Travel: Insider guide to Missouri: Locals share their top spots

The Gateway Arch, the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, the Lake of the Ozarks — these landmarks and waterways are what first come to mind when you hear Missouri. But there is so much more. It just takes a little know-how to find the hidden gems the state has to offer. The Missourian’s Insider’s Guide is filled with ideas and tips from local folks to help you navigate the Show-Me State.

No matter what your interests, you’ll find suggestions for places to go and things to do throughout the state. This guide has information for the armchair traveler as well as the road-trip savvy.

Here are just a few ways to plan a trip using this guide:

• Ask yourself these questions: Do you love the outdoors? If you do, check out our top five picks which include bass-stocked lakes, hiking trails and rivers perfect for a leisurely float.
• Call yourself a history buff? Missouri Historical Society Attendant Mari Carroll recommends uncovering the Lewis and Clark experience at the Boathouse and Nature Center in St. Charles. Or consider a trip to picturesque Watkins Mill to see the past as it was.
• For a literal taste of Missouri flavor, let your taste buds be your guide and try gooey butter cake in St. Louis. It’s one of the only places in the country where you’ll find it.
• Are you a hopeless shopaholic? If so, look inside for tips on where to find trendy accessories, vintage threads and anything you might need for your home or hobby.
• Want to soak in as much Missouri art, music and culture? Our suggestions will take you from a bait shop turned bluegrass venue to an art gallery and concert hall called Lupus General Store.
• Want to know what readers like you enjoy? Take a look at MyMissourian destinations.
• With the Missourian’s Insider’s Guide you can even make a plan to visit politician’s favorite spots. You might bump into Claire McCaskill if you stop by Dowd’s Catfish in Lebanon — her top choice for Missouri flavor. Or while enjoying a bike or hike on the Katy Trail you may spot Columbia’s newly reelected Mayor Darwin Hindman on the trail, one of his favorite spots in Missouri.

So whether you’re traveling alone, with the family or setting out with your pooch by your side, let us be your guide as you explore the many facets of Missouri.

• Who better to guide you on your travels than the folks who call Missouri their home? The Missourian Insider’s Guide is filled with ideas and tips to help you navigate the Show-Me State.

  You haven’t seen Missouri until you’ve...

— Stephanie Twining

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