One thing you probably don’t know about me is I love to travel. Love it! My dream summer is when we pack all of our kids and stuff in the car and hit the road. I feel so lucky to have married a guy that feels the same way. We’ve taken our kids all over the place in our car. We’ve traveled to the Oregon Coast. We’ve seen Mount Rushmore. We took them to Canada. Last summer we drove to Texas. And our kids do amazingly well in the car. Every one of them went on a long road trip when they were less than a year old, so I always joke that we trained them young. Often, during the winter, they ask when we’re taking them on a road trip again.
This summer is a little different, though. Instead of the whole family, my hubby and I are taking a trip on our own. My kids have been a little bit sad about it. We’re still thinking of slipping in a short road trip if we have any left over time or money.
I would love to take my kids to Missouri! Have you ever been? I’ve never been there, but one of my good friends grew up there. She’s always talking about the fun they have with their kids when they head back to visit her family.
So, let’s plan an imaginary vacation, shall we?
I’m a little bit of a bookie, and as soon as I heard that you could visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic house, I knew this would be on the list!
Or, the St. Louis Zoo! Did you know it’s free to get into? My friend is always talking about what an amazing zoo it is! I would take my kids there for sure! It’s also free to get in the St. Louis Science Center, Grant’s Farm, Citygarden and the St. Louis Art Museum! I always love free! Especially as a family on a budget!
I know my kids would love the all of the amusement parks – there are 3 major ones, plus tons of water parks.
I would also include the Gateway Arch and Branson on our Itinerary. Oh, and did you know they have a Hard Rock Cafe in St. Louis? Am I the only one who wants to collect a t-shirt from every one around the world. Plus, St. Louis is #10 on Travel + Leisure’s best American city for pizza. Yummy!
And if you’re looking for more of an outdoor adventure, Missouri has got plenty!
Missouri boasts of 51 state parks, the Katy trail (which is 225 miles long!) AND is also The Cave State (for all of you spelunkers!).
In case you need any more convincing, here a some travel video highlighting the best!
What are you waiting for, Go like VisitMO on Facebook and follow VisitMO on Twitter! I know you’ll be glad you did!
Erin Sutton says
I live in Nebraska currently, but I was born and raised in Missouri. I was born in Kansas City. Went to middle school and high school in central Missouri and then moved to St. Louis after I graduated. Missouri is such an amazing place and there is a ton to do. You already listed a ton of amazing things to do and see, but I will reiterate…go visit the St. Louis Zoo. It is an amazing place! Parking isn’t free, but there is a lot of off street parking that is free.
Whatever you all decided to do, you will have a great time. Enjoy the “Show Me State”. :)
2busy says
I’ve been there. It is absolutely beautiful, but too hot and muggy for me in the summer.
Anonymous says
I live in Springfield, MO and work at Bass Pro Shops and Tracker Marine. Yes it is very muggy in the summer and gets really HOT!! But it is crazy beautiful here in the area. There are tons of things to do. As well as Branson, if you are into that sort of thing. Good luck and enjoy your trip!