Celebrate A Century Of Route 66 Cruising Through Missouri’s Timeless American Charm

Let nostalgia and the open road set the tone, as one of USA’s most iconic highways celebrates its 100^th birthday this year. Route 66, also known as the Mother Road is not just a highway but a symbol of American freedom and road-trip culture, connecting small towns, historic landmarks, classic diners, motels, and quirky roadside attractions.

Over the years, the road has inspired countless hits, from Nat King Cole’s “Route 66” to Chuck Berry’s “Sweet Little Sixteen”, celebrating the freedom and thrill of an open road cross-country adventure.

The 2,500 mile stretch running from Chicago to Santa Monica, winds through Missouri, offering travellers a chance to discover America 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

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. head to the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, once a major landmark for travellers along Route 66.

The Gateway Arch National Park is another iconic symbolic structure which marks the entrance to the USA’s Western frontier, here, 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.

You simply must 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. You can also visit the National Museum of Transportation, home to the world’s largest collection of railroad artifacts.

After soaking in the history, its time to indulge in the 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 is another gem which invites you to step back in time and order something from their retro-style soda fountain.

After a day exploring and indulging in the delectable delicacies of Midwestern USA, unwind in luxury at The Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza, a historic hotel that has hosted Route 66 travellers and celebrities alike.

Also read:America 250, Route 66 Centennial and FIFA World Cup to Drive Major U.S. Travel Demand in 2026

Cuba

After enjoying the timeless classics of St. Louis, hit the road heading southwest and discover a blend of natural beauty and quirky attractions.

A pit stop at the Route 66 State Park gives you a chance to see exhibits chronicling the history of the Mother Road at the visitor centre.

About 40 miles southwest of the State Park, lies Meramec Caverns where you can 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).

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 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!

Finally, make your way to Cuba and refuel with a delicious lunch at Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que.

Pulaski County and Lebanon

During your journey through Pulaski County, 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 an ideal Americana adventure.

Springfield

In Springfield, start your day early to explore the treasure trove of Route 66 history and attractions. Begin at the Route 66 Springfield Visitor Centre 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.

Just down the street lies the Route 66 Car Museum, whose 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.

Carthage and Joplin

Now begins the final leg of your adventure. Make sure to grab breakfast at the College Street Café in Springfield before hitting the road. 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 Centre 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 where you can 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 a perfect end to an epic road trip, drive back to Carthage to experience an unforgettable night of entertainment, seeing a movie right from your car at the 66 Drive-In Theatre.