Thinking about selling your travel business in Missouri? You're not alone. Many business owners reach a point where they want to move on, retire, or focus on new ventures. The good news is that the travel industry continues to thrive, and there are buyers ready to take over established businesses like yours.
Vincent Vacations has been helping travel business owners sell their businesses since 2002. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the travel industry, we make the process smooth, stress-free, and rewarding. Whether you're looking for a quick sale or a gradual transition, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
In becoming a travel agent, it's important to know travel trends for customers in your area. Click here to learn more about travel trends in Missouri.
Contact us with your Questions about selling your travel agency in Missouri.
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"Selling a travel business is more than just a transaction—it's about finding the right partner who values your legacy and your clients."
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations has carved out a niche as a boutique, community-driven travel agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Sell your travel agency with no experience! We provide all the steps for you to sell your agency.We know that every business is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs. From initial consultation to closing the deal, Vincent Vacations ensures that your interests are protected and your business is positioned for success.
Ready to learn more about how to sell your travel business in Missouri? Let's get started on your journey to a successful sale.
Missouri's travel business market is experiencing a dynamic phase influenced by growing tourism and shifting traveler preferences. The state's tourism sector generated historic revenues recently, fueled by increased visitor spending and strategic marketing efforts that expand reach through digital channels.
Key factors shaping the market in 2025 include:
Buyers interested in Missouri travel agencies vary widely, each bringing different motivations and capacities:
| Buyer Type | Characteristics | Motivations |
|---|---|---|
| Strategic Buyers | Established travel firms expanding regional presence | Portfolio growth, market consolidation |
| Private Equity & Investors | Financial groups seeking steady cash flow businesses | Long-term investment returns, scalable operations |
| Individual Entrepreneurs | First-time business owners or industry professionals | Passion for travel, business ownership |
Understanding these buyer types helps sellers position their business to appeal to the right audience and negotiate favorable terms.
Operating and selling a travel business in Missouri requires compliance with state-specific laws and licensing rules that protect consumers and maintain industry standards.
Compliance Tip: Maintaining up-to-date licensing and adhering to state regulations streamlines the sale process and enhances buyer confidence.
“Clear regulatory compliance is a key selling point and reduces legal risks during ownership transition.”
Lindsey Vera
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
What started as a side gig has lead to a full-time career that I absolutely love! I truly believe there is nothing like travel and I love what I do. I am SO thankful for everyone that has supported me and trusted me to help plan their adventures. I have made some awesome lifelong friends and look forward to traveling together!
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations has carved out a niche as a boutique, community-driven travel agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Sell your travel agency with no experience! We provide all the steps for you to sell your agency.
Valuing a travel business involves more than just looking at the bottom line. Different methods provide unique insights into your business’s worth, helping you set a realistic and competitive price.
This approach values your business as a multiple of its annual gross profit. For example, if your business earns $200,000 in gross profit and the industry multiple is 3x, your business could be valued at $600,000. This method is popular because it directly ties value to profitability.
SDE (Seller’s Discretionary Earnings) is a common metric that adds back owner’s compensation, interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization to net income. Adding the value of inventory (such as prepaid travel packages or unused marketing materials) gives a more complete picture of your business’s worth.
Formula:
EBIT (Earnings Before Interest and Taxes) and EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) multiples are widely used for larger agencies. Typical multiples range from 3x to 6x EBIT or EBITDA, depending on business size, market position, and growth potential.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
I'm so thankful I took the leap and joined the Vincent Vacations Team! Fantastic company, fantastic training, fellow agents and so much fun! Looking forward to 2025!
| Agency Size | EBIT Multiple | EBITDA Multiple |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 3x - 4x | 3.5x - 4.5x |
| Medium | 4x - 5x | 4.5x - 5.5x |
| Large | 5x - 6x | 5.5x - 6x |
Buyers look at several financial metrics to assess your business’s health and potential:
“A strong financial track record makes your business more appealing to buyers and can lead to a higher sale price.”
