Missouri promises the wide open spaces, lush forests and spectacular mountains of many of the Great Plains states, but it also boasts swish, sophisticated cities and colourful country towns. Accommodation options across the state are wide-ranging, with everything from slick city hotels to remote forest lodges, ideal for couples, friends or families eager to immerse themselves in nature. Whether you’re dreaming of a big midwestern road trip, a culture-filled city break or a hiking and cycling escape, the best places to stay in Missouri have got you covered.

The state capital, St Louis, is a lively metropolis with a fascinating trading history stemming from its position on the Mississippi River. Admire the Gateway Arch, visit the city’s many museums, and catch a game of baseball or some live music. Artsy, fountain-filled Kansas City, on the other hand, has a fabulous creative culture and great food — including top-notch barbecue. Venture to St Joseph for a sense of the Wild West, or to friendly Branson and Independence for a quintessential midwestern town experience.

Discover the entrancing Ozark Mountains, home to striking scenery, as well as heaps of outdoorsy activities in the verdant hills — think horse riding, hiking and cycling — and fishing, kayaking or swimming along stretches of the Black River. Missouri features a huge array of rivers and forests, perfect for bird watching, wildlife spotting and adventuring.

If you’re looking to hide away as a couple, to take the kids on an active holiday, or for a hip city break with friends, book a room at one of the best places to stay in Missouri and head out to explore!

The Best Places to Stay in Missouri

For City Style

• Crossroads Hotel is a trendy city spot in Kansas City's historic Pabst Brewing Depot. Rooms are chic and comfortable and there are some lovely meeting places for business travellers. The buzzing rooftop beer garden and classic Italian steakhouse are both brilliant for long, lively evenings with friends old and new.
• Hotel St Louis is a downtown St Louis landmark, with Art Deco-style interiors in a 19th-century building. Think swish guestrooms, a cool rooftop pool, soothing spa and great cuisine. Good for couples or business travellers looking to stay in the city centre, close to the riverfront. A smart urban choice.
• The Fontaine is a stylish and sophisticated city hotel in the famed Country Club Plaza area of Kansas City. Expect opulent rooms and suites with marble bathrooms, a rooftop pool, fitness centre and a superb rooftop cocktail bar. For visitors keen to experience the city's best shopping.

For Art Lovers

• 21c Museum Hotel features crisp, contemporary guestrooms and suites in Kansas City's renovated Savoy Hotel, which also has an excellent restaurant. As much an art gallery as a hotel, there are fantastic paintings and sculptures on display in the public areas, making this a top pick for modern art aficionados.

FOR Urban LUXURY

• The Ritz Carlton is an elegant 300-room choice in St Louis' verdant Garden District. Stay here for luxury and grandeur, with an extensive spa, three excellent restaurants, a cigar club, wine room and delectable afternoon teas. Rooms and suites are beautifully appointed, with options for couples, families or business travellers. A very special stay.
• Four Seasons St Louis is a wonderfully romantic riverside hotel, complete with cool, contemporary interiors, as well as a rooftop pool and bar, firepits and delectable fare. Brilliant for couples, this indulgent property also has fun kids' options including special teen spa treatments and games for younger children. A superb stay on the banks of the Mississippi River in St Louis.

For a Rural Escape

• Big Cedar Lodge overlooks beautiful Table Rock Lake, which is also a good place for fishing. It’s a large lodge, with around 260 rooms and cabins, but it still has the feel of a wilderness escape. Expect whirlpool baths, indulgent interiors and opportunities for trekking, horse riding, watersports and more. Private cabins are ideal for remote and romantic honeymoons.
• Stonewater Cove Resort is a rustic lodge, with just 25 rooms and cabins featuring wood panelling, thick rugs and cosy leather armchiars, tucked within the Mark Twain National Forest. A striking lakeside pad with heaps of activities for guests of all ages, this is a fun pick for epic family holidays as well as tranquil couples' retreats.

FOR GREAT VALUE

• Hotel Ignacio is an affordable choice in St Louis' Arts District, with 51 comfortable rooms. There's great music, theatre and exhibitions right on your doorstep, as well as a popular onsite eatery - best-known for its tapas - and many nearby restaurants. A good value choice for guests of all ages.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to St Louis Lambert International Airport or to Kansas City International Airport and travel to your destination from there. Many hotels will be happy to arrange transport or to advise on travel as you make your plans.
• Missouri is great to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures averaging between 25° and 35°C. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for cooler temperatures, and to avoid the potential summer crowds in the cities.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in St Louis.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Illinois.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Missouri