Discover Missouri, a hidden gem in the Midwest offering diverse experiences for every traveler. From breathtaking wilderness and expansive waterways to bustling cities like St. Louis and Kansas City, renowned for their spectacular sights, vibrant culinary scenes, and thriving music culture. Meanwhile, quieter towns such as Hamilton provide a glimpse into charming country life. Whether you seek urban excitement or rural tranquility, Missouri promises an unforgettable journey through its varied landscapes and rich cultural tapestry.
Named after its iconic river, Missouri, the ‘Show-Me State’, boasts stunning landscapes and scenic beauty. Explore the rolling Ozark Mountains with activities like hiking and horseback riding, or unwind at the picturesque Lake of the Ozarks and Ozark National Scenic Riverways with opportunities for swimming and boating. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or tranquil waterside retreats, Missouri offers the perfect blend of natural wonders and Midwest charm for an unforgettable experience on the Great Plains.
1. Columbia, MO - Home of the Mizzoui Tigers
Columbia, Missouri, a vibrant city nestled at the heart of the state, embodies a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Home to the University of Missouri, fondly known as Mizzou, Columbia thrives as a dynamic college town with a rich tapestry of history and innovation.
Mizzou stands as the pride of Columbia, renowned for its prestigious academic programs and robust sports traditions. The university’s sports programs, including its beloved Tigers football team, resonate deeply within the community, fostering a spirited atmosphere during game days at the iconic Faurot Field. Beyond sports, Mizzou’s esteemed medical programs at the University of Missouri Health Care are at the forefront of healthcare innovation, serving as a hub for medical research, patient care, and community health initiatives.
Columbia itself captivates with its charming downtown district, alive with eclectic shops, diverse dining options, and vibrant arts scene. The city’s picturesque parks and trails offer outdoor enthusiasts ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation, while cultural venues like the Missouri Theatre and the Columbia Art League showcase local talent and creativity.
Whether exploring its academic prowess at Mizzou, cheering on the Tigers, or immersing oneself in its cultural and natural treasures, Columbia, Missouri, promises an enriching experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors and residents alike.
2. Lake of the Ozarks
The Lake of the Ozarks, a premier lake resort destination in the Midwest, offers breathtaking scenery and abundant outdoor activities. Its nickname, ‘Puff the Magic Dragon,’ nods to its winding shape created when the Osage River was dammed in 1931 to form a vast human-made reservoir with three tributaries.
Stretching over 1,800 kilometers of shoreline—more than California—the lake is dotted with coves, creeks, and channels hosting numerous waterfront accommodations and restaurants. Osage Beach, the largest city on its shores, bustles with life. While some areas offer tranquility, others buzz with boating, fishing, and watersports.
Visitors can also enjoy waterparks, golf courses, shops, and state parks, making the Lake of the Ozarks a perfect destination for family vacations or weekend getaways with friends, catering to a wide range of interests and preferences.
3. St Louis, MO
St. Louis, graced by the towering Gateway Arch that dominates its skyline, offers a charming and relaxed atmosphere for visitors. Situated on the west bank of the Mississippi River at the border with Illinois, the city derives its name from Louis IX of France.
Historically known as the ‘Gateway to the West’, St. Louis now proudly showcases the stunning Gateway Arch, the tallest human-made monument globally. Beyond this iconic landmark, the city is aesthetically pleasing with abundant green spaces interspersed among its diverse districts and neighborhoods.
Downtown St. Louis features upscale hotels, corporate headquarters, and modern sports venues, while areas like Laclede’s Landing and Lafayette Square boast striking historic architecture. The city also boasts a wealth of museums, vibrant culinary experiences, lively nightlife, and a thriving live music scene, making it a delightful destination for exploration and enjoyment.
4. Kansas City, MO
Kansas City, straddling the Kansas-Missouri border along the Missouri River, stands as one of the Midwest’s largest and most vibrant metropolitan areas, often overlooked by tourists. Despite its proximity to the smaller Kansas City, Kansas (KCK), the city distinguishes itself with an impressive array of boulevards, second only to Paris globally. It proudly bears the moniker ‘City of Fountains,’ boasting over 200 ornate fountains scattered throughout its picturesque streets.
Exploring Kansas City reveals a rich cultural tapestry where world-class museums and performing arts venues coexist harmoniously with charming, artistic neighborhoods. Renowned for its jazz and live music scene, the city also draws acclaim for its Southern cuisine and famous Kansas City-style barbecue. With over a hundred barbecue joints scattered across town, no visit is complete without savoring its signature sizzling strip steaks.
5. Springfield, MO
Springfield, situated in the southwest of Missouri and renowned as the ‘Birthplace of Route 66’, stands as the state’s third-largest city. Throughout town, visitors encounter a plethora of attractions tied to this iconic highway, including themed diners, motels, an antique mall, and a vintage car museum.
The city also offers compelling interactive and educational tourist sites. The Discovery Center provides an excellent hands-on experience, while Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield offers a well-preserved glimpse into Civil War history, both drawing numerous visitors. However, the highlight of Springfield is undeniably Fantastic Caverns—a vast cave system where guests can explore aboard a jeep-drawn tram, providing a unique underground adventure.
