10 Best Route 66 Attractions in Missouri
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Route 66, known as the “Mother Road,” is a symbol of American adventure and freedom, spanning from Chicago to Santa Monica. As it winds through the state of Missouri, you’ll find a blend of rich history, unique roadside attractions, and scenic landscapes.

Missouri’s stretch of Route 66 offers everything from vintage gas stations and charming small towns to iconic diners and kitschy motels. Whether your goal is to complete the entire route, or you’re just out for a fun road trip, the “Show-Me State” has plenty of attractions that will make your road trip unforgettable.
In this guide to Route 66 in Missouri, we’ll explore the top ten attractions on the route, including helpful planning and sightseeing tips I picked up along our Route 66 adventure.
Route 66 Map through Missouri
This map features ten of the best attractions on Route 66 through Missouri

Reference this map when looking at the list of attractions below, they are organized from east to west on Route 66 through Missouri.
PRO TIP: I used RoadTrippers to plan our Route 66 road trip and highly recommend it for trips where you need to organize a lot of stops and information. Use promo code: BTR5QTP for $5 off if you decide to try it out.
1. Gateway Arch National Park
The Gateway Arch isn’t just St. Louis’ most iconic landmark—it’s also the heart of Gateway Arch National Park. Sitting on the banks of the Mississippi, this park honors the city’s role in westward expansion with history, stunning architecture, and unbeatable views.
The highlight is a ride to the top of the Arch. The small, pod-like tram cars make for a quirky (and slightly claustrophobic) adventure as they carry you 630 feet up. But the payoff is worth it—panoramic views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River that will leave you in awe.

Back on the ground, you can explore the park’s green spaces, and the Museum at the Gateway Arch is packed with engaging exhibits that bring St. Louis’ past to life through visual and audio displays. Whether you’re here for the history, the views, or just checking another box on your National Parks list – it’s a must-visit stop on Route 66.
PRO TIP: Consider booking your ride to the top of the Arch in advance. Some days there is walk-up availability, but many days were already booked when I started checking online.
Sugarfire Smoke House
After your ride up the Arch, head over to Sugarfire Smoke House for some delicious BBQ (it’s about half a mile away).
Don’t let this chain fool you, it was voted best BBQ in St. Louis Magazine’s 2024 A-List Awards. We enjoyed The Big Muddy brisket sandwich and a fried green tomato sandwich.

Things to Do
- Ride to the top of the Arch for panoramic views of St. Louis.
- Explore the Museum at the Gateway Arch to learn about the city’s history.
- Wander through the park grounds and enjoy the riverside scenery.
- Head over to Sugarfire Smoke House for BBQ afterward.
LOCATION: 11 N 4th St., St. Louis, MO
COST: Fees apply for the museum entrance and the tram ride to the top of the Arch. The park grounds are free to explore. (You can save a few dollars as a National Park Pass holder).
RV PARKING: The park is in a busy downtown area, so RV parking is limited. We found a campground outside the city and drove in for the day. For RVers with large trucks, we found a parking lot (instead of a garage) about half a mile from the Arch.
2. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
We almost skipped Ted Drewes, but I’m so glad we didn’t—it’s a gem you won’t want to miss. The place was buzzing with energy, with locals and visitors lining up for their sweet treats on a warm evening.
The friendly staff made the experience even better, and it’s no surprise this spot was voted Best Frozen Custard in St. Louis Magazine’s 2024 A-List Awards.

One of the highlights was the small gift shop, which also features a mini-museum dedicated to the history of Ted Drewes.
We learned about its humble beginnings and even got a fantastic flavor recommendation from the shop attendant: the Lemon Crumb—a refreshing combo of lemon and graham crackers that I wouldn’t have chosen on my own but absolutely loved.
She also tipped us off about the off-menu Route 66 flavor, a root beer custard that was subtle, creamy, and surprisingly delicious (and I don’t even like root beer!).
PRO TIP: Order your custard concrete-style for that classic Ted Drewes experience. If you’re a planner, their menu is available online to help you map out your sweet selections ahead of time.
Things to Do
- Explore the gift shop and learn about the history of Ted Drewes.
- Savor their legendary frozen custard.
LOCATION: 6726 Chippewa, St. Louis, MO
COST: Custard prices vary (the gift shop is free to browse).
RV PARKING: Since this is a busy area, I recommend parking your RV for the night and driving into St. Louis to explore Route 66.
3. Meramec Caverns
Known as “The Cave State” due to its more than 7,000 documented caves, Missouri offers a unique subterranean adventure at Meramec Caverns.
Tucked away in the Missouri hills, this is one of Route 66’s most famous underground attractions.
This massive cave system, once rumored to be a hideout for Jesse James, offers a fascinating guided tour through stunning limestone formations, ancient underground rivers, and breathtaking rock structures.

The tour takes you deep into the caverns, where you’ll see dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and even a mesmerizing underground “theater” where light shows bring the formations to life.
We loved it so much that we decided to stay a few extra nights at the on-site RV campground, giving us time to explore the beautiful Meramec River.

