Regions of the Heartland
🌎 Discover the Regions of the Heartland
Three states. One shared story.
The Heartland is where rivers define borders, not boundaries — a living landscape that stretches across Southeast Missouri, Southern Illinois, and Western Kentucky.
Bound by the Mississippi, Ohio, and Wabash Rivers, these regions share more than geography. They share roots — in small-town pride, music and food traditions, and the enduring creativity of communities that care deeply about where they live.
Each region offers its own identity, landscape, and rhythm — and together, they form a connected story of the American Heartland.
🗺️ Southeast Missouri
Where the Ozarks meet the Mississippi — and every road leads to a story.
From the river bluffs of Cape Girardeau to the peaks of Arcadia Valley and the open Delta plains, Southeast Missouri is a region of rivers, ridges, and resilience.
Explore historic towns, Civil War landmarks, and national parks; follow trails through the Stars and Stripes Historic Region; and experience communities that bring together art, heritage, and local flavor.
🌳 Southern Illinois
Where rivers meet ridges — and the forest tells a thousand stories.
Anchored by the Shawnee National Forest, Southern Illinois weaves together wetlands, wine country, and historic river towns. From Carbondale and Alto Pass to Golconda and Cairo, the region offers a journey through ridges, vineyards, and riverfront history — all connected by the spirit of the Shawnee.
🌾 Western Kentucky
Where bluegrass meets backroads — and every bend tells a tale.
Across the Mississippi and Ohio, Western Kentucky is the Heartland’s southern edge — a region defined by lakes, riverlands, and timeless traditions. Explore the Land Between the Lakes, visit Paducah’s UNESCO Creative City, and follow scenic drives that connect farming communities, music heritage, and lakeside retreats.
Journeys
Discover scenic drives, day trips, and themed routes revealing the Heartland’s hidden depth, from river valleys to overlooks.
Explore Journeys →
Guides
Seasonal highlights, local culture, food trails, and curated travel insights designed to help you experience each region like a local.
Browse Guides →
Eats & Treats
Explore the flavors that define the Heartland’s culinary identity. From hometown diners to wineries and farm-to-table favorites.
Find Local Eats →
Events
Festivals, music, markets, and community celebrations — find out what’s happening across the Heartland this week and beyond.
View Events →
🪶 A Connected Story
The rivers unite what state lines divide.
Together, these three regions form the living geography of Discover the Heartland — a collaborative network of storytellers, travelers, and communities working together to share what makes the Heartland special.
