Missouri is a central state, surrounded in a clockwise direction by Illinois, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Kansas. Divided into several distinct regions, Missouri welcomes visitors from far and wide to enjoy a wealth of attractions, tours and more. St. Louis is one of the largest metropolitan centers in Missouri and is known as the Gateway to the West for it's location at the confluence of the the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, once major routes for pioneers traveling west. Kansas City is another major city in Missouri and is home to attractions such as the American Jazz Museum and the Worlds of Fun amusement park. The Osage Lakes area and the Ozarks both provide for an abundance of outdoor activities, including boating, hiking and more. The southeast portion of Missouri is known as the Bootheel for its shape and features a number of historical attractions. Northwest and Northeast Missouri also offer opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, including farm tours and wildlife viewing opportunities.