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MISSOURI2021 GroupTour Tour Guide Guide
DISCOVER MISSOURI’S HEARTLAND TRIANGLE Historical attractions and landmarks await in this charming region
AUSCHWITZ EXHIBITION COMING TO KANSAS CITY
Celebrate the Past, Present and Future in 2021 Missouri Bicentennial will be a festive celebration Stephen Foutes Director, Missouri Division of Tourism
Welcome to Missouri! There’s no doubt 2020 was a challenge for the travel business, and although we aren’t out of the woods yet, we’re excited that people are ready to hit the road and discover new adventures here in Missouri.
We have so much to offer all year round, with an extensive wine country, agritourism, charming small towns, two big rivers brimming with outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery and all the amenities of big city life.
With Missouri celebrating its bicentennial in 2021, we’d love to invite you to join us in exploring our history. From the Gateway to the West represented by the Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis with its iconic 630-foot arch to the jumping off point for the Pony Express in St. Joseph – the Show-Me State is a place where history happened and has been celebrated and preserved for your enjoyment.
Ste. Genevieve is the state’s first settlement and is home to the Sainte Genevieve National Historical Park, which highlights French Colonial architecture and culture.
Before professional baseball was desegregated, black soon-to-be team owners gathered in Kansas City just over 100 years ago to create a league of their own. The game and its influence on American culture are celebrated at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.
Hikers and bikers come from all over to experience the Katy Trail, the longest rail-to-trail conversion in the country. Visitors from all over the world rediscover the first true American road trip by driving Route 66. In the southern part of the state, the Ozarks offer everything from spectacular vistas and challenging hiking to fishing for wild trout and family-friendly entertainment in Branson.
We’re all this – and so much more. Welcome to Missouri, and enjoy the show.
Stephen Foutes Director www.VisitMO.com 14
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MISSOURI2020 GroupTour Tour Guide Guide FEATURES
6 Celebrate the Past, Present and Future During Missouri2021 The Missouri Bicentennial is official in August 2021 and there’s going to be a big celebration • By Dave Bodle
10 World’s First Auschwitz Traveling Exhibition Opening in 2021 The exhibition at Union Station Kansas City will include 700 original objects, the majority of which have never been displayed • By Dave Bodle
14 Discover Missouri History and Hospitality in the Heartland Triangle Historical attractions and landmarks await in this charming region • By Jason Paha
17 3 Days to Explore Branson Here’s a sampling of fun to be found in Branson during a three-day visit • By Dave Bodle
18 Fascinating Stories Detail Missouri’s Role in Westward Expansion Missouri’s expansion timeline is a historically rich period filled with intriguing places and people • By Tyler Drag
21 French History and Heritage Along the Mississippi River From the historic architecture and lovely gardens to art and festivals, there’s a rich French connection on the Missouri side of Old Man River
ON THE COVER: Fair Saint Louis at Gateway Arch National Park 18
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Missouri Driving DistancesMISSOURI AtDRIVING a glance, this handy chart showsDISTANCES distances inAt milesa glance, betweenthis handy chart shows distances in miles between popularpopular tourist tourist cities cities
Branson Cape Girardeau Charleston Columbia Hannibal Hermann Independence Jefferson City Joplin Kansas City Rolla St. Charles Ste. Genevieve St. Joseph St. Louis Sedalia Springfield Branson 0 275 256 201 275 217 205 170 107 211 144 254 286 264 251 156 43 Cape Girardeau 275 0 35 225 217 185 342 220 321 350 158 126 61 408 115 279 255 Charleston 256 35 0 258 249 214 375 252 319 382 198 166 101 448 147 313 255 Columbia 201 225 258 0 98 65 119 31 227 126 94 108 175 184 112525 67 162 Hannibal 275 217 249 98 0 86 192 106 302 201 151 99 165 194 117 163 237 Hermann 217 185 214 65 86 0 181 48 250 188 72 60 129 243 81 107 182 Independence 205 342 375 119 192 181 0 142 154 9 204 225 290 63 242 82 163 Jefferson City 170 220 252 31 106 48 142 0 202 148 62 117 168 208 122 61 133 Joplin 107 321 319 227 302 250 154 202 0 157 178 284 297 211 284 175 70 Kansas City 211 350 382 126 201 188 9 148 157 0 210 233 298 55 252 87 167 Rolla 144 158 198 94 151 72 204 62 178 210 0 108 112 269 106 123 110 St. Charles 225454 126 166 108 99 60 225 117 284 233 108 0 66 290 22 173 220 Ste. Genevieve 286 61 101 175 165 129 290 168 297 298 112 66 0 354 54 227 232 St. Joseph 264 408 448 184 194 243 63 208 211 55 269 290 354 0 307 144 219 St. Louis 251 115 147 125 117 81 242 122 284 252 106 22 54 307 0 186 215 Sedalia 156 279 313 67 163 107 82 61 175 87 123 173 227 144 186 0 118 Springfield 43 255 255 162 237 182 163 133 70 167 110 220 232 219 215 118 0
