There is nothing better than a great burger at a small town drive in. However, one Missouri drive-in found a way to make their dining experience even better. They've revamped their restaurant and are now serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and craft beer. Your taste buds will be blown away by amazing flavors in these the made-to-order meals. Don't just take our word for it, try out Eagle Drive-In for yourself.
Just like the sign states, Eagle Drive-In is anything but ordinary. If you're craving craft brews and gourmet burgers, this is the place for you.
Beyond burgers, you can order steaks, seafood, fully loaded salads, and tons of different sandwiches. If you love good sauce, you'll love the sauces that some on your sandwiches and burgers here. You can even order more sauces on the side for dipping! Try the eagle sauce, the garlic aioli, or the blueberry barbecue.
Eagle Drive-In is open from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Sundays. Find them at 4224 S Main St, Joplin, MO 64804.
Have you been to Eagle Drive-In for lunch or dinner? What menu items did you try? Tell us about it in the comments below.
If you like retro spots that take you back to the good old days, like Eagle Drive-In, check out these other retro Missouri places for some fun!
If You Only Have One Day To Visit This Small Town In Missouri, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
Discover the best things to do in Washington, Missouri, in just one day! Explore local art, history, unique shops, train watching, and more in this small town.
Tucked along the banks of the Missouri River, Washington, Missouri, is the perfect destination for a one-day adventure. With its rich history, thriving arts scene, and local charm, this small town offers a taste of everything that makes Missouri special. In just one day, you can explore a National Historic Trail, browse locally-made goods, take in local art, find unique old books, step into a historic factory, and even watch trains rumble by, all while soaking in Washington’s small-town hospitality. Best of all, nearly every must-see stop is within walking distance, so lace up your sneakers and get ready to explore!
Your first stop in Washington should be WashMO On the Go, a one-of-a-kind shop that doubles as the town’s unofficial visitors center. Owner Toni has thoughtfully curated a space that’s more than just a shopping experience; it's an insider’s guide to all things Washington. She knows the town like the back of her hand, so don't be shy if you have any questions. You’ll be hard-pressed to stump her!
Housed in the historic 1888 Water Works Building, the shop is a treasure trove of local history. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on Lewis and Clark, Daniel Boone, Native American history, and even a model train exhibit that kids (and adults!) will love, especially given its location right next to the railroad.
The shop showcases goods from over 72 local artisans and crafters, offering everything from handmade gifts to vintage finds, antiques, and seasonal decor.
The shop is family-friendly, featuring a 2,000-gallon fish tank with local Missouri River fish, dioramas of local animals, a Lewis & Clark boat replica, and a train car to sit in. Plus, a tactile exhibit featuring locally resourced bones, insects, rocks, and furs.
Open seven days a week, WashMO On the Go is the perfect place to grab a snack, pick up maps of the area, and even get your National Parks Passport stamped (the shop is located on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail). I was surprised this stop made it on the National Parks list, and it made me want to explore further what parks are included in the National Parks system; check out the link.
Take in Local Art in Washington, Missouri
If you’re going to visit a local art gallery, you’d want to go to the one owned by the head of the local arts council, right? Room for Art in Historic Downtown Washington, Missouri, has some of what you might expect: beautiful oil paintings, watercolors, and photography, much of it showcasing local scenery. But I love this gallery's approachability and community-driven spirit through the goods it offers. In addition to fine art, local artisans can make usable pieces, like handcrafted leather keychains, wallets, walking sticks, greeting cards, and fiber arts (they make great gifts). It's the perfect blend of art you can admire and art you can take home.
Visit a Historic Factory, the First and Last of Its Kind
One of Washington's most unique stops is the Missouri Meerschaum Company, the only remaining factory in the world that still manufactures corn cob pipes. I know, corn cob pipes? Stick with me here; this place has over 150 years of rich history!
The on-site museum tells the story of the company’s beginnings in 1869 and features an impressive collection of documents and correspondence from famous literary figures and military personalities who enjoyed their pipes. A tour guide will walk you through the factory’s history and the craftsmanship that has kept the company thriving for over a century. Even if pipes aren’t your thing, it’s hard not to respect the legacy of this factory. They sell tobacco, “cob wear,” and natural pipes from their Cornabis Collection, a nod to Missouri’s legal cannabis scene. This was one stop that local guide Toni from WashMO On the Go insisted you can't miss!
Washington Is One of the Best Places in Missouri to Watch Trains
Even if you’re not a rail fan, there’s something captivating about watching trains in Washington, Missouri. I feel like the steady rhythm of the wheels on the tracks, the distant whistle, and the sheer power of these machines can be mesmerizing. Trains evoke a sense of exploration and movement, a reminder of the open road or, in this case, the open rails. The anticipation of spotting a train builds excitement; hearing it approach, seeing it emerge in the distance, and feeling it rumble by is exhilarating, much like birdwatching when you spot a rare species.
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Here Are Three Ways You Can be a Trainspotter in Washington, Missouri:
1. The Amtrak Station
Housed in the historic 1923 Missouri Pacific Railroad Depot: Amtrak Train Station Washington, Missouri, also serves as a visitor center and home to the Mid-Missouri Fine Arts Gallery. Here, you can watch trains go by while waiting in the passenger room or exploring the depot’s history.
2. Rennick Riverfront Park
Just a block from downtown, this riverfront park in Washington, Missouri, is steps away from the railroad and offers an unobstructed view of trains passing by, with the Missouri River in the background. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in both natural and mechanical beauty.
3. Marquart's Landing
For a more up-close-and-personal train-watching experience, grab a bite to eat at Marquart's Landing, a restaurant practically perched on the railroad tracks. Sit out on the amazing patio, and you’ll feel the vibrations and hear the sounds of trains passing right next to you.
And here’s a bonus stop for train enthusiasts: while it’s not the real thing, the Iron Spike Train Museum is still worth a visit. The museum features model trains of various scales on working tracks, exhibits on train history, and a library dedicated to railroading.
If you only have one day to spend in Washington, Missouri, you’ll be amazed by how much this small town has to offer. From its rich history to its vibrant arts scene, Washington is a perfect mix of heritage and local charm. What are some of your favorite small towns in Missouri?
Missouri is a gorgeous state. Not only do breathtaking nature sights appear in the most surprising of places, but the big (and equally beautiful) cities of St. Louis and Kansas City serve delicious meals and are home to some fantastic shopping.
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However, the big cities aren't the only stars of the Show Me State. Some tiny towns shine just as bright.
Tucked away in the heart of Northeast Missouri is Kirksville, a charming town with a heart that just won't quit. With just over 17,000 residents, it’s a place where each one knows your name, your business, and probably your grandmother's gooey butter cake recipe.
In Kirksville, Missouri, the foodie scene is a fantastic representation of homemade charm and flavors. There is no need for fast food chains here; this town is filled with local spots serving dishes as unique as the folks who run them.
Start your day at Diner 54, where pancakes are served with a variety of toppings, and the coffee is strong enough to get you through a full day of exploring. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their “Alaskan Waffle”— it comes topped with strawberries... and two scoops of ice cream!
For lunch, you won't want to miss Wooden Nickel, known as the only "full-service restaurant in Kirksville. The star of their menu is their Smoked Barbecue Pork Ribs, which are prepared in a hickory smoker and served one of two ways: Kansas City-style or Cajun. Either way, you absolutely cannot go wrong.
Kirksville’s history is as rich as its local food. Founded in the mid-19th century, the town was named after John Kirk, Kirksville's first postmaster, as well as its first hotel- and tavern-owner. This Northeast Missouri gem was originally a hub for agriculture and education and is now home to Truman State University.
The main drag isn't the only star of Kirksville, Missouri -- the nature is stellar as well.
If you're feeling like a quick hike, Thousand Hills State Park is just a short drive from the downtown Kirksville area. With its stunning lake and scenic trails, this park offers everything from hiking and biking to fishing and picnicking... and just about everything in between. Whether you’re trying to spot a heron or simply wondering why that woodpecker has a more active social life than you, this park is a delightful reminder that nature knows how to throw a good party, and everyone’s invited... including you!
The town of Kirksville, Missouri, has not forgotten its history, however. In 1899. a cyclone hit the town, bringing over 200 MPH winds, leaving 1000 residents without homes and over 30 without lives. In the aftermath, residents banded together to rebuild, showcasing their resilience and determination. This tragic event is a poignant reminder of the power of nature and the strength of community in the face of disaster.
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And I can't mention this adorable Missouri town without discussing its arts scene. It's as vibrant as some of the local personalities. Most notable is the Kirksville Arts Association, which hosts various events throughout the year, showcasing local talent that ranges from impressive oil paintings to avant-garde interpretations of a cornfield. I'd love to see either one.
In a world increasingly dominated by the hustle and bustle of big cities and corporate chains, Kirksville offers a refreshing reminder of how different spending time in a small town can be. From tasty local eats to breathtaking natural views and a rich art scene, this Missouri hidden gem is proof that sometimes, the best things in life come wrapped in a small-town package.
Plus, if you want to stay overnight, there are quite a few vacation rentals nearby. We love this Kirksville VRBO - it's housed in a former church and has the vaulted ceilings to prove it!
Do you have a favorite small town in Missouri? Nominate it here... and you might see an article about it in the future!
