How surprised would you be to discover that Missouri scenic Route 66 is considered perhaps the best scenic drive in Missouri? Probably not too surprised, right? After all, this iconic road is a Missouri centerpiece, boasting some of its most famous attractions – from Meramec Caverns in Sullivan to the Route 66 Mural Park in Joplin. Whether you plan to drive all or some of the Historic Route 66 in Missouri you’re in for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Considered the birthplace of Historic Route 66, Missouri is just one state through which the “Mother Road” passes. The famous road travels from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California.
The Missouri section of the historic road meanders from St. Louis to Joplin, tallying 293 miles. Springfield earns distinction as the road’s exact birthplace, going back to 1926.
Even if you don’t have a lot of time, you can travel part of the way on what was once known as the Main Street of America and still see a ton of iconic sites, including Red’s Giant Hamburg. It’s famous as being the first restaurant in the United States with a drive-thru window.
If you’re starting in St. Louis, stop by the old Chain of Rocks Bridge. Connecting Missouri to Illinois, the bridge is now popular with hikers and boasts some stunning views of the St. Louis skyline.
As you journey along the historic road, consider stops at popular destinations such as the Route 66 Rocker in Fanning, Route 66 State Park in Eureka, and the Route 66 Car Museum in Springfield.
Carve out some time for a double feature at the Route 66 Drive-In in Carthage. Then check in for the night at Boots Court Motel, a historic hotel where such Hollywood royalty as Clark Gable once slept.
Have you followed this spectacular Missouri drive? Did you drive some or all of Historic Route 66 in Missouri? Let us know in the comments!
For more road trip fun, head out on the family-friendly road trip in Missouri that leads to whimsical attractions, themed restaurants, and more. Pick up an RV from RVShare so you can travel in style.
I’m the type of person who loves to plan everything. When I go on a trip, I need my detailed itinerary. However, I’m trying to be a little more spontaneous and do more things on a whim. If you are like me and want to add a little more adventure and excitement to your life, this road trip itinerary is for you. Taking you to seven destinations, you’ll form a delightful loop throughout Missouri. Even better, there are attractions the entire family will enjoy, making this a spontaneous weekend adventure that everyone is sure to remember. So, pack your bags, grab your snacks, and let’s go!
This road trip itinerary begins and ends in St. Louis. You will travel approximately 300 miles and drive for approximately 5.5 hours. For this article, we will travel clockwise but you can travel in either direction. Use this interactive map to customize your trip depending on your starting and ending location. You can also add a few of your favorite stops along the way.
Our road trip begins at Gateway Arch National Park. If this is your first time here or it has been a while, stay and explore. You can walk around the grounds or explore the Gateway Arch Visitor Center. I recommend you take a tram ride to the top of the arch to admire the beauty of St. Louis.
If you are bringing children on this adventure, don’t skip the City Museum. Also in St. Louis, this is a museum composed primarily of architectural and industrial objects. Here you’ll find slides, tunnels, caves, and so much more. You’ll want to spend a few hours at this road trip stop. Adults and children alike will have a hard time leaving.
Onondaga Cave State Park is the perfect place to spend some time outdoors. When you take a tour of the cave, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world. If you prefer to spend your time above the ground, there is plenty to do including hiking, fishing, boating, and admiring the views of the Meramec River. If you are in the mood to camp, this Missouri state park offers excellent camping opportunities.
Yes, the next stop on our spontaneous Missouri road trip is another state park with a cave. But, this destination is one for the history books. Here, artifacts were uncovered that tell the story of people who lived in the area nearly 10,000 years ago. Visit the mouth of Graham Cave, trek along the Graham Cave Trail, and visit the Graham Cave State Park Visitor Center.
As we make our way back to St. Louis, I recommend you stop at Cuivre River State Park. This is one of Missouri’s largest state parks and it is home to incredible landscapes from grasslands to limestone bluffs. Head to Lake Lincoln for some time on the water or explore via hiking or backpacking. Don’t forget a camera — it’s absolutely beautiful.
