MAIN Travel North America USA Missouri

First settled by the French in the 17th century, the U.S. acquired the Missouri territory with the Louisiana Purchase in 1802, later entering the Union as part of the Missouri Compromise of 1820.

With the coming of the Civil War, Missouri was a hotbed of contention and split allegiances between North and South, sometimes even within families. However, the state remained in the Union while supplying troops to both U.S. and Confederate armies.

The state was also the main depot for 19th century settlers making their way out west, with Independence, Missouri beginning the first leg of the SantaFe Trail, and St. Joseph, Missouri serving as the jumping off point for the Pony Express.

Today, major tourist attractions in Missouri include the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, spectacular musical variety shows featured in Branson, as well as the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Missouri Ozarks.

Owing to its colorful past, Missouri is also a top draw for those looking for authentic Americana at such attractions as the Arabia Steamboat Museum in Kansas City, Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, the Harry S. Truman home and library in Independence, the Pony Express Museum and Jesse James Museum in St. Joseph.

More about Missouri travel spots around the Web:

Welcome to Missouri - The official travel site with guides to where to go & what to do, restaurants & hotels, outdoor activities, event calendar, trip ideas, travel tips, maps & weather information.

America's Byways - Missouri - Information & photos on Blue Buck Knob Scenic Byway, Cliff Drive, Glade Top Trail, Great River Road and other scenic drives throughout the state.

Branson Missouri Chamber of Commerce - One of the Missouri's top entertainment attractions with the latest news & information on live shows, festivals & events, hotel & restaurant guides, camping & RV parks, shopping, & kid friendly attractions.

Experience Kansas City - What's happening, as well as upcoming events, a look at the gardens, the zoo, riverboat casinos, shopping, hotels & restaurants, with suggested travel itineraries, photo tour, maps.

Explore St. Louis - Extensive information on bed & breakfast inns, campgrounds, hotels & restaurants, neighborhood maps & guides, nightlife, riverboat casinos, major attractions, family fun, day trips, maps & photos.

St. Louis Gateway Arch - The iconic symbol of St. Louis with information on its history, hours of operation, tram ticket purchase, fun FAQ.