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'Passport To The Ozarks' Guidebook Highlights Top Regional Destinations

The Alley Mill was built in 1894 next to Alley Spring in the Ozarks region. 
Kaitlyn McConnell
The Alley Mill was built in 1894 next to Alley Spring in the Ozarks region. "

The Ozark region has modernized slowly over time, and that’s allowed for the preservation of its traditional culture. To help shed light on what the region has to offer, seventh-generation Ozarker Kaitlyn McConnell started the Ozarks Alive website, fueling her “night-and-weekend obsession” with learning about the places and people that make up the region she calls home. 

Kaitlyn McConnell is a seventh-generation Ozarker and founder of the "Ozarks Alive" website.
Credit Kaitlyn McConnell
Kaitlyn McConnell is a seventh-generation Ozarker and founder of the Ozarks Alive website.

“It is true that most 20-somethings don’t spend a lot of time dwelling on the historical significance of these hills,” she writes on her website. “Some might blame my love (or obsession, according to others) with this region on my blood. Seven generations of my ancestors have called the Ozarks home, and I’m proud of that connection.” Her posts showcase its history, its unique businesses and different profiles of people. 

After frequently being asked for suggestions of places to explore in the region, McConnell knew she had to use the wisdom she’s accumulated over the years to curate a book. She titled it “Passport to the Ozarks.” 

On Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Sarah Fenske talked with McConnell about the new guidebook, which lists 61 “out-of-the-way places to see, visit and experience throughout the Missouri Ozarks.” As she discovers more locations, McConnell hopes to make the publication a series.

"Passport to the Ozarks" by Kaitlyn McConnell highlights 61 spots in the Ozark region.
Credit Kaitlyn McConnell
"Passport to the Ozarks" by Kaitlyn McConnell highlights 61 spots in the Ozark region.

Listen to the full discussion: 

St. Louis on the Air” brings you the stories of St. Louis and the people who live, work and create in our region. The show is hosted by Sarah Fenske and produced by Alex Heuer, Emily Woodbury, Evie Hemphill, Lara Hamdan and Tonina Saputo. The engineer is Aaron Doerr, and production assistance is provided by Charlie McDonald.

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Lara is the Engagement Editor at St. Louis Public Radio.