The Gateway Arch: As the iconic symbol of St. Louis, the Gateway Arch represents the city’s role in westward expansion. You can ride to the top for stunning views of the Mississippi River and downtown. A must-see for understanding the historical context of Missouri’s significance on Route 66.
Missouri History Museum: Learn about Missouri’s past, including its connection to Route 66, early settler history, and Native American cultures. It’s a perfect stop to dive into the region's diverse cultural roots.
The National Blues Museum: St. Louis is a birthplace of blues music. The National Blues Museum celebrates the cultural legacy of blues musicians. It’s a fantastic stop for a cultural exploration of this influential genre.

Route 66 Mural City: Cuba, Missouri, is known for its vibrant and colorful murals that showcase the town’s history and culture. You’ll find over a dozen murals depicting everything from local history to the iconic Route 66 journey. Take a self-guided tour and snap some photos of these stunning works of art.
The Wagon Wheel Motel: One of the oldest motels on Route 66, this charming stop is steeped in Route 66 history. It’s a lovely place to stop, admire the vintage signage, and enjoy the town’s small-town charm.
Cuba’s Historic District: Explore the town's charming historic district with Route 66 signs, vintage shops, and local eateries where you can taste the culture of the Ozarks.

The Phelps County Historical Society Museum: Learn about the region's history, including the culture of the Ozarks and the development of Route 66. The museum offers a deep dive into the local heritage of the area.
The Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T): Stroll through Rolla’s college town atmosphere. The university’s architecture and green spaces make for a pleasant stop, and it also hosts art exhibitions that give insight into local creativity.

Route 66 Museum at the Lebanon/Laclede County Library: This museum is dedicated to Route 66 history and is housed in a stunning historic building. It showcases memorabilia, vintage photos, and displays that track the history of the famous highway as it passes through Missouri.
The Munger Moss Motel: Another classic Route 66 stop, this retro motel offers a glimpse into mid-20th-century road travel and hospitality. Take some time to appreciate the nostalgic vibe and the significant role these motels played in the cultural landscape of Route 66.

Route 66 Car Museum: Springfield is considered the birthplace of Route 66, and the Car Museum is a perfect place to immerse yourself in the vintage car culture that defined American road trips. You’ll find dozens of classic cars and motorcycles, many related to the history of Route 66.
The Landers Theatre: Catch a local production at this historic theater, which has been a part of Springfield’s cultural fabric since the 1900s. The theater often hosts plays, musicals, and live performances that showcase the local arts scene.
The Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World: A cultural landmark in itself, this massive outdoor retail space is located in a restored 1906 warehouse and showcases Springfield’s connection to outdoor sports and environmental conservation.

Carthage Civil War Museum: Carthage is a town rich in Civil War history, and this museum highlights the area’s role in the war. It’s a deep dive into the local historical context, providing a unique look at the war’s impact on Missouri and Route 66.
Historic Carthage Square: Stroll around the town square to admire the well-preserved 19th-century architecture. You’ll find charming local shops, galleries, and eateries, offering a mix of old-time culture and contemporary local art.

Joplin Museum Complex: Located in the heart of the city, this museum showcases the history of Joplin and its role as a mining town during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum also highlights the local Route 66 history.
Joplin’s Murals & Art: Take a self-guided tour through downtown Joplin to explore the public murals and art installations celebrating Route 66 and local culture. You’ll see the city’s creative side while learning more about its history.
The Joplin Route 66 Festival: If you're traveling during the summer, check out this festival, which celebrates the city’s place on Route 66. It’s a fun mix of live music, food trucks, local art, and more.

The Route 66 Museum at the Galena Depot: This small museum is located in the town’s historic train depot and highlights the history of Route 66, along with the town’s role in the birth of the famous highway.
Cars on the Route: Formerly the Kan-O-Tex service station, this restored building is a great stop for car enthusiasts. It’s also home to an iconic 1950s-style gas station that was featured in the movie Cars, and it’s a lovely example of how Route 66 culture is immortalized in modern media.

The Route 66 Scenic Byway: Take the scenic drive through St. Clair, which offers views of rolling hills, small farms, and quaint Americana. St. Clair’s charm lies in its quiet and picturesque countryside that has remained largely unchanged by time.
Local Art & Galleries: Enjoy a visit to local galleries and antique shops, which often feature art inspired by the history of Route 66 and the surrounding landscape.

Local Diners & Iconic Restaurants: Along your journey, stop at iconic Route 66 diners like The Midway Café and The Red Onion Café, where you can enjoy hearty meals while soaking in the local atmosphere. These diners are more than just places to eat—they’re hubs for the community and provide a window into local life along Route 66.
Route 66 Festival & Events: Check out any local festivals or events that celebrate Route 66. From live music to local food festivals, these cultural events are a great way to immerse yourself in the region's traditions and spirit.

Try Local Cuisine: Don't miss out on Missouri’s traditional foods such as BBQ (St. Louis-style ribs), toasted ravioli, and the famous gooey butter cake.
Take Your Time: Missouri’s Route 66 is steeped in history and culture, so take time to stop at small towns, museums, and local cultural spots to truly soak in the atmosphere.
Talk to Locals: Many towns along Route 66 are small and full of local charm. Chat with locals in diners and shops to get a deeper sense of the community’s history and culture.

Wandering Souls