While formulas and metrics provide a starting point, a professional business valuation offers the most accurate and comprehensive assessment. Experts consider your business’s unique strengths, market position, and growth potential.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
At this time last year this was a dream job. Now this once dream job is a successful reality! This was the best way to kickoff 2025 with an invite to the top 50 agents! I am so excited for 2025 travel! I love seeing your smiling faces traveling and enjoying this beautiful earth!
Investing in a professional valuation is a smart step toward maximizing your business’s sale price and ensuring a smooth transaction.
Clean, organized financials are the foundation of a successful sale. Buyers scrutinize financial records closely, so presenting them professionally builds credibility and confidence in your business valuation.
GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) ensures your financial statements follow industry standards that buyers and auditors recognize. Implementing GAAP practices demonstrates professionalism and makes your business's financial health transparent and comparable to industry benchmarks.
One of the most common issues buyers encounter is commingled personal and business expenses. Clearly distinguish between the two by maintaining separate accounts and expense records. This separation reveals your true business profitability and prevents buyers from questioning the legitimacy of deductions.
Common personal expenses to separate: Owner's vehicle use, personal travel, home office allocations, and owner compensation.
Buyers want to understand your revenue composition. Clearly document the percentage of revenue from leisure clients versus corporate accounts. This breakdown reveals business stability—corporate clients typically offer more predictable, recurring revenue compared to leisure bookings.
| Revenue Category | Annual Revenue | Percentage | Stability Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corporate Bookings | $150,000 | 60% | High |
| Leisure Bookings | $100,000 | 40% | Moderate |
Buyers value predictable income. Agencies with strong recurring revenue command higher valuations because they demonstrate stability and reduced customer acquisition costs.
Corporate clients often prefer retainer arrangements where they pay a monthly fee for travel planning services. These contracts create predictable monthly revenue and reduce dependence on individual transaction commissions. Develop retainer packages that appeal to mid-sized businesses in your region.
Partner with institutions like universities, hospitals, or large employers to offer travel services to their employees or members. Group contracts provide volume bookings and long-term revenue stability that significantly enhance your business's appeal to buyers.
Client retention directly impacts your business's value. Implement loyalty programs, personalized follow-ups, and exceptional service to keep clients returning. Request reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients—these become powerful marketing assets that attract new business and demonstrate client satisfaction to potential buyers.
"A client who books with you repeatedly is worth far more than a one-time customer. Loyalty builds valuation."
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations has carved out a niche as a boutique, community-driven travel agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Sell your travel agency with no experience! We provide all the steps for you to sell your agency.Buyers are concerned about business continuity. If your business relies heavily on you, the transition becomes risky. Reducing owner dependence makes your business more attractive and valuable.
Transfer critical responsibilities to trusted team members. This includes client relationship management, booking coordination, and vendor communications. When key tasks are distributed across your team, the business can operate smoothly even during your transition or absence.
Create comprehensive SOPs for every major process—from client intake to booking confirmation to post-trip follow-up. Documented procedures ensure consistency, reduce errors, and allow new ownership to maintain service quality without constant guidance from you.
Develop a formal succession plan that outlines how leadership transitions will occur. Identify potential internal leaders and provide them with development opportunities. A clear succession plan demonstrates that your business can thrive beyond your tenure as owner.
Modern technology enhances efficiency, scalability, and buyer appeal. Outdated systems signal operational challenges and require buyer investment to upgrade.
A Customer Relationship Management system organizes client information, tracks interactions, and automates follow-ups. CRM adoption demonstrates that your business uses data-driven strategies to manage growth and client relationships professionally.
Clients increasingly expect digital access to their travel plans. Online portals allow clients to view itineraries, make payments, and communicate with your team 24/7. Mobile integration extends convenience and demonstrates that your business meets modern traveler expectations.
