Missouri

Do not miss

The Gateway Arch is the iconic structure that visually defines St. Louis and is also the symbolic “Gateway to the West”.  Visitors can take an elevator up to a viewing platform at the top, which reaches 190 meters, for stunning views out over the city.  Host of the 1904 World Fair, the wonderful Forest Park  now houses the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri History Museum and The Muny, America’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theater.  Some of the must-see places in Jefferson City are the state capitol building, the Governor’s Mansion and Lewis & Clark Trailhead Plaza, a beautiful sculpture and a tribute to these explorers.  With no false modesty,  Branson calls itself the “live country music capital of the universe”.  It draws millions of tourists each year, mainly country music fans, who crowd the music palaces and souvenir booths of the “Strip”.  A fun way to explore Branson’s wild side is to hop aboard the Branson Scenic Railroad.  For more adrenaline action, the roller coasters and rides at Silver Dollar City provide the thrills.    The Lake of the Ozarks is a large reservoir created by the impoundment of the Osage River and its tributaries : plenty of watersports attractions.  The town of Hannibal has preserved Mark Twain’s house and turned it into a museum.  Meramec State Park boasts diverse ecosystems as well as several caves.