Did you know that St. Louis is the largest city on Route 66 and that the Gateway Arch is America’s tallest monument? Well, you do now! There are many can’t-miss stops along the Mother Road in Missouri including a historic drive-in theater, unique museums, and stunning caverns. Next time you are taking a good ole’ midwestern road trip, be sure to stop at one or all of these Missouri travel spots.
Route 66 Red Rocker
This enormous structure was built in 2008, situated at the Fanning 66 Outpost, and once held the Guinness World Record for being the world’s largest rocking chair. Although that title has not held out, it is still the largest rocker on Route 66. Be sure to stop at this great photo opportunity located in Fanning, Missouri.
Route 66 Museum
The Route 66 Museum is located in the Laclede County Library. The exhibits are fun for the whole family to walk through including an old gas station, an antique motel room, and a diner replica. Check out their collection of collectibles and vintage maps – the salt and pepper shakers from different Route 66 restaurants is a favorite!
Route 66 State Park
Route 66 State Park provides easy access to the Meramec River and is a welcomed break for travelers who want to enjoy nature and take in the historical showcasing of the U.S. Route 66. Bridgehead Inn, a 1935 roadhouse, serves as Route 66 State Park’s Visitor Center.
Uranus, Missouri
Located along U.S. Route 66 and I-44 in rural Pulaski County, Uranus offers fun humor for travelers of all ages. This tourist attraction is home to the world-famous Uranus Fudge Factory And General Store, a gun range, tattoo shop, sports bar, and it doesn’t stop there! If you are looking for another photo opportunity, don’t skip out on the World’s Largest Belt Buckle.
Route 66 Mural City
Cuba, Missouri was designated as the “Route 66 Mural City” in 2002 by the state legislature. These murals were a result of the development of Viva Cuba, a beautification organization, making this particular stretch of the historic highway unforgettable.
66 Drive-In Theatre
If you are a movie buff, then a stop at the 66 Drive-In Theatre is a must! As one of the last remaining along Route 66, this drive-in typically opens to the public during the first weekend of April and plays movies through mid-September. Each showing consists of two movies and includes a nostalgic intermission trailer.
Meramec Caverns
The Meramec Caverns are a 7.4K cavern system that has been a popular tourist attraction along Route 66 since 1935. Legends say that Jesse James used to utilize these caverns as a hideout spot and used the river within to make an escape!
Gateway Arch
The St. Louis Gateway Arch stands 192m tall and 192m wide making it the tallest monument in the United States. Visitors can reach the observation deck by using the elevator system that consists of a series of small pod-like tram cars. If it is a clear day, the view from the observation deck can stretch for roughly 30 miles. Each tram tour has an expected duration of 45 to 60 minutes and pricing starts at $11.
Gary’s Gay Parita
Gary’s Gay Parita was constructed as a re-creation of a classic 1930s Sinclair Gas Station. This stop in Ash Grove, Missouri features original gas pumps and other various pieces of Route 66 memorabilia.
Chain of Rocks Bridge
The Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis was once used to cross the Mississippi River, but now it only has walking and biking trails. The most notable feature of this historic bridge is the 22-degree curve in the middle which is unlike any bridge we see today.
