JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The seven Missouri Welcome Centers operated by the Missouri Division of Tourism are reporting traffic on par with 2007, suggesting that consumers in the region are traveling in numbers comparable to last year, even though many report staying closer to home.
The division operates Welcome Centers along major highways in Rock Port, Eagleville, Hannibal, St. Louis, New Madrid, Joplin and Kansas City, offering in-bound travelers the latest news and weather reports, as well as copies of the Official Missouri Vacation Planner, Missouri highway maps and brochures about Missouri destinations and attractions.
The Missouri Division of Tourism this year has taken an aggressive approach in promoting the Show-Me State to regional travelers through its “Close to Home. Far From Ordinary” advertising campaign created by St. Louis-based Hoffman|Lewis. Print and television advertisements focus on the emotional connections people make with family and friends through vacation travel, and promoting Missouri as a close-to-home destination offering unique, life-enriching experiences.
“We are encouraged but not surprised by the number of people visiting our Welcome Centers,” said R.B. “Bob” Smith, III, interim director, Missouri Division of Tourism. “Even though folks may be more aware of their expenses, Missouri traditionally has held its own during tough times because we have so much to offer and we’re conveniently located in the center of the country.”
For more information on Missouri, go to www.VisitMO.com or call 800-519-4800 to order a free 2008 Official Missouri Vacation Planner.
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