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Route 66
Get your kicks on route six-six! While today much of this historic “Mother-Road” of America exists only in our memories, there are still many remnants preserved and not-so along the stretch from St. Louis to Springfield and Joplin, Missouri. The drive along I-44 parallels the old route and offers not only beautiful scenery of the rugged Ozarks, but also glimpses of travel in a bygone era. Route 66 State Park just west of St. Louis is a must-see for Americana buffs, or check-out the National Museum of Transport, also in St. Louis County. There are wonderful new Route 66 exhibits at Missouri visitors centers near Lebanon, Missouri as well. A detour to the excellent US Army Museum at Fort Leonard Wood in Waynesville is recommended, and fans of Precious Moments figurines won’t want to miss the world’s largest collection at the Inspirational Park in Carthage.
Perhaps your best-bet is to simply explore the road with multiple stops along the way. Each town has something to find, whether a kitschy tourist attraction or souvenir shop, roadside diner or mom ‘n pop service station. Nostalgia is everywhere, though sometimes hidden in the garland of 1930’s era art deco motels stretching along the old route, many abandoned, some re-purposed and a few with the vacancy light still lit.
Helpful Links:
The Mother Road
Route 66 State Park
Missouri Division of Tourism
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