Nicknamed the “Show Me State,” Missouri combines Midwestern charm, beautiful scenery and rich history. Whether you’re a longtime resident or considering a move, you may be wondering what makes Missouri unique.
From iconic landmarks to popular cuisine to diverse attractions, Missouri has a lot to explore. Whether you’re buying a home in St. Louis, renting an apartment in Kansas City, or just passing through, read on to find out why living in Missouri is so appealing.
Booming economy and job opportunities
Missouri has a strong and diverse economy with key industries including agriculture, manufacturing and healthcare. The state is a major producer of soybeans, corn and beef cattle, contributing significantly to the nation’s food supply. Manufacturing also plays a key role, with Missouri known for producing automobiles, aerospace parts and beer.
Major cities such as St. Louis and Kansas City are economic hubs, offering numerous job opportunities in a variety of fields. The state’s central location and excellent transportation networks make it an ideal location for logistics and distribution.
Top 5 Employers in Missouri
- Walmart
- BJC Healthcare
- Boeing
- Washington University in St. Louis
- Celner Corporation
Must-visit tourist spots
Missouri has a wide range of attractions, from natural wonders to historic sites and vibrant cultural institutions.
- Gateway Arch, St. Louis: This iconic monument is the tallest arch in the world and offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the city.
- Branson: Known as the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World,” Branson is home to a variety of theaters, theme parks and outdoor activities.
- Lake of the Ozarks: A popular spot for boating, fishing, and relaxing, this large reservoir offers a variety of recreational opportunities.
- Silver Dollar City, Branson: Famous 19th-century theme park with thrilling rides and live entertainment.
- Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, Hannibal: Explore the famous author’s early life in his hometown.
Fun fact: The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum is home to the legendary whitewashed picket fence that inspired a famous scene in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.
Great food from around the state
Missouri’s culinary scene reflects diverse cultural influences and a rich agricultural landscape. From mouthwatering barbecue to famous local dishes, Missouri offers a variety of delicious cuisines to enjoy.
- Kansas City BBQ: Known for its slow-cooked meats and tangy sauces, Kansas City is a must-visit destination for barbecue lovers.
- Toasted ravioli: A St. Louis specialty, these breaded, deep-fried pasta pockets are a local favorite.
- Gooey Butter Cake: Originating from St. Louis, this rich, sweet cake is a beloved dessert.
- fried chicken: Missouri, and especially the town of Sikeston, is known for its take on this traditional dish.
- Springfield Style Cashew Chicken: A unique fusion cuisine born in Springfield that combines Chinese and American culinary traditions.
5 Famous Restaurants in Missouri
Rich culture and entertainment
Missouri’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, reflecting its rich history and diverse influences. The state is known for its contributions to music, such as blues and jazz, and its thriving performing and arts communities.
- St. Louis Symphony Orchestra: One of America’s oldest orchestras delivers world-class performances.
- Kansas City Jazz District: Discover the roots of jazz music in this historic district, home to numerous clubs and the American Jazz Museum.
- Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City: It is known for its extensive collection and iconic shuttlecock sculptures.
- Missouri History Museum, St. Louis: Discover the state’s rich history through fascinating exhibits and programs.
- Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis: One of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States, with beautiful gardens and greenhouses.
5 Best Places to See a Show in Missouri
- Fabulous Fox Theatre St. Louis
- Starlight Theater Kansas City
- Muny America’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theater in St. Louis
- Gillioz Theatre Springfield
- Blue Room Kansas City is known for its live jazz music.
Fun fact: In 1904, the World’s Fair was held in St. Louis, introducing many foods and new technologies to the American public, including ice cream cones and Dr. Pepper.
Top-notch higher education
Missouri is home to a number of prestigious universities known for their academic excellence and contributions to research. From public institutions to private colleges and universities, Missouri offers a wide range of educational opportunities.
Here are the top 6 colleges in Missouri.
- Washington University in St. Louis
- University of Missouri (Missouri)
- Saint Louis University
- Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T)
- Truman State University
- Drury University
Great natural resources
Missouri’s natural beauty is diverse and fascinating, featuring rolling hills, mighty rivers and picturesque lakes, while the state’s parks and outdoor spaces offer countless activities, including hiking, camping and wildlife viewing.
5 Amazing State Parks in Missouri
- Ha Ha Tonka State Park: It is known for its European-style castle ruins and beautiful karst topography.
- Elephant Rocks State Park: It is famous for its giant granite boulders that resemble a line of circus elephants.
- Meramec State Park: There are beautiful views of the Meramec River and numerous caves to explore.
- Table Rock State Park: Located near Branson, perfect for boating, fishing and hiking.
- Roaring River State Park: It’s a popular spot for trout fishing and enjoying the beautiful Ozark scenery.
Did you know that? The Missouri River is the longest river in North America, stretching more than 2,300 miles from Montana to Missouri where it joins the Mississippi River.
A mecca for sports
Missouri’s love of sports is evident with its passionate fan base and successful professional teams, and the state offers a wide range of sporting events and activities for sports enthusiasts of all kinds.
Professional sports teams
- St. Louis Cardinals (MLB)
- Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)
- St. Louis Blues (NHL)
- Sporting Kansas City (MLS)
- Kansas City Royals (MLB)
Fun fact: The Kansas City Chiefs won their first Super Bowl in 1970 and their most recent Super Bowl in 2020, cementing their place in NFL history.
Popular phrases in Missouri
- “Show Me State” – reflects the skeptical and pragmatic nature common among Missourians.
- “Mizzou” – A common abbreviation for the University of Missouri, known for its athletic and academic programs.
- “The Lou” – Nickname for St. Louis.
- “Crossroads of America” – Located in the center of Missouri, it serves as a major transportation hub.
- “See you in St. Louis.” – a famous phrase from the iconic 1944 musical film, which reflects the city’s cultural heritage.
- “KC BBQ” – A reference to the distinctive Kansas City style of barbecue, known for its rich flavors and variety of meats.
- “Lake of the Ozarks” – a familiar phrase describing a popular vacation destination in mid-Missouri.
What Missouri is famous for
- health care: Missouri is home to several major medical institutions, including Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis and St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City.
- Cave Condition: Missouri is home to more than 6,000 caves, many of which are open to the public, including Meramec Caverns and Mark Twain Caverns.
- Mark Twain’s Legacy: The famous author Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, was a Missouri native and his works often reflect the state’s culture and landscape.
- Wine Country: Missouri has a thriving wine industry, with areas such as Hermann and Augusta known for their vineyards and wine production.
- Craft Breweries: Missouri is a hub for craft beer enthusiasts, especially in St. Louis, with a growing number of breweries and a rich brewing history.