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TRAVEL TIPS FOR YOUR MISSOURI TOUR Local information to get you on your way to the Show-Me State Official Missouri Welcome Centers Official Missouri taffers at Official Missouri Welcome Centers are ready Welcometo assist you Centers with information about the surrounding area and S the entire state. Picnic areas, vending machines and play- groundtaffers equipment at Official are availableMissouri atWelcome most Official Centers Welcome are ready Centers. to assist you with information about the surrounding area (industry.visitmo.com/about-the-division/welcome-centers) Sand the entire state. Picnic areas, vending machines and playgroundConway Official equipment Welcome are Center available at most Official Welcome Centers.110619 Interstate (industry.visitmo.com/about-the-division/welcome-centers) 44 West Conway, MO 65632 Conway417-589-0023 Official Missouri Welcome Center [email protected] Interstate 44 West, Mile Marker 110 Conway,Eagleville MO Official 65632 Missouri Welcome Center 417-589-002311687 Interstate 35 South Eagleville, MO 64442 [email protected] Missouri [email protected] EaglevilleHannibal Official Official Missouri Missouri Welcome Welcome Center Center Driving 116871700 Highway Interstate 61 South 35 South, Mile Marker 112 Hannibal, MO 63401 Eagleville,573-248-2420 MO 64442 Distances [email protected] [email protected] Official Missouri Welcome Center At a glance, Interstate 55 North, Mile Marker 20 HaytiHayti, OfficialMO 63851 Missouri Welcome Center 573-359-0330 this handy chart [email protected] 55 North, Mile Marker 20 Hayti, MO 63851 shows distances Joplin Official Missouri Welcome Center 573-359-0330Interstate 44 East, Mile Marker 2 Rest Area in miles between [email protected], MO 64803 417-629-3030 popular tourist cities [email protected] Joplin Official Missouri Welcome Center Kansas City Official Missouri Welcome Center 24814010 Bluff Interstate Ridge Cutoff 44 East, Mile Marker 2 Branson Cape Girardeau Charleston Columbia Hannibal Hermann Independence Jefferson City Joplin Kansas City Rolla St. Charles Ste. Genevieve St. Joseph St. Louis Sedalia Springfield Joplin,Kansas MOCity, 64804 MO 64133 Branson 0 275 256 201 275 217 205 170 107 211 144 254 286 264 251 156 43 816-889-3330 Cape Girardeau 275 0 35 225 217 185 342 220 321 350 158 126 61 408 115 279 255 417-629-3030 Charleston 256 35 0 258 249 214 375 252 319 382 198 166 101 448 147 313 255 [email protected] Columbia 201 225 258 0 98 65 119 31 227 126 94 108 175 184 125 67 162 Hannibal 275 217 249 98 0 86 192 106 302 201 151 99 165 194 117 163 237 [email protected] Hermann 217 185 214 65 86 0 181 48 250 188 72 60 129 243 81 107 182 Rock Port Official Missouri Welcome Center Independence 205 342 375 119 192 181 0 142 154 9 204 225 290 63 242 82 163 Out-of-StateOUT-OF-STATE 23181 Interstate 29 South Jefferson City 170 220 252 31 106 48 142 0 202 148 62 117 168 208 122 61 133 Joplin 107 321 319 227 302 250 154 202 0 157 178 284 297 211 284 175 70 DrivingDRIVING Distances DISTANCES RockRock PortPort, MOOfficial 64482 Missouri Welcome Center Kansas City 211 350 382 126 201 188 9 148 157 0 210 233 298 55 252 87 167 660-744-6300 Rolla 144 158 198 94 151 72 204 62 178 210 0 108 112 269 106 123 110 23181 Interstate 29 South, Mile Marker 109 St. Charles 254 126 166 108 99 60 225 117 284 233 108 0 66 290 22 173 220 From To Miles [email protected] Ste. Genevieve 286 61 101 175 165 129 290 168 297 298 112 66 0 354 54 227 232 Chicago St. Louis 297 Rock Port, MO 64482 St. Joseph 264 408 448 184 194 243 63 208 211 55 269 290 354 0 307 144 219 Dallas Kansas City 508 St. Louis Official Missouri Welcome Center St. Louis 251 115 147 125 117 81 242 122 284 252 106 22 54 307 0 186 215 660-744-6300 Sedalia 156 279 313 67 163 107 82 61 175 87 123 173 227 144 186 0 118 Minneapolis Branson 643 Interstate 270 at Riverview Drive Springfield 43 255 255 162 237 182 163 133 70 167 110 220 232 219 215 118 0 Memphis St. Louis 283 [email protected]. Louis, MO 63138 314-869-7100 [email protected] 6 MISSOURI TOUR GUIDE 2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE 5 Oak Grove Plantation Photo courtesyPhoto Robertson of Julie
CELEBRATE THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE DURING MISSOURI2021 The Missouri Bicentennial is officially in August 2021, but celebrations are planned throughout the year, and visitors are invited to join in the fun.
By Dave Bodle
6 20212021 MISSOURIMISSOURI GROUPGROUP TOURTOUR GUIDEGUIDE n 2013, the Missouri General Assembly tasked the Historical Society of Missouri with leading the Missouri 2021 IBicentennial celebration. Work began almost immediately to showcase Missouri’s rich history for visitors and residents. The results include statewide and local/regional projects and Missouri Bicentennial organized events. When planning your 2021 itinerary, see what Missouri happenings are near your destinations of choice. Here are just a few to get you started.
