Missouri

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

One of my favorite trips was to see my granddaughter in 1990 when she was two years old.  We drove through Missouri on our way to Iowa and enjoyed a short visit in St. Louis on the way home.   I used to be afraid of heights but decided that I wanted to see the view from the top of the St. Louis Arch anyway.  We rode up in one of the little trams which was quite an experience.  Once they closed the door on us, it felt like we were eggs in an egg crate .  Looking out the window of this little pod allowed a view of the interior of the Arch structure which was interesting. 

 

Vintage 1960s view from Arch observation room

The Gateway Arch is a memorial built to honor those pioneers who dared to cross this country to build new lives for themselves, not knowing what their future might hold and also to honor Thomas Jefferson for his role in opening the West for expansion.  There is a museum under the arch that includes many quotes taken from the journals and diaries of pioneers.   The Arch itself is immense when viewed from ground level but the view from the top is breathtaking.   

We also enjoyed a brewery tour to see the brewing process step by step and enjoyed complimentary samples in a tasting room at the end of the tour.  A gift shop attached featured unique collectible items. 

 Vintage postcard of Becky Thatcher Paddle Wheeler

In front of the Arch on the Mississippi River was a restaurant on a paddle wheel steam boat named The Robert E. Lee.   It was an experience to have dinner in an atmosphere that has been recreated to reflect life as it was a hundred years ago.   In 2010 this boat burned but I understand there are other paddle wheelers available for cruising on the Mississippi. http://explorestlouis.com/  

 

Table Rock Dam, near Branson

If you took Las Vegas, mixed it up with Nashville and added a splash of New York City, you might end up with something like Branson Missouri.  Branson is a city that has grown into a large family friendly tourist area in the south western part of Missouri.  Silver Dollar City and The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor drama have celebrated their 50^th anniversary.  Many other attractions and theaters have been added in those fifty years, especially country music productions.  Branson, Silver Dollar City and the surrounding area attract almost 8 million people each year and can be a great vacation destination.  http://www.branson.com/

 

Mark Twain, the author of Tom Sawyer 

Kansas City is the Capitol City; Hannibal is the city where Mark Twain’s boyhood home is located; and Springfield is the home of the Bass Pro Shops, one of the most complete sports supply companies. These cities and many more each have their own unique museums, art galleries, shops and tourist attractions.  Some of the best bass and trout fishing lakes along with the Ozark Mountains, caves and other outdoor venues provide all types of outdoor activities.   

Again, I have only touched on a few places in Missouri.  If Missouri is a place for you to explore, check out their website first so you can choose the places you would like best.  http://www.visitmo.com/