Tucked away in the natural beauty of Route 66 State Park in Eureka, Missouri, a hidden gem awaits Americana history lovers. The park is home to a retro museum located in its visitor center, with legendary tales and ephemera from the areas spanning the historic Route 66 highway. It offers a glimpse into the golden age of America’s iconic "Mother Road." And it's completely free to visit!

Route 66 is more than just a road; it's a symbol of America's love affair with the open highway. The museum, in the historic Bridgehead Inn, allows visitors to travel back in time and experience the nostalgia associated with this historic highway. Bridgehead Inn is a roadhouse from 1935 that once sat right on Route 66 [Route 66 is no longer officially designated as a U.S. Highway].

Imagine a time when vacations meant packing up the station wagon, loading up the kids, and hitting the road for an adventure. Route 66 was instrumental in opening up the country to travelers, turning road trips into a revered American tradition. Back then, families would have likely stopped at roadhouses like the Bridgehead Inn for a bite and rest. You may have also seen some road warriors parked out front. The museum features exhibits that remind us of the not-so-family-friendly version of roadhouses with a motorcycle display. This was a time when motorcycle clubs were gaining popularity throughout the US.

In its heyday, roadhouses were the go-to spots in rural areas and on the outskirts of towns, offering food, drinks, and sometimes even lodging. Today, walking through the museum feels like stepping into a time capsule, with vintage signs and old postcards from the 1930s through the 1960s. I love seeing the old graphic signs! 

One of the museum's highlights is its display of mid-century motels and eccentric road stop memorabilia [souvenirs]. These items help paint a picture of life along Route 66, especially as it winds its way through Missouri.

In addition to the indoor exhibits, the park itself is beautiful.  More than 175 bird species can be found at the park throughout the seasons, and numerous picnic areas are scattered throughout the grounds. You can easily spend a full day exploring the park's trails, watching wildlife, or enjoying a picnic lunch after visiting the museum.

If you’re in the mood for a memento, the visitor center’s gift shop is packed with Route 66-themed goodies, from t-shirts to vintage-style souvenirs. Located just a short 30-minute drive west of St. Louis, Route 66 State Park is the perfect getaway for nature and history.

Whether you’re a local or passing through or on your own Missouri road trip along the iconic highway, the park’s retro museum is a must-see destination. The park is right off Highway 44, a major thoroughfare to southern Missouri destinations like Springfield and Branson. Route 66 State Park in Missouri is a chance to experience a piece of history for free and one that will leave you with an appreciation for America’s most famous road. Oh, and if you are hitting the road, check out our ultimate packing list so you don’t leave anything behind. What are some of your favorite stops off the highway?