History buffs (and those who just want someplace new to visit) will love the Historic Daniel Boone Home. This house will take you back in time and show you what life was like in the early 1800s. Not only can you visit the home, but there are several other historic buildings such as a general store, school, and grist mill to check out as well. Keep in mind that walking the village is free but there is a small fee to enter the Daniel Boone home and hours are seasonal.
Forest Park is one of the best urban parks in America and certainly a bucket-list-worthy destination in Missouri. The park is 1,300 acres and features forests, lakes, and nature reserves. Stretch your legs as you walk around, find a grassy area for a picnic lunch, or even visit one of the five major destinations that call the park home such as the St. Louis Art Museum or the St. Louis Zoo.
What other destinations would you add to this road trip itinerary? Are there any restaurants on this route that you would add? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments.
Have you ever stopped to think how lucky we are to live in a state as beautiful as Missouri? We might even take that natural beauty for granted. After all, we see it all of the time. That's what makes this Missouri road trip so special. Fall in love with our beautiful state all over again when you follow this scenic road trip through Missouri that showcases some amazing destinations. These are some of the most scenic places to visit in MO.
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Before you set off, however, make sure you have everything you need for a fun and safe journey. Check out some tips in this Road Trip Essentials Packing List & Guide.
We can't have a scenic road trip without a stop at one of Missouri's caves, can we? After all, we live in the Cave State. Let's kick off our journey at Onondaga Cave State Park where, in season, you can join a guided tour of the cave. The park itself is worth visiting, too, and offers a full list of amenities - hiking, fishing, boating, biking, and wildlife watching. Read more about this popular state park in Missouri.
Billed as the "world's largest subterranean lake," Bonne Terre Mine offers a one-of-a-kind adventure. Join a guided tour of the mine. You'll explore on foot and by boat. If you're a scuba diver, you've come to the right place. Certified scuba divers can sign up to dive at Bonne Terre Mine.
Find out about park hours and more on the official website of Bonne Terre Mine.
It's special destinations like this that make this one of the best road trips in MO.
Our next stop takes us atop Hughes Mountain, where you'll find the otherworldly Devil's Honeycomb. The breathtaking rock outcrops date back more than 1.5 billion years, and you really have to see them to appreciate them. You can reach the natural wonder by following the 1.6-mile Devil's Honeycomb Trail. These intriguing rock formations are very much worth a visit.
If you're road-tripping during the warmer months, make sure you pack your swimming gear. The gorgeous shut-ins at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park are perfect for cooling down. No matter when you visit, bring your camera, because you'll be treated to some stunning scenery. Explore the park on foot, on a bike, or on horseback. You can also camp out overnight if a single day isn't enough time. Find out why Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park has been named the best state park in Missouri. Bring the whole family out here for a wonderful camping adventure and make wonderful memories.
You can't really celebrate the beauty of Missouri without a visit to Elephant Rocks State Park; that's how absolutely unique and beautiful Elephant Rocks are. In fact, the state park is one of the most beautiful places in Missouri. The granite rocks, which date back more than 1.5 billion years, look like circus elephants lined up. Kiddos love climbing on them, and they provide a perfect backdrop for photos. You can also embark on a short hike to the Engine House Ruins. Read more about this natural wonder in Missouri.
Missouri boasts some gorgeous waterfalls - from Mina Sauk Falls, the state's tallest at 132 feet, to Rocky Falls. Just a few minutes from Eminence, Rocky Falls is a popular year-round destination. Cool off in the waterfall's pool during the summertime. No matter when you visit, bring along a picnic. The area also features grills, picnic tables, and bathrooms. You'll have a blast at these gorgeous waterfalls.
Our last stop really only counts if you're road-tripping during the summertime, but it's well worth a visit whether you go on this road trip or separately. The Fugitive Beach in Rolla is a paid admission beach. Swim in a former quarry that features gorgeous bluffs. It's the perfect summer destination with a sandy beach, slides, and food stands. See the fun that awaits at this one-of-a-kind beach in Missouri. This for sure tops the list of most beautiful places in MO.
Have you been to any of these lovely locations in Missouri? Do you have a favorite scenic Missouri road trip? Tell us about it in the comments! Itching to see more of Missouri? Here are eight of the best road trips in Missouri:
