Take This Road Trip To The Most Charming Route 66 Towns In Missouri
By Beth Price-Williams|Published November 08, 2022
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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.
Route 66 might be the most famous road in America, and it runs straight through Missouri. Yep, for more than 300 glorious miles, the Mother Road meanders through small towns and past world-famous attractions. Today’s road trip will take you to some of the most charming Route 66 towns in Missouri (starting in one of our big cities, too). Each destination is brimming with things to see and to do, so you can do as much or as little as you want, depending on your timeframe.
Here are the Google Map directions for this road trip that spans 304 miles and the length of Route 66 in Missouri. Add or remove stops to meet your interests, needs, and timeframe.
While it's definitely not a small town, a road trip on Route 66 through Missouri wouldn't be complete unless it includes St. Louis. Whether you spend a few hours or an entire day in the city, you'll find a ton to do - from riding the Wheel at Union Station to catching a Cards game at Busch Stadium. For some of the best views in the city, make sure you ride up the Gateway Arch, too, a popular Missouri attraction.
After our time in St. Louis, we'll hop along the Mother Road and head to Cuba. The small Missouri town is best known for its many murals and as the home of the World's Second Largest Rocking Chair. It's also a good stop for the night, if you're up for a stay at this quirky Missouri motel.
Rolla's known for a few seasonal attractions. If you're visiting during the summer, spend a hot day at The Fugitive Beach. Should you visit during the holidays, plan to check out the Christkindl Markt. No matter when you visit, be sure to stop by the Todem Pole Trading Post. It's been a favorite since 1933.
Delve into the rich past of Route 66 when you visit the darling town of Lebanon, home to The Route 66 Museum. Plan a visit to Bennett Springs State Park, home to the largest natural tunnel in Missouri, too.
Our next stop brings us to Springfield, home to more than a dozen antique shops. It's a treasure hunter's dream come true. If you love wildlife, visit the Wonders of Wildlife. Or, see if you experience the paranormal at the most beautiful and the most haunted cemetery in Missouri.
Journey through the pages of time when you visit the adorable town of Carthage. Known as America's Maple Leaf City, it hosts an epic maple festival every autumn. You can also catch a double-feature at the local drive-in, and for a one-of-a-kind stay, check into this historic Missouri motel.
Our final stop brings us to Joplin. The quaint town is known for quite a few things, including the majestic Grand Falls. It's a popular waterfall all year around, but if you visit during the summer, bring your swimming gear. The cascade doubles as a swimming hole. Did you know that you can also stand in three states at once in Joplin? Yep, and it's worth the trip.
What are your favorite Route 66 towns in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! Up for more exploring? Here are 11 iconic stops along Route 66 in Missouri.
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