Discover Missouri: A Year-Round Destination Where History Lives And Legends Begin
From riverfront cities to the rolling Ozark hills, Missouri invites you to explore its diverse regions through music, history, outdoor escapes, and legendary road trips. With the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and Kansas City gearing up for the 2026 World Cup as host city, there’s never been a more exciting time to visit – whatever the season, adventure awaits.
Find exactly what you’re looking for via the links below – or keep scrolling to discover the delights of Missouri for yourself:
15-Day Marvellous Missouri | 13-Day Meet Me In St. Louis – America’s Midwest | 16-Day Route 66 Explorer | 22-Day Route 66 with a Music Twist | 23-Day Route 66
Find Your Adventure In Missouri | Find Your Perfect Place in Missouri | Blog: Discover The Spirit Of Missouri: From Route 66 Legends To Riverfront Charms | Visiting Missouri Throughout The Year | Watch The “Missouri Route 66 Highlights” Video
Explore the Best of Missouri With These Recommended Tour Itineraries
Getting to Missouri is easy, with flights from London Heathrow that go direct to nearby hubs likes Chicago or Nashville, allowing easy connections to both St Louis and Kansas City. Once there, scenic road trips enable you to explore the state’s diverse regions with ease
15-Day Marvellous Missouri
Embark on a two-week self-drive tour through the heart of Real America – Missouri. From the soaring Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the musical roots of Kansas City and Branson, this journey blends rich history, warm hospitality, and legendary culture. Explore Route 66, literary landmarks, Pony Express trails, and the soulful sounds of jazz and blues.
From £1,799pp
Including flights
Operated by Purely America
- Soar to new heights at St. Louis’s iconic Gateway Arch, then cruise the Mississippi River and explore the city’s rich musical heritage from jazz to blues in Grand Center and The Delmar Loop
- Feel the rhythm in Kansas City, where legendary jazz lives on at 18th & Vine, the Blue Room, and the American Jazz Museum – then feast on world-famous barbecue at one of 100+ smoky joints across town
- Explore American history in St. Joseph, birthplace of the Pony Express. Dive into the daring mail service’s legacy at the Pony Express Museum and tour a city full of historic homes and fascinating museums
- Step into Walt Disney’s small-town inspiration in Marceline, where Main Street USA was born
- Wander through Mark Twain’s literary world in Hannibal – tour his boyhood home, take a Mark Twain riverboat cruise, and stroll the charming downtown that inspired Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn
- Roll down Missouri’s stretch of Route 66, from St. Louis to Springfield, and stop at iconic attractions like the 66 Drive-In Theatre in Carthage, the Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, and the quirky Uranus Fudge Factory in St. Robert
- Get your kicks in Springfield, the Birthplace of Route 66. Visit the Route 66 Car Museum, take in a show at the historic Gillioz Theatre, and dive into local lore at the History Museum on the Square
- Go underground at Fantastic Caverns or Talking Rocks Cavern, two of Missouri’s many accessible show caves – perfect for any season and packed with geological wonders
- Revel in Branson’s live entertainment scene, where more than 30 theatres host 60 shows daily. Don’t miss The Haygoods for a fresh take on Branson’s musical roots, or visit the Titanic Museum for a moving, immersive experience
- Soak up the beauty of the Ozarks, with time at Table Rock Lake for boating, swimming, or scenic sunset views. Hike the lakeshore trails, zipline through the canopy, or simply relax in nature
- Finish strong with a ballgame at Busch Stadium in St. Louis, cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals in one of baseball’s most historic franchises – then grab a frozen custard at Ted Drewes like a true local
- 14 nights hotel accommodation – including stays at The Hyatt Regency at the Arch, St. Louis, The Hotel Vandivort, Springfield and The Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa, Branson
- Hotel taxes
- Car hire
- Return International flights to Kansas City via Atlanta
- ATOL protected
13-Day Meet Me In St. Louis – America’s Midwest
Discover the true spirit of America on a self-drive through Missouri and its heartland neighbours. The Midwest blends soaring cities with charming small towns, iconic music with legendary outlaws, and innovation with tradition. From cowboy country to cultural icons, it’s a road trip of contrasts – rich in history, full of character, and undeniably all-American.
