The Stunning Missouri Drive Is One Of The Best Road Trips In America

How surprised would you be to discover that Historic Route 66 is considered perhaps the best Missouri drive? Probably not too surprised, right? After all, the historic road is a centerpiece in Missouri, 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 road 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.

Flickr/Jimmy Emerson DVM

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.

Wikimedia Commons/Gorup de Besanez

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.

Google/Bear Thomas

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.

Flickr/Tony Higsett

As you journey along the historic road, consider stops at such popular destinations as the Route 66 Rocker in Fanning, Route 66 State Park in Eureka, and the Route 66 Car Museum in Springfield.

Flickr/J. Stephen Conn

Carve out some time, too, for a double-feature at the Route 66 Drive-In in Carthage. Then check in for the night at Boots Court Motel, an historic hotel where such Hollywood royalty as Clark Gable once slept.

Facebook/Boots Motel

Learn more about Historic Route 66 on the official website of Visit Missouri. Or, visit its Facebook page.

Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM

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 through Missouri that leads to whimsical attractions, themed restaurants, and more.