Missouri offers an extraordinary variety of experiences, making it a must-see destination for anyone looking for an authentic American trip. From the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis and Kansas City’s legendary jazz and barbecue scene, to the welcoming charm of small towns dotted through the state, Missouri delivers rich cultural attractions alongside stunning natural beauty. A long stretch of America’s most famous highway, Route 66, runs through the state, taking travellers on an unforgettable road trip through the nostalgic, neon-illuminated past. The Ozarks provide breathtaking hiking, kayaking and canoeing, and scenic vistas, while a wealth of museums and historic sites highlight the state’s vibrant heritage. Culinary delights range from traditional barbecue to innovative farm-to-table dining. Missouri’s attractions and warm hospitality are ideal for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
TAKE 5 WITH MISSOURI
Learn more about Missouri’s key cities and attractions.
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Kansas City
Springfield
St. Louis
Missouri Highway 36
Missouri Highlights
essential information
Getting there
 – Missouri is located in the heart of America
 – Made up of five diverse regions including the major cities of Kansas City, St Louis, Springfield, Columbia, and Independence, and the capital Jefferson City
 – Great destination to be incorporated into a larger itinerary with some of its eight neighbouring states; Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kentucky and Tennessee
 – NEW Direct flight launched in April 2026 with British Airways – direct service from LHR to St Louis International Airport, four times per week (summer season only)
 – Indirect flights to/from Kansas City International Airport, St Louis International Airport, and the regional airports of Columbia Regional Airport and Springfield-Branson National Airport.
Amtrak
 – Missouri River Runner – Connections between St. Louis and Kansas City
 – Southwest Chief – Route connects Chicago and Los Angeles, passing through Kansas City
 – Texas Eagle – Connections between Chicago and San Antonio
 – Lincoln Service – Chicago to St Louis
Getting around
Most visitors will either have car hire or rent an RV to fully explore the state.
Estimated driving times:
 – Kansas City to Branson – 3.5 hours
 – Branson to St. Louis – 4 hours
 – St. Louis to Kansas City – 4 hours
 – Chicago to St. Louis – 4.5 hours
 – Memphis to St. Louis – 4.5 hours
 – Nashville to St. Louis – 4.5 hours
– Dallas to Kansas City – 8 hours
– Denver to Kansas City – 8.5 hours
– Atlanta to St. Louis – 8.5 hours
– Dallas to St. Louis – 10 hours
– New Orleans to St. Louis – 10 hours
Accommodation
Missouri offers a diverse range of accommodation options for visitors. From high-end metropolitan hotels in the major cities to rustic lakeside lodges and unique glamping sites scattered across the Ozarks.
Luxury hotels located primarily in major cities such as St. Louis and Kansas City offer high-end amenities and iconic city skyline views, whilst motels and budget friendly options are plentiful along the historic Route 66.
Whether you are planning a city break in St. Louis, Independence or Kansas City, a music-filled holiday in Branson, or an outdoor retreat in the Ozarks, the state provides multiple options for every visitor.
Your Visit Missouri Trade Team
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