A small town alongside the Missouri River, Hermann became a popular tourist destination by throwing annual festivals highlighting its German roots.

One of its biggest draws is its Oktoberfest. Every October weekend, visitors celebrate the town’s German roots by listening to live music, eating bratwurst and participating in events such as lederhosen competitions.

Tourism is important to Hermann’s economy. Even though the 2020 census put the town’s population at just more than 2,100, the area has more than 240 listings on online rental marketplaces such as Airbnb and Vrbo.

Many residents say all those guest houses have increased the cost of housing and discouraged families from moving in. Local leaders have responded by limiting the development of new bed and breakfasts and by getting new

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