Statewide Projects Missouri Art Now: A Bicentennial Celebration recognizes Missouri as a significant state for visual art creation. Arts councils and museums from across the state are collaborating to feature an exhibition of 60 Missouri artists in Missouri Art Now from March to November 2021. The collection will be displayed at five venues throughout the state. PostArtLibrary.org Struggle for Statehood is a traveling exhibit that offers insight into the three years prior to Missouri’s statehood and the fierce debates regarding the state’s admission to the Union. The exhibit leads the viewer through the timeline, historical accounts and those the argument impacted. The exhibition will be on the road until December 2021. Claire Bruntrager at 314-781-9660, or [email protected] can share dates and locations. Show Me Hooked Rugs 2021 will be on display from March- August 2021 at the Missouri State Museum in Jefferson City. Big Muddy Rug Hookers/Association of Traditional Hooking Artists will host the exhibition of traditional hooked rugs. Past and present artists will be featured. Missouri Bicentennial Quilt celebrates the history of quilting from the pioneer days to the present. The State Historical Society of Missouri and Missouri Star Quilt Company has partnered with the Missouri State Quilters Guild. Together, they’re collecting one quilt block from every Missouri county and the independent City of St. Louis, displaying their uniqueness. The Missouri Bicentennial Quilt is completed and has begun Missouri Statehood Petition traveling throughout the state. The exhibition schedule is online at missouri2021.org/bicentennial-quilt/ Paint For A Cause will have juried artists Aaron Horrell and Barb Bailey assisting Missourians from every corner of the state painting a mural depicting recognizable Missouri state symbols. All skill levels were invited to participate in painting 4 feet by 6 feet aluminum pieces that will make up the 12 feet by 30 feet mural. For its permanent home, the mural will be hung in the Truman Building in Jefferson City.
Local/Regional Projects Shepherd: The Musical shares a piece of life in the Ozarks as written by Harold Bell Wright, author of The Shepherd of MISSOURI2021 the Hills. Readers and audiences have been moved by the story for decades. Information about performances of this new musical will soon be announced. Voices of Arrow Rock, Spirit of the Missouri Frontier is a theatrical performance that tells the story of early Arrow Rock citizens – from the early-mid 19th century – on the Missouri Missouri Bicentennial Quilt celebrates the history of quilting. frontier. Featuring underrepresented voices, characters include The Missouri Bicentennial Quilt is a project of the State Historical Society of Missouri an enslaved man and woman and former enslaved persons freed and Missouri Star Quilt Company, in partnership with Missouri State Quilters Guild.
2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE 7 interactive exhibits, historical portrayals, folk art exhibitions, side-by-side with today’s industry innovators. StJoeArts.org Northeast Missouri Old Threshers Annual Show is a four-day festival offering demonstrations of family life, agriculture, transportation and communications from the past. The event, complete with Nashville recording artists, is set for September 16-19, 2021, in Shelbina. NortheastMissouriOldThreshers.com/ Made in St. Joseph from Steam to STEAM will offer interactive exhibits and folk art exhibitions. index.html Southwest Missouri Cattlemen’s Tour by emancipation. The premiere will be the Missouri River. Opening for the is scheduled for September 2021 and August 7, 2021. FriendsOfArrowRock.org August 2021 celebration, the pedestrian/ will introduce visitors to the new and Show Me To the Stage: A Missouri bike bridge will provide access to a different practices of cattle producers Bicentennial Season at Maplewood relaxing park on Adrian Island. Along the in Missouri’s number one agricultural Barn Community Theatre, located bridge there will be interpretive stops industry. The tour will go to four farms in Columbia, will commemorate the defining transportation, including the and ranches in Barry, Dade, Lawrence bicentennial with four 2021 plays river, rail and highways of the region. and Stone counties. MoCattle.org with a Missouri theme. Performance This is just a quick snapshot of dates will be announced in the future. Events Missouri Bicentennial celebrations, MaplewoodBarn.com Made in St. Joseph from Steam to and the calendar of events is constant Bicentennial Bridge to Adrian’s STEAM, August 20-21, 2021, is a festival growing. Discover the festivities that Island puts on full display the historic that showcases St. Joseph – from a frontier await for your next Missouri itinerary. relationship between Jefferson City and town to an advanced city. There will be Begin planning at Missouri2021.org.•
8 2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE
Patee House Museum Located on the scenic river blu s of the vast “Mighty MO”, St. Joseph, Missouri is a great American city with a fascinating Pony Express National Museum heritage, born of the fur trade, nurtured by the “Westward Expansion”, and brimming with a spirit of adventure as the starting place of the Pony Express, “Ole’ St. Joe is a city you and your group will never forget.
Walter Cronkite Memorial St. Joseph is home to 13 distinctive museums, 12 annual festivals, amazing architecture listed on the National Register of Historic Places and personalized itineraries custom made Pony Express Statue with home-town hospitality. Also enjoy goodie bags for groups and personal welcome from a St. Joseph representative.
