11 Strong Beliefs Missouri Natives Stand By

Would you be able to tell me about life in Missouri? I'm always ready to learn more! Missourians are as unique as snowflakes. No two are the same. That’s what makes Missouri such an amazing place to live. For all of our individual uniqueness, we all share a few commonalities like Missouri itself.

Even though we love living in Missouri, we have some complaints, and we’re not afraid to voice them. However, if an outsider dares to insult our beloved state, we’ll say something. Life in Missouri is shaped by our traditions, from barbecue to baseball. Here are just a few hills to die on in Missouri. See what you’d add to the list.

1. The Bold, Smoky Barbecue That Put Missouri on the Map

Never try to tell us that you’ve tasted better barbecue outside of Missouri. It simply isn’t true. We know a whole lot about barbecue and what makes it oh-so-delicious. This is definitely one of the hills to die on in Missouri. Burnt ends, anyone? Consider taking a BBQ road trip in Missouri. Kansas City’s slow-smoked, St. Louis’ grilled spare ribs, and sauce-laden barbecue both define what makes Missouri’s barbecue world-famous.

2. Fried Ravioli Is the Ultimate Comfort Food in Missouri

Living in Missouri means enjoying delicious food, which isn’t surprising since we live in a bona fide foodie state. Sure, traditional ravioli is tasty, but let’s be honest. Fried ravioli is the best kind of ravioli, and you won’t find a more scrumptious way to start a meal. The best way to end a meal? Gooey butter cake, of course. Try toasted ravioli in St. Louis, where it all began. Find the best toasted raviolis in Missouri.

3. The Cheesy, Crispy Goodness That Makes St. Louis-Style Pizza Unforgettable

Sure, all kinds of pizza are delicious. However, when you want the best, you order a classic St. Louis-style pie. This kind of pizza is life in Missouri. Many locals swear by Imo’s Pizza, a St. Louis institution. Learn more about St. Louis-style pizza.

4. Sip, Savor, and Explore Missouri’s Unmatched Wine Country

Missouri is a paradise for wine lovers. After all, it is home to the Hermann Wine Trail, a glorious 20-mile stretch with seven wineries. You won’t find a better day trip destination or weekend getaway if you want to sample some of the area’s best wine. For many residents, it's one of the most significant hills to die on in Missouri. Read further on about wineries in Missouri.

5. There’s Nothing More Relaxing Than a Missouri River Float

Everyone living in Missouri floats during the summer. It is the ultimate way to relax and to soak up Missouri’s natural beauty. You can plan your float with outfitters like Ozark Outdoors or Akers Ferry. Find a summer tubing trip in Missouri near you.

6. Why Missourians Don’t Let Finicky Weather Ruin Their Day

Snowstorm on the horizon? Tornado sirens blaring? Sweltering heat in the forecast? We’ve got this. Missouri’s crazy weather doesn’t faze us. "Locals like to say, 'If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.'"

7. Royals vs. Cardinals: The Rivalry That Defines Missouri Baseball

As Missourians, there’s one thing that’s certainly true. We either root for the Royals or the Cardinals… and we’re fiercely loyal to our sports teams. The legendary I-70 Series defines this friendly statewide rivalry. Your pick is certainly one of the more popular hills to die on in Missouri.

8. We’re Proud of Our Small-Town Roots

No matter how big our cities get, many people love small towns here. From friendly neighbors to charming squares, the Cave State's small towns define who we are. You can learn more about small towns in Missouri.

9. Nothing Beats a Missouri Sunset

From the rolling Ozarks to the wide-open plains, Missouri sunsets are breathtaking. Locals know, and watching the sky change colors at dusk indeed is one of life’s simplest joys. Don't you agree? It's something you can experience for yourself when you visit the Bullion State!

10. We Take Our Fairs and Festivals Seriously

It doesn't really matter whether it's a local fall festival or the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia, Missouri. Missourians know how to celebrate community. From music, food, crafts, and a good time – those are all the things that make Missouri life special. And the locals will always defend this fact. Learn more about long-standing festivals in Independence, Missouri.

11. The Ozarks Are a Way of Life

Let's be real, the Ozarks aren’t just a destination – they’re a lifestyle. With miles of trails, waterfalls, and hidden caves, it’s no wonder Missourians proudly call this region home. And that's a fact that the locals will forever defend.

Can you think of any other hills to die on in Missouri? Let us know by filling out this nomination form. Want more details on life in Missouri? Take a peek at how these seven charming small towns in Missouri make Missouri so special.

And, when planning to explore Missouri, remember to use our itinerary planner and discover the best Ozark stops.