Missouri, USA — visiting The Show Me State

‘The Show Me State’
The nickname “The Show Me State” evolved from a speech of Congress member Willard Duncan Vandiver in Philadelphia in the year 1899. “…I am from Missouri. You have got to show me!”

The state itself – of course – is named after the Missouri River. Missouri is said to be a Native American phrase with a meaning like ‘place for big canoes’.

The capitol is Jefferson City but the largest cities are Kansas City (part in Kansas, most part in Missouri) and St. Louis. Both cities are important transportation hubs in the United States.

Overview

Whether along a secluded Ozark trail, a historic small-town square or among the bright lights of a major city, you’re sure to make many wonderful memories in Missouri.

Perhaps your favorite memory will be exploring Missouri’s natural wonders and wildlife, whether from the top of a bluff in the rugged Ozark Mountains or in the bottomland swamps and wetlands of the Mingo Wildlife Refuge. Or perhaps it will be the smell of the crisp, fresh air as you canoe down a clear Missouri stream or the sound of a riverboat chugging along the Mighty Mississippi.

Missouri’s metropolitan areas offer first-class attractions and amenities, as well as a few memorable surprises. Explore fantastic museums, great restaurants and resorts and find a variety of entertainment. Perhaps your favorite memory will be relaxing with your loved one while listening to the smooth sounds of jazz in Kansas City’s 18th and Vine District. Or maybe it comes with the look of excitement on your child’s face when you soar to the top of the Gateway Arch or attend a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game.

Delight your family with a visit to any one of Missouri’s many unique destinations and attractions. From city skyline to rural charm, Missouri offers just what you’re looking for. Discover the nightlife that’s made St. Louis and Kansas City famous.

Explore the beautiful state parks and waterways. Or simply escape to the rolling country roads of Missouri’s wine country and see for yourself why Missouri is recognized internationally for its award-winning vintages.

What to do / Sightseeing

Cities:
St. Louis
Kansas City
Jefferson City

The Outdoors:
Ozark Oasis
Katy Trail
Bonne Terre Mines

Music & Wine:
Missouri’s Music
Missouri’s Wine Country

Route 66 in Missouri

State Data & Essentials

State Name
Missouri  – State Abbr.: MO
Statehood
10-Aug-1821
– Statehood Ranking: 24
Land Area
68,886 square miles  (178,408 qkm)
– Land Area Ranking: 18
Population
5,988,927 (2010 Census); 5,595,211 (2000 Census)
Capital
Jefferson City
Biggest City
Kansas City
Nickname
The Show Me State
Motto
“Salus Populi Suprema Lex Esto” (== Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law)
Highest Point
540 m / 1,772 ft (Taum Sauk Mountain)
Lowest Point
70 m / 230 ft (St. Francis River)
Daylight Saving Time: yes
Tree
Flowering Dogwood (Cornus Florida L.)
Flower
White Hawthorn Blossom
Bird
Bluebird
Animal
Missouri Mule
Song
“Missouri Waltz”

Map