Destination Heartland: Des Moines, Iowa

Destination Heartland: Bentonville, Arkansas

Bentonville, Arkansas is the kind of place that surprises you — in the best possible way. What was once known mainly as the hometown of Walmart has grown into one of the South’s most exciting small-city destinations, blending world-class art, award-winning trails, a lively downtown square with restaurants, local shopping, and a festival scene that keeps the calendar full. It is polished without feeling pretentious, creative without losing its friendliness, and full of the kind of experiences that make a weekend trip feel bigger than expected. You can spend the morning walking the trails around Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, bike through some of the best mountain biking terrain in the country, linger over a memorable meal downtown, shop local galleries and boutiques, then end the evening with live music, cocktails, or a seasonal event on the square.

Behind the Story: Data shows thousands of Kansas City earnings tax cases were reversed

New records show Kansas City reversed thousands of earnings tax collection cases annually, even as officials dismissed concerns raised by a KCTV5 investigation last month. KCTV5's Zac Summers visited with anchor Taylor Johnson to share some details behind his reporting.

Destination Heartland: Fulton and Callaway County, Missouri

Tucked into the heart of Missouri, you’ll find a place where history runs deep, charm runs wide, and there's always something worth discovering.  From Winston Churchill's famous Iron Curtain speech to brick-lined streets buzzing with local shops and award-winning restaurants.   Fulton is the proud heart of Callaway County — a charming mid-Missouri community where world-class history, a thriving arts scene, and genuine small-town hospitality come together in one unforgettable destination.   With world-famous landmarks, thriving local businesses, stunning outdoor spaces, and a calendar packed with festivals and events, this is mid-Missouri at its absolute best.

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.