A Newbie's Adventures at GAOS: First Impressions

Walking into the Great American Outdoor Show was like stepping back into my childhood. When I was a little girl, my parents were very adamant about not sitting around the house and for good reason—they were avid outdoorsmen before I came along. Because of this, each year we would attend the St. Louis Boat and Sports Show held at the Edward Jones Dome. 

Thus, I immediately noticed the similarities between the two shows with really the only difference being that the Great American Outdoor Show was a lot bigger, which is an understatement. However, the similarities included the many booths with advertisers showing off their products, boats on display, the kids' trout pond (which reminded me of catching a trout with my dad), Dock Dogs and, of course, the fun and precious moments of sharing the experience with your family. The experience itself is something that can never be taken away, and possibly why families continue the tradition of bringing their children knowing they will eventually do the same in their turn someday. I know I would like to. 

So if you are in the area, or want to make a trip if you are farther away (and I suggest doing so for more than a day since there is so much to see), the Great American Outdoor Show is something to be shared from generation to generation.