Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque

Springfield, Missouri

MissouriRoadside Attraction

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The Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri, is one of the most architecturally striking (and one of the most historically layered) buildings on Route 66.

Built in 1923 at a cost of $600,000 (worth several million dollars today), the five-story building was constructed as the home of the Abou Ben Adhem Shriners, who had previously met at a nearby Masonic Temple now occupied by Hotel Vandivort. The name “Abou