Honoring Route 66: The Birthplace of the Mother Road

In 2026, Route 66 will celebrate its centennial, marking 100 years since the historic highway’s designation. This milestone is the perfect chance to explore one of America’s most iconic roads, with Missouri offering an unforgettable stretch of the Mother Road.

Missouri’s Stretch of Route 66

Missouri’s 482 kilometers of Route 66 is a captivating blend of nostalgic roadside attractions, charming small towns, and rich history. At the heart of this experience is Springfield, Missouri—the “Birthplace of Route 66.” The city, where the highway’s name was coined, serves as the ideal hub for any Route 66 adventure.

The Birth of Route 66: A Historic Telegram

In 1926, a telegram from Springfield’s Colonial Hotel officially proposed naming the highway “66” due to its catchy nature, replacing the suggested “62.” This pivotal moment solidified Springfield’s role as the starting point of what would become the “Main Street of America.”

Explore Springfield’s Route 66 Heritage

Springfield offers a living museum experience for Route 66 enthusiasts. Key highlights include:

• History Museum on the Square: Discover artifacts, neon signs, maps, and photos in an exhibit tracing the road’s cultural and historical impact.

• Route 66 Car Museum: Home to one of the world’s largest private classic car collections, showcasing vintage vehicles from the 1920s to the 1960s.

Stay at a Route 66 Icon: Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven

Opened in 1938, this historic motor court is a time capsule of Route 66’s heyday. Once a favorite of Elvis Presley, the motel features retro accommodations, including the Elvis Suite with themed decor, a jacuzzi, and a pink Cadillac couch.

Dining Along Route 66

No road trip is complete without classic diners:

• Red’s Giant Hamburg: The birthplace of the drive-thru, offering nostalgic vibes and a replica of the original roadside stand.

• College Street Cafe: Known for homemade pies and hearty breakfasts, capturing mid-century Americana.

• Casper’s Diner: Famous for its original recipe chili and steak burgers, serving travelers since 1909.

Explore More Along Missouri’s Route 66

Missouri’s Route 66 offers endless attractions:

• Natural Landmarks: Chain of Rocks Bridge, Meramec Caverns, and Route 66 State Park.

• Roadside Gems: 66 Drive-In Theatre in Carthage, Gary’s Gay Parita gas station in Ash Grove, and the 42-foot Route 66 Rocker in Cuba.

• Museums: Route 66 Museum in Lebanon and the National Museum of Transportation in St. Louis.

Centennial Celebrations in 2026

Missouri communities are planning exciting events:

• Birthplace of Route 66 Festival (Springfield): Held in August, featuring car shows, live music, parades, and historic displays.

• World Street Painting Festival (Joplin): Vibrant 3D street murals honoring Route 66, June through 2027.

• Route 66 100th Anniversary Festival (St. Louis): April 30 to May 5 in Forest Park, with concerts, car displays, a bike ride, and family activities.

Plan Your Route 66 Adventure

Missouri’s Route 66 offers an authentic experience full of history, nostalgia, and charm. As the centennial approaches, explore itineraries along one of America’s most celebrated roads and make memories to last a lifetime.