Adventures worthy of Twain in Missouri
Missouri was the birthplace of author Mark Twain and just like his novels, there's plenty of adventure to be had in the state. The cities of St. Louis and Kansas City have a sophisticated air about them, but outside these metropolises there's a vast and wild land of rolling mountains, steep valleys and open plains. If you bag a Missouri vacation rental out in the country, you can enjoy a slice of authentic Middle America. Think delicious cuisine, hospitable locals and exciting rural adventures. Missouri may not be on most travelers' radars, but when you spend some time here, you'll wonder why not.
Missouri is the Gateway to the West
When you're planning which Missouri attractions to see, your best starting point is the Gateway Arch, an iconic structure and viewing platform which symbolizes St. Louis' importance to those who once traveled out West. If you like country music and you've bagged a Missouri vacation rental in the town of Branson, you're in luck. The town calls itself the "live country music capital of the universe", and they're not wrong. While you're there, you can drop into the Silver Dollar City with the kids, where they can get their kicks on the coasters or discover Ozark culture.
Over 1,000 miles of hiking trails in Missouri
Outside the city, the landscape of plains and national parks provide a playground for outdoor adventures. There are more than 1,000 trails from which to lace up and hike. Alternatively, you can hop on ATVs to race through the state parks. If you like to fish, Missouri's lakes and waterways make for the perfect place to kick back on a sunny afternoon and reel in a big one, while the deliciously refreshing natural swimming holes can be used to cool off in the midday summer sun. If you want a night away from your Missouri vacation rental, consider spending it under stars and canvas. You won't regret it.
Over 450 species of wildlife to spot in Missouri
Missouri isn't short of critters, and we're not talking about the backyard kind. When you stay at a Missouri vacation rental outside the city, you'll likely spot some of the 70 mammals which call the woodlands home. Look out for mink, woodchucks and gray foxes which scuttle around the forest floor. Twitchers are spoiled for choice. With more than 400 species of bird recorded, it's not hard to see why they come in their droves. Keep your eyes peeled for redpolls, summer tanagers and Carolina wrens. Just remember to bring your binoculars because you're not going to want to miss a thing.
How to get to and around Missouri
Fly into Columbia, MO (COU-Columbia Regional), the closest airport, located 16.8 mi (27.1 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could also fly into Versailles, MO (VRS-Roy Otten Memorial Airfield), which is 39.2 mi (63.1 km) away.
If you're traveling by train, Jefferson City Station, Hermann Station and Sedalia Station are the main stations that serve the city. You can get around Missouri by jumping on the metro at Lambert Main Terminal Station, Lambert East Terminal Station or Richmond Heights Station.
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