JUST AROUND THE CORNER Located at the crossroads of Interstate 29 and MO Highway 36 and only 30 minutes from North Kansas City puts St. Joseph Unique Shopping within easy driving distance of over 17 metropolitan areas.
St. Joseph currently has a Remington Nature Center face-covering order in place that may be modi ed or extended. #VisitStJoSafely
For tour ideas, contact: Gracia Pinzino, Group Sales Manager stjomo.com/grouptour | 800-785-0360 | [email protected] WORLD’S FIRST AUSCHWITZ TRAVELING EXHIBITION OPENING IN JUNE 2021 The exhibition at Union Station Kansas City will include 700 original objects, the majority of which have never been displayed.
By Dave Bodle
10 2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE or the first time, 75 years after the liberation of Auschwitz, a traveling exhibition dedicated to the camp and its historical Fmeaning has been created. The exhibit is set to open at Union Station Kansas City in June 2021. Seven hundred original objects, mostly belonging to the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum, will be displayed throughout nearly 30,000 square feet of exhibition space. The aim of this meticulous and poignant exhibition is to explore the complex reality of the Nazi German concentration and extermination camp at Auschwitz-Birkenau within the historical context, as well as examine how such a place came to exist and the terrible historical and human consequences resulting from the Holocaust. A painstaking conservation process readied these artifacts to be presented for the first time to the public. The project also involves specific loans from several international institutions, including Yad Vashem – The World Holocaust Remembrance Center in Jerusalem, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. and other Holocaust centers in North America and Europe, as well as from survivors and private collections. Although objects previously have been loaned to various museums and institutions, this project represents an unprecedented collaboration to create an international traveling exhibition, displaying a large collection of objects within the narrative context of the camp’s history. The exhibit will include an original barrack from Auschwitz III-Monowitz and an original German-made Model 2 freight wagon of the type used by the Deutsche-Reichsbahn (German National Seven hundred objects will be displayed throughout the museum.
OPENING IN JUNE 2021
The exhibitions will be displayed throughout 30,000 square feet of space.
The exhibition “Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away” photos © Musealia
2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE 11 The unique items throughout the exhibition will cover the main topics of the history of Auschwitz.
Railway) during WWII for the transportation of troops and on the strong foundations of our memory. Auschwitz and the prisoners of war and the deportation of Jews to the ghettos and tragedy of the Shoah are part of those foundations, which extermination camps in occupied Poland. cannot be bypassed in creating a new face of the world.” The unique items throughout the exhibition will cover the Auschwitz is a part of our history and the memory of main topics of the history of Auschwitz, as well as all the victim Auschwitz is a part of our modern world. “Nothing can groups in the camp: Jews deported for termination, Poles, Sinti replace a visit to the authentic site of the biggest crime of the and Roma, and Soviet POWs. Additionally, some objects will 20th century, but this exhibition can become a great warning also depict the world of the perpetrators – SS men who created cry for us all against building the future on hatred, racism, and operated the largest of the German Nazi camps. anti-Semitism and bottomless contempt for another human Understanding how Auschwitz came to be is a core purpose being,” Cywinski added. of the exhibition. Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum Director “The exhibition will offer an introspective journey across the Dr. Piotr M. A. Cywinski said, “Today, the world is moving in very nature of mankind, experienced through the ‘dual’ history uncertain directions. That is why we need to rely more and more of the camp: Auschwitz as a physical location and Auschwitz
12 2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE as a symbol and metaphor for the borderless manifestation estimated one million travelers, many of them troops, of human barbarity,” said Luis Ferreiro (Musealia), project passed through the station. Just as you could more than director for the exhibition. “It will also place Auschwitz in its 100 years ago, you can still catch the train at Union Station historical context, allowing visitors to understand the pre-war Kansas City. years of Polish Oswiecim and the later German occupation and Today, visitors are drawn to the historic landmark by the terror system they established,” he added. KC Rail Experience permanent rail exhibit, a wide variety Since 1947, Poland has worked to preserve the site and of visiting exhibits, a planetarium, an interactive science remains of the German Nazi concentration and extermination center, and a vibrant theater district, featuring giant- camp, as well as its history. Those efforts include the creation of screen movies and live theater. Harvey’s at Union Station the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum and its exhibitions. By and Pierponts are restaurants located off the Grand Hall. 2016, the museum was attracting two million visitors annually. There’s also shopping available, from the Rocky Mountain Built in 1914, Union Station Kansas City is an architectural Chocolate Factory and Science City store to the Kansas masterpiece and a piece of living history. During WWII, an City Store. Plan your visit at unionstation.org/groups.•
2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE 13 The famous columns at the University of Missouri are a popular attraction.
DISCOVER MISSOURI HISTORY AND HOSPITALITY IN THE HEARTLAND TRIANGLE Historical attractions and landmarks await in this charming region By Jason Paha
14 2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE ith an abundance of natural beauty coupled with a variety of attractions, Central Missouri’s Heartland W Triangle is a hospitable region with an interesting past. The area’s three top destinations, Jefferson City, Columbia and Lake of the Ozarks, reside within an hour of one another in a triangular pattern. All three cities have impressive history and are home to numerous attractions that will appeal to groups of all ages.
