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When millions of tourists visit a place every year, it’s hard to label a place as “underrated.”
But that’s the case for one of the most beautiful destinations in the US
We all love the outdoors in many different ways, whether it’s lazing on the beach, going swimming, seeking solitude or going camping with friends.
This beautiful outing meets all the requirements and more.
You can gamble, live the good life at luxury resorts and spend countless hours enjoying breathtaking landscapes, and this is just the beginning!
As winter drags on, it’s time to turn the page to spring and beyond and make travel plans with plenty to do for all ages.
Here are 5 reasons why you should visit the Ozarks in 2024:
Better in real life
Missouri is known for encouraging them Redbirdsbut it is a different ‘Byrde’ that is more recognizable in the Ozarks.
That would be the fictional character Marty Byrde and his family in the mega-popular Netflix show Ozark.
The show ended with its season finale in 2022 and didn’t exactly paint this region of the US in the best light as a run-down, trailer park-filled, crime-ridden community of degenerates.
The real Ozarks is very different in all the best ways. If there’s one line from the show that might entice you to give it a good try, it’s Marty Byrde’s selling point: “This place right here has more coastline than the entire coast of California.”
Although fictional, this rule is a straight fact. Stretching for approximately 1,100 miles, the beautiful coastline of the Ozarks is much more than what the popular TV show depicted, especially since it wasn’t even filmed here.
So many beautiful sights
The Ozarks are largely seen as Missouri’s treasure, but this vast region still crosses three state lines: Arkansas, Oklahoma and Kansas.
The region’s namesake, Lake of the Ozarks, may be the most common, but many would say Table Rock Lake is the most photo-worthy and a must see if you’re visiting the area.
Visitors can participate in a variety of water activities, with boating, fishing and swimming among the most popular.
There are beautiful beaches, horse riding and lantern tours to explore the wonderful caves of the area.
Lake of the Ozarks State Park is the largest in Missouri, while Ha Ha Tonka State Park is home to a dozen hiking trails, crystal-clear springs reminiscent of Mexican cenotes, and even a castle.
It’s definitely no laughing matter.
Waterfront resorts
Who says you have to go to California or Florida to enjoy a fun stay by the water?
With household names like Margaritaville and many others just as notable, a great vacation awaits.
In the pretty lakeside town of Osage Beach, rumors are abuzz about the long-awaited $350 million waterfront resort rightly named Oasis in Lakeport.
The resort giant will include its own theme park, water park and chic hotel as part of a wider entertainment district.
Until it opens at an unknown date, there are plenty of accommodation options for beautiful lake views and even all inclusive accommodations, such as the charming Cobblestone Lodge.
Underrated spring break
While many vacationers prepare for spring break in the household names of Cancun, Cabo and more, the Ozarks provide an optimal alternative.
As winter draws to a close, the seemingly endless trees come back to life as warmer weather returns.
Spring is a great time to get on the water and explore the beautiful natural areas of the Ozarks. Locals say this is “the season of wildflowers and waterfalls.”
But when the sun sets, the neon lights come on. Lake of the Ozarks is the party center for vacationers who can enjoy the local bars and Party Cove, one of the liveliest spots in the spring.
Who doesn’t love a road trip?
Many tourists explore the Ozarks by boat, but taking the byways isn’t just a lyric in a country song from Branson’s Ozarks base.
In fact, road trips are making a big comeback this year, according to a new study.
Spring and summer are some of the best seasons for a road trip, although the Ozarks are also perfect for spotting fall leaves.
Hop through state parks, visit charming Branson, and explore neighboring states beyond Missouri because the Ozarks are a never-ending adventure.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
