Romantic Missouri Locations to Shoot Your Next Love Story

Happy Valentine’s Day, filmmakers! Love is in the air, and Missouri is packed with cinematic locations to bring your next romance to life. Whether you’re shooting a charming meet-cute, an unexpected sports story, or a nostalgic period piece, Missouri offers the perfect backdrop for every kind of romance.

Lover’s Leap – Hannibal, Mo.

Located on the southern edge of town, Lover’s Leap Park offers a scenic overlook of the Mississippi River and historic downtown Hannibal. According to legend, two star-crossed lovers from feuding Indigenous tribes jumped from the bluff when they were discovered together, giving the park its name. Romance is still alive at Lover’s Leap today, as a large heart statue was built in 2023 for couples to hang padlocks, signifying their forever love.
Jeffrey Tipton’s 2021 film Lover’s Leap was filmed at Lover’s Leap Park, drawing inspiration from its origin story.

Prospero’s Books – Kansas City, Mo.

The whimsical coziness of Prospero’s Books is what indie romances are made of. The new and used bookstore occupies a 135-year-old building on the corner of West 39th Street. Inside, the exposed brick walls are lined with thousands of titles along with comfortable nooks to enjoy them. This timeless community staple is the perfect location for a cinematic meet-cute.

Moonrise Hotel – St. Louis, Mo.

The Moonrise Hotel is an Art Deco, space-themed hotel that sets a vibrant scene for any romantic comedy. It is located in the historic Delmar Loop, an ever-trendy entertainment district in the heart of St. Louis. The hotel offers various styles of rooms, an on-theme restaurant, and a rooftop bar beneath the world’s largest man-made moon.
David Kirkman’s 2018 film Static shot multiple scenes at the Moonrise Hotel.

Old Kinderhook Resort, Golf Club & Spa – Camdenton, Mo.

The greens of Old Kinderhook Resort, Golf Club, and Spa provide the perfect backdrop for a sporty romance to unfold. The resort embodies the charm of the Ozarks with its pristine golf course, cozy decor, and lush surroundings. In addition to the golf course, Old Kinderhook features hotel rooms, cottages, swimming pools, volleyball courts, and restaurants.

Route 66 Drive-In – Springfield, Mo.

For some old-school romance, the Route 66 Drive-In is a classic location. This local gem is one of the last operating drive-in theaters on the historic Route 66 and has been a community staple since 1949. The outdoor theater has retained its vintage feel with its rural setting, original neon sign, and retro speaker poles (although these are just for show). The dual-screen theater and its beloved snack shack are bursting with charm.
Pixar drew inspiration from the Route 66 Drive-In for the “Radiator Springs Drive-In Theater” featured in Cars and Cars 2.

For more romantic locations, check out our Location Gallery.

This article was written by Missouri Film Office Intern Justine Favazza, a junior at the University of Missouri.