From £2,995pp
Including flights
Operated by Bon Voyage
- Start your journey in Fort Worth, Texas – home of cowboy culture, rodeos, honky-tonks, and Western saloons
- Enjoy retro Americana on Route 66 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with neon-lit diners, art museums, and a night at the Admiral Twin Drive-In
- Ride the Branson Scenic Railway through the Ozark Mountains or hike, fish, and explore Mark Twain National Forest
- Unwind at Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Missouri’s largest, offering forest trails, hidden coves, and lakeside leisure in Osage Beach
- Devour world-famous barbecue and jazz in Kansas City, then catch a live jam session at the iconic 18th & Vine Jazz District
- Explore the roots of American imagination along Missouri’s Highway 36, from Walt Disney’s boyhood town of Marceline to Mark Twain’s Hannibal
- Cruise the Mississippi on a Mark Twain Riverboat
- Ride to the top of the Gateway Arch in St Louis, America’s tallest man-made monument, then dine to live blues or catch a Cardinals baseball game
- Experience St Louis’ live music legacy, from jazz at the Bistro to Chuck Berry’s Duck Room at Blueberry Hill in the Delmar Loop
- End your trip in Chicago, Illinois – ride a river cruise past architectural marvels, explore the Magnificent Mile, and walk in the footsteps of infamous gangsters
- 12 nights hotel accommodation
- Car hire – A one-way drop off charge is payable locally and charges advised at time of booking
- Train from St Louis to Chicago
- Round trip scheduled international flights into Dallas and out of Chicago
- ABTA & ATOL protected
16-Day Route 66 Explorer
This Route 66 road trip is an all-time classic that has been etched into American folklore by those migrating west along “The Mother Road” during the Great Depression of the 1930s. Starting your road trip in Chicago, you’ll cross through eight States including Missouri as you drive to Route 66’s “End of the Trail” sign in sunny Santa Monica, Los Angeles.
From £1,699pp
Including flights
Operated by The American Road Trip Company
- Commence your Route 66 adventure with three nights in Chicago, soaking up city views from Willis Tower and indulging in deep-dish pizza
- Explore Chicago’s ‘Magnificent Mile’, with stops at Navy Pier, Wrigley Field, and 360 Chicago’s observation deck
- Begin your road trip by picking up your car and heading to Jackson Blvd – the official starting point of historic Route 66
- In Illinois, stop in Pontiac for Route 66 nostalgia and visit the restored Standard Oil Gas Station in Odell
- History lovers will enjoy Springfield, IL, where you can tour Abraham Lincoln’s home, tomb, and presidential museum
- Cross into Missouri and admire St. Louis landmarks like the Gateway Arch, Missouri Botanical Gardens and Citygarden
- Tour the impressive Meramec Caverns in the Ozarks – a favourite Missouri Route 66 detour with guided cave tours
- Explore Springfield, Missouri, officially recognised as the birthplace of Route 66 and full of roadside charm
- Stop off in Joplin, Missouri before dipping briefly into Kansas and continuing on to Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Discover the quirky Cadillac Ranch in Texas, explore museums in Santa Rosa, and end the day in Albuquerque or Santa Fe
- Wrap up your epic road trip at Santa Monica Pier in California, snapping a photo by the “End of Trail” sign and enjoying Pacific views
- 15 nights hotel accommodation – including stays at Moxy Hotel Downtown, Chicago, The Hollywood Roosevelt, Los Angeles and Hotel Chaco, Albuquerque
- Car hire and detailed road trip pack
- Return International flights into Chicago and out of Los Angeles
- ATOL protected
22-Day Route 66 with a Music Twist
Beginning in Chicago, you’ll be able to explore the Windy City ahead of your journey on this historic route. Drive through Illinois farmland and cross into Missouri arriving in St. Louis and experience the nightlife. Head onto Memphis before reaching Oklahoma via the Ozark Mountains. Pass through the cowboy culture of Texas, history of New Mexico, awe of the Grand Canyon, the Strip of Las Vegas and finally discover all that California has to offer.
