Missouri’s Route 66 offers a perfect mix of history, quirky roadside attractions, and stunning scenery. Whether you're traveling the full stretch or just exploring a segment, this legendary highway promises an unforgettable road trip experience!
Key Stops Along Route 66 in Missouri:
1. St. Louis - The Gateway to the West
- Route 66 State Park Visitor Center (📍96 N Outer Rd, Eureka) - Located just outside St. Louis, this center is housed in the historic Bridgehead Inn. Remains the primary Route 66–branded visitor center for the St. Louis area.
- Gateway Arch (📍11 North 4th St)– Though not directly on Route 66, it's a must-see when starting your journey.
- Ted Drewes Frozen Custard (📍6726 Chippewa St)– A Route 66 classic serving legendary frozen treats since 1929.
- Chain of Rocks Bridge (📍10820 Riverview Dr)– A historic bridge offering scenic views over the Mississippi River.
2. St. Clair - Gateway to the Meramec
- Hot and Cold Water Towers (📍St. Clair Industrial Park Rd)- Became a quirky photo stop for travelers, symbolizing St. Clair’s sense of humor and Americana charm.
- Meramec Caverns Barn Signs - Barns painted with bold “Meramec Caverns” lettering, advertising the famous cave attraction.
3. Cuba - The Mural City
- Cuba Visitor Center (📍71 State Hwy P)- provides maps, brochures, and Missouri travel information, including state parks, fishing and hunting regulations, and wildlife fact sheets.
- Wagon Wheel Motel (📍901 E Washington Blvd)– One of the oldest continuously operating motels on Route 66.
- Cuba Murals – Beautiful outdoor murals depicting local history and Route 66 nostalgia.
- Missouri Hick Bar-B-Q (📍913 E Washington Blvd)– A must-visit for delicious, smoky barbecue.
4. Rolla - The Heart of the Ozarks
- Stonehenge Replica (Missouri S&T Campus) – A full-scale partial replica of Stonehenge built with waterjet technology. It’s a quirky, modern roadside attraction tied to Rolla’s engineering heritage.
- Totem Pole Trading Post (📍1413 Martin Springs Dr)– One of the longest-running Route 66 souvenir shops. After 91 years of operation, it shut its doors on September 30, 2024, following the retirement of longtime owners Tim and Alice Jones.
5. Devil’s Elbow - A Scenic Gem
- Devil’s Elbow Bridge (📍Big Piney River)(1923 steel truss) – a picturesque National Register landmark spanning the Big Piney River.
- Elbow Inn Bar & BBQ (📍21050 Teardrop Rd) – A classic biker-friendly dive bar with great food and a historic atmosphere. (Has closed under its previous management. However, it is expected to reopen under new management in the future.)
For visitor information, travelers typically rely on the Pulaski County Tourism Bureau & Visitors Center in nearby St. Robert, MO, which serves the Devil’s Elbow area and provides Route 66 maps, brochures, and local guidance.
6. Lebanon - Vintage Americana
- Route 66 Museum (📍915 S Jefferson Ave)– Located inside the Lebanon-Laclede County Library. It functions as the town’s visitor hub for the Mother Road.
- Munger Moss Motel (📍1336 U.S. Rte 66)– A neon-lit, classic Route 66 motel with vintage charm.
7. Springfield - The Birthplace of Route 66
- Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center (📍815 E St Louis St) – Conveniently located downtown, near Park Central Square.
- Route 66 Car Museum (📍1634 W College St)- Over 60 classic cars from America & Europe, including vintage Route 66-era vehicles.
- Fantastic Caverns (📍4872 N Farm Rd 125)– A beautiful underground cave tour accessible by Jeep tram. Consistently ranked as one of Springfield’s top attractions
- Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park (📍1053 W College St)- Historic roadside park with Route 66 markers and interpretive signage.
8. Joplin - The Western Gateway
- Joplin Visitor Center (📍602 S Main St)- Located inside the historic Newman’s Department Store building downtown.
- Route 66 Mural Park (📍629-621 S Main St)– A great photo op featuring historic murals and classic Route 66 signage.
- Bonnie & Clyde’s Hideout (📍3347 1/2 Oak Ridge Dr)– Historic 1933 shootout site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Preserved Craftsman-style apartment, available for nightly rental.
- Grand Falls (📍5685 Riverside Dr) – Missouri’s largest continuously flowing waterfall.
Tips for Your Route 66 Missouri Adventure
- Plan Your Fuel Stops – Some stretches between towns can be long, so fill up when you can.
- Check Local Events – Many towns along Route 66 host festivals and car shows.
- Capture the Neon – The neon signs at vintage motels and diners are stunning at night.
- Respect the Landmarks – Many attractions are historic, so treat them with care.
Missouri Route 66 Map
Ready to hit the Mother Road?
Pick your itinerary, fuel up, and start your Route 66 adventure today.