For one weekend each summer, hundreds of MR340 paddlers stop in Miami to refuel, rest, and continue downriver. But long before it became a paddle stop on the MR340, Miami was one of the Missouri River's important transportation hubs.

In this episode, Kim explores how a bend in the river first attracted Native communities centuries before European settlement, later became a thriving steamboat landing, and eventually watched the railroad and highways choose different routes.

Along the way, you'll discover the remarkable history preserved at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park, learn why this stretch of the Missouri has been a crossroads for more than 700 years.

As today's paddlers pull into Miami under the cover of darkness, the river briefly returns to its original purpose: bringing people together. It's a reminder that the Missouri River has always been a place of connection.

TOURISM, DINING, ATTRACTIONS & RESOURCES:

Van Meter State Park: https://mostateparks.com/park/annie-and-abel-van-meter-state-park

American Indian Cultural Center: https://mostateparks.com/key-location/missouris-american-indian-cultural-center

Miami Missouri Facts for Kids: https://kids.kiddle.co/Miami,_Missouri

Brunswick is the Pecan Capital of Missouri and as you leave Miami, you can swing by to check out what was once the world's largest pecan.

FOOD:

A little south of Miami, but a note from 2025 says: Before heading to Miami, had a great burger and beer at the Leaning Side Bar in Marshall.

https://theleaningside.com

And another note from 2025: Found a great diner/ coffee shop called Montague's in Marshall. (My online search indicates the hours may be 10-5. 152 W Arrow St, Marshall, Missouri)

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2026 Barge Report

⁠https://mr340.org/news/2026-race-barge-report/⁠

2026 Ramp Food Vendors - (scroll down the page)

⁠https://mr340.org/resources/race-course/⁠