8 Stops To Make Along Missouri's Route 66 That Are Drive-Worthy Destinations
By Beth Price-Williams|Published May 04, 2020
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Two of the sweetest words in the English language? Road trip! Hands down, right? Well, if it’s been far too long since you’ve been on a road trip, here’s a quick one that will take you to some pretty amazing destinations on Missouri’s Route 66. Even better, you can easily customize the road trip to meet your needs and your interests.
Let's get ready to go! This road trip along Missouri's Route 66 spans 258 miles in just over 4.5 hours. You can, of course, add more stops or take stops away, depending on how much time you have and on your interests. Off we go!
Our first stop along Route 66 is Meramec Caverns, billed as "America's Buried Treasure." Dress for the weather, a lovely 60 degrees Fahrenheit all year round, when you embark on a tour of one of Missouri's natural wonders, After the tour, check out the other activities on the property, including zip lining, mining for gems, and heading out on a river boat excursion.
How hungry are you now that you've arrived at Cookin' From Scratch? If you're really hungry, try the Route 66 "King of the Road" Challenge. You'll have to eat a 66-ounce burger and a pound of fries to win. However, if you're not that hungry, find a long list of delicious dishes, from fried chicken to classic burgers, on the menu.
Since we're driving on perhaps Missouri's most famous road, let's learn more about it with a stop at the Route 66 Museum. There, you'll walk into a "recreated" gas station and get a peek of memorabilia, such as a replica diner, from Route 66 during its glory days.
Springfield's the birthplace of Route 66, so it's natural to stop by the Birthplace of Route 66 Road Side Park. Read the marker that offers more information on the origins of Route 66; check out the famous signs; and have a picnic, if you're hungry.
Missouri's home to several of the world's largest items, including the World's Largest Fork. What would a trip along Route 66 be without a stop at and photos with the World's Largest Fork? Did you know that the massive fork stands 35 feet tall and weighs 11 tons?
Celebrate days gone by at our next stop - 66 Drive-in Theater. The drive-in has been a popular destination since it opened in 1949. Catch a double-feature and dig into delicious goodies from the snack bar while enjoying a night under the stars at the classic drive-in.
We're nearing the end of our journey with a visit to Route 66 Mural Park, a stunning homage to Route 66. Sidle up next to the replica Corvette for photos, and don't forget to snap photos of the murals themselves.
Our final stop brings us to Boots Court Motel, definitely a cozy spot for staying the night. After all, you'll be joining a host of famous names - Clark Gable and Mickey Mantle, for example - who have slept there.
What are your favorite stops along Missouri’s Route 66? Let us know in the comments! Feel like heading out on a drive but not getting out of the car or getting out of the car but not walking far? Stop by 165 Scenic Overlook in Missouri.
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