When most of the country thinks of Missouri, they think of the St. Louis Arch or the Kansas City fountains...or maybe even the Cardinals or the recent World Series winning Royals.  Truth is, there is SO MUCH MORE in Missouri that some might argue are the best parts.  Here are some things you might find surprising if you come from another part of the country...

1. Most of the state can't stand St. Louis. Not as many dislike Kansas City, except for people from Kansas City, Kansas. AND they may resent that this is all anyone knows about Missouri….

While the Arch IS a landmark that everyone should see once...it's a small part of what Missouri is.

2. It is a very rural area. Larger towns are still under 10,000 residents, and there are only 23 towns over 20,000.

By much of the country's standards of what makes a small town, Missouri is mostly made up of them. Friendly, polite, and definitely beautiful towns.

3. It’s pretty conservative overall.

Our version of Vegas is Branson. Enough said.

4. Some of the state is Midwestern and some of it is more Southern, including customs and traditions.

There is a pretty popular southern tradition called "frog-gigging."

5. Historic small towns are pretty much all over the place.

Pleasant Hill is just one of the places with a story to tell.

6. It has some of the most beautiful and diverse scenery in the country.

Mountains...

Prairies

7. You can drive a long time without seeing people or their domiciles. Even right outside of the cities…

8. Traffic jams are only for the “city folk.”

Some towns don't have a single traffic light, nor do they need one.

9. It’s easy to find farmer’s markets, pick your own food, and flea markets.

Soulard Farmer’s Market

10. Missouri Wine Country is actually starting to get worldwide notice from wine connoisseurs.

11. You can’t beat the fall or spring in Missouri.

Fall, Missouri Botanical Gardens, St. Louis

Spring, Missouri Botanical Gardens, St. Louis

12. The tributary system in Missouri is nothing short of amazing.

Lower Missouri River

The Mississippi River at the Chain of Rocks just north of St. Louis .

13. Blues and Jazz have heavy roots here.

Big Muddy Blues Festival 2013

Mutual Musicians Foundation. This union hall, which is a National Historic Landmark, remains open on weekends for all-night jam sessions.

14. Provel, Fried Ravioli, Gooey Butter Cake…. all considered St. Louis things, not necessarily “Missouri” things. Missouri is more Southern home cooking than quirky food fads.

McFarlane’s Restaurant, Branson

What are some other things you would tell people if they are moving to Missouri?  Share in the comments below.