Visiting St Louis and Eastern Missouri

The Mississippi River is the figurative divider between the eastern and western United States. St. Louis' skyline is dominated by the famous Gateway Arch located on the Mississippi River front. Referred to as the gateway to the west it is the nations tallest monument.

Spring brings baseball season and the St. Louis Cardinals are favored sons in Missouri. Catch a game at Busch Stadium, spring training games are in March with the regular season games beginning in April. Also on the sports scene, former Cardinal Football Quarterback Jim Hart is an honored guest at the 3rd annual Jim Hart Celebrity Golf Classic in May. A wonderful golf and charity event at the Country Club at the Legends.

For the active Go St Louis Family Fitness Weekend is held annually in April. Geared for the entire family including new and experienced runners. Day one features a children's fun run, a 'Mature Mile' and a 5K walk and run. Day two is for the serious runners and fans with the marathon events schedule. Included is the full marathon, half marathon and a 4 person marathon relay.

Motorcross fans, plan on the Monster Energy AMA Supercross FIM World Championship in mid April. Bring the entire family, seating includes a non-alcoholic family section. Come early for the afternoon Pit Party.

The Capital City of Missouri is Jefferson City, located in the Center of the state. Early German settlers in the area planted vineyards that have continued to be cultivated in this region. Visitors may be surprised yo find vibrant wineries and tastings in the area. Early May features a Hermann Norton Wine Trail tour with wine and food pairings at six area wineries.

Historic tip:2010 marks the 100th anniversary of Mark Twain's death and the celebrations of his life and works begins in Hannibal Missouri his boyhood home. The Mississippi River Life Festival is held in may and celebrates life on the Mississippi in historic downtown Hannibal. There is something for everyone with food, music, crafts, antiques and wine. In June celebrate Juneteenth as well in Hannibal with a festival including 3 on 3 basketball tournaments, singing, performers along with food and activities.

In mid April, the Jefferson City Jaycee's Fairgrounds hosts the Capital City Cook. This is a big draw and rewards cash prizes to winners of the sanctioned barbecue competition events. The activities include a bluegrass festival featuring the states finest musicians and groups. This is a fun and filling springtime event.

Thirty Miles north of Jefferson City is Columbia, just off Interstate 70. Columbia is the home to several unique winter and springtime events. The True/False Film Fest in late February features four days of documentary film screenings many picked from more well known film festivals like Sundance and Toronto. The town becomes nirvana for film makers and fans who will enjoy creative and in depth looks into current events and topics.

The Original “Blind” Boone Ragtime and Early Jazz Festival is held at the end of May and early June. The festival honors John William Boone, Columbia's native son, who was famous in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, for his piano concerts and ragtime music. The schedule of events is full, but people come from all over to hear the indigenous ragtime and early jazz music.

South of Columbia and Jefferson City around Fort Leonard Wood, the Freedom of Road Riders sponsor a Memorial Day weekend Motorcycle rally. Bikers and fans gather for the Mid-America Freedom Rally dedicated to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice to preserve freedom in the United States.

Best Western Hotels are ready with clean and affordable accommodations throughout Missouri. Conveniently located for all your travel and lodging needs.