Missouri occupies a special place in Route 66 history. Springfield, Missouri, proudly claims the title “Birthplace of Route 66.” It was here, in 1926, that officials finalized the now-famous highway number during a meeting that helped shape one of the most important roads in American history. Nearly a century later, Springfield remains one of the route’s most significant destinations, celebrating its connection to the Mother Road through museums, festivals, historic businesses, and preserved landmarks. Missouri is also home to some of the longest and best-preserved stretches of original Route 66 pavement. Unlike many states where development or interstate construction erased large portions of the highway, Missouri retains numerous original alignments that allow travelers to experience the road much as motorists did decades ago. Twisting through the Ozarks, these sections offer some of the most enjoyable riding on the entire route. The landscape itself is a major attraction. Route 66 winds through forests, climbs gentle ridges, and follows valleys carved into the Ozark Plateau. The scenery is greener and more varied than many travelers expect, particularly during spring and summer when the countryside is lush and vibrant. Missouri also helped define roadside tourism during Route 66’s golden age. Family-owned motels, diners, service stations, caves, and quirky attractions flourished here as businesses competed for travelers’ attention. Many survive today. The historic Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba remains the oldest continuously operating motel on Route 66, while Meramec Caverns continues to attract visitors just as it did during the highway’s heyday. For decades, travelers knew they were approaching the famous cave thanks to hundreds of hand-painted barn advertisements scattered across the countryside. Towns such as Cuba, Lebanon, Rolla, and Carthage embrace their Route 66 heritage with murals, museums, restored neon signs, and beautifully preserved downtown districts. Cuba’s collection of large-scale murals has earned it the nickname “Missouri’s Mural City,” while Lebanon and Waynesville celebrate the road through festivals. Of course, Route 66 has always balanced history with humor, and Missouri delivers plenty of both. Few roadside attractions embody that spirit better than Uranus, a tongue-in-cheek stop packed with fudge, souvenirs, sideshow exhibits, and enough bad puns to make even the most serious traveler laugh. What makes Missouri special is its variety. One moment you’re exploring a historic neighborhood in St. Louis. A few hours later, you’re carving through Ozark hills, touring a cave, sleeping in a stone… [TheTopNews] Read More.
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