The crystal-clear waters were perfect for a relaxing float, and with kayak rentals available on-site, it was easy to spend a day paddling through the scenic Ozark landscape.
Things to Do
- Take the cave tour.
- Visit the Jesse James Wax Museum in Stanton.
- Stay a few days and float down the Meramec River.
LOCATION: 1135 Hwy W, Sullivan, MO
COST: Tours are $28 per person (age 12 and up)
RV PARKING: There is a large parking lot beside the cavern entrance for a quick stop. However, I recommend staying at least one or two nights to give you a chance to float the Meramec River! We decided to stay three nights and drive into St. Louis to give us a break from moving the RV and make visiting the city easier.
4. Wagon Wheel Motel
The Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Missouri, is one of the most iconic and beloved landmarks along the Route 66 corridor. Established in 1936, it is the oldest continuously operating motel on Route 66. It also offers one of the most recognizable classic neon signs on the “Mother Road”.

Over the decades, the Wagon Wheel Motel has been carefully restored to maintain its vintage appeal, and you can even stay in one of the updated rooms that retain the motel’s original charm.
The motel’s location in Cuba, known as “Mural City” on Route 66, adds to its appeal. Don’t miss exploring the town’s collection of outdoor murals with themes of local history and Route 66 culture.
Things to Do
- Snap a photo of the neon sign and vintage gas station pumps
- Head next door to Missouri Hick Barbeque for a bite to eat
- Explore downtown Cuba and snap some shots of your favorite murals
LOCATION: 901 E. Washington St., Cuba, MO
COST: Room rates vary.
RV PARKING: There isn’t a lot of parking for RVs. We snagged a spot along the road for a few quick photo ops.
5. World’s (Second) Largest Rocking Chair
In Cuba, Missouri, you’ll find the World’s (Second) Largest Rocking Chair, an eye-catching roadside attraction that’s a must-see on Route 66.
Standing 42 feet tall, this giant rocker held the Guinness World Record for the largest in the world in 2008 until being dethroned in 2015 by a chair in Casey, Illinois. Still, it’s an impressive sight and makes for a fun photo op!

The chair is located at the Fanning 66 Outpost, a general store that’s been part of Route 66 history since the 1930s. While the store has been rebuilt over the years, it remains a charming stop with a wide selection of Route 66 souvenirs, glass-bottled sodas, snacks, cookware, and apparel.

Things to Do
- Snap a photo with the towering rocker.
- Browse the Fanning 66 Outpost for unique souvenirs and treats for the road.
- Pose with the Route 66 mural on the side of the store.
LOCATION: 5957 Highway ZZ, Cuba, MO
COST: Free (but I recommend supporting the Fanning 66 Outpost with a purchase).
RV PARKING: The Fanning Outpost has a large gravel parking lot. We didn’t have a problem parking our truck and travel trailer while we looked around and did some shopping!
6. Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store
This is probably one of the wildest stops on the Mother Road. The Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store in St. Robert, Missouri, is part roadside attraction, part comedy show, and all fun.

At the center of Uranus is the Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store, where the fudge is fresh, the jokes are endless, and the staff delivers their famous tagline with a straight face: “The Best Fudge Comes from Uranus.” With flavors like toffee, blueberry cheesecake, and chocolate mint, you’ll find plenty of ways to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Beyond the fudge, the shop is packed with playful souvenirs, Route 66 memorabilia, taffy, popcorn, and more.
Step outside, and there’s even more weird and wonderful fun—the Sideshow Museum has oddities galore (some delightfully creepy), and The Funk Yard offers a funky outdoor hangout and photo op. Whether you’re here for the sweets, the laughs, or just to say you’ve been, Uranus is one stop you won’t forget!

Things to Do
- Try the Famous Fudge! Purchase your favorite flavors and take home “the best fudge from Uranus.”
- Find a quirky souvenir at The General Store.
- Check out bizarre oddities and sideshow curiosities at the Sideshow Museum.
- Concor Putt Pirates mini golf course.
- Grab a photo op at The Funk Yard!
LOCATION: 14400 Highway Z, Saint Robert, MO
COST: Free to explore the grounds; fees apply for the sideshow museum and mini golf.
RV PARKING: There’s a decent-sized parking lot but when we arrived this place was packed. We saw a few RV towables cozy into parking along the sides of the mini golf area parking lot.
7. Route 66 Museum
Tucked inside the Lebanon-Laclede County Library, the Route 66 Museum is a free, self-guided tour of the history of The Mother Road.
The museum is brimming with Route 66 memorabilia, including vintage photos, maps, intricate miniature models, and a stunning mural that vividly captures Missouri’s stretch of the iconic highway.

