An explorer scopes out the Missouri River from the overlook at Weston Bend State Park. MoDNR photo by Adam Knaebel.
When you think about Missouri, images of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis or the fountains in Kansas City may come to mind. However, the ever-evolving sports scene in the Show-Me State continues to attract a wide array of avid fans from around the globe.
Apart from several highly successful professional sports teams that draw fans to their home games, recent developments in international sports tourism are also taking shape across the state.
Kansas City, Missouri, is an official host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, with six matches scheduled to be held there, one being a quarterfinal game. Officials are predicting a major surge in exploratory tourism, as fans from as many as 48 nations descend upon the state, looking for authentic American experiences. Many of the international visitors are from places known for taking month-long vacations that coincide with major sporting events. Missouri’s state parks and historic sites are prepared to leverage this unprecedented worldwide exposure.
A World-Class Opportunity
“The World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to introduce millions of people to our state and to the incredible experiences found in our state parks,” said Laura Hendrickson, director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of State Parks. “We’re eager to welcome the surge of visitors, along with those seeking to escape the crowds. Whether it’s hiking on the iconic Katy Trail, exploring the museum at Route 66 State Park or visiting the birthplace of Mark Twain, the division is prepared to offer the perfect natural and cultural complement to the high-energy soccer matches in Kansas City. This isn’t just a temporary economic boost; it’s our chance to showcase Missouri as a lasting destination on the global travel map.”
Held once every four years, the World Cup is the most widely viewed sporting event in the world, surpassing even the Super Bowl. Organizers expect an influx of 650,000 visitors to Missouri, providing an estimated $620-$650 million boost to the economy and an unprecedented chance for global exposure.
“For the 2022 World Cup, a combined 5 billion viewers tuned in, and an estimated 3.4 million tourists visited host country Qatar,” said Pam Kramer, CEO of KC2026, the nonprofit that manages Kansas City’s host duties for the World Cup. “In 2026, there will be a record 80 matches hosted by three countries (U.S., Canada and Mexico), as well as an unprecedented 48 participating nations. This is an exciting time for Missouri!”
Hotels in Kansas City are expected to hit full capacity fast, meaning fans, media and maybe even some teams will be seeking accommodations well beyond the city limits, even up to 2.5 hours away, Kramer said. Those fans may be looking to get away, relax and recharge. Missouri’s state parks and historic sites will be ready and waiting with a list curated to capture the state’s geographic and cultural diversity.
Missouri Lt. Governor David Wasinger addressed participants at the Governor’s Conference on Tourism last fall, focusing on big games, big celebrations and big opportunities for the Show-Me State. He said the state could also host base camps for international teams, a move that could generate millions in tourism revenue throughout the state.
“St. Louis and Kansas City are FIFA qualified for what’s called a base camp, where teams from all over the globe will come to practice and to get ready for the matches,” Wasinger said. “So, there will be a 30-day window where they come over and need to train for the soccer matches. The games kick off June 16 and run through July 11.”
“The world is projected to come to Kansas City,” said Hendrickson. “We want to encourage visitors to find their way to our rural communities.”
The games will be held at Arrowhead Stadium, which boasts a seating capacity of 76,416 and holds the Guinness World Record as the loudest stadium in the world. After the games, visitors may decide to tone it down and find some peace and quiet. Visiting a state park or historic site is a prime opportunity to recharge.
For visitors planning to venture off I-70 and explore the state, there are several parks and historic sites ready to welcome you:
- Katy Trail State Park: The nation’s longest developed rail-trail offers 240 miles of opportunities to explore. Running alongside the Missouri River, the trail connects small, quaint towns, allowing cyclists and hikers the chance to experience the heart of the Midwest.
- Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Camdenton: This park features ruins of a turn-of-the-century castle overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks. It also showcases a natural bridge, sinkholes and a spring, offering unique views for sightseers.
- Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site, Kansas City: Check out the studio where Benton created some of his most famous paintings. The house and studio capture Benton’s spirit, as much has remained undisturbed since his death.
- Scott Joplin House State Historic Site, St. Louis: For cultural travelers, this site offers a look into the life and legacy of the St. Louis home of the King of Ragtime musician.
- Route 66 State Park, Eureka: Located on the iconic Mother Road, this park and visitor center is considered a must-see for those fascinated by Americana. The visitor center is housed in a historic roadhouse that contains memorabilia from the highway’s hey-day. The park allows visitors the opportunity to explore nature along the Meramec River.
- Mark Twain State Park and Boyhood Home State Historic Site, Florida: guests who have read his works may want to visit the places bearing his name. Not only will visitors see the home where Twain was born, but they can also see the original manuscript of “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.”
- Weston Bend State Park, Weston: Located not too far from the World Cup venue, this park offers an escape from the city as well as impressive views. Visitors can find easy trails, scenic overlooks and picnic areas, making it the perfect destination between matches.
- Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Brumley: Missouri’s largest state park offers guests endless opportunities, from scenic land and water trails to public swim beaches and the natural wonders of Ozark Caverns. With options for camping, rustic cabins and yurts, a traveler can experience natural beauty as well as recreational fun.
For more information on Missouri state parks and historic sites and to plan your next adventure, visit the Missouri State Parks website.
