21c Museum Hotel | Bentonville, Arkansas: This upscale hotel, museum, and restaurant blends southern hospitality, modern art, and culinary creativity (and since you’re wondering – 21c means 21st Century).
Baseball: Arkansas Naturals | Springfield Cardinals
Branson, Missouri: Though this eclectic destination still isn’t quite sure what it wants to be when it grows up – (A new Nashville? An inland Coney Island? A more virtuous Vegas?) – it’s certainly fun and family-friendly.
Casinos | NE Oklahoma: Buffalo Run | Downstream | Indigo Sky | Stables – Dave Ramsey does not approve, Northeast Oklahoma offers several casinos.
George Washington Carver National Monument | Diamond, Missouri: Learn about Carver’s exceptional rise from slavery to a distiguished scientific career – and gave us the gift of peanut butter.
JB’s Piano Bar | Joplin, Missouri: Sharps will fly on Saturday at dueling piano night!
Joplin Museum Complex | Joplin, MIssouri: Several small museums exploring our community’s roots, which happen to be mine shafts.
Missouri Southern State University Sports | Joplin, Missouri: Enjoy local collegiate sports – football, basketball, baseball, and more.
Marian Days | Carthage, Missouri: (August) Annual festival commemorating the Vietnamese American Roman Catholic pilgrimage. Thousands of attendees gather to celebrate, partake in ethnic foods and entertainment.
Maple Leaf Parade | Carthage, Missouri: (October) Missouri’s largest parade, lots of food, vendors, 5K, and car show.
Precious Moments Chapel | Carthage, Missouri: The chapel and grounds are the unique life’s work of artist, Sam Butcger. Stop by for a free tour.
Route 66 Drive-In | Carthage, Missouri: Catch a new movie in an old-fashioned way at the 66 drive-in. Enjoy a double feature any weekend April through September.
Spiva Art Gallery | Joplin, Missouri: Take in local art and history exhibits, plus classes and special events.
Third Thursday | Joplin, Missouri: Discover local arts and businesses in downtown Joplin, every third Thursday March through October.