1. Visit the Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Location: Eminence
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways offers miles of beautiful rivers, streams, and forests perfect for a wellness-focused retreat. Whether you're hiking along the trails, kayaking on the Jacks Fork or Current River, or simply taking in the peaceful surroundings, the tranquil environment is ideal for reconnecting with nature and de-stressing. This natural wonder provides a soothing escape with opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming, wildlife watching, and meditation in nature.
2. Enjoy a Spa Day at The Ritz-Carlton (St. Louis)
Location: St. Louis
The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of St. Louis. Treat yourself to world-class treatments like deep tissue massages, facials, and body wraps. After your spa experience, enjoy the tranquil hotel facilities, including a heated pool, saunas, and wellness-focused amenities. It’s a great way to unwind after a few days of road tripping.
3. Take a Scenic Stroll Through Missouri Botanical Garden (St. Louis)
Location: St. Louis
For a serene and rejuvenating experience, visit the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis. This 79-acre garden offers lush landscapes, Japanese gardens, walking paths, and tranquil water features. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful walk, meditate, or simply immerse yourself in the calming beauty of nature. The garden is also home to the Climatron, a tropical rainforest environment that will transport you to a different world.
4. Explore the Mark Twain National Forest
Location: Near Rolla
The Mark Twain National Forest offers abundant opportunities for wellness-focused outdoor activities. You can hike or bike on quiet forest trails, relax by the streamside, or practice yoga in the tranquil surroundings. Whether you're enjoying a solo retreat in nature or engaging in mindful walks, the peaceful atmosphere of the forest provides an ideal backdrop for reflection and rejuvenation.
5. Yoga and Meditation at Forest Park (St. Louis)
Location: St. Louis
Forest Park is a large urban park in St. Louis that provides a perfect environment for yoga, meditation, and mindfulness activities. The park features beautiful lakes, walking paths, and green spaces, ideal for outdoor wellness activities. Whether you're enjoying a peaceful morning walk, practicing yoga by the water, or having a picnic under the trees, this park offers a relaxing retreat in the city.
6. Relax at Meramec Caverns
Location: Stanton
Visit Meramec Caverns for a unique wellness experience underground. The caverns offer tours that showcase the stunning natural formations inside the cave, and many find the cool, calm atmosphere of the cave to be incredibly grounding and peaceful. While not a traditional wellness destination, the quiet, awe-inspiring environment can provide a form of meditation and mental clarity as you explore the caves.
7. Visit Elephant Rocks State Park
Location: Belleview
Elephant Rocks State Park is a peaceful destination with stunning granite boulders and a beautiful natural setting. It’s a great place to go hiking, enjoy the scenery, and practice mindfulness in a calm, serene environment. The Elephant Rocks Trail offers easy access to the park’s iconic rock formations, where you can sit and reflect or meditate while surrounded by nature.
8. Take a Soothing Dip in the Hot Springs (Rolla)
Location: Rolla (nearby natural springs)
The nearby natural springs in the area around Rolla offer a soothing opportunity to soak and relax in mineral-rich waters. Many of these springs are set in quiet, rural locations, allowing you to disconnect and rejuvenate your body and mind. Though not directly on Route 66, these springs are well worth the detour for wellness seekers.
9. Hiking and Nature Walks at Hawn State Park
Location: Ste. Genevieve
Hawn State Park is a peaceful location where you can reconnect with nature. With trails like the Pickle Creek Trail, you can explore beautiful woodlands, streams, and diverse wildlife. This park is perfect for long walks, meditation, and spending time outdoors. The serenity of the forest and the peaceful sounds of the flowing creek make it an excellent place for reflection.
10. Enjoy a Wellness Retreat at The Retreat at The Farm (St. Louis)
Location: St. Louis Area
If you want a full wellness retreat experience, consider visiting The Retreat at The Farm, which offers yoga, meditation, massage therapy, and other holistic wellness services in a tranquil farm setting just outside of St. Louis. This peaceful retreat is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and recharge in a calm, supportive environment.
11. St. Louis Arch – Walk and Meditate at Gateway Arch National Park
Location: St. Louis
Take a stroll through Gateway Arch National Park and reflect in the peaceful surroundings. The park offers calm walking paths, scenic views of the Arch, and the Mississippi River. You can also visit the museum at the Arch, where the environment is designed for quiet contemplation and learning. This is a great way to take in the historic significance of the area while centering your mind.
12. Take a Healing Forest Bath at the Ozark National Forest
Location: Near the Ozarks
Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice of immersing yourself in nature to improve mental and physical well-being. The Ozark National Forest offers several spots perfect for this practice. Take a slow walk among the trees, breathe deeply, and allow the natural surroundings to calm and heal you. It’s an ideal place for unwinding and reconnecting with your body.
13. Mindful Experiences at the Painted Rocks Conservation Area
Location: Near Salem
If you're looking for a peaceful place to meditate and reflect, the Painted Rocks Conservation Area offers a calm and beautiful landscape. The natural rock formations are stunning and provide a great backdrop for mindfulness and relaxation. The surrounding forests and wildlife will help you tune into the present moment.
14. Relax at a Local Wellness Center (Joplin)
Location: Joplin
Consider visiting a wellness center in Joplin, which offers spa treatments, fitness classes, and wellness services. Many of these centers focus on holistic health practices like massage therapy, acupuncture, and aromatherapy, helping you to recharge both physically and mentally.
15. Wellness Activities at the St. Louis Art Museum (St. Louis)
Location: St. Louis
The St. Louis Art Museum offers art therapy workshops, yoga classes, and mindful activities. The museum’s serene galleries are ideal for calming your mind and practicing mindfulness. Walking through the exhibits or attending a wellness event is a great way to blend culture with relaxation.
Wellness Tips for Route 66 Missouri:
Stay Hydrated: Traveling along Route 66 can sometimes lead to long stretches without access to water, so carry a refillable bottle to stay hydrated and healthy.
Balance Rest and Adventure: Incorporate wellness activities like yoga, meditation, and nature walks to balance the more adventurous aspects of your trip.
Local Organic Products: Look for local organic farms or wellness markets along the route for natural, locally grown products that can support your well-being.