Columbia HISTORY AND HOSPITALITY Columbia has been referred to as the cultural hub of Central Missouri and has established itself as a celebrated place for groups to anchor their mid-Missouri sojourns. Much of Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City. Columbia’s history and culture is tied to the University of Missouri, established in 1839. It is the oldest state land-grant and more than 70 bars and restaurants, The District is the university west of the Mississippi River. Groups looking to explore perfect place for your group to enjoy great food, drinks and the campus will appreciate a visit to the Francis Quadrangle, entertainment. the university’s historical center. Known as the Quad, it is the oldest part of Red Campus, the university’s original core, and is Jefferson City adjacent to downtown Columbia. The site of Thomas Jefferson’s Decommissioned in 2004, the Missouri State Penitentiary in original tombstone, the Quad is also home to Jesse Hall, whose Jefferson City offers a variety of tours at the site once called dome has towered over the campus since 1895, and Switzler “the bloodiest 47 acres in America” for its many riots and Hall, the school’s oldest academic building (constructed in 1867). executions. Groups can visit the cells of former heavyweight Perhaps the university’s most recognized landmark resides in the champion Sonny Liston, who learned to box while behind bars; center of the Quad. The Columns, six limestone pillars standing Charles “Pretty Boy” Floyd, who wreaked havoc across the 43 feet tall in the center of the Quad, were once the supports Midwest robbing banks; and James Earl Ray, who went on to for the original Academic Hall and are all that’s left after the Hall assassinate Martin Luther King, Jr. was destroyed by fire in 1892. They are now one of the most Dominating the city’s skyline, the Missouri State Capitol photographed sites in Missouri. A Museum of Art and Archeology covers three acres and has 500,000 square feet of floor and Museum of Anthropology are part of the university, but space. The structure, built in 1917, rises 238 feet and offers located off campus at 115 Business Loop 70. incredible views of the Missouri River. It houses offices for the A short walk from campus is The District, a 50-square-block Governor, Senate and House of Representatives, and is home downtown area that features a lively mix of historic architecture, to a variety of priceless artwork, including a mural by Thomas sidewalk cafes, retail shops, bars, restaurants, coffee shops, Hart Benton. Free guided tours are offered year-round and last parks and art galleries. With more than 110 unique shops approximately 45 minutes to an hour. History buffs can find a number of important monuments in Jefferson City, including the Cole County World War I Memorial, a bronze plaque and stone memorial that honors World War I veterans; the Lewis & Clark Monument, honoring the famous explorers in a serene setting featuring waterfalls; and Freedom Corner, which pays homage to members of the U.S. armed services. Another history-filled stop is the Cole County Historical Museum, which collects and preserves records, documents and artifacts directly related to the history of the region. Jefferson City’s restaurants, sidewalk cafes, locally-owned coffee shops and live music venues will keep your group satiated and entertained. And don’t forget to save room for dessert with a visit to Central Dairy, a venerable shop that began serving its famous ice cream in Jefferson City in 1934.
Lake of the Ozarks Located in the heart of Missouri on the northern edge of the Columbia’s downtown District is a 50-square-block area that Ozark Mountains, Lake of the Ozarks is the Midwest’s premier features a lively mix of historic architecture, sidewalk cafes, retail lake resort destination, offering world-class boating, golfing, shops, bars, restaurants, coffee shops, parks and art galleries. shopping and fishing.
2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE 15 Given that the lake is a 92-mile-long outdoor paradise, many of its historical attractions are rooted in nature. One popular destination is Bridal Cave, the lake area’s number one year-round attraction. One-hour guided tours take visitors through the cave’s 60-degree environment, where they will see giant columns of stone, delicate soda straw formations, massive draperies of limestone and pristine Mystery Lake. The cave has been around for centuries and received its name from an old Osage legend in which a maiden from a local tribe married a brave from another tribe in a room filled with stalactites and stalagmites. With a surface area of 55,000 acres, Lake of the Ozarks is one of the largest man-made lakes in the country. The lake was created by the construction of Bagnell Dam, built between 1929 and 1931. Named for the closest town when construction began, the concrete gravity dam is 148 feet tall, 2,543 feet long and has a 520-foot-long spillway. The dam is an architectural marvel, and the surrounding area is an entertainment destination filled with restaurants, candy stores, ice cream parlors, nostalgic gift shops, music and classic arcades. One of the most popular excursions in Lake of the Ozarks are scenic cruises on the famous and picturesque lake. Groups can choose from a variety of cruises, including a lunch lake cruise, an Bridal Cave in Camdenton. evening sunset cruise and a candlelight dinner cruise. •
Bagnell Dam is a 148-foot-tall concrete gravity dam.
