With a rich history, iconic music scene, adventure activities, and out-of-this-world barbecue, touring Missouri is the stop your clients need on their next USA road trip. Tapping into the true heart of America, Viva Holidays has curated self-drive packages for your convenience, and North America Product Manager Alysha Hughes shares her recent trip highlights.
Defined by its authentic American spirit, vibrant music scene, and award-winning barbecue, Missouri offers a surprising variety of modern experiences when you know what to book.
Viva Holidays, in partnership with Brand USA and Visit Missouri, has curated self-drive packages that reveal the best of the state.
Across the Show-Me State, your clients can tour vibrant arts districts, architectural landmarks, and explore the Ozarks’ breathtaking natural landscapes.
Inviting communities, charming towns, and easy connections make Missouri a stand-out destination, easily woven into USA travel plans. Especially in 2026, with the milestone of Route 66’s 100-year anniversary.
Why Missouri?
Here are 7 must-visit experiences to share with your Missouri-bound clients:
- 7. Kansas City jazz: Jazz may have been born in New Orleans, but it grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, where musicians relocated during prohibition. That camaraderie remains today, as discovered in live performances and at the American Jazz Museum.
- 6. St. Louis blues: Soulful, fusion blues of the 1920s and ‘30s made their way to St. Louis, making it the blues epicentre. Travellers can learn this history at the National Blues Museum and at the city’s venues and festivals.
- 5. Branson: In the heart of the Ozarks, over 9 million annual visitors flock to Branson – the ‘Live Entertainment Capital of Missouri’. They love to watch country, rock, pop, gospel, and bluegrass shows, and visit an 1880s-themed amusement park, amazing museums, and outdoor recreation.
- 4. Barbecue: Travellers have ample opportunities to taste why Missouri loves its barbecue. Discover Kansas City’s 100-plus establishments to find the best burnt ends. Then, make your way across the state to savour St. Louis-style spare ribs.
- 3. Route 66: Missouri is celebrating Route 66’s centennial all year. Across 450 kilometres, your clients will love the mom-and-pop diners, roadside attractions, vintage motor courts, and local stories.
- 2. Gateway Arch: The United States’ tallest man-made monument, the Gateway Arch offers a tram ride to the top for sweeping views of downtown St. Louis and the Mississippi River.
- 1. Outdoors: A million-plus acres of public lands and conservation areas make Missouri a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Highlights include climbing billion-year-old boulders at Elephant Rocks State Park, biking the Katy Trail State Park, or hiking alongside Ha Ha Tonka State Park’s ruins.
Missouri’s magic moments
Viva Holidays’ North American Product Manager, Alysha Hughes, shared her favourite moments on a recent visit to Kansas City, Missouri.
“One standout was the historic 18th & Vine district, one of the true cradles of jazz music and a longstanding hub for African American culture and business.”
Alysha continued, “Travellers can visit both the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Warm Southern hospitality greets you from the volunteers, who reveal the lively streets and community spirit that defined 18th & Vine.”
Alysha also visited the Museum of Kansas City, “Once the home of the Long family, key figures in the city’s development, the estate offers an immersive museum experience, perfect for learning about Kansas City’s heritage and growth.”
“I also treated myself to Kansas City’s world-famous barbecue, known for its slow-smoked meats, generous portions, and thick, tangy sauces. My favourite dish was the local specialty, burnt end: smoky, tender, and absolutely delicious.”
She concluded, “Together, the food, music, history, and easy accessibility make Kansas City a genuinely welcoming destination, full of character and charm.”
Book Missouri with Viva Holidays
Connect your clients to the heart of America with Viva Holiday’s tailor-made packages. These include:
Meet Me in St. Louis
Discover St. Louis’ rich blend of history, culture, and iconic architecture on this 6-day adventure. The famed Gateway Arch, a scenic riverboat cruise, and a charming St. Louis tour celebrate the city’s live music, craft breweries, and fascinating museums.
Meet Me in St. Louis includes:
- 5 nights at the 5-star Magnolia Hotel St. Louis, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in a King Room
- A 4-hour Best of St. Louis Tour with Gateway Arch tram ride, Mississippi River cruise, and stops at Kiener Plaza, City Garden, and the National Blues Museum
From $945* per person twin share. Find out more here.
Kansas City Highlights
Across this 5-day itinerary, your clients can ride the free Kansas City Streetcar to explore neighbourhoods, taste the renowned barbeque burnt ends, wander the historic River Market neighbourhood, and visit the Museum of Kansas City.
Kansas City Highlights include:
- 4 nights at the 4-star Kansas City Marriott Downtown in a Standard Room
- Complimentary city activities, including the KC Streetcar and Museum of Kansas City
From $865* per person twin share. Learn more here.
Missouri: Iconic Sites & Bites Self Drive
This 7-day self-drive journey from Kansas City to St. Louis via Branson offers the flexibility to experience the best of Missouri. Discover Kansas City’s traditions, rich history and jazz greats. In Branson, immerse yourself in the Ozarks with plenty of options for entertainment.
Once in St. Louis, the Gateway Arch and Gateway Arch Riverboats are must-dos, as is the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis with the largest mosaic collection in the Western Hemisphere.
This package includes:
- 2 nights at the 4-star Hilton President Kansas City in a Guest Room
- 2 nights at the 4-star Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing in a Guest Room
- 2 nights at the 3-star Best Western St. Louis Inn in a Standard Room
- 8 days Alamo USA car hire in a Toyota Corolla (or similar+)
From $2,075* per person twin share. Discover more here.
Agents, read this
Discover more about these Missouri packages and access marketing assets on Viva Holidays’ dedicated agent platform.
To book, head to their online reservation system, Mango.
This article is brought to you by Viva Holidays, Visit Missouri, and Visit The USA.
