9 Ridiculously Weird But Totally True Facts About Missouri

Missouri is full of surprises, and some of its strangest stories are actually true. From unique landmarks to unexpected historical firsts, the Show-Me State has a knack for keeping things interesting. Here are nine weird — but completely real — Missouri facts that just might change the way you see the state.

1. The City of Fountains Is Right Here in Missouri

Can you guess which it is? With more than 200 fountains around the city, Kansas City holds the title of the City of Fountains. Many say it has more fountains than any other city in the United States.

2. Missouri Is Bordered by 8 States

You might already know that, but can you name all eight of those states? Missouri is bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska.

3. Only One U.S. President Was Born in Missouri

Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president of the United States, had deep roots in Missouri and spent most of his life there. Born in Lamar in 1884 and raised in Independence, MO, he served as county judge before rising through the political ranks. Even after leaving office, Truman returned to Independence, where he remained an active and respected figure in Missouri life. To learn more about his contributions. you can visit the Truman Library Institute in Kansas City, MO.

4. Missouri Has a State Horse

Missouri didn’t get its state horse, the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse, until 2002. To honor this majestic animal, Missouri celebrates the first full week of September each year with "Missouri Fox Trotter Week." There are about a dozen other states with an official state horse including Vermont and New Jersey.

5. However, the Official Animal of Missouri Isn’t a Horse

It’s a mule! The Missouri mule, a cross of a female horse and a male donkey, officially became the state animal in 1995. According to the University of Missouri, "in 1822, William Becknell of Howard County led the first trading party over the Santa Fe Trail and returned with a herd of Mexican mules and donkeys." The rest was history.

6. Branson Wasn’t Always Branson

For just over 3 weeks in October 1903, the brand-new town was officially known as Lucia. It was renamed Branson after Reuben Branson, the local postmaster. It was officially incorporated as Branson in 1912, and today is known for its booming live entertainment district.

7. Missouri Is Home to the World’s First Drive-Thru Restaurant

Red’s Giant Hamburg dates back to 1947, and it earns credit as being the first fast food restaurant to have a drive-thru window. After the original location on Route 66 closed, Missourians flocked to Red’s Giant Hamburg in Springfield for a delicious burger and a side of nostalgia. Sadly, the new location was put up for auction in 2025.

8. You Can Thank Missouri for Sliced Bread

When you buy a loaf of sliced bread at the grocery store, think of Chillicothe. Although the bread slicer was invented by an Iowan, Otto Rohwedde, the first time sliced bread was sold was in this small Missouri town. They even celebrate the achievement every year with a Sliced Bread Festival.

9. Missouri Hosted the First Olympics in the United States

The honor to host the first Olympics in America was originally given to Chicago. However, the games were ultimately held in St. Louis during the summer of 1904. According to the official Olympics website, "one of the most remarkable athletes was the American gymnast George Eyser, who won six medals even though his left leg was made of wood."

Looking for more fun facts? Then take a peek at these weird laws in Missouri that are sure to have you shaking your head. Planning a trip to the Show-Me State? Be sure to use our Only in Your State Itinerary Planner so you don’t miss thing.