**Top 5 Cities to Film in Missouri**

Missouri is a state full of diversity, from its urban hubs to its natural beauty. It’s a popular place for filmmakers because of its wide variety of settings. You can find everything from bustling cityscapes to peaceful countryside. Missouri also has a rich history and culture, which makes it a perfect backdrop for all kinds of films. Movieinsure.com is a proud provider of short term film production insurance and annual film production insurance for the state of Missouri.  In this article, we’ll explore the top five cities to film in Missouri.

1. **St. Louis**

St. Louis is the largest city in Missouri and a favorite filming location for many filmmakers. The city has a unique blend of modern and historical architecture, giving directors a lot of flexibility in their shots. St. Louis is also home to the iconic Gateway Arch, one of the most famous landmarks in the United States. This towering structure makes for a striking and memorable backdrop in any film.

The downtown area of St. Louis is filled with old brick buildings, contemporary skyscrapers, and lush parks. Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, is perfect for outdoor scenes. It offers a wide range of locations, including lakes, walking paths, and open fields. St. Louis also has many historic neighborhoods, such as Soulard, which is known for its French-inspired architecture and charming streets.

In addition, filmmakers can explore the Mississippi River, which runs alongside the city. The riverfront offers stunning views, especially at sunset, making it an ideal location for dramatic or romantic scenes. St. Louis’s combination of urban and natural settings makes it one of the top cities to film in Missouri.

2. **Kansas City**

Kansas City is another great location for filmmakers, and it is known for its vibrant arts scene and distinctive character. The city is famous for its fountains, boulevards, and jazz music, which give it a unique, energetic vibe. Kansas City’s downtown area has a mix of old and new buildings, making it ideal for urban scenes.

The Crossroads Arts District in Kansas City is a popular filming location. This area is full of art galleries, murals, and creative spaces, giving filmmakers a colorful and dynamic background. It’s perfect for films that focus on creativity, culture, or street life. Kansas City’s rich jazz history also makes it a fantastic setting for films about music or the arts.

In addition to its cultural offerings, Kansas City has beautiful outdoor spaces. The city’s many parks, such as Loose Park, provide a peaceful and scenic environment for films that need nature and tranquility. Whether you’re filming in the city streets or the open parks, Kansas City has plenty to offer filmmakers.

3. **Branson**

Branson is a small city with a big reputation, especially when it comes to entertainment. Known as a hub for live music, shows, and family attractions, Branson is perfect for films that need a lively and energetic setting. The city is famous for its theaters and attractions along the “76 Strip,” where visitors come to see concerts, comedy shows, and magic acts. This vibrant area is a great backdrop for films focused on entertainment or tourism.

Beyond the bustling entertainment scene, Branson is surrounded by natural beauty. The nearby Ozark Mountains offer stunning views and dramatic landscapes. Table Rock Lake, a large and peaceful body of water, is ideal for scenes that need a serene outdoor location. The lake and surrounding forests are perfect for nature documentaries, adventure films, or even romantic movies.

Branson’s combination of entertainment and nature makes it a unique filming location in Missouri. Whether you need a lively showbiz atmosphere or quiet, scenic views, Branson has it all.

4. **Columbia**

Columbia is a college town with a young, energetic feel. Home to the University of Missouri, Columbia has a lively and creative atmosphere. The city is known for its arts and music scene, which makes it perfect for indie films or movies that focus on youth culture.

One of Columbia’s standout features is its beautiful campus. The University of Missouri campus has historic buildings, wide lawns, and tree-lined paths, creating a charming and academic atmosphere. It’s a great place to film scenes that take place in a school or university setting.

In addition to its academic charm, Columbia is surrounded by natural beauty. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, just outside the city, offers filmmakers caves, forests, and streams. This park is perfect for outdoor scenes that need a rugged and wild feel. Columbia’s mix of education, culture, and nature makes it a great location for filmmakers looking for something unique.

5. **Hannibal**

Hannibal is a small town with a big claim to fame: it’s the boyhood home of Mark Twain. This historic town, located on the banks of the Mississippi River, has a charming and nostalgic feel. It’s perfect for films that need a small-town, historic setting.

One of the main attractions in Hannibal is the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. This historic site, along with the surrounding buildings, gives filmmakers a look into the past. The town’s old brick streets, Victorian homes, and riverfront views make it an ideal location for period films or stories about American history.

In addition to its historic charm, Hannibal offers filmmakers beautiful river views. The Mississippi River provides a peaceful and scenic backdrop for films that need a connection to nature. Whether you’re filming a story about the past or a quiet small-town life, Hannibal has plenty to offer.

In conclusion, Missouri is a state filled with diverse landscapes, history, and culture. Each of the cities mentioned in this article has something unique to offer filmmakers. St. Louis, with its iconic Gateway Arch and mix of modern and historic architecture, is a great choice for urban scenes. Kansas City, known for its jazz and arts scene, offers filmmakers a vibrant and energetic setting.

Branson is perfect for films focused on entertainment and natural beauty, while Columbia provides a youthful and academic atmosphere with plenty of creative energy. Finally, Hannibal, with its connection to Mark Twain and the Mississippi River, is ideal for films that need a historic and small-town feel.

Whether you’re filming a big-budget production or an indie film, Missouri has the perfect backdrop for your story. The state’s combination of urban settings, natural beauty, and rich history makes it a top destination for filmmakers. From the busy streets of St. Louis to the peaceful shores of Hannibal, Missouri has something for everyone in the film industry.