We're already one month into the new year, so hopefully rust hasn't gathered on that 2017 bucket list of yours. To freshen it up, we've put together a new list. Whether you're a recent transplant or a born-and-bred Missourian, here are some of the most memorable and iconic things to experience in Missouri.
1. Spend the day (or night) at Mark Twain National Forest.
When I first moved to Missouri, I was shocked at how many of my Missouri-born friends had never visited this astonishing national forest that's right in our backyard. The Ozark Trail runs right through it, so there are plenty of hiking opportunities available. To camp right along the water, I suggest spending the night at the Marble Creek Recreation Area which is filled with peaceful campsites along its creek.
2. Try your luck at the casino.
In 1994, Argosy V was Kansas City's first riverboat casino. Today, it is a full-service casino with a village-like setting with over 1,500 slot machines and 37 table games. When it comes to an end-of-life bucket list, there's no better place to emulate some "carpe diem."
3. Visit Mark Twain's boyhood home.
One of America's favorite author's grew up right here, in Hannibal, Missouri. The town has preserved much of Twain's history and visitors can go on informative tours of his boyhood home as well as other places that inspired his most popular novel, "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." Click here to learn more about this amazingly unique small town.
4. Sip your way through Missouri's Wine Country.
Actually, Missouri is not home to just 1, but 4 wine countries or regions. Click here for a full list.
5. Eat as much of the country's best BBQ as you can.
That's right. We're the best in the U.S. Here's a list of just a few of the best BBQ spots in Missouri, but feel free to add even more to your culinary bucket list.
6. Stand atop the state's highest point.
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park is home to Missouri's highest natural point of elevation (1,772.68 feet). If you're not ready to climb that high, you can easily drive up to the high point mark and pull over to take a photo of this gorgeous view.
7. Help yourself to some frozen custard at Ted Drewe's.
Ted Drewe's is simply iconic and its two locations can be found in St. Louis. You haven't truly lived until you try one of their amazing frozen custards that are so cold, they'll stick to the cup if you flip it upside down.
8. Attend a home game.
Missouri is home to some top knotch professional sport teams. Whether you're a Cardinals fan or a Royals fan, you can't deny that we have a knack for bringing home the championship hardware. To get the full glory of how awesome our teams are, attending a home game is a must! And don't forget to leave in some room for a pre-game tailgate.
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9. Take a tour of the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery.
Even if you're not too keen on beer, the tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery is packed with informative historical tid bits to keep you engaged. Plus, you'll get to see the iconic Budweiser Clydesdale Stables.
10. Float on the river.
Whether it's the Elk River, the Current River, or the Black river, you can't really enjoy summer without taking a kayak or canoe on it.
11. Take a day trip to Missouri's oldest town.
Ste. Genevieve was founded around 1812 and is the oldest permanent European settlement in Missouri. In addition to its unique French history, the town boasts adorable restaurants, shops and wineries for both locals and out-of-town visitors to enjoy. Click here to see how you can turn your visit into an awesome day or weekend trip.
If there was one thing in Missouri that you'd want to do before you died, what would it be? We'd love to know, so please share with us in the comments below.
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