation, and Dillard Mill, a restored grist mill, allow you to relive olden days, learn about history and picnic with beautiful surroundings. Missouri is called the cave state for a reason, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore caves in the region.

If you prefer the indoors and are looking for that perfect treasure, shopping opportunities abound with antique and craft shops located in every community in the region. If eating good food is a priority, you’ll find the region has many fine cooks as well as nationally