The Top 5 Can’t-Miss Scenic Drives in Missouri

Located in the Midwest region of the United States, Missouri became a state in 1821. Missouri is the state with the most neighboring states, tied with its neighboring state Tennessee. The Missouri River runs right through the middle of this state that was named after a Sioux Indian tribe.

Missouri means “wooden canoe people”. The Pony Express, Oregon Trail, Santa Fe Trail, and California Trail all started in this state. Missouri is home to the tallest man-made national monument in the USA, the Gateway Arch. President Harry S. Truman was born in this state on May 8, 1884.

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Known commonly as the “Show Me State,” Missouri has a lot to offer people who seek adventure on a road trip. Missouri is geographically diverse and covers the eastern edges of the North American Great Plains.

Here you can find fertile prairie with many rivers and streams, as well as tallgrass prairie lands and scattered woodlands. The Bootheel region is located in the southeastern area of Missouri. It is the lowest, flattest, warmest, and the wettest area in the state. This makes for fertile land, prime for cotton and rice crops.

What kind of car insurance do you need in Missouri?

Nearly all states require their drivers to carry certain types and amounts of auto insurance coverage. Missouri is no exception. These legal requirements help protect all drivers and passengers on Missouri roads.

– Minimum required coverage in Missouri

Missouri residents are required to carry liability insurance with minimum limits as follows:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for total bodily injury for multiple people
• $10,000 for total property damage

In addition, Missouri residents need to have uninsured motorist coverage in the same amounts as liability coverage.

– Additional coverage options in Missouri

Although not legally required, these are coverage types you may want to consider for your car:

• Collision – This coverage helps pay for damages to your vehicle in an accident. Drivers should note that liability will only pay for damages they cause to other people’s property, not their own. Collision pays for their own damages.
• Comprehensive – For other situations that may damage or destroy your vehicle, such as theft, vandalism, hitting an animal, or flooding, you will need comprehensive coverage.
• Medical Payments – Also known as med pay, this coverage will pay for medical bills and sometimes lost wages if you or your passengers are hurt in an accident.

Comparison Shopping in Missouri

Getting the coverage you need in Missouri doesn’t have to be complicated or overly expensive. To save money on auto insurance while still getting the coverage you want and are legally required to have, you may need to do some comparison shopping.

Just like you comparison shop before making other large purchases such as electronics or your vehicle, you should do the same with your auto insurance coverage.

The best way to do this is to use an online price comparison tool. With these tools, you can select the coverage you need and compare premiums from different auto insurance carriers.

The Top 5 Scenic Drives in Missouri

#1 – Little Dixie Highway

The Little Dixie Highway, sometimes also called the Mississippi Flyway Byway, is a unique way to explore the culture and history of the south.

On this drive, you will be treated to Victorian-era streetscapes as well as plantation era-mansions. Some of this road travels near the banks of the Mississippi River and provides perfect opportunities for viewing natural plant and wildlife.

Recreational opportunities abound if you want to take a break on your drive to bird watch, fish, or go for a hike. The river here is nearly synonymous with Mark Twain stories. The Mississippi River is also a historical landmark that turned from a barrier between native peoples and settlers into a starting point for hopes and dreams.

#2 – Highway 106

Outside of Ellington and heading west out of the valley, this road will quickly ascend into Deer Run State Forest.

You will find that the road then twists and winds along the ridge with curves that are both tight and sweeping. Hills and trees can be viewed from both sides of the road. Highway 106 takes you through the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

There are many scenic detours you can take, including Highway 19. In the spring, abundant blooming dogwood redbud trees are a feast for your eyes. This area also is picturesque with fall colors during autumn.

There are many places to stop for recreation, camping, and food along the way. Many restaurants along this road are famous for their fried chicken or their barbecue.

#3 – Glade Top Trail

Glade Top Trail is the only National Scenic Byway located in Missouri. In order to get this designation, roads must meet recreational, historical, educational, scientific, and cultural standards set by the national government.

This is a 23-mile road that will weave through narrow ridgetops and give you views of the rolling countryside. Many scenic views are in range once you get to the Springfield Plateau.

Several different types of wildlife call this area home such as the white-tailed deer, songbirds, squirrels, rabbits, wild turkey, and bobwhite quail. If you are lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of a roadrunner, scorpion, a pygmy rattlesnake, or even a collared lizard.

#4 – Great River Road

If you are looking for a spectacular fall drive, you won’t want to miss the Great River Road drive. This road runs along the Mississippi River beginning at the hometown of Mark Twain to wine country, through Cape Girardeau, and to the Bootheel region.

Stop to explore the Mark Twain Cave or the Historic Main Street St. Charles. Experience a piece of 18th Century history at the Bolduc House Museum, which includes a room with activities geared toward children.

When you are ready to relax, stop in the rolling hills at the Chaumette Vineyards and Winery. The poolside café also offers lunch and dinner. Further down the road, you can stop to stretch your legs at the Hunter-Dawson State Historic Site. This plantation is said to have been used by Union Troops during the Civil War.

#5 – Blue Buck Knob Scenic Byway

The Blue Buck Knob Scenic Byway is located in the Mark Twain National Forest and runs through Ozark hill country.

It provides views of open pastures, streams, farmland, and densely wooded oak and pine hillsides. You can stop to enjoy some of the recreation that this drive offers, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping, or just enjoy the views while taking your drive.

Preparing for Your Scenic Drive in Missouri

To have a successful, safe, and enjoyable drive in Missouri, you will need to be prepared.

You may anticipate your drive going smoothly and being uneventful, however, you never know what is around the corner when you are away from the conveniences of home. To be prepared for whatever may come your way, your road trip checklist should include the following:

– A Vehicle Inspection

Avoid any unexpected hassles by getting your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic before your scheduled trip. You should also make sure the tires are inflated properly and have good tread. Before getting on the road, fill your gas tank completely.

– Packing Essentials in Your Car

Pack your car with extra water, high-energy snacks, blankets, extra clothes, and anything else you just might need. It is always better to be prepared for any situation.

– Gathering an Emergency Kit

You should also pack an emergency kit with supplies such as road flares, a flashlight with extra batteries, first aid supplies, and a fully charged cell phone. You never know when you might need it. You can also purchase these types of kits already premade at various stores.

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