Win a 10 night self-drive holiday to Missouri.
WIN A 10 NIGHT SELF DRIVE HOLIDAY - INCLUDING FLIGHT'S, HOTEL'S & CAR HIRE
TO ENTER - PLEASE COMPLETE THE FORM BELOW
Enter our competition below and on Instagram @PurelyTravel
You and your plus 1 could be heading off on a self-drive tour around stunning Missouri, where you will discover vibrant
cities, majestic countryside, Route 66, captivating music and sumptuous culinary delights.
About Missouri
Missouri just got closer !
With the launch of direct flights from London Heathrow to St. Louis in April 2026
Missouri is now quicker and easier to get to !
The Show-Me State of Missouri
Missouri sits at the crossroads of American history, music, and culture. Known as The Show-Me State, it invites travellers to explore a land rich in stories, rhythm, and real Midwestern charm. With iconic cities, scenic river routes, and legendary landmarks, Missouri offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Real America.
Gateway to the West
Start your adventure in St. Louis, a city that blends East Coast energy with Western expansion spirit. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, it’s home to the soaring Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the United States and a striking symbol of America's westward journey. History buffs can stroll old Route 66 routes, explore charming neighbourhoods, or take in the Mississippi River on a classic riverboat cruise, with the Gateway Arch providing a striking backdrop along the riverfront.
Jazz, Barbecue, and Big-City Culture in Kansas City
In the West, Kansas City offers a different kind of rhythm. Known for its elegant fountains, expansive parks, and legendary jazz scene, the city still echoes with the sounds of Miles Davis and Charlie Parker. And if you’re a food lover, don’t leave without trying Kansas City barbecue, a culinary institution all its own.
Live Music Capital and Family Entertainment
For music lovers, Missouri is truly unmatched. In St. Louis, you can visit the very blues clubs where Chuck Berry, Scott Joplin, and Miles Davis launched their careers. Further south, the city of Branson has over 30 theatres hosting up to 60 shows a day - from country and gospel to comedy and family-friendly performances.
Branson offers a different scale of entertainment – larger and designed for big family audiences.
Scenic Landscapes and Outdoor Escapes
Beyond the cities, Missouri’s landscape unfolds with scenic drives, national forests, and river adventures. Float down the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, hike the Mark Twain National Forest, or explore caves, springs, and state parks tucked away across the state. Missouri enjoys all four seasons, and offers a great mix of landscapes, rolling hills and river valleys to forests, riverways, and limestone formations, giving travellers different styles of outdoor scenery to explore.
A State That Shows You Real America
Whether you're in search of music, history, or a road trip full of personality, Missouri travel promises a dynamic and deeply American experience.
PRIZE INCLUDES:
* RETURN DIRECT FLIGHTS FROM LONDON TO ST. LOUIS WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS
* CAR HIRE
* 10 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION
(3 nights in St. Louis, 1 night in Saint Robert, 1 Night in Springfield, 2 nights in Branson, 3 Nights in Kansas City).
See what you can expect on your Missouri self-drive tour
St. Louis - Explore the vibrant city of St. Louis. Begin your adventure with a visit to Gateway Arch National Park, where you can take a tram ride to the top and take in sweeping views of Mississippi River and the city skyline. And don’t skip the Museum under the Gateway Arch for an educational and entertaining telling of the pioneers who shaped the nation.
Just across the street, is the historic Old Courthouse – a significant landmark in civil rights history. Step back in time and discover the powerful stories that shaped America’s history. It was here that the pivotal Dred and Harriet Scott case was first heard, a decision that challenged the nation on the issue of slavery and helped set the stage for the Civil War.
St. Louis is a city full of surprises, offering lively neighbourhoods each with their own character – like the Italian charm of The Hill, the eclectic shops and music clubs of the Delmar Loop, and the historic charm of Soulard. Food lovers can dive into St. Louis style barbeque, famous for its sweet, tangy sauce. As night falls, the city comes alive with the soulful sounds of the blues, carrying on a tradition that’s been part of St. Louis’ heartbeat for generations.
