Gateway Arch National Park: Ride the tram to the top of this iconic 630-ft structure for incredible views. The museum underneath is free and tells the story of westward expansion in an engaging way.
St. Louis Science Center: Hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and even dinosaur displays—perfect for curious young minds.
City Museum: Not your average museum—this is a massive urban playground made of reclaimed materials, with slides, tunnels, and even a rooftop Ferris wheel. It’s legendary for families.
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: A Route 66 icon where you can grab a “concrete” (super thick frozen custard)—a sweet family tradition.

Meramec Caverns: Tour the enormous caves that Jesse James supposedly used as a hideout. It’s an easy walk and super fun for kids of all ages—colorful lighting and dramatic formations.
Jesse James Wax Museum: Quirky and cheesy, but kids might love the life-size figures and outlaw stories.
Meramec State Park: Great for picnics, hiking, and river play if you need a break from the car.

Fanning 66 Outpost: Snap photos at the massive rocking chair (kids love it), grab Route 66 souvenirs, and let the kids run around. Sometimes they have animals or events going on here, too.

Cuba Murals: Take a mini scavenger hunt around town to find all the historical murals painted on buildings—like a real-life storybook walk!
Bob’s Gasoline Alley: A private collection turned Route 66 roadside stop filled with gas station memorabilia and old cars. It’s colorful and great for family photos (call ahead for access).

Totem Pole Trading Post: The oldest continuously operated business on Route 66 in Missouri. Quirky souvenirs and a great little stop.
Stonehenge Replica (Missouri S&T Campus): A quick stop for something unexpected—get the kids curious with this scaled-down version of the ancient monument, made with high-tech tools!

Route 66 Museum & Research Center: Inside the public library, this museum has a retro diner display, classic car exhibits, and old-timey items that are fun to explore.
Boswell Park: A nice place to stop for a picnic and let the kids burn off some energy.

Route 66 Car Museum: Classic cars galore! While kids may not appreciate the full history, they’ll still love the shiny vintage rides.
Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium: This is a world-class, jaw-dropping experience with massive aquariums, dioramas, and live animals—voted best aquarium in America several times.
Fantastic Caverns: The only ride-through cave tour in the U.S. You sit in a tram the whole time, which is great for families with young kids.

66 Drive-In Theatre: Watch a movie under the stars at this retro drive-in. It’s a perfect family evening, usually showing a double feature!
Carthage Courthouse Square: Beautiful architecture, and during the right season, you might catch local festivals or markets.
Precious Moments Chapel: Even if you're not into the figurines, the chapel and grounds are beautifully whimsical and feel like a storybook world.

Joplin History & Mineral Museum: Rocks, fossils, and mining equipment—this place is sneakily fun for kids who love digging into history and science.
Candy House Gourmet Chocolates: You can watch candy being made and sample goodies—definitely a hit with the little ones (and grown-ups).

🧃 Pack snacks and toys for long driving stretches, but also take advantage of frequent, quirky stops to break it up.
📸 Make a photo challenge for the kids (e.g., “Find 3 dinosaurs,” “Get a picture with a giant sign”).
📍 Use a Route 66 passport or scavenger hunt to keep the whole family engaged in spotting murals, statues, or neon signs.
🏨 Stay in a retro motel like the Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba—cool for adults and kids alike!

Wandering Souls