Missouri Road Trip: How to Plan a Great US Midwest Adventure

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A Missouri road trip is one of the best experiences you can have if you want to enjoy a midwest adventure.

It offers some of the best nature scenes and thrilling adventure anywhere in the US.

Continue reading to learn useful tips and places to see when you’re planning a fabulous Missouri road trip!

Missouri road trip
Missouri Road Trip

CONTENTS โ€“ In this article, youโ€™ll find tips and guidance for planning a best Missouri road trip, including;

  • Essential Considerations for a Missouri Road Trip
  • 1. Determine Your Budget
  • 2. Choose Your Destinations
  • 3. Road Trip Stops | Missouri
  • 4. Start Planning Your Route
  • 5. Packing Your Bags
  • Final Thoughts on Planning a Missouri Road Trip
  • Next Steps

Planning a Road Trip Through Missouri – 5 Essential Considerations

Itโ€™s time to hit the open road!

Missouri is a great option if you’re relooking for a summer road trip destination.

With plenty of attractions and activities available, you can create the perfect itinerary for your group.

But before you hit the highway, there are a few things you need to consider.

We’ll outline five essential planning tips for a Missouri road trip so you’re prepared for one of the most beautiful trips you can experience in the US.

1. Determine Your Budget

The first step in planning any trip is to determine your budget.

This will help you narrow down your destination options and activities.

In fact, budget is considered to be one of the most important factor in any trip or adventure.

That’s why it’s a good idea to determine and plan your budget before starting your trip.

When planning a road trip, you’ll need to factor in the cost of gas, food, lodging, and attractions.

If you are on a tight budget, consider camping or staying in less expensive hotels.

You can also save money by packing your own food and snacks.

Your budget will also have an impact on the activities you can do on your trip.

If you are looking for things to do that wonโ€™t cost a lot of money, Missouri has plenty of options, including hiking, picnicking, and visiting state parks.

Splitting the cost with others can also help defray some of the expenses.

2. Choose Your Destinations

After youโ€™ve decided on who is going on the trip with you, itโ€™s time to start thinking about where you want to go.

Your trip success is affected by choosing the best destinations to be in the trip.

For that you may need to do a good amount of research.

Then, decide which spots are the best to visit in Missouri.

This part can be tricky, especially if you have different people with different interests in your group.

But donโ€™t worry; there are plenty of great places to see in Missouri that will accommodate everyone.

If youโ€™re looking for some ideas, consider checking out Kansas City, St. Louis, or Branson.

These are all great destinations that offer something unique and will keep everyone happy.

Also, review the most popular and stop-worthy places on your Missouri road trip, described in the next step.

3. Pick Road Trip Stops | Missouri

Here are some excellent attractions in Missouri you may want to include during your trip.

Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch is a splendid place to visit.

Not only will you experience amazing views from the top, 630 feet on high, but it commemorates St Louis’ role is US expansion towards west in the 19th century.

That makes the Gateway Arch a historical, scenic, and architectural spot that’s worth seeing.

Hermann Wine Trail

The Hermann Wine Trail is another awesome place to visit while you are at Missouri road trip.

These 7 beautiful family owned farms are a must visit place, especially for wine connesseurs.

Plus, the vineyards and wineries on these trail showcase great designs and cultivation techniques.

It’s a truly memorable natural spot to spend some good time while you’re in Missouri.

Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden, also known as Shaw’s Garden, is another fabulous natural place to visit.

This beautiful place is also one of the nation’s oldest botanical garden and a National Historic Landmark.

Whether you spend a few hours here or the whole day, it’s a must visit visit spot — especially if you’re a plant lover.

Wilsonโ€™s Creek National Battleground

Another historic place to visit along the Mississippi River is Wilson’s Creek National Battleground.

This is where the first major battle west of the Mississippi took place during the US Civil War.

History buffs must visit this sacred ground.

Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum

The home of author Mark Twain is another historical place to visit in Missouri.

This museum features artifacts from Mark Twain’s life, as well as Norman Rockwell originals paintings.

Step back in time at this fascinating stop on your Missouri road trip.

Current River Float Trip

If you are interested in some real adventure on your Missouri road trip, take a Current River Float Trip.

Current River is a spring-fed river, and you can float on it almost year round.

It’s also a great place to fish for trout.

So, take an adventurous nature-break on your Missouri road trip by floating along the Current River.

4. Start Planning Your Route

kansas city g3e980f289 640 | Enjoy Travel Life

Once youโ€™ve chosen your destinations and know the stops along the way, you can finally start mapping out your route.

This is where a little research comes in handy.

Route selection is one of the most critical decision to take before starting a trip.

You want to make sure you take the most scenic routes and avoid any traffic hot spots.

You also want to take into consideration the distance between each destination.

If you are driving long distances, you will need to factor in rest stops at restaurants like Katie’s Pizza in Town and Country and overnight stays.

Planning your route in advance will help ensure that your trip goes smoothly.

5. Packing Your Bags

Now itโ€™s time to start packing!

When youโ€™re packing for a road trip, there are a few things you want to keep in mind.

Packing your stuff is a time taking and most important phase of before and during the trip phases.

So, be sure to pack your bags well and with patience so that you don’t miss any of you useful stuff for the trip.

First, you want to ensure you have everything you need for the drive.

This includes snacks, drinks, a first-aid kit, and maps.

You also want to pack clothes and items that are appropriate for your destination and activities.

For example, if youโ€™re planning on hiking or spending time outdoors, you must pack sun protection, hats, and comfortable shoes.

And finally, donโ€™t forget the fun stuff!

Games, books, and music can help make the drive go by more quickly and more enjoyable.

Planning a road trip through Missouri can be a great way to spend your time off.

By following these five essential tips, you can ensure that your trip is enjoyable and hassle-free.

Final Thoughts on Planning a Missouri Road Trip

Missouri is a beautiful state and there are a lot of places you’ll love to visit.

But spend the time planning a road trip to Missouri so it’s a fun and memorable trip.

From calculating a trip budget to leaving for the trip with all your bags packed, you’re ready to fully enjoy your trip to Missouri.

Have a great trip!


Jackie Gately at the beach


About Jackie Gately, editor-IN-CHIEF

I'm Jackie Gately, your travel confidante and the creative force behind Enjoy Travel Life, awarded the "Best Casual-Luxury Lifestyle Blog (USA)" in Travel and Tourism by LUXlife Magazine for four consecutive years.

With 25 years of published expertise, I'm a seasoned writer, editor, and photographer curating inspiring travel guides and lifestyle tips for empty nesters. I hope to kindle your spirit of exploration, encouraging you to overcome obstacles and turn your dreams into reality.

Learn to minimize your pre-travel angst and maximize the joy of exploration with insights from my experiences. Let's make every adventure a celebration of this exciting phase of life! 

Follow my social channels for more inspiration.


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