Your booking systems should integrate smoothly with major travel suppliers and vendor platforms. Seamless integration reduces manual data entry, minimizes errors, and improves operational efficiency—all factors that increase your business's value to buyers.
Key Integration Points: GDS systems, hotel booking platforms, airline reservations, and payment processing gateways.
Understanding Missouri's sales tax rules for travel agencies is crucial for accurate compliance and financial reporting. The state distinguishes between taxable and exempt services, which directly impacts your business's tax obligations and bottom line.
Not all travel services are treated equally under Missouri tax law. Core travel planning and booking activities are generally exempt from sales tax, while certain product sales trigger tax obligations.
| Service or Product | Tax Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Designing Trip Itineraries | Exempt | Planning services are not subject to sales tax |
| Planning Fees | Exempt | Professional service fees are exempt |
| Booking Cruises | Exempt | Arranging cruise reservations is exempt |
| Booking Flights | Exempt | Flight booking services are exempt |
| Hotel Bookings (Block Purchases) | Exempt | Reselling purchased hotel blocks is exempt |
| Retail Tangible Property | Taxable | T-shirts, luggage, souvenirs, clothing items |
Commissions earned from hotels, car rental companies, airlines, and tour operators are exempt from Missouri sales tax. These are considered professional service fees rather than taxable transactions. However, the way you invoice and document these commissions matters for compliance purposes.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
It's been over a year now since I fully switched careers to travel and I couldn't be happier. I am thankful for those who have helped me grow this dream job into a reality and the support my Vincent Vacations family has given me! Thank you to everyone who has trusted me to help with their vacations, it truly is my passion!
"Commissions from travel suppliers are your bread and butter—and they're tax-free under Missouri law."
When you charge clients a markup or planning fee on top of supplier commissions, ensure this fee is separately invoiced and clearly documented as a service charge. This separation strengthens your tax position and demonstrates proper accounting to auditors and potential buyers.
If your business sells physical merchandise—such as branded luggage, travel accessories, guidebooks, or souvenirs—these sales are taxable in Missouri. You must collect and remit sales tax on these retail transactions.
Examples of taxable merchandise: T-shirts, duffel bags, luggage, stuffed toys, travel guides, and other articles of clothing or personal property.
When your business purchases goods or services from out-of-state vendors for use in Missouri, use tax may apply. Understanding these obligations prevents compliance issues and unexpected tax bills.
Missouri's use tax applies to purchases of tangible personal property and certain services acquired from outside the state but delivered to or used in Missouri. The state's use tax rate mirrors the sales tax rate of 4.225% at the state level, with additional local taxes depending on your location.
Important Exception: Purchases of airline flights from out-of-state vendors are exempt from Missouri use tax, mirroring the exemption for flight booking services.
You must report use tax on your Missouri consumer's use tax return. If you've already paid sales tax to another state, you may be able to claim a credit, but proper documentation is essential.
Accurate and timely tax reporting is fundamental to maintaining compliance and protecting your business's reputation during a sale.
Before collecting any sales tax, you must register with the Missouri Department of Revenue through the MyTax Missouri online portal. Registration is free, and most businesses receive their sales tax license immediately upon application completion.
Your registration should include all Missouri locations where you conduct business, as different cities and districts may have varying local tax rates. For example, some areas impose additional tourism or convention taxes that affect your overall tax obligation.
Purchases from Missouri vendors should be reported using the retailer's sales tax return. File returns according to Missouri's schedule—typically monthly for most businesses, though some may qualify for quarterly or annual filing based on sales volume.
Your return should itemize taxable sales separately from exempt service revenue. This breakdown demonstrates compliance and provides clear documentation for potential buyers evaluating your financial records.
Purchases from outside Missouri delivered to your state must be reported on the Missouri consumer's use tax return. Track these purchases carefully and file them on the same schedule as your sales tax returns to maintain consistency and avoid penalties.
Missouri's combined average sales tax rate is approximately 8.36% when state and local taxes are combined. Your specific rate depends on your business's location and any special tax districts that apply to your business area.