From £2,999pp
Including flights
Operated by Complete North America
- Start strong in Chicago, where Route 66 was born- fuel up with breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s, snap a selfie with Cloud Gate, stroll the Magnificent Mile, and enjoy blues at Buddy Guy’s Legends
- Soak up history in St. Louis, home to the towering Gateway Arch, Forest Park’s cultural gems, and iconic breweries like Anheuser-Busch – perfect after a scenic drive from Springfield, IL via the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge
- Follow in Lincoln’s footsteps in Springfield, Illinois, exploring his home, tomb, and the presidential museum before continuing your road trip through the farmlands and small towns of America’s heartland
- Trace the roots of rock ’n’ roll in Memphis – tour Elvis’s lavish Graceland estate, dive into soul history at STAX Museum, stroll Beale Street’s neon-lit bars pulsing with live music, and cruise the Mississippi for a riverfront view of the Bluff City’s deep cultural rhythm
- Step into cowboy country in Amarillo – snap pics at Cadillac Ranch, cruise historic Route 66, and soak up Old West charm in Texas’s Panhandle heart
- Wander Santa Fe’s crooked streets, browse its 300+ galleries, and admire the pueblo-style architecture that reflects a rich blend of Native, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures
- Step into the Wild West in Holbrook – snap a pic with the giant dinos, stay in a teepee at the Wigwam Motel, and explore nearby Petrified Forest National Park’s surreal landscapes
- Stand in awe at the Grand Canyon – marvel at sunrise from Mather Point, hike a stretch of the South Kaibab Trail, and soak up panoramic views along Desert View Drive
- Experience the glitz of Las Vegas by strolling along the Strip, catching a show, and trying your luck at iconic casinos like the Bellagio and Caesars Palace
- Drive into Santa Monica, where the Pacific meets the shore – take a walk along the iconic pier, enjoy the beach, and reflect on your journey at the westernmost point of the Mother Road
- Experience the vibrant energy of Los Angeles, from the Hollywood Walk of Fame to the sunny beaches of Venice, before concluding your Route 66 journey in the heart of California’s entertainment capital
- 21 nights hotel accommodation – including stays at Hampton Inn & Suites St. Louis at Forest Park, Comfort Inn Downtown, Memphis and Yavapai Lodge East, Grand Canyon
- Car hire with NO one-way car rental drop off fee
- EZ-66 Route Guide
- Return International flights into Chicago and out of Los Angeles
- ABTA & ATOL protected
23-Day Route 66
One of the most renowned driving routes in the world, historic Route 66 spans across North America, from Chicago in the east to Los Angeles in the west – with Missouri’s highlights in between. Covering over 2,000 miles, it takes three weeks or longer to complete the journey in its entirety. This trip can be tailored to your needs.
Price available by request via the link below
Operated by North America Travel Service
- Kick off your Route 66 adventure at the official starting point near Chicago’s Grant Park. Explore the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, grab a deep-dish pizza, and snap a photo under the Route 66 Begin sign
- Cross the Mississippi River on the historic (now pedestrian-only) Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. Marvel at the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, take a tram ride to the top for stunning views, and explore the Museum at the Gateway Arch. Hop on a riverboat cruise down the Mississippi or visit the National Blues Museum. End the evening with classic St. Louis-style BBQ or ribs at one of the city’s beloved smokehouses
- Grab a frozen custard at Ted Drewes, a Route 66 tradition since the 1920s. Head to Jesse James Wax Museum and explore the infamous outlaw’s story. Don’t miss the Meramec Caverns, a vast seven-story cave system where Jesse James is said to have once hidden out
- Enjoy a lunch at Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que – a must for authentic, wood-smoked flavours in Cuba, Missouri
- In Springfield, Missouri, celebrate the “Birthplace of Route 66” with a visit to the Route 66 Car Museum, home to vintage classics and rare collector cars. Don’t miss exploring local diners, downtown shops, and the city’s growing arts scene
- Snap a photo at Amarillo’s Cadillac Ranch, enjoy a steak challenge at The Big Texan, and see Route 66 memorabilia at the Amarillo Museum of Art
- Discover Albuquerque’s vintage neon signs, historic diners, and the retro charm of Central Avenue, Route 66’s main drag through town
- Gateway to the Grand Canyon, the college town of Flagstaff is filled with craft breweries, Route 66 diners, and outdoor adventure
- Explore the Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, then stop at Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch for a wonderfully odd roadside attraction
- End your journey at the Santa Monica Pier, where the “End of the Trail” sign marks the end of Route 66
- 22 nights hotel accommodation – including stays at DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel, Springfield, Little America Hotel, Flagstaff and Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, Santa Monica
- Intermediate 4 door car hire including insurances
- Round trip scheduled international flights into Chicago and out of Los Angeles
- ATOL protected
Find Your Adventure in Missouri
There’s a wealth of experiences in store for you to uncover when you visit Missouri. We’ve selected what we think you’ll love most.