Step back in time with life-sized Roue 66 recreations including a Route 66 gas station, complete with vintage pumps and a classic car, a cozy recreated tourist cabin, and a retro diner that feels like it’s straight out of an old movie.
Don’t miss the hidden gems tucked throughout, like the story of Bonnie and Clyde’s Joplin hideout.
This museum perfectly captures the charm and history of Route 66, with a special spotlight on Missouri’s unique contributions to the highway’s legacy.
LOCATION: 915 S. Jefferson Ave., Lebanon, MO (inside the Lebanon-Laclede County Library)
COST: Free
RV PARKING: Plenty of space in the library’s large parking lot, making it an easy stop for RV travelers.
8. Dowd’s Catfish and BBQ
We stumbled upon Dowd’s Catfish and BBQ after visiting the Route 66 Museum, and it turned out to be one of those delightful surprises that make road trips so fun.
As catfish lovers, we couldn’t resist giving it a try, and we’re so glad we did! The food was fantastic, the portions were generous (we had enough for leftovers), and the prices were super affordable.

The southern sides were a highlight—think corn, fried okra, green beans, BBQ beans, hush puppies, and more. If catfish isn’t your thing, they’ve got plenty of other options, from fried shrimp and salmon to smoked brisket and ribs. They even recently added seafood boils to their menu!
Dowd’s is a perfect example of why I love exploring Route 66—unassuming spots like this serve up incredible food and a dose of local charm.
LOCATION: 1760 West Elm St., Lebanon, MO
COST: Price of food (great value!)
RV PARKING: Located in a shopping center with a spacious parking lot—plenty of room for RVs.
9. Gary’s Gay Parita
A true gem of Route 66, Gary’s Gay Parita is a lovingly restored 1930s Sinclair gas station that embodies the heart and soul of the Mother Road.
Located just 25 miles west of Springfield, Missouri, this stop is more than just a photo op—it’s a living tribute to the passion and dedication of the late Gary Turner, who made it his mission to preserve the spirit of Route 66. Today, his family continues his legacy, welcoming travelers with warm hospitality and plenty of nostalgia.

The station itself is a feast for the eyes, with vintage Sinclair signage, antique gas pumps and vehicles, and a treasure trove of memorabilia.
The current owners have put a lot of love into restoring the place—it’s bursting with colorful flowers, and the garage is packed with incredible antiques.

Gary’s Gay Parita is one of those special places that truly makes Route 66 what it is—more than just a highway, but a journey through time.
LOCATION: 21118 Old 66, Ash Grove, MO
COST: Free (donations accepted)
RV PARKING: We were able to pull off on the side of the road right in front of the station.
10. Red Oak II
Just outside of Carthage, Missouri, Red Oak II is a fascinating find on Route 66. It’s a perfect blend of a ghost town and museum, and the kind of place that perfectly captures the charm and nostalgia of the Mother Road.
The creator, Lowell Davis, moved his hometown of Red Oak, Missouri to this location piece by piece when he returned to find it abandoned.

Today, Red Oak II features an array of beautifully restored buildings, including a gas station, schoolhouse, jail, diner, town hall, and more. Walking through Red Oak II feels like stepping into the past, with every building telling a story of simpler times.
Visitors can explore the grounds, admire Davis’s artwork scattered throughout the property, and enjoy a quiet moment in this lovingly recreated piece of Americana.
Things to Do:
- Stroll through the town and explore the restored buildings.
- Snap photos of the nostalgic 20th-century architecture.
- Learn about Lowell Davis’s life and legacy.
LOCATION: 12266 Kafir Rd, Carthage, MO
COST: Free, but donations are appreciated to help with preservation.
RV PARKING: You can drive the loop through Red Oak II or park along the side as you enter.
Other Missouri Route 66 Attractions
There are plenty of other great stops along Missouri’s stretch of Route 66 that we didn’t make it to, but you might want to add them to your itinerary!
- Chain of Rocks Bridge – St. Louis
- Route 66 State Park – Eureka
- Bourbon Water Tower – Bourbon
- World’s Largest Gift Store – Phillipsburg
- Red’s Giant Hamburg – Springfield
- Route 66 Steak ‘n Shake – Springfield
- Route 66 Drive-In Theatre – Carthage
- Bonnie and Clyde Hideout – Joplin
How Long is Route 66 in Missouri?
The “Show-Me State” boasts approximately 317 miles of Route 66, taking travelers through a mix of small towns, big cities, rolling hills, and historic and natural landmarks.
Beginning in St. Louis and winding through cities like Springfield and Joplin, this section of the “Mother Road” offers plenty of classic Route 66 attractions.
Is Missouri Route 66 Worth It?
Absolutely! Route 66 in Missouri offers a mix of history, quirky roadside attractions, delicious eats, and stunning scenery that captures the spirit of The Mother Road.
From iconic stops like the Gateway Arch and Wagon Wheel Motel to unique finds like Uranus Fudge Factory and Red Oak II, this stretch of Route 66 has a variety of attractions.

What I love most about Missouri’s Route 66 is the charm of its small towns and the delightfully quirky roadside attractions.
It’s also refreshing to find stops like Meramec Caverns that showcase the state’s stunning natural beauty.
Like much of Route 66, Missouri’s stretch isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about the journey. Along the way, you’ll collect stories, capture memorable photo ops, and experience those special moments that stay with you long after the road trip ends.
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