Show Me Missouri

04/17/2026

For over 10 years, I’ve used this page to showcase the beauty and places that make Missouri special. Today, I’m making a rare exception to share something a little more personal.

My son-in-law, Corey Ward, has brand-new duet with Markéta Irglová—and it’s absolutely worth a listen.

While Corey is originally from the Carolinas, he’s now part of our Missouri family, and we couldn’t be prouder. Some of you may remember him from Season 20 of The Voice, where he made it to the Top 9 in 2021. Since then, he’s continued to create incredible music that truly deserves to be heard.

This new duet is out today, and his full catalog is available across all streaming platforms. If you enjoy discovering meaningful, heartfelt music, I hope you’ll take a moment to check him out and support his journey.

We’re incredibly proud of you, Corey. ❤️

09/24/2025

If you’re in Columbia and craving pizza that’s truly legendary, Shakespeare’s Pizza is a must. The Peachtree location (3911 Peachtree) is the biggest of the three, and it’s got a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that’s as inviting as the food is phenomenal.

From their iconic pizzas piled high with toppings to the laid-back vibe that makes you want to stay awhile, this spot delivers every time. The staff? Always friendly, always helpful, and they make the experience even better.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, do yourself a favor—grab a pizza pie at Shakespeare’s. Columbia wouldn’t be Columbia without it.

02/03/2023

Even the Chinese are intrigued by Missouri

An object resembling the Chinese balloon seen over the United States this week appeared in the Mid-Missouri sky Friday after a report of it flying near Kansas City.

06/12/2022

The Spirit of St. Louis Air Show in Chesterfield day one was a great success. From death defying feats in the air to the historic and active military aircraft on the ground you can’t help but feel impressed, patriotic and proud. See the planes on the airstrip up close - outside and inside. Talk with the pilots stationed at every plane who are happy to answer any questions you may have. They have a wealth of information to offer. The grand finale is a performance by the impressive Blue Angles, a group of magnificent planes and incredibly talented pilots that never disappoint. One last show is scheduled for tomorrow. Tickets and information are available online. https://spirit-airshow.com. Tickets are required for entry and are a bit expensive but it is an incredible display of our military aircraft. I believe any past and present military personnel get free admission tickets. The show was sold out today and many found areas nearby to park and enjoy the show in the air.

12/21/2020

Christmas star 2020 visible tonight

Want to see the Christmas Star? Here are some tips from NASA to help you view and photograph the once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon.

10/05/2020

Hickory Ridge Orchard offers a full day activities for the whole family. Get lost in the corn maze and find your way back through the paths that lead you out (or will they?). Climb up on the hayrack and get a tour of the orchard the old fashioned farm way. Children will love the Hickory Ridge Express, a train ride that rolls throughout the orchard – ALL ABOARD. Find that perfect pumpkin to take home. Pumpkins are stacked high ready to pick off a trailer or you can wander the pumpkin patch and pluck that perfect one right up off the ground. There’s even a pumpkin washing station for those freshly picked pumpkins. Children will make new best friends with the animals at the petting zoo. Goats, piglets, ducks and fish will love you even more by treating them to the food pellets in the feed dispensers throughout the orchard. Before you leave be sure to stop by the store where you can find some locally made products from great tasting foods to home décor. And if you get hungry, they’ve got you covered, the concession has food for everyone. Over 20 Mid Missouri businesses are promoted here. This farm offers a wonderful affordable day for everyone in the family - young and old. Be ready to take lots of pictures and make lasting memories here on the farm.

Address: 24688 Audrain Road 820 Mexico, MO 65265
Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/kLacTRpSwVu86vj68

07/21/2020

07/18/2020

Comet Neowise is making its appearance in the sky until July 23. 2020. If you miss it – you’re out of luck. It won’t be visible again for another 6,800 years. Your best bet is to find a place unobstructed by city lights. Start looking below the big dipper in the northwest sky just after sunset. The comet can be viewed with the naked eye but binoculars or a small telescope make your viewing much more spectacular.

The following website can offer more information into this once in a lifetime site
https://www.nasa.gov/feature/how-to-see-comet-neowise/

Unfortunately I don’t have a telephoto lens so the pictures do not give it the justice it deserves.

07/17/2020

Citygarden Sculpture Park is situated in bustling downtown St. Louis. This little oasis will make you forget you are in the middle of one of the most populated cities in Missouri. The park is 2.9 acres and encompasses two city blocks. The City of St. Louis owns the park and the Gateway Foundation maintains the park. The park cost $30 million to develop and was funded by the St. Louis’ Gateway Foundation. The foundation is a non-profit group which supports public arts. The Gateway Foundation also funds the security at the park assuring visitor and park safety.

Citygarden Sculpture Park is free to visit. The two city blocks are full of breathtaking landscaping and beautiful sculptures. Paths meander throughout the park leading along 24 sculptures and several gardens. It would be easy to spend hours here taking it all in. It’s OK if you don’t have hours, you can stroll through as quickly or slowly as you desire. It is most definitely worth a visit.

Address: 801 Market St, St. Louis, MO 63101

Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/Fjj9wW5U2paA4bss5

01/08/2020

Smallin Cave was discovered in 1818 by Henry Rowe Schoolcraft during his explorations and is the first documented cave in the Ozarks. During the Civil War Smallin Cave served as a shelter for soldiers traveling through the area. Tales have also been told of the cave housing the vigilante group known as the Baldknobbers. The cave became a gathering place for locals following the war. Offering relief from the heat many picnics and church gatherings were held in the cave. Now the cave is open for tours where visitors can see firsthand the unique geological beauty and learn of the historic value and tales from the past. The large ten story arch opening is one of the largest cave openings making it a spectacular view – 55 feet tall and 100 feet wide. Multiple guided tours are available from one hour tours to the Civil War Lantern Tour. Any of these tours will be unforgettable. The half mile hike to Smallin Cave also includes a second cave tour of Fielden Cave as part of the tour. As with Smallin Cave this cave in itself also offers beauty and history.

Address: 3575 N Smallin Rd, Ozark, MO 65721

Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/wN6ZYN3HbXr