Iconic Route 66
Music
Missouri has a deep musical heritage, particularly in jazz and blues, which travelled up the Mississippi River from New Orleans. St. Louis is primarily known for blues while Kansas City is a legendary jazz hub, with the vibrant music scene rooted in iconic clubs and venues like the Blue Room and the Cotton Club. The National Blues Museum in St. Louis honours the genre’s rich history, while Kansas City’s 18th and Vine District is a must-visit for jazz lovers. Missouri’s blues and jazz continue to influence modern music, preserving its significant place in America’s cultural soundscape.
State Parks
Missouri’s state parks offer diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, home to Missouri’s highest peak, provides stunning views and challenging hiking trails. For water lovers, Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers boating and fishing, while Ha Ha Tonka State Park showcases dramatic natural bridges and castles. From the tranquil Ozarks to the scenic River Bluffs, Missouri’s state parks are perfect for hiking, camping, and immersing yourself in the state’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Food & Drink
Missouri is a haven for food lovers, known for its mouthwatering BBQ and vibrant wine country. Kansas City-style BBQ, with its signature sweet and tangy sauce, is a must-try, offering everything from ribs to burnt ends. In the rolling hills of the Missouri River Valley, the state’s wine country shines with over 120 wineries, particularly in Hermann. Sample rich local varietals while enjoying picturesque vineyard views. Whether it’s smoky BBQ or fine wine, Missouri delivers unforgettable flavours.
Historic Sites
The Mark Twain Home
The Mark Twain Home in Hannibal, Missouri, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the famous author. Located in the town where Twain grew up, the restored 1840s home provides insight into his early years and the experiences that inspired The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Visitors can explore the house, museum exhibits, and the surrounding area, including landmarks from Twain’s stories. It’s a must-visit destination for fans of American literature, history, and timeless storytelling.
The Gateway Arch
The St. Louis Gateway Arch stands as an iconic symbol of America’s westward expansion. Soaring 630 feet above the city, it’s the tallest man-made monument in the U.S. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top for panoramic views of the Mississippi River, the city, and beyond. The Arch is part of Gateway Arch National Park, where the Museum of Westward Expansion delves into the history of the pioneers. Also on the park grounds is the Old Federal Courthouse, where Dred and Harriet Scott petitioned for their freedom – an early and pivotal moment in civil rights history. It’s a must-see landmark celebrating America’s journey into the frontier and its complex, evolving story.
Mississippi River
The Mississippi River, flowing along Missouri’s eastern border, is a vital waterway rich in history and natural beauty. Missouri’s river towns, like St. Louis and Hannibal, are steeped in heritage, offering scenic riverboat cruises and opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The river also played a key role in America’s westward expansion and is celebrated in Mark Twain’s works. Missouri’s Mississippi River offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and tranquil waterside charm for visitors year-round.
Find Your Perfect Place in Missouri
There’s a wealth of experiences in store for you to uncover when you explore Missouri. We’ve selected the locations we think you’ll love most in each of its geographical regions.
