When most people think of overlanding in the United States, they likely picture the Pan-American route stretching from Mexico to Canada along the West Coast, weaving between the Rockies and the Pacific Ocean.
Having explored 49 states overland, I can attest that the West earns its reputation as the country’s premier overlanding destination. Yet I can also assure you that vast regions of the nation remain overlooked, and it is precisely this lack of attention that makes them special.
The Midwest is often dismissed as flat, rural, and unremarkable—a reputation likely most often repeated by those who have never spent much time there. The truth is, there is magic in the Midwest. You simply need to look a little harder to find it, and when you do, chances are you’ll have it to yourself.
At the heart of this lesser-known region lies the Midwest Overlanding and Off-Road Expo (MOORE), the central gathering for explorers who want to connect, discover new gear, and learn where locals head when the urge to travel takes hold. The event was founded by Chris and Megan Holloway, lifelong Midwesterners who wanted to create an expo that captured the spirit of adventure without requiring enthusiasts to journey to either coast. As Holloway explained, the couple had long dreamed of attending larger expos elsewhere, but the cost and logistics proved prohibitive. In the end, they realized the Midwest deserved its own rallying point—a place where like-minded travelers could meet in the middle and celebrate the adventure culture of their own backyard.
MOORE Expo has confirmed its return to Springfield, Missouri, on April 17-18, 2026.
Established in 2020, the event has become the largest overlanding and off-road showcase in the Midwest and is now preparing to enter its seventh year. Tickets for the 2026 edition will go on sale in November.
The show has built a reputation for being authentic and approachable. Unlike some larger industry events backed by corporate investment, MOORE has maintained a grassroots feel. Attendees describe it as a place where connections with vendors and fellow enthusiasts happen naturally, and where the sense of community remains strong. According to Holloway, the Expo was “built on the spirit of connection” and continues to prioritize meaningful engagement over scale.
In 2026, visitors can expect an expanded program that emphasizes both education and hands-on experience. The event will feature workshops and training sessions covering advanced off-road driving techniques, recovery methods, and field medicine. Organizers have noted that while other shows have moved away from practical training, MOORE has chosen to double down on this approach. The schedule includes more than 70 hours of classes designed to equip attendees with real-world skills.
Beyond education, the Expo offers several unique activations. Attendees will find immersive vendor areas, test-drive opportunities, and campground-style experiences that foster camaraderie and a sense of community. A highlight of the event is the Storyteller Row Fundraiser, which brings together content creators in a competition to raise funds for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Another distinctive feature is the Overland Trading Post, a marketplace designed as a swap area where gear can be repurposed and put to new use.
With over 200 brands expected to exhibit, MOORE Expo provides a wide-ranging showcase of vehicles, equipment, and technology. From established companies to new innovators, the exhibitor floor gives attendees direct access to products and the people behind them. Marketing Director at Midland Radio Andrew Kinsman described the atmosphere as “unlike anywhere else,” pointing to the way brands and enthusiasts interact face-to-face in an environment that highlights the values of Midwest adventure culture.
The Expo’s location in Springfield contributes to its growing appeal. As Missouri’s third-largest city, Springfield offers a central position easily reached from Kansas City, St. Louis, Tulsa, and Little Rock. This accessibility reinforces the event’s identity as the “meet in the middle” rallying point for overlanders nationwide. The 2026 event will continue to build on the growth of the Midwest Discovery Route, which has become an increasingly important part of the Expo’s programming. The route highlights scenic and off-road travel opportunities in the region, further connecting the event to the landscapes that inspire its community.
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