16 2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE in this nationwide poll of USA Today readers. The two additional awards go to the 2015 Guinness World Record-holding wooden roller coaster Outlaw 3 DAYS TO Run, which ranks in the Top 10 Best Roller Coaster poll (No. 10) and Buckshot Annie’s, home of the park’s favorite skillet meals, which ranks as the No. 5 Best Restaurant. EXPLORE If you prefer to split your time between numerous fun-filled attractions, you’ll have plenty of choices. There’s mini-golf, go-kart rides and extreme adventure choices. For museum lovers BRANSON (and perfect for a rainy day) there are more than a dozen options. Finally, there’s no shortfall of Here’s a sampling of fun to be found in ways to enjoy some outdoor activity. There are an Branson during a three-day visit abundance of area lakes perfect for boating and fishing. On land, there are great hiking trails and By Dave Bodle award-winning golf courses. For more than 50 years, live entertainment has rom accommodations to fit any style been an important part of Branson vacations. A and budget to great meals and fabulous wide variety of live show options are a staple; F attractions, there are plenty of options for a enjoy rock or country music, hilarious comedy, short trip to Branson. dinner shows and even shows on boats. Regardless of the time you arrive, settle into Depending on your day three departure time, your lodging of choice before departing for take in spectacular views of the Ozarks at Top of the Branson Landing. Located on Lake Taneycomo, Rock. The on-site Osage Restaurant offers weekend the Landing is a one-stop shopping, dining and brunch options. entertainment destination. It’s been a quick three days with many Anchored by Belk department store and Bass experiences. However, there’s always more to Pro Shops, both sides of the promenade are lined explore in Branson.• with familiar names in apparel and shoes. You’ll also find a great selection of specialty shops featuring women’s jewelry and accessories, home décor, sports and kids stores. There are treats at the candy store, but don’t spoil your dinner. Enjoy a great meal at any one of the Branson Landing restaurants. If you’re looking for American food, you’ll have some delightful choices. There’s excellent food and 100+ whiskeys on the shelf. A refined but relaxed grill is a favorite of visitors and locals. Other restaurants include famous chefs and television personalities featuring their award-winning recipes. Add some international variety with a visit to the Irish pub or one of the Mexican restaurants. On day two, go local for breakfast. You’ll need a delicious, hearty meal to help fuel a busy day. Silver Dollar City is an all-day adventure. In this year’s 10Best/USAToday Readers’ Choice Awards, Silver Dollar City took the crown for No. 1 amusement park in the land. In total, Silver Dollar City was awarded three amusement-related awards Branson Landing
2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE 17 Park Central Square Fountain, Springfield
WESTWARD EXPANSION Photo courtesyPhoto Joplin of Visit Necklaces recovered from the hideout The Patee House Museum in St. Joseph was one of the best-known hotels west of the apartment after Bonnie & Clyde fled. Mississippi River.
18 2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE FASCINATING STORIES DETAIL MISSOURI’S ROLE IN WESTWARD EXPANSION Missouri’s expansion timeline is a historically rich period filled with intriguing places and people. By Tyler Drag
issouri is home to a wealth of history – from the warning. Instead of backing down, Tutt actually doubled down by Gateway Arch in St. Louis, a symbol of our country’s putting a hand on his gun. The two were already about 75 yards Mwestward expansion, to the opposite side of the state, apart and in dueling positions, but when they drew their guns once the edge of the nation. and shot, Wild Bill’s aim proved quicker and truer. Wild Bill killed Tracing Missouri’s past at historic destinations is educational Tutt and won the first quick draw duel. and inspirational. Here are a few of the Show-Me State’s most This historic moment left its mark on American culture. The intriguing chapters. city of Springfield provides a downtown audio tour where visitors can listen to eyewitness accounts of the notorious event. An St. Joseph exhibit inside the nearby History Museum on the Square offers Following the gold rush in California, St. Joseph was visitors the opportunity to test their own dueling skills. chosen to be the headquarters of the Pony Express. Although short-lived, the Pony Express was a surprisingly efficient mail Joplin delivery service. It’s fascinating to see where the ride-or-die couple of the The idea of men delivering mail via a horseback relay system 1930s, Bonnie and Clyde, stopped in Joplin. Their chaotic was slow to gain traction with the government at first, but once marathon of crime led them to the city, where the couple and the company secured a government contract and the route, its their gang decided to stay in a little garage apartment for stations, horses and employees were ready to start in just three several weeks before they were involved in a shooting. months. You can learn more about this historical delivery service Two local officers lost their lives as a result of the at the National Pony Express Museum in St. Joseph. shootout, and the lovers managed to escape. Although the St. Joseph is also where famous outlaw Jesse James met his infamous couple fled, they left behind a camera with some demise at the hands of Robert Ford. After years of stagecoach, of their most iconic photos. A local newspaper, the Joplin bank and train robberies, James finally settled down. He moved Globe, had the film developed and the Dorothea B. Hoover to St. Joseph with his family but made the mistake of turning his Historical Museum displays the photos along with