DAY ONE: The beauty of Spring in Southern Missouri abounds on this close to home and enjoyable journey. Departing St. Louis, we will make our way into the Coldwater Conservation Area near Puxico, MO. Here, we find one of Southern Missouri's most diverse natural habitats for plants and animals known as the Mingo lowland swamp. Designated as a National Wildlife Refuge and Flyway, the swamp is home to over 250 species of birds, 95 species of migratory waterfowl, 38 species of mammals, 23 species of amphibians, and 37 species of reptiles.  We will bein at the visitors center and then a leisurely and easy walk along the swamp boardwalk. This picturesque spot features beautiful bald cypress trees, and many chances to see wildlife of all kinds safely and above the swamp. Truly a unique, educational and fun experience.  This afternoon, we will enjoy the The Stars & Stripes National Museum and Library. Located in Bloomfield, Missouri, the designated birthplace of the Stars and Stripes by the US Department of Defense, the Museum collects, documents, celebrates, interprets, and preserves material related to the creation and continuing history of the Stars and Stripes, our nation’s military newspaper. This museum tells the story of the Stripers, veterans, and others who have had a significant impact on our country. This evening we will check into our comfortable accommodations in Sikeston, Missouri for the next two nights. Dinner will be included at a local favorite.

DAY TWO: After breakfast, get ready to experience the sights, sounds and beauty of Charleston, Missouri. In 2024, Fodor's Travel selected Charleston's Dogwood-Azalea Festival to be amongst America's Best Spring Flower Festivals! We will tour the Dogwood-Azalea Trail with the beauty of magnificent dogwoods and azaleas at peak bloom. Enjoy lunch in the town center park also featuring the festival's arts and crafts fair. This afternoon, we will tour the Joseph Hunter Moore Home. Built in 1899, the Moore Home is a lovely three story home furnished with pieces authentic to the period and flocked with flowering pink and white dogwoods, azaleas and majestic magnolia trees. This evening we return to our hotel after a scrumptious southern-style dinner at the famous Lambert's Cafe - Home of the Throwed Rolls!

DAY THREE: After breakfast and checking out of the hotel, we head back to Charleston to take in the book sale and quilt show prior to experiencing the Dogwood-Azalea Festival Parade. This fun, nostalgic and colorful event is a highlight of the festival.  After lunch in town, we will return to St. Louis by late afternoon.