Operating a travel business in Missouri requires obtaining an IATA number, which acts as a unique identifier permitting commissionable bookings and business operations. Most independent agents work through a host business that provides this essential credential, simplifying compliance and access to booking systems.
No formal state certification or educational requirement is mandated by Missouri, but professional training and certification enhance credibility. Ensuring your business holds the correct licenses and registrations is vital before initiating a sale.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations has carved out a niche as a boutique, community-driven travel agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Sell your travel agency with no experience! We provide all the steps for you to sell your agency.Florida enforces a strict Seller of Travel license for agencies selling to its residents. This license requires annual renewal and fees, and agencies must maintain a trust account or surety bond. Many Missouri agencies working with Florida clients secure this license for compliance and market access.
California, Hawaii, and Washington also require Seller of Travel licenses for agencies selling within their jurisdictions. Each state has specific registration, bonding, and reporting requirements. Holding these licenses expands your business's reach and assures buyers of your compliance across multiple markets.
Agencies with all necessary multi-state licenses demonstrate legal compliance and operational maturity, significantly increasing buyer trust. Buyers view these licenses as valuable assets that reduce post-sale regulatory risk and facilitate smoother business transitions.
"Complete licensing across key states is a competitive advantage in today's travel business marketplace."
Compliance with the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regulations is mandatory. Travel agencies must ensure they do not facilitate transactions with individuals or entities listed on OFAC's sanctions lists. This includes carefully screening bookings and payments to avoid prohibited countries or persons.
Before selling, verify that all business permits, licenses, and certifications are active and in good standing. This includes local business permits, state registrations, and industry certifications that may influence buyer confidence and valuation.
Expired or missing permits can delay or derail sales, causing buyers to hesitate or request price reductions.
Buyers are drawn to agencies with strong growth potential and a vibrant digital footprint. Emphasize your business’s online reach, social media engagement, and digital marketing success to demonstrate market momentum.
Buyers look for agencies that can grow without requiring massive additional investment. Demonstrate how your business model supports expansion through efficient processes, technology, and team structure.
"A scalable business is a valuable business—buyers want to see a clear path to growth."
Modern travelers seek unique, personalized experiences. Highlight your business’s expertise in trending areas like sustainable travel, luxury escapes, adventure tourism, and multi-generational trips.
| Trend | Agency Strength | Buyer Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| Sustainable Travel | Eco-friendly packages and partnerships | Attracts environmentally conscious clients |
| Luxury Escapes | High-end destination expertise | Higher profit margins |
| Adventure Tourism | Unique activity offerings | Appeals to younger demographics |
First impressions count. Develop professional, engaging sales materials that tell your business’s story and highlight its strengths.
"Compelling sales materials make your business stand out in a competitive market."
Travel agencies attract a diverse range of buyers, each with unique motivations and expectations. Understanding these buyer types helps you tailor your approach and maximize your business’s appeal.
These buyers seek travel agencies with strong financials and growth potential. They often look for businesses that can be scaled or integrated into larger portfolios. Agencies with recurring revenue, solid client retention, and a clear path to expansion are especially attractive to private equity investors.
Strategic buyers are typically established travel agencies or companies looking to expand their market presence. They may be interested in your business’s client base, geographic location, or specialized services. These buyers often seek synergies that enhance their existing operations.
"Strategic acquirers want to grow their footprint and add value through integration."
Many buyers are individuals entering the travel industry for the first time. They may be experienced travel agents or entrepreneurs passionate about travel. These buyers often look for agencies with strong systems, loyal clients, and a proven track record.
Before moving forward with any buyer, it’s essential to assess their financial capacity and genuine intent. This step protects your interests and ensures a smooth transaction.
"A financially capable and committed buyer is key to a successful sale."
Negotiating the right terms is crucial for a fair and mutually beneficial sale. Focus on key elements that protect your interests and ensure a smooth transition.
