Visiting Kansas City and Western Missouri

Branson, Joplin, Springfield, Kansas City, St Joseph cities of Western Missouri steeped in history and filled today with the excitement of modern life. The Missouri River takes a turn through the Region to its confluence with the Mississippi doubling it's flow. Route 66 cuts the region, along with the historical Pony Express and Lewis and Clark trails. Today Interstates 70 and 44 traverse the state perpetuating Missouri as a crossroads in the mid west.

Modern Kansas City Missouri is a showcase for the best in urban bustle with the charms of a small town. A hot spot for Jazz, March brings Jammin' at the Gem: Women in Jazz featuring Oleta Adams who hails from Kansas City. Sponsored by the American Jazz Museum and part of March's month long celebration of women in Jazz. April is Jazz appreciation month, check the schedule at the Museum for a selection of outstanding events and performances.

Who would not want to celebrate the birthday of an international Diva? Through 2010 the Toy and Miniature Museum showcases “Celebrating 50 Fabulous Years with America's Favorite Doll”, a Tribute to Barbie. A wonderful exhibition for a favorite fashionista, friend and business woman.

Sports enthusiasts can catch the 2010 NCAA Women's Basketball Regional Finals at the Sprint Center in March. The Kansas City Royal's begin their home baseball season in March at the Kauffman Stadium. A baseball game at Kauffman Stadium is a great place for a fun family outing. Soccer fans, look for Kansas City Wizards Soccer to begin games later in the spring.

Independence Missouri outside Kansas City was the boyhood home of Harry S Truman, the only U.S. President from Missouri. He was born in the small town of Lamar to the south where his birthplace home can be toured. The Truman Presidential Museum and Library is located in Independence and will be celebrating President Truman's birthday on May 8^th. The festivities include a traditional tractor pull in the morning, wreathlaying, birthday cake and kids activities.

The city of St. Joseph to the north is famous in history as the birthplace of the Pony Express. A special 150^th anniversary celebration will be held this April featuring a reenactment, parade, food, and activities. Come celebrate the fascinating feat of the Pony Express which was able to deliver mail almost 2000 miles away to Sacramento in 10 to 14 days.

Historic Tip: St. Joseph is also where the notorious outlaw Jesse James was killed in April of 1882. His legend lives on and the hole from the bullet that ended it can be seen at the Jesse James house which is now a Museum.

The southwest corner of Missouri has a rich history in Americana. Springfield is the site of the first shootout recorded in the United States which included the infamous Wild Bill Hickok. The shootout was a quick draw duel to settle a gambling dispute. Also called the birthplace of Route 66, Springfield was where the famous highway was named.

Joplin neat the Kansas state line has a year long schedule full of events. A unique and fun event to celebrate St Patrick's day is the St Patty's Revenge Urban Race and Adventure in March. The course of the race is secret until the day of the event where teams of 2 or individuals compete through challenges, checkpoints and events. A great event for beginners and casual runners and amazing fun. Boomtown Days in June features an action packed weekend drawing crowds from the surrounding states for fun and entertainment. Runners can join in a 5K or Half-Marathon.

Nearby Branson is the capital of entertainment in the Midwest. In addition to fantastic live entertainment, music and theater it is home to some amazing events. During the month of April Branson hosts the month long See The World In Branson event. Featured are food, cultural events, and entertainment from around the globe. A great place to travel for a 'staycation' and have an international experience.

Silver Dollar City also hosts an international themed Worldfest in April. In May, Silver Dollar City's Bluegrass and Barbeque Festival begins. Headliners include award winning Bluegrass musicians and stars. Stay awhile and sample the best BBQ from the Midwest while enjoying the best in bluegrass music.