From visiting iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch in St Louis to Kansas City’s world-class barbecue scene, Missouri offers experiences that your clients will love.
The Midwest state oozes charm and hospitality, and there’s plenty to suit every sort of traveller looking for adventure and cultural hits.
Here are just a few reasons your customers will want to explore the ‘Show Me’ state.
Road Trippin’
One of the biggest draws to the state, is of course the iconic road, Route 66, which celebrates its centennial anniversary next year.
A long stretch of America’s famous highway winds through Missouri, offering travellers an unforgettable journey into a neon-lit, nostalgia-soaked past. But Missouri isn’t just along the route — it’s where the story of Route 66 began nearly 100 years ago.
It was officially named in Springfield, Missouri, in 1926. On 30 April 1926 a historic telegram was sent from Springfield to Washington DC proposing the name ‘Route 66’ for the new transcontinental highway.
Springfield has been chosen as the official host city for the national kick-off of the centennial celebrations. A series of events are planned, including a major concert on 30 April 2026, which will be live-streamed around the world.
Halfway between St Louis and Springfield sits the Route 66 Neon Park at George M Reed Roadside Park in Saint Robert. The park features nearly a dozen restored neon signs from motels and diners that once stood along the Missouri portion of the ‘mother road’ in its prime, paying tribute to the nostalgic roadside stops that showcase real Americana.
In addition to Route 66, there are plenty of other routes perfect for road trips. For those looking for outdoor adventure, we suggest they take Highway 5 to Lake of the Ozarks where they can hike the castle ruins at Ha Ha Tonka State Park or simply chill out shoreside.
A trip down Highway 19 and 21 to the Ozarks is the perfect destination for kayaking along National Scenic Riverways and marvelling at natural springs
A rich history
Missouri is steeped in the stories that helped shape the nation and visitors to the state can find out more and feel the history come to life.
In St Charles, explorers Lewis and Clark launched their legendary westward journey, and at the Old Courthouse in St Louis, Dred Scott took a stand for freedom. Add to this, President Harry Truman lived much of his life in the city of Independence.
Over in Kansas City, the National WWI Museum and Memorial has a number of powerful exhibits.
From pioneer adventures to presidential milestones, Missouri’s historic sites and museums make the past feel closer than ever.
Food and drink aplenty
Missouri’s food and drink scene is a blend of Midwest comfort and Southern soul and you can’t send your clients there without recommending they sample a barbecue in Kansas City! There’s even an app – The KC BBQ Experience app – to help find the best in the city. St Louis meanwhile offers its own culinary icons, from toasted ravioli to gooey butter cake.
There are also wineries, breweries, and distilleries, making it easy for travellers to discover a favourite Missouri-made beverage, too.
Musical Missouri
Missouri’s musical heritage is diverse, spanning ragtime roots in Sedalia to Kansas City’s legendary jazz and St Louis blues, home to Chuck Berry. The Ozarks bring a deep tradition of bluegrass and country, showcased in Branson’s live music scene, while vibrant venues and festivals across the state celebrate everything from classical to rock and roll.
Find out more about what Missouri has to offer at VisitMo.com