The structure of your sale—whether as an asset sale or stock sale—significantly impacts taxes, liabilities, and the transition process. Understanding the differences helps you make an informed decision that protects your interests.
In an asset sale, the buyer purchases specific business assets rather than the company itself. This includes client lists, equipment, software licenses, vendor relationships, and goodwill. The seller retains ownership of the legal entity.
Advantages for sellers: Greater control over which liabilities transfer, potential tax benefits, and the ability to retain certain business assets or contracts if desired.
In a stock sale, the buyer purchases the company itself, including all assets and liabilities. The buyer becomes the new owner of the legal entity, and the seller exits completely.
Advantages for buyers: Simpler transaction structure and continuity of business operations. Advantages for sellers: Cleaner exit and often faster closing.
Consult with a tax professional and business attorney to determine which structure best aligns with your financial goals and circumstances.
Price and payment terms form the backbone of any sale agreement. Negotiating favorable terms ensures you receive fair value and minimizes financial risk during the transition period.
Payment can be structured in different ways, each with distinct advantages and considerations:
| Payment Method | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Lump-Sum Payment | Full payment at closing | Sellers seeking immediate liquidity and certainty |
| Installment Payments | Payment spread over agreed periods | Buyers with limited upfront capital |
| Earn-Out Structure | Payment tied to post-sale performance metrics | Transactions where future performance is uncertain |
"Lump-sum payments provide immediate certainty, while earn-outs align seller and buyer interests in the business's continued success."
If your business has established corporate clients or retainer arrangements, negotiate guarantees that protect this revenue stream for a specified period post-sale. These guarantees provide income security during transition and demonstrate the business's value stability to the buyer.
Consider negotiating: Minimum client retention commitments, continued access to key vendor relationships, and protection against sudden client departures during the transition period.
A smooth transition protects client relationships, maintains operational continuity, and ensures the buyer can successfully take over your business. Plan your knowledge transfer strategy carefully.
Document all standard operating procedures, client preferences, vendor contact information, and booking systems access. Comprehensive documentation reduces confusion and accelerates the buyer's ability to operate independently.
Proper legal documentation protects both buyer and seller and ensures the transaction complies with Missouri law and industry standards. Work with experienced professionals to prepare all required documents.
Critical Step: Ensure all licenses, permits, and registrations are transferred or updated with the new owner's information. This includes IATA numbers, Seller of Travel licenses in applicable states, and business permits.
"Clear, comprehensive legal documentation prevents misunderstandings and protects both parties long after the sale closes."
With a legacy spanning over two decades, Vincent Vacations has built a reputation for successfully acquiring and integrating travel agencies across the country. Our deep roots in the industry mean we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with selling a travel business.
Valuing a travel business requires more than just numbers—it takes an understanding of the market, client relationships, and operational nuances. Our team specializes in accurate, fair valuations that reflect the true worth of your business.
"We don't just buy agencies—we invest in their future and honor their legacy."
We believe a successful sale is about more than just the transaction—it's about ensuring continuity and peace of mind for both the seller and the clients. Our transition support includes personalized guidance, knowledge transfer, and flexible retention options.
| Service | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Personalized Transition Plan | Smooth handover tailored to your needs |
| Knowledge Transfer Sessions | Ensure clients and staff are well-prepared |
| Seller Retention Options | Stay involved as much or as little as you wish |
As a Missouri-based business, we have an intimate understanding of the local market, regulations, and operational landscape. This local expertise allows us to navigate the complexities of selling a Missouri travel business with ease and confidence.
"Choosing a buyer who knows Missouri means a smoother, more successful sale."
Setting an unrealistic price can deter serious buyers and prolong the selling process. It’s important to base your valuation on solid financial data and market trends rather than emotional attachment or optimistic projections.
"Accurate valuation balances your goals with market realities, attracting qualified buyers faster."
Transparent, well-organized financial records are essential. Incomplete or messy documentation raises red flags and can erode buyer trust.