additional back on Ford, who shot him just below his right ear. Today, James’ artifacts, including jewelry that was left behind. home still stands and is a popular tourist destination in the town. It operates as a museum detailing the life and death of the famous Independence outlaw, as well as artifacts, including a bullet removed from his Just east of Kansas City is the town of Independence, body and the handles from James’ coffin. which hosts the massive SantaCaliGon Days Festival. The festival dates back to 1940, and features a beard and Springfield mustache contest, the Miss Independence pageant and Springfield’s Park Central Square is the birthplace of one of a pioneer costume contest. Today, the festival celebrates the most iconic actions in the “wild west” – the quick draw the important legacy of the City of Independence as the duel. The nation’s first one-on-one shootout took place in the starting point of the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon town square between the famous J.B. “Wild Bill” Hickok and Trails. Experience life on the trail with a wagon tour of Davis K. Tutt, on July 21, 1865. Independence. Pioneer Trails Adventures will regale your The story goes that Wild Bill owed a gambling debt to Tutt, so as group with the town’s extensive history as you retrace the insurance, Tutt took a valued watch from the now-legendary folk steps of pioneers. Groups can even opt for a chuck wagon hero. Although he was warned against it, Tutt decided to wear the dinner following their tour. watch in public to degrade Wild Bill. This was a huge mistake. SantaCaliGon Days is looking forward to drawing crowds The men failed at negotiating the debt and the return of the in 2021. Visitors can expect plenty to do with food vendors, watch, so when Wild Bill saw Tutt, the gunslinger gave his final craft beer tents, arts and crafts vendors, and music.•
2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE 19 St. Louis has St. Louis, MO everything from the monumental to the funky. You can visit Gateway Arch The Monumental to the Funky National Park, Day 1 There are 4,000 square feet of man-made caves which underwent and tunnels, an enchanted forest with sky tunnels, a $380 million Union Station is a balance of nostalgia and an aquarium, a working shoelace factory, daily renovation to the renovation. The sophisticated Grand Hall features circus performances and much more. There’s even City Museum, which elegant historic touches like the original terrazzo floor, a rooftop adventure that includes a Ferris wheel, a really no words green glazed terracotta bricks, stained glass windows giant slide and a school bus hanging over the edge. can describe. We and wooden carpentry detailing. Dinner: The MX District or Washington Ave. are known for An innovative and breathtaking 3D light show set to Downtown our fabulous free music projects across the Grand Hall’s entire 65-foot attractions and the vaulted ceiling, every day at 5 p.m., for an exciting mix many wonderful one- of old-meets-new. Day 2 of-a-kind attractions Anchoring the Union Station development is the you can’t find stunning St. Louis Aquarium. The 120,000-square- The World Chess Hall of Fame celebrates one anywhere else. foot attraction features one-of-a-kind exhibits and of the world’s oldest and best-loved games. The tanks housing thousands of aquatic species from the organization presents exhibitions that explore rivers and oceans of the world. the history of the game as well as its remarkable Also, available at St. Louis Union Station: Mirror impact on arts and culture. (Free) (1 – 1.5 hours) Maze, Rope Course, The Carousel, Mini Golf, Fire and Grand Center Arts District invites you to Light Show and the Grand Hall Light Show. immerse yourself in St. Louis’ epicenter for Food options at St. Louis Union Station: Soda the arts. Here, world-class talent performs, Fountain, Train Shed, 1894 Café, Landry’s Seafood and aspiring artists hone their craft. Eclectic House, Station Grille and the Grand Hall. venues line the streets offering everything Soldiers Memorial Military Museum a state-of- from Broadway to Black Box Theater, Bebop to the-art museum facility in downtown St. Louis honors Beethoven, street art to galleries and pub-fare to military service, veterans and their families. Soldiers fine dining. Memorial shares American military history through The Fabulous Fox Theater is a magnificently the lens of St. Louis. (Free) (1 – 2 hours) restored theatre in the Grand Center Arts and Standing 630 feet tall, the Gateway Arch, our Entertainment District. The perfect venue to see nation’s tallest man-made monument, stands as the the hottest Broadway shows and concerts. Prices EXPLORE ST. LOUIS iconic monument symbolizing the westward expansion vary; see website for performance schedule. Tours of the United States. The Gateway Arch National offered. (1 – 3 hours) Renee M. Eichelberger, CTP, CTIS, CSTP Park experience includes the Tram Ride to the Top, the Jazz St. Louis offers the best in live jazz in a [email protected] all-new Museum and cruises aboard the Gateway Arch newly renovated, intimate 200 seat listening room 314-992-0643 Riverboats. (2+ hours) featuring reserved tables, exceptional sound, clear 800-637-9829 www.explorestlouis.com Explore the unexpected at the City Museum. sight lines, and optional dinner or drinks.
20 2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE MISSOURI ITINERARY
French History and Heritage Along the Mississippi River Missouri’s oldest town, Ste. Genevieve, was settled on the west bank of the Mississippi River in the early 1700s. In 1764, St. Louis was established and named after a sainted French King. More than 200 years ago, Cape Girardeau began its evolution from a tiny trading post. From the historic architecture and lovely gardens to art and festivals, there’s a rich French connection on the Missouri side of Old Man River.
