Travelling the world is extremely exciting and if you are travelling to the United States of America, it is among the top destinations in the world. However, there is a world beyond New York, if you want to dive into its history and culture, and Missouri is one of the many destinations that locals may know well, but is under-explored.
It is also why the next time you`re in the country, you need to let nostalgia and the open road set the tone as Route 66 takes you through Missouri. Known as the Mother Road, the iconic highway was established in 1926 and originally ran from Chicago to Santa Monica, covering nearly 2,500 miles.
It is a symbol of American freedom and road-trip culture, connecting small towns, historic landmarks, classic diners, motels, and quirky roadside attractions. In Missouri, discover Americana like a local. From St. Louis landmarks and classic comfort food to roadside oddities, small-town murals, vintage motels, milkshakes, and drive-in movies, this stretch of the Mother Road in Missouri is proof that Route 66 isn’t just a drive; it’s a mood.
St. Louis
Start your adventure in St. Louis, a vibrant city rich in history and culture, with the second-most free attractions and museums in the USA, after Washington, D.C. From the airport, head to the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, once a major landmark for travellers along Route 66. Take a scenic stroll across the pedestrian bridge for views of the Mississippi River, then head downtown to the Gateway Arch National Park. This symbolic structure marks the entrance to the USA’s Western frontier; today, you can ride a tram up 190 meters for panoramic views of the city from the top of the arch. Next, visit the beautiful Forest Park neighbourhood to explore the Missouri History Museum and take a walk through the nearby Missouri Botanical Garden. Do not miss a visit to the Maplewood neighbourhood – a collection of sidewalk plaques in its historic downtown pays homage to the town’s history as a main thoroughfare during Route 66’s heyday. Get another dose of nostalgia at the National Museum of Transportation, home to the world’s largest collection of railroad artifacts. Dig into classic American fare at Big Chief Roadhouse and savour genuine St. Louis barbecue at Salt + Smoke. For dessert, treat yourself at Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, where the thick, delectable frozen dessert known as the concrete was invented. Crown Candy Kitchen invites you to step back in time and order something from their retro-style soda fountain. After a day exploring, unwind in luxury at The Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza, a historic hotel that has hosted Route 66 travellers and celebrities alike.
Cuba
Hit the road heading southwest and discover a blend of natural beauty and quirky attractions. Make a pit stop at Route 66 State Park and see exhibits chronicling the history of Route 66 at the visitor centre. Then hop back in the car and drive southwest to Meramec Caverns. Learn more about the geology and history of these limestone caves on a guided tour – legend has it they were once a hideout for the infamous outlaw Jesse James. Make your way to Cuba and refuel with a delicious lunch at Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que. Be sure to snap photos at the oldest continuously operating motel on Route 66, the Wagon Wheel Motel, which neighbours Missouri Hick. Continue on the highway and pay a visit to the Fanning 66 Outpost & Feedstore. You’ll spot the Route 66 Rocker, a whimsical 12-meter-tall structure that was once the world’s largest rocking chair. Inside, shop for souvenirs and snacks. You’ll find fudge made from scratch and over 300 flavours of popcorn!
Pulaski County and Lebanon
Continue your journey through Pulaski County, where you will pass through Hooker Cut, an original stretch of Route 66 carved into a rocky hillside, and the Devil’s Elbow bridge, the only curved approach bridge still in use on the Mother Road, which offers some of its most beautiful views. Satisfy your sweet tooth by sampling treats at Uranus Fudge Factory before continuing toward Lebanon, your next stop. Spend some time viewing the exhibits at the Route 66 Museum inside the Lebanon-Laclede County Library. Then, visit Boswell Park to view murals honouring the town’s heritage and see the historic Camp Joy Cabin, part of the area’s first tourist camp. Make your way to Springfield for the night. The retro-themed rooms at the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven make it a perfect choice for your Americana adventure.
Springfield
Get an early start; there is a treasure trove of Route 66 history and attractions to discover in Springfield. Start your day at the Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center before touring the History Museum on the Square, where eight galleries feature interactive exhibits exploring Springfield`s Wild West past and its significance as the Birthplace of Route 66. Head just down the street to the Route 66 Car Museum, whose remarkable collection of historic cars spans a century of auto history and includes several vehicles from iconic Hollywood films. Springfield Wonders of Wildlife, located adjacent to Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters, is a 350,000-square-foot experience that celebrates people who hunt, fish, and act as stewards of the land and water, making it another must-visit.
When it is time for lunch or dinner, indulge in a classic burger and a milkshake at Route 66 Steak ‘n Shake, which has been operating in its original location on St. Louis Street since the 1960s. Once you have filled up on historical facts and sweet treats, tuck in for the night at the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven.
Carthage and Joplin
Grab breakfast at the College Street Café in Springfield before hitting the road for the final leg of your adventure. On your way west, stop at Gary’s Gay Parita, a 1930s-era service station where you can shop for souvenirs and snap photos with nostalgic memorabilia. Once you arrive in Carthage, you will find plenty to do: Savour a hamburger at Whisler’s Drive-Up and explore Red Oak II, an outdoor art installation of retro-style buildings by late Missouri artist Lowell Davis. Make a pit stop at the historic Boots Court Motel & Visitors Center to visit with the locals before enjoying more art and architecture on a Downtown Historic District Walking Tour.
Continue onto Joplin, a travel hub that boasts a multi-faceted heritage. Admire a larger-than-life collection of themed murals at Route 66 Mural Park, then head just down Main Street to enjoy a bite at family-casual Red Onion Café. For the evening, drive back to Carthage to experience a truly unforgettable night of entertainment – seeing a movie right from your car at the 66 Drive-In Theatre, the perfect end to this epic road trip.
Here are 5 reasons why you need to embark on a road trip through Missouri