Forest Park: Larger than New York’s Central Park, Forest Park is a green oasis filled with museums, lakes, and scenic trails. Whether you’re exploring the world-class Saint Louis Zoo, strolling through art galleries at the Saint Louis Art Museum, or walking back in time at the Missouri History Museum, this iconic park invites you to slow down and savour the beauty of St. Louis.
Missouri Botanical Gardens: Step into a living masterpiece at the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the oldest and most renowned botanical gardens in the world. Wander through a tranquil Japanese Garden, marvel at the futuristic Climatron rainforest dome, and discover breath-taking floral displays that change with the seasons.
National Blues Museum: Celebrate America’s music at the National Blues Museum, where interactive exhibits and powerful stories showcase the roots of rock, soul, and jazz. With live performances and immersive displays, you’ll feel the rhythm that helped shape St. Louis and the world.
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: No trip to St. Louis is complete without a stop at Ted Drewes, a Route 66 legend since the 1920s. Their concretes – so thick they’re served upside down – are a must try treat!
Cathedral Basilica: Marvel at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, home to one of the world’s largest mosaic collections. Explore its soaring domes and intricate artwork, then visit the Mosaic Museum for a deeper look. It’s a peaceful, awe-inspiring stop that blends history, art, and sacred beauty.
Anheuser Busch Brewery: Step into history at the flagship Anheuser-Busch Brewery, founded in the 1850s and still thriving in its grand red-brick buildings. Take a guided tour—from seed to glass—exploring brewing innovation and even tasting beer straight from the finishing cellars.
St. Louis - Saint Robert -
As you leave St. Louis you set out on your first big stretch along historic Route 66, enjoying the rolling Missouri countryside and iconic roadside stops. Explore the legendary Meramec Caverns, spot the colourful murals of Cuba, and savour smoky barbeque before arriving in Saint Robert. In the evening, enjoy a meal at Hopper’s Pub right on 66 and then stroll through the glowing Route 66 Neon Park to end your night.
Meramec Caverns: Discovered in the 18th century and popularized as a Route 66 attraction in the 1930s, Meramec Caverns offers spectacular underground formations and a dose of outlaw legend with its ties to Jesse James.
Cuba, Missouri: Known as the “Route 66 Mural City,” Cuba features more than a dozen large outdoor murals depicting local history. Also home to the Wagon Wheel Motel – the longest, continuously operating motor court along Route 66. It’s a colourful and photo worthy roadside stop.
Route 66 Neon Park: This unique park features restored vintage neon signs that once lit up Route 66 businesses. Walking among them feels like stepping back in time.
Saint Robert - Springfield -
Hit the road for another stretch of classic Route 66, where each stop feels like stepping into a piece of Americana. In Lebanon, uncover the nostalgia of the Route 66 Museum, then snap a photo at the colourful vintage gas station, Gary’s Gay Parita. Once in Springfield – the official birthplace of Route 66 – dive into history at the fascinating History Museum on the Square and admire over 70 gleaming classics at the Route 66 Car Museum. Cap off your day at Civil Kitchen, where the energy of Springfield keeps the Mother Road spirit alive.
History Museum on the Square, This museum brings the story of Springfield and Route 66 to life with interactive exhibits, telling the tale of the road’s official birthplace.
Route 66 Car Museum (closing in 2027), Featuring more than 70 classic automobiles, this museum showcases everything from luxury cars to famous Hollywood vehicles.
sitting just outside of Springfield and worth a visit, Gary’s Gay Parita, a lovingly restored Sinclair service station, Gary’s Gay Parita is a Route 66 landmark filled with signs, antiques, and stories. Travelers are greeted with warm hospitality and photo opportunities galore.
Springfield - Branson -
A short, but scenic drive, brings you from Springfield into the heart of the Ozarks with plenty to enjoy along the way. Stop at the beautifully restored Ozark Mill at Finley Farms, then roll into Branson for a day packed with excitement. Climb aboard a Pink Jeep Tour to see the hills from a whole new perspective, explore the glittering attractions along Highway 76, and end the evening with a dinner cruise on sparkling Table Rock Lake – an unforgettable Ozark sunset included.
