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Destination Heartland: Salina, Kansas

Salina, Kansas, offers visitors a well-rounded mix of museums, public art, popular dining, shopping districts, and annual events that give the city a lively regional identity. From downtown culture to family-friendly attractions and major community festivals, Salina has plenty for visitors to explore.

Destination Heartland: Lebanon, Missouri

Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks along the historic Route 66 corridor, Lebanon, Missouri is a warm and welcoming small city located approximately 155 miles southwest of St. Louis on Interstate 44. Home to more than 35,000 residents, Lebanon serves as the county seat of Laclede County and proudly embraces its rich history as a crossroads community — first as a stop along the legendary "Mother Road," and today as a thriving hub for commerce, outdoor recreation, and community life.  Whether you're passing through on a Route 66 road trip or looking for a place to put down roots, Lebanon offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities that makes it truly a place where everyone feels at home.

Destination Heartland: Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines, Iowa blends Midwest friendliness with a vibrant mix of culture, food, outdoor fun, and downtown energy. Just 3 hours northeast of Kansas City, Des Moines is featured in this week’s Destination Heartland. Iowa’s capital offers more than expected, with a lively arts scene, great local restaurants, and attractions that make the city easy to enjoy. Des Moines delivers big-city experiences with an approachable feel, combining creativity, community, and convenience in one welcoming destination. From public art and festivals to trails, shopping, and standout dining, Des Moines offers a well-rounded experience for visitors and residents alike.

Destination Heartland: St. Charles, Missouri

It was Missouri’s first state capital and is often associated with the Lewis and Clark expedition, which launched nearby in 1804.  St. Charles, Missouri is a historic city on the Missouri River just northwest of St. Louis, known for its preserved 1800s architecture and walkable Main Street district.   St. Charles sits in St. Charles County, one of the fastest-growing areas in the state, with a mix of long-established neighborhoods and newer developments. The riverfront area connects to the Katy Trail and local trail networks, making it popular for biking and hiking along the Missouri River. Today it blends riverfront parks, festivals, shops and restaurants with a fast-growing suburban community.

Destination Heartland: Sedalia, Missouri

From big-time tradition to ragtime roots and the roar of the Missouri State Fair, Sedalia is a town where the history music and community spirit come together in a way that feels uniquely Missouri.