Kansas City from the Missouri River

Kansas City, Missouri's largest city, is where the Missouri and Kansas River join and curve to bisect the state. Officially Kansas City is nicknamed the City of Fountains, however, it is also known as Paris of the Plains because of its many boulevards. Springfield and Independence, two more of the top four largest cities in Missouri, are also in Western Missouri. Popular Branson with over 40 theaters with shows and productions, is located in Southwest Missouri. Branson, with the largest privately owned airport in the US, has becomes a major tourist attraction. Dynamic and diverse, Western Missouri is full of sites and attractions for visitors.

Lake of the Ozarks, between Springfield and Columbia, hosts the 2010 Lake of the Ozarks Bikefest September 16th through the 19th. The fourth annual Bikefest, promises to be better than ever. Motor up for some amazing scenery, outstanding entertainment, and fun with family and friends. With three Best Western Hotels within a half an hours ride, there is no need for camping. Enjoy comfortable accommodations at the Best Western Montis Inn in Saint Robert, the Best Western Wyota Inn in Lebanon, or the Best Western Capital Inn in Jefferson City, the state capital.

Die hard football fans, specifically Kansas City Chiefs fans, can visit St. Joseph, the Chiefs summer home. The Chiefs 2010 summer training camp runs from the end of July through August 19th. Take in a daily practice and then enjoy a visit to one of the 13 historical museums in St. Joseph. The Best Western Classic Inn in St. Joseph is a convenient location with easy access to Missouri Western State University and all St. Joseph's attractions.

Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City is home field for the Chiefs. Game one of the regular season is September 13th against the Chargers. There is nothing better in fall than the excitement of a NFL game. You can see the Chiefs in action through January 2011. The Best Western Seville Plaza Hotel is an easy drive from the stadium and has ideal accommodations for an overnight stay in Kansas City. Come downtown, enjoy a chiefs game and have a comfortable nights sleep before heading home.

Visitors to Independence can still enjoy a visit to the soda fountain where President Harry S. Truman worked his first job. Historic Independence is a festive place to visit during the holidays. With historic estates and mansions decorated and open to visitors, it is like stepping back in time. Starting at the end of November through the New Year, Independence is a great place to gather with family and friends to enjoy a holiday getaway. Tour the Bingham-Waggoner Estate, Vaile Mansion and the Marshal's Home and Museum. The Truman home is also open with special holiday exhibits and at the 1827 log courthouse you can get a glimpse of the holidays in a simpler time. The Best Western Truman Inn is centrally located for all the sites in Independence. With affordable rates and top-notch amenities, a stay at the Truman Inn is a delightful holiday splurge.

Gateway Arch - St. Louis, Missouri

Eastern Missouri is dominated by St. Louis, the largest metro area in the state, with the familiar skyline featuring the iconic Gateway Arch. The arch is called as the Gateway to the West, and features a tram to carry visitors to a lookout on the top. North of St. Louis, the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers converge to form the fourth longest river in the world. Once one of the largest cities in the US, St. Louis hosted both the 1904 World's Fair and Olympic Games. St Louis was a significant influence in the US beer making industry as home to breweries like Falstaff Brewing Corporation and Anheuser-Busch. St Louis remains the North American headquarters for Anheuser-Busch today.

St. Louis is famous as a sports city with the well known St. Louis Cardinals making their home at Busch Stadium. Regular season games are scheduled into October as the Cardinals defend their 2009 title as National League Central Champions. The Cardinals are hosting the inaugural Cardinals Care Run Home for Kids in 2010. The 6K run ends inside Busch Stadium at home plate where participants can slide in, reminiscent of Stan “The Man” Musial. This great event is held the end of August, promotes health and fitness and supports the Cardinals Care community fund.

Best Western Hotels has three convenient locations for visitors to Busch Stadium and travelers heading to downtown St Louis. The Best Western Kirkwood Inn is located on I-44 west of downtown. The Best Western Airport Plaza Inn & Conference Center is ideal for air travelers and even offers a park & fly package where guests can leave their car at the hotel for up to 14 days. The Best Western St. Louis Inn, Southwest of downtown is just off of I-55.

Hannibal, north of St. Louis on the Mississippi River, host the 34th Annual Autumn Historic Folklife Festival fall 2010. This popular fall festival, held mid-October celebrates traditional arts and fine craftsmanship, featuring over 80 of the best local and regional exhibitors. A fun family weekend, you will see artisan's working their crafts, enjoy fresh pressed cider, performers strolling among the festival, street artists, and plenty of delicious local food. The Best Western on the River in Hannibal is the ideal location for visitors. With affordable rates and a location on the Mississippi, book an extra night and enjoy a riverboat cruise down the Mississippi.

For a terrific fall adventure, join the 3rd Annual Pedal the Parkland at St. Joe State Park. The 2010 event features five different rides, offering fun for all ages and abilities. Scheduled September 18th, bring friends and family to enjoy a ride through Missouri's beautiful fall colors. If you are looking for a challenge, the Top of Missouri ride is a 100 mile loop to Taum Sauk Mountain, the highest point in Missouri. Other rides vary from 15 to 66 miles and you can choose on or off trail routes. Enjoy Eastern Missouri this fall.