Missouri’s tourism officials see new fall trend

(Missourinet) – Tourism is ramping up in Missouri this fall.

Missouri Tourism Director Stephen Foutes says they’ve seen a trend in recent years.

“October has really become a very popular month for travel, starting to rival some of our summer months.”

He says fall festivals are cashing in on the trend, as well as communities near scenic byways and highways, known for fall color.

“We were really blessed here in Missouri to have so many great opportunities for people to get out and experience fall festivals, enjoy our fall drives. We have great highways here in Missouri. People can take a beautiful drive.”

He says now can be a good time to visit Missouri places connected to famous Americans.

“Jesse James, kind of northwest, and Mark Twain in the northeast portion of the state. Also, Walt Disney’s hometown up in Marceline, George Washington Carver in Diamond, and Laura Ingalls Wilder in Mansfield.

Missouri tourism’s annual economic impact surpasses 20 billion dollars.