Financial readiness speeds up due diligence and builds buyer confidence.
Buyers conduct thorough due diligence to verify your claims and assess risks. Overlooking their requests or withholding information can cause deals to collapse.
Successful transitions protect client relationships and preserve business value. Failing to plan can result in client loss and operational disruptions.
Develop a clear transition timeline, knowledge transfer plan, and communication strategy to reassure clients and staff.
"A thoughtful transition keeps your legacy intact and empowers the new owner to succeed."
Taking the first step toward selling your travel business in Missouri is an exciting milestone. Preparing thoughtfully ensures you maximize your business’s value and attract the right buyers.
Compile five years of financial statements, tax returns, client contracts, and operational records. Organized documents signal professionalism and accelerate buyer confidence.
Engage a qualified valuation expert to assess your business’s worth using industry-specific methods. This valuation acts as your roadmap, guiding price setting and negotiation strategies.
"A precise valuation empowers you to confidently present your business’s true value to buyers."
Outline your goals, timeline, and key milestones. Decide on your preferred sale structure, transition involvement, and target buyer profiles.
Work with trusted advisors including business brokers, attorneys, and accountants who specialize in travel industry transactions. Their expertise can smooth complex negotiations and legal requirements.
Professional guidance reduces risk and helps you avoid common pitfalls.
Start confidential discussions with qualified buyers who align with your business’s values and goals. Transparent communication and well-prepared materials create trust and facilitate timely offers.
"Engaging the right buyers sets the foundation for a successful sale and a positive transition."
Anticipate buyer requests for detailed information and maintain open, honest communication throughout the process. Finalize legal documents with professional support to ensure a smooth closing.
Starting your travel business sale with clear steps and expert support from Vincent Vacations ensures you navigate the process with confidence and achieve the best possible outcome for your business and legacy.
Selling your travel business in Missouri is a significant step, but with the right support and preparation, it can be a rewarding experience. Vincent Vacations has been helping travel business owners transition smoothly since 2002, bringing decades of expertise and a personalized approach to every sale.
"Your legacy matters, and we’re here to ensure your business finds the right home with a buyer who values your hard work and dedication."
From understanding market conditions and optimizing your business’s value to navigating legal requirements and closing the deal, each step is an opportunity to set your business up for success. By partnering with Vincent Vacations, you gain access to a team that understands the unique challenges and opportunities of selling a travel business in Missouri.
Whether you’re ready to retire, pursue new ventures, or simply want to ensure your business continues to thrive, Vincent Vacations is here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s work together to make your sale a seamless and successful journey.
"Your next chapter begins with a trusted partner who’s been there before."
Click below to contact us and take the first steps to sell your travel agency in Missouri today.
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Along Missouri's southern border, the state's charming small towns seem more like the state's southern neighbor, Arkansas, with flat terrain, a rural landscape and miles/kilometers of rivers and springs. As you travel north along the Mississippi River, the flatlands morph into the hillier terrain found in St. Louis and Hannibal.
Springfield, located in the southwestern part of the state, offers outdoor adventures and serves as the gateway to the Ozarks and Branson. The western part of the state seems as if it should be annexed by next-door neighbor Kansas, as Kansas City's decidedly western ambience features a cosmopolitan attitude. To the north, historic sights detail the adventures of outlaw Jesse James and the Pony Express headquarters in St. Joseph.
And with its sites related to several beloved and/or infamous figures from the nation's past—Mark Twain, Walt Disney, Scott Joplin, Harry S Truman and Jesse James—Missouri has a knack for making a vacation into a heartland pilgrimage.
The state is named for the Missouri tribe, which inhabited the wooded valleys and tributaries of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. The Missouri and Osage people were farmers, but they were strongly influenced by nomadic bison hunters of the Great Plains—much of their culture centered on the seasonal bison hunts. In addition, Caddoan farmers and hunters inhabited southern Missouri.