Kansas City & The Northwest
St Louis & The Northeast
St. Louis and Missouri’s Northeast region blend cultural richness with scenic charm. Start at Gateway Arch National Park, then cruise the Mississippi on a classic riverboat. Music lovers can dive into the National Blues Museum and catch live shows across the city. St. Louis also dazzles with Forest Park, the Missouri History Museum, and the stunning Cathedral Basilica. Along Route 66, explore vintage Americana at the Neon Museum and the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. Venture west to Hermann, home to around ten of the state’s 120 wineries, perfect for tastings and vineyard views. In Hannibal, discover Mark Twain’s boyhood home and explore nearby state parks for hiking, heritage, and riverside relaxation. For a dose of Wild West history, head to St. Joseph – birthplace of the Pony Express and final home of outlaw Jesse James, whose story adds a thrilling edge to this region’s historic appeal.
Central Missouri
Southwest Missouri
Southwest Missouri blends outdoor beauty with vibrant cities and classic Americana charm. In Springfield, the “City of the Ozarks” and birthplace of Route 66, explore the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, stroll through Springfield Botanical Gardens, or enjoy downtown’s shops, restaurants, and buzzing nightlife. Just south, Branson offers lakeside escapes perfect for fishing, boating, and golfing, with lush nature reserves nearby. Known for its live entertainment, Branson’s theatres and attractions bring energy to the Ozarks’ natural tranquility.
Southeast Missouri
Southeast Missouri is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Paddle through the crystal-clear waters of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways by kayak or raft, or lace up your boots to explore miles of serene hiking trails. Discover charming wineries nestled in rolling hills, offering tastings with a view. Visit Ste. Genevieve, Missouri’s oldest European settlement, where the park and museum reveal a rich French colonial past. For something unexpected, the Space Museum in Bonne Terre adds a cosmic twist to your journey.
Confessions of a Globetrotter Blog:
Discover The Spirit Of Missouri: From Route 66 Legends To Riverfront Charms
Step into the diverse heart of Missouri, where natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture come together. From the rolling Ozark hills to the bustling streets of St. Louis, Missouri offers a captivating mix of state parks, scenic trails, and historic sites. Discover the charm of small towns along the mighty Mississippi River, explore the state’s outdoor treasures, and immerse yourself in the history that shaped this iconic Midwestern state…
Visiting Missouri Throughout the Year
- Experience the refreshing Missouri spring as the weather begins to warm, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. Cast a line during trout fishing season or enjoy bird watching in state parks alive with migrating species. As April arrives, so does the buzz of baseball season, with major league games kicking off in St. Louis and Kansas City. With blooming landscapes, scenic drives, and outdoor events across the state, spring in Missouri is the perfect time to embrace nature and celebrate America’s favourite pastime
- Experience the warmth and energy of a Missouri summer, with temperatures typically ranging from 25–33°C. Long, sunny days are perfect for exploring the Lake of the Ozarks, hiking shaded trails in scenic state parks, or enjoying outdoor concerts and food festivals. July brings a highlight on the calendar – National Tom Sawyer Days in Hannibal, celebrating Mark Twain’s legacy with parades, raft races, and whitewashing contests. Another seasonal favourite is the Missouri State Fair, where tradition, agriculture, and entertainment come together in a lively celebration. From vibrant cities to tranquil rivers, summer in Missouri is all about adventure, nostalgia, and good old-fashioned fun
- Experience the beauty of autumn in Missouri as temperatures cool to a comfortable range of 10-20°C. The state’s forests and rolling hills burst into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold – perfect for scenic drives, hiking, and photography in places like the Ozark Mountains or Katy Trail. It’s also harvest season, making it an ideal time to explore Missouri’s wine country and attend fall festivals across the state.
- Winter in Missouri brings a festive charm, with temperatures ranging from 0-10°C. The holiday season is a special time, as towns across the state light up with sparkling displays and festive decorations. Explore Missouri’s Christmas markets, like those in St. Louis and Kansas City, offering unique gifts, treats, and seasonal cheer. Cosy up with local wines in charming wineries, or enjoy ice skating in city parks.