Ozark Mill at Finley Farms This beautifully restored riverside mill blends Ozark history with modern dining. Guests enjoy farm-to-table meals in a scenic, historic setting.
Highway 76: Known as Branson’s Entertainment Strip, Highway 76 is the beating heart of the city’s fun-filled attractions. Here, you can step aboard the Titanic Museum for an immersive journey back to 1912, marvel at sea life at the dazzling Aquarium at the Boardwalk and catch world-class live shows in the many theatres that line the strip.
Silver Dollar City, Step into the 1880s at Silver Dollar City, where thrilling rides meet artisan crafts and old-time charm. From roller coasters to live shows and legendary BBQ, it’s a full day of Ozark-style fun! This area is all about getting outside and soaking up the beauty of the Ozarks! Start at the breath-taking Top of the Rock, where you can journey through a cave with cascading waterfalls and visit the and visit the bat bar all from the comfort of a golf cart. Explore the fascinating Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum and enjoy a memorable meal with lake views. In the afternoon, head to Table Rock Lake for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or simply relaxing on the water.
Table Rock Lake, Built in the 1950s with the construction of Table Rock Dam, the lake has become one of Missouri’s most beloved recreation area. Table Rock Lake offers endless opportunities for fun on the water, from kayaking and paddleboarding to fishing and boating.
Branson - Kansas City -
Today you will take a scenic road trip through the stunning Ozarks, where rolling hills and charming small towns create the perfect backdrop for your journey. Arriving in lively Kansas City, you’ll dive into a vibrant urban scene filled with world-class jazz, mouth-watering barbeque, and buzzing neighbourhoods. Get out, stretch your legs, and explore Kansas City.
Kansas City Streetcar, This free modern transit option serves Union Station, the Crossroads Arts District, the Power and Light District, the city’s central business district, and the historic River Market/City Market along with numerous other businesses, restaurants, art galleries, educational facilities, and neighbourhoods. The KC Streetcar has 16 stops spaced every two blocks for both northbound and southbound travel.
Power & Light District, A lively downtown hub filled with restaurants, bars, and live entertainment venues.
Kansas City and Jazz, Kansas City swings to life after dark with its legendary jazz scene – catch smooth sounds at iconic spots like The Blue Room, the historic Green Lady Lounge, and the lively Mutual Musicians Foundation, where the music often plays until dawn.
Steamboat Arabia Museum (November 2027), This fascinating museum displays the cargo of a steamboat that sank in 1856 and was unearthed 132 years later, perfectly preserved. A true time capsule, showcasing an astonishing collection of 19th-century artifacts – from tools to clothing, canned goods and buttons, everything you would need for life on the frontier.
River Market Kansas, City’s oldest public market, offering fresh produce, international foods, and unique local shops.
National World War I Museum and Memorial, Recognised as the nation’s official WWI museum, it houses one of the largest collections of Great War artifacts in the world, outside of Europe. The Liberty Memorial tower offers breath-taking views of Kansas City. In addition to its main gallery and the Wylie Gallery, the experience includes Memory Hall and Exhibit Hall which host exhibits and commemorative displays.
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, This powerful museum chronicles the history of African American baseball and the athletes who paved the way for integration.
American Jazz Museum, Celebrating Kansas City’s role in the evolution of jazz, the museum features exhibits, listening stations, and historic artifacts.
Purely America is a fully ATOL bonded specialist tour operator to Missouri and the American South.
With competitive airfares, car hire, pre-planned but flexible self-drive tours, rail tours, escorted coach tours, city breaks, spa & golf breaks, and hundreds of hotels to suit every budget, no other UK tour operator offers you a wider choice of holiday options to Missouri.
Call us today ON 0844 80 444 80 to speak with someone who has been there, let us inspire you and help plan your dream holiday to this exciting, historical & stunning state.
