The Ozarks are a highland region located primarily in the states of Missouri and Arkansas. Much of southern Missouri lies on a plateau, bounded to the north and east by the St. François Mountains and to the south, in the state of Arkansas, by the Boston Mountains. The Ozarks are home to many beautiful lakes, towns, and cities, and there are so many sights to see in the largest area of highlands between the Appalachians and the Rockies. Dramatic cliffs of dolomite and sandstone mark the landscape, and much of this beautiful region is forested, protected in areas like the Ozark National Forest and Mark Twain National Forest. You can experience Ozark culture in such tourist centers as Branson and Eureka Springs.
The Santa Fe Trail was one of the most important pioneer trails in the United States` westward expansion period. Experience the Old West along one of the most beautiful stretches of plains, grassland, mountains, and deserts in the world.
America’s most popular music over the last century owes its existence to the American South. From gospel to blues, soul, rock & roll, jazz, R&B, and Southern rock, the American South is the birthplace and the foundation of it all.
With ninety-five percent of the world’s bourbon made in Kentucky, the state has more barrels of bourbon than people and horses combined. As you can guess, bourbon is kind of a big deal in Kentucky.
The Eastern portion of Route 66 takes you through the Midwest, starting in Chicago and meandering through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma.
The southern segment of the National Scenic Byway passes south of East St. Louis and Collinsville down to Cairo, with cities like Cape Girardeau on the other side of the river in Missouri.
The United States boasts 62 protected National Parks spread throughout 29 states covering approximately 52.2 million acres of land. To be classed as a National Park these natural areas must provide an outstanding region of beauty, an unusual ecosystem, or a plethora of recreational activities.