Road Trips.
That’s My M-O.

September 6, 2022

One tank of gas is all you need to explore southwest Missouri.

This article is presented in partnership with Visit Missouri. Road Trip Mo here, hop in and join me for unbeatable fall views and exciting attractions in southwest Missouri. Fill up once and forget about it – you won’t need more than one tank of gas to fuel this epic adventure.

History Museum on the Square. Photo: Visit Missouri

Springfield Start your trip with a cruise through Springfield – the Birthplace of Route 66. Learn more about the iconic highway at History Museum on the Square. While you’re in town, don’t miss Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium. The massive attraction is filled with 35,000 fish, mammals, reptiles and birds. Ozark Just south of Springfield you’ll find Finley Farms & The Ozark Mill. This 40-acre property has a variety of dining options – a coffee shop, a farm-to-table restaurant and a speakeasy with elevated offerings. The restaurants receive fresh produce from the on-site urban farm.

Parakeet Pete’s Waterfront Zipline. Photo: Explore Branson

Branson Add a little live music to your road trip playlist. With more than 100 shows to offer, you’re sure to find something up your alley in the Branson Strip and Theater District. If thrills are what you’re looking for, Branson has that, too, at Silver Dollar City and Parakeet Pete’s Waterfront Zipline.

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Ridgedale Right at Missouri’s southern border, you can experience an electric cart ride along the Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail at Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve. Red, orange and yellow leaves make for a stunning view. Dining and drinks are available in addition to the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum. Kimberling City It’s time to head north, but before you return to Springfield, stop by Table Rock Lake. This picturesque lake has almost 800 miles of shoreline and is ideal for boating, picnicking and hiking. Looking for more ways to see the Show-Me State? Check out VisitMo.com and discover your road trip M-O with fall drives.