Missouri really is not that bad. The southwest bit is absolutely beautiful in the fall. With the rollings Ozark hills, the leaves look incredible. Plus, there are the gorgeous lakes: Table Rock Lake, Lake Taneycomo, Bull Shoals Lake, and (the notoriously filthy) Lake of the Ozarks. The Lake of the Ozarks is kind of gross (and is not located near Branson, contrary to popular belief), but the rest of Missouri's lakes are clean and beautiful.
The people are great. Sure, some are a little bit red-neckish, but you get rednecks in every state. Take a look at Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and
Mississippi. Aren't one of those states trying to outlaw interracial marriage? Come on, now. People in Missouri are friendly and neighborly.
And as for
everyone saying that most of Missouri is
illiterate... don't you think that's a bit pompous of you? Missouri has one of the best high schools in the country (Clayton High School) and has numerous other good, prestigious
private schools. Not only that, but Mizzou has really great programs.