St. Louis, Missouri
The largest city east of the Mississippi River is undoubtedly St. Louis, Missouri. It is home to around 302,838 residents according to the 2015 US Census, making it one of the most populous urban areas in the United States. St. Louis has a long and deep history, having been established in 1764, and is considered the gateway to the West. It has a range of attractions and cultural experiences, such as its famous St. Louis Gateway Arch, Forest Park, and numerous museums and theaters.
The city of St. Louis is renowned for being a vibrant and diverse destination, where visitors and locals alike can explore different cuisines, activities, and exhibitions. Its thriving food and art scenes, as well as culture-filled attractions, are just some of the reasons why millions of tourists visit every year. The city also has a strong sports presence, being home to several professional teams, including the St. Louis Blues and Cardinals.
St. Louis is an economic center in the region, boasting a variety of corporate headquarters and businesses, such as the Anheuser-Busch brewery and the Monsanto Company. It is also home to several educational institutions, including St. Louis University and Washington University. There is an abundance of attractions, activities, and things to do, making it an ideal destination for travelers and locals alike.
Louisville, Kentucky
Located in Kentucky, Louisville is the second largest city east of the Mississippi River. It was founded in 1778 and has since become the largest city in Kentucky and one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. With a population of 620,000, it is home to several Fortune 500 companies, such as UPS, Papa Johns and Yum! Brands, as well as five major universities, and is the economic heart of the state.
When it comes to things to do, Louisville offers an abundance of activities for people of all ages. From outdoor attractions like the Louisville Waterfront Park, Jefferson Memorial Forest and Louisville Zoo, to the more cultural attractions like The Speed Art Museum and the Muhammad Ali Center, it is no wonder why the city attracts millions of tourists each year.
The food scene in Louisville is also one of the most diverse, with a range of cuisines from around the world, as well as some of the best bourbon bars in the country. The city is also home to the legendary Kentucky Derby horse race and numerous live music venues, making it a great place to enjoy the nightlife.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, the capital city of Tennessee, is the third-largest east of the Mississippi River. With a population of 667,560, it is an up-and-coming metropolis known as ‘Music City’ due to its active music scene and countless music festivals. It is also the home of the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and numerous other attractions that celebrate the history and culture of the city.
Nashville is well-known for its Southern charm and hospitality, where visitors and locals alike can revel in the sights and sounds of the city. In addition to its musical attractions, there are numerous other things to do, such as exploring the great outdoors at Percy Warner Park or Radnor Lake, or taking a stroll down Broadway and experiencing some of the best honky-tonks and restaurants in the city.
From its music to its hospitality, Nashville offers an experience like no other. It is a city that reigns in culture and history, and is one that is sure to delight visitors with its vibrant atmosphere.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati is the fourth largest city east of the Mississippi River. Nestled on the Ohio River, the city is home to around 302,605 residents and is beloved for its classic beauty, notable historic sites, large parks and vibrant neighborhoods.
The city is renowned for its food and culture, with numerous restaurants, bars, and breweries. It is also a great destination for sports fans, as it is home to several professional teams, such as the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals.
The city offers something for everyone, from outdoor activities and art galleries to historic attractions and vibrant nightlife. Cincinnati also boasts a variety of world-class museums, such as the Cincinnati Art Museum and the Contemporary Arts Center, which are just some of the reasons why millions of visitors come to the city each year.
Independence, Missouri
Independence is the fifth largest city east of the Mississippi River and is located in Jackson County, Missouri. The city has a population of 117,239 according to the 2010 US Census and is renowned for its historical attractions and sites, such as the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum and the Museum of Westward Expansion.
Independence is also a great destination for arts and culture. It is home to numerous theaters and art galleries, as well as the historic American Jazz Museum. The city also hosts various festivals, such as the Annual Liberty Days Festival and the Fall into Tunes Music Festival.
Independence is a great place to visit, with something for everyone. From museums and historical attractions to concerts and festivals, it is sure to delight and fascinate visitors with its vibrant atmosphere.
Memphis, Tennessee
Situated in southern Tennessee along the Mississippi River, Memphis is the sixth largest city east of the river, with a population of 652,717. It is also the largest city in all of Tennessee and holds the title of ‘Music City USA’, thanks to its cultural and musical legacy.
The city is known for its vibrant music scene, with numerous live music venues, such as the iconic Graceland, as well as other popular attractions, including the National Civil Rights Museum, Beale Street, and the Memphis Zoo.
Memphis is a great destination for all types of travelers, with something for everyone. Whether you are looking for music, culture, or outdoor activities, Memphis is sure to have what you are looking for.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis is the seventh-largest city east of the Mississippi River and the capital and largest city of Indiana, with a population of 853,173. The city is known for its culture and sports, as it has been home to the famed Indianapolis 500 motor race since 1911, as well as four professional sports teams, the Indiana Pacers, Colts, Fever, and Indianapolis Indians.
Aside from its sports and motor racing, Indianapolis also boasts a vibrant cultural scene. It is home to numerous art and history attractions, such as the Indianapolis Museum of Art and the Indiana State Museum, as well as the historic Monument Circle, which is the focal point of the city.
Indianapolis is a great destination for all types of travelers, as it offers a plethora of activities for people of all ages. From outdoor activities and sports to cultural attractions and live music venues, there is something for everyone in this bustling city.
Columbus, Ohio
Columbus is the eighth largest city east of the Mississippi River and the capital of Ohio, with a population of 822,553. The city is known for its numerous attractions, such as the Ohio Statehouse and the Columbus Museum of Art. It is also renowned for its thriving food scene, with its many restaurants, bars, breweries, and gastro-pubs.
Columbus is a great destination for outdoor lovers, with over 24,000 acres of green space in the city’s park system. It is home to numerous parks and trails, such as the Scioto Trail, which is ideal for biking, jogging, and birdwatching.
Columbus is a great destination for all types of travelers, offering something for everyone. From outdoor activities and cultural attractions to its thriving food scene, it is a city that is sure to excite and delight.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma City is the ninth-largest city east of the Mississippi River and the capital of Oklahoma, with a population of 638,367. The city is renowned for its art and culture, with numerous museums and galleries, such as the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. It is also home to numerous festivals and events, such as the Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts and thedeadCENTER Film Festival.
Oklahoma City is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with abundant parks and trails, as well as the iconic Myriad Botanical Gardens, which is one of the top public gardens in the United States. The city also offers shopping and dining, with numerous boutique shops and restaurants, as well as the Bricktown Entertainment District, which is home to dozens of bars and clubs.
Oklahoma City is a great destination for all types of travelers, offering something for everyone. With its numerous attractions, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture and nightlife, it is no wonder why the city is one of the most popular destinations in the region.