The first European to visit the area was Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, who arrived in 1541 while exploring the Mississippi River. The first Anglo settlement, St. Genevieve, wasn't founded until almost 200 years later. After being ceded back and forth between France and Spain, Missouri became a part of the U.S. with the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. Throughout the first half of the 1800s, Missouri was increasingly important to the still-young U.S. The Santa Fe, Oregon and California Trails all threaded through Kansas City and Independence. Though it was admitted to the Union in 1821 as a slave-holding state (part of the Missouri Compromise that also accepted Maine as a free state), Missouri eventually sided with the Union in the Civil War—but only after bitter political struggles, armed conflict and guerrilla-style raids throughout the state.
In the midst of westward expansion following the war, Missouri's central location on the north-south Mississippi trade route and the east-west rail lines made it an important crossroads. Today, Missouri is a leading manufacturing, agriculture and food-processing state. Tourism, the service industries and some mining round out the state's economy, along with automobile and aircraft manufacturing. Missouri is also home to a number of companies that are leading the way in the exploration of the biotech industry.
Missouri's main draws include the Gateway Arch, live-music shows, the St. Louis Zoo, the Ozarks, Branson, lakes, caves (5,000 of them), history, the Mississippi River, Kansas City, riverboat gambling and attractions associated with two of America's greatest straight talkers—author Mark Twain and former U.S. President Harry S Truman.
Travelers interested in history, architecture, museums, theme parks and pleasant scenery will enjoy Missouri. Those who seek dramatically rugged mountains or who prefer a coastal beach to a recreational lake may find the state less to their liking.
Walt Disney grew up in Marceline in north-central Missouri and modeled Disneyland's Mainstreet USA after his hometown. In the town's Walt Disney Elementary School, you'll find his old desk and some life-sized characters created by Disney artists.
Folks who live in California keep waiting for the Big One. Well, it's already happened—in Missouri. Back in 1811, New Madrid was the epicenter of the biggest earthquake in U.S. history. It ravaged the landscape for miles/kilometers around, was felt as far away as Canada and even briefly reversed the course of the Mississippi River. Although seismologists anticipate another major rumble along the fault line, warnings of a major quake in the past few years have proved groundless.
The Cathedral Church of the Prince of Peace in Highlandville lays claim to being the world's smallest cathedral—it holds only 15 worshippers.
The George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond pays tribute to the former slave who became one of this country's most important agronomists and is attributed with creating peanut butter.
Missouri has produced and shaped a plethora of music legends and entertainers, including jazz masters Charlie "Bird" Parker and Miles Davis; actress and dancer Josephine Baker; singer Michael McDonald; hip-hop's Nelly; Scott Joplin, known as the king of ragtime; and Chuck Berry, often credited as the father of rock 'n' roll. More modern-era celebrities include Brad Pitt from Springfield and Sheryl Crow from Kennett. Both attended the University of Missouri at Columbia.
The "S" in Harry S Truman is not an abbreviation of a name—his middle name was simply S—which has made the period after the letter controversial. Sometimes it is used, sometimes not. When he was once asked about his preference, he said it made no difference to him. Truman is the only U.S. president ever elected from the Show Me State, and the university in Kirksville (northeast Missouri) was renamed in 1996 to honor him.
Retired CBS News anchor Walter Cronkite, once considered the most trusted man in America, was born in St. Joseph and later worked at KCMO radio in Kansas City.
The house in which Daniel Boone lived his last years is in Defiance. The town of Boonville, about 125 mi/200 km upriver is also named for Boone, although the spelling became convoluted over the years.
The Church of St. Mary Aldermanbury—which dates to the 1100s, was rebuilt by Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of 1666 and partially destroyed during the Blitz of London during World War II—was disassembled in London, shipped to the U.S. and put back together in Fulton as a commemorative study center to the life and work of Winston Churchill. Churchill's famous "Iron Curtain" speech was delivered in Fulton in 1946 at Westminster College. The center was dedicated in 1969 by the Board of Trustees of Westminster College.
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