Simple Ways to Get Tourism-Ready in Christian County
Travel in 2026 is expected to increase across Missouri and the Midwest, and that creates real opportunity for local businesses in Christian County.
Several major national and global moments are happening at the same time. Even though these events aren’t all located in Christian County, the area sits directly along the Route 66 travel corridor between Springfield and Branson. Visitors passing through still need places to eat, shop, stay, and explore, and many are actively looking for authentic local businesses.
This guide shares simple, practical ways to prepare for increased tourism and make it easier for visitors to discover your business.
Why Tourism is Expected to Increase in 2026
Route 66 Centennial Travel
Route 66 attracts millions of travelers every year, and the 100-year anniversary in 2026 is expected to increase road-trip travel across the country. Christian County sits directly in the travel flow between Springfield and Branson, which means more travelers looking for places to stop along the way.
The 20th anniversary of Cars is also expected to increase nostalgia-driven family travel and road-trip tourism.
FIFA World Cup Visitors in KC
Kansas City will host FIFA World Cup matches in June and July 2026, bringing an estimated 650,000+ visitors to the region. Many visitors will stay multiple days and travel beyond match locations — especially to nearby destinations, scenic stops, restaurants, and shopping areas.
America 250 Travel & Heritage Tourism
The United States will celebrate its 250th birthday in 2026. This milestone is expected to increase interest in:
Heritage tourism
Americana experiences
Patriotic travel
Community-focused destinations
Nearby Branson is planning major America 250 programming, which will bring additional visitors through the region.
What Travelers Look for in Small Town Stops
Many visitors passing through Christian County are searching for quick, meaningful experiences that fit easily into a travel day:
Local restaurants and coffee shops
Antique stores, vintage shops, and flea markets
Unique small-town shopping
Photo-worthy murals or signage
Parks, trails, and short outdoor breaks
Easy parking and simple access
Authentic, welcoming places with local character
The good news? Many local businesses already offer exactly what travelers are searching for.
Simple Ways to Prepare Your Business for Tourism
You don’t need major changes. A few small updates can make it easier for visitors to find you and feel confident stopping in.
Keep Your Online Information Current
Travelers almost always search online before deciding where to stop.
Make sure:
Your Google Business profile is claimed and updated
Your hours, address, and contact info are correct
Recent photos show what visitors can expect
Your website and social media are current
It doesn’t need to be perfect, just up to date.
Make Your Business Easy to Find & Visit
Think about your business from a visitor’s perspective:
Can travelers easily see you from the road?
Is parking simple and clearly marked?
Is it obvious what you offer at a glance?
Small improvements in signage, lighting, and curb appeal can make a big difference.
Prepare for Busier Weekends & Travel Seasons
Traffic may increase during peak travel seasons and major events. Planning ahead can help you stay ready without overextending your team.
Clear signage, simple directions, and friendly service all help create a positive first impression.
Use Tourism-Friendly Marketing (Without Trademarks)
Businesses should avoid using official FIFA® or World Cup trademarks. However, general travel themes are perfectly okay, including:
Americana or patriotic décor
Route 66 or road-trip themes
Community-focused messaging
“Welcome Travelers” or “Game Day Specials”
These small touches help visitors feel welcomed and encouraged to stop.
Increase Your Visibility with Explore Christian County
One of the easiest ways to reach visitors is by adding or updating your business listing on Explore Christian County. The platform helps travelers discover places to eat, shop, stay, and explore across the county.
Even a simple listing helps travelers find you when planning their trips or searching along the way.
Create an account, then log in to access your dashboard using the Manage My Listings links on the website. From there, you can add, claim, or update your business or event. All submissions are reviewed before going live. Questions along the way? Shoot us a message through our contact form and we’d love to help.
2026 Tourism Readiness Checklist for Local Businesses
Digital Visibility & Basics
☐ Claim or update your Google Business profile
☐ Confirm hours, address, photos, and contact info are current
☐ Make it easy to understand what you offer at a glance
☐ Add recent photos of your business or products
☐ Post occasionally on social media so visitors know you’re open
☐ Add or update your business listing on Explore Christian County
Think Like a Traveler
☐ Improve visibility from the road (signage, lighting, curb appeal)
☐ Make parking, entry, and payment simple for quick stops
☐ Use clear signage and easy directions
☐ Consider how someone unfamiliar with the area would find you
Seasonal & Visitor Readiness
☐ Be aware of busy weekends and travel seasons
☐ Plan ahead for increased traffic without overextending
☐ Provide friendly, patient service for first-time visitors
Tourism-Friendly Marketing
☐ Avoid using FIFA® or World Cup trademarks/logos
☐ Use general phrases like “Welcome Travelers” or “Game Day Specials”
☐ Consider Americana or Route 66 themes and décor
☐ Highlight what makes your business unique and local