UNIQUE Day 1: All trips to St. Louis should begin at Gateway Arch National EXPERIENCES Park. When built, the Arch was dedicated to Thomas Jefferson and Gateway Arch National Park westward expansion. The footprint includes the Old Courthouse ■ Lafayette Square and a group of extraordinary dioramas showcasing French ■ The Centre For French Colonial Life Colonial architecture in early St. Louis. For a panoramic view of ■ the city, take a tram ride to the top of the Arch. Be sure to call ahead to make reservations. The Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, or Old Cathedral 3 as the locals call it, was built in 1764 on land reserved for Roman Catholic worship. A larger Log Church was built in 1776 and was Homes of Lafayette Square Photo courtesyPhoto of Donovan Dan
2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE 21 the only church of any denomination until 1816. The fourth church Continue your driving tour with a visit to the Soulard to grace the site, and the one you can see today, was built in 1834 Neighborhood, St. Louis’ oldest neighborhood. Brick row houses, and was the first cathedral west of the Mississippi River. blues clubs and corner taverns are the neighborhood’s signature. Much like Paris’ Musee Rodin, Citygarden is a downtown Operating Wednesday through Saturday, the Soulard Farmers public sculpture garden. More than 20 sculptures are on display. Market is the oldest public market west of the Mississippi River. A stunning plant palette includes 20 species of trees and 89 The neighborhood’s French heritage and lively vibe are on species of plants. display during Mardi Gras celebrations. Named for Pierre Laclede, French founder of St. Louis, historic Your morning windshield tour concludes at Lafayette Square. Laclede’s Landing was a warehouse district for steamboats When Marquis de Lafayette visited St. Louis in 1836, the and barges transporting trade goods. Today, the restored young contributor to the American Revolutionary War effort so warehouses are an entertainment district with restaurants, bars impressed the locals, they named the city’s first designated park and clubs. Enjoy dinner before checking into your group-friendly after him. The oldest public park west of the Mississippi River is St. Louis accommodations. surrounded by one of the country’s finest and largest grouping of Victorian-era architecture. Your next stop is Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, or New Day 2: Cathedral. Plans for a new cathedral for the St. Louis Parish were Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before a drive-by of the 1893 St. underway as early as 1905 and, after numerous challenges, it Louis City Hall. The grand structure sports a style similar to the was ready for consecration on June 29, 1926. Guided tours of the Paris Hotel de Ville. Look for St. Louis founder Pierre Laclede’s cathedral’s one-of-a-kind art, glorious architecture and rich history statue at the west entrance to City Hall. are available. Photo courtesyPhoto of Radford Gordon The Old Cathedral, Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France The New Cathedral, Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis
22 2021 MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE Tonight, it’s dinner and fun at St. Louis Union Station. Opened shops and appropriately, Left Bank Books. in 1894, the one-time world’s busiest station was modeled after After a busy morning, relax during the one-hour drive to the French fortress of Carcassonne. Enjoy dinner at one of six historic, charming Ste. Genevieve. Begin your experience restaurants. Afterward, watch a panoramic light show on the at The Centre for French Colonial Life, a campus of huge ceiling in the Grand Hall. historic buildings preserving America’s French colonial heritage. Start your visit at the orientation, exhibits and education facility. Continue your tour at four historic Day 3: homes, each with its own story to tell. After breakfast and checkout, begin today’s adventure Following your lodging check-in, head to Grapevine with a visit to the Missouri History Museum. The museum’s Grill at Chaumette Vineyards and Winery, one of the top permanent Currents Gallery displays the French fur trading winery restaurants in the nation, for dinner. Following a past, culture and customs of the early settlers and the popular wine tasting, enjoy a meal prepared with locally sourced, Parisian fashions of the time. fresh ingredients. Welcoming visitors to the Saint Louis Art Museum is a sculpture of the city’s patron saint, Louis IX, titled “Apotheosis of St. Louis.” The museum offers an impressive collection of Day 4: French Impressionism, furnishings and decorative arts. Check out of your lodging and begin the day at Beanik Café Lunch is in the Central West End Neighborhood followed and Pastry, with baked-from-scratch pastries and individually by free time for shopping at a variety of boutiques, antique brewed coffees. Then, get serious about shopping. Ste Genevieve’s charming downtown area is the place to be. From clothing, jewelry and antiques to art, wine and heirloom gifts, you’re certain to find exactly what you need. Naturally, there’s a shop to satisfy your sweet tooth. Depart for Cape Girardeau with a stop at Trail of Tears State Park along the way. The visitor center tells the tale of one of America’s darkest chapters, the forced march of Native Americans to Oklahoma. Located on the Mississippi River, the park’s location is ideal for spotting migratory birds. Arriving in Cape Girardeau, your first stop is the Red House Interpretive Center. Located on the site of Old St. Vincent’s Church, the Red House tells the story of the city’s founder, French-Canadian Louis Lorimier, and how the Old Cape Girardeau District started. The town has a wide variety of accommodations and after check-in continue the French theme and enjoy dinner at Broussard’s Cajun Cuisine.
Day 5: After breakfast at your hotel and check out, begin your day at Bollinger Mill State Historic Site. Standing on a site that represents 200 years of milling history, the present mill dates back to the Civil War. The Burfordville Covered Bridge sits alongside the mill and stretches across the Whitewater River. Returning to Cape Girardeau, stop at the Glenn House. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the house features many original architectural details and has been fully restored to reflect successful life on the Mississippi River during the Victorian era. You cannot leave Cape without experiencing a signature driving tour. Choose from the Gone Girl, Civil War, Rush Limbaugh’s Hometown, African American History or the Exploring the Lewis & Clark Trail driving tours. After lunch, depart for home with some wonderful memories Union Station Grand Hall of Missouri and its French history.
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