Missouri
The Show Me State
Missouri sits at the crossroads of American history, music, and culture. Known as The Show Me State, it invites travellers to explore a land rich in stories, rhythm, and real Midwestern charm. With iconic cities, scenic river routes, and legendary landmarks, Missouri offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Real America.
Gateway to the West
Start your adventure in St. Louis, a city that blends East Coast energy with Western expansion spirit. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, it’s home to the soaring Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the United States and a striking symbol of America's westward journey. History buffs can stroll old Route 66 routes, explore charming neighbourhoods, or take a riverboat ride beneath the Arch. Compared to Iowa’s quieter riverfront towns, Missouri’s stretch of the Mississippi River offers a more urban blend of history and waterfront energy without losing the authentic Midwestern feel.
Legends and Frontier History
Head two hours north and you’ll find yourself in Mark Twain country, the boyhood home of one of America’s most beloved authors. Museums and literary sites in Hannibal offer a glimpse into the life and stories of the man who brought Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn to life. In St. Joseph, on the Missouri River, you can explore the origins of the Pony Express, a symbol of the fast-paced frontier, and learn about the wild tales of outlaw Jesse James.
Jazz, Barbecue, and Big-City Culture in Kansas City
In the West, Kansas City offers a different kind of rhythm. Known for its elegant fountains, expansive parks, and legendary jazz scene, the city still echoes with the sounds of Miles Davis and Charlie Parker. And if you’re a food lover, don’t leave without trying Kansas City barbecue, a culinary institution all its own.
Live Music Capital and Family Entertainment
For music lovers, Missouri is truly unmatched. In St. Louis, you can visit the very blues clubs where Chuck Berry, Scott Joplin, and Miles Davis launched their careers. Further south, the city of Branson has over 30 theatres hosting up to 60 shows a day - from country and gospel to comedy and family-friendly performances.
Compared to Arkansas’s intimate music venues, Branson simply offers a different scale of entertainment – larger and designed for big family audiences.
Scenic Landscapes and Outdoor Escapes
Beyond the cities, Missouri’s landscape unfolds with scenic drives, national forests, and river adventures. Float down the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, hike the Mark Twain National Forest, or explore caves, springs, and state parks tucked away across the state. Like Iowa, Missouri enjoys all four seasons, and each state offers its own mix of landscapes, from Iowa’s rolling hills and river valleys to Missouri’s forests, riverways, and limestone formations, giving travellers different styles of outdoor scenery to explore.
A State That Shows You Real America
Whether you're in search of music, history, or a road trip full of personality, Missouri travel promises a dynamic and deeply American experience.
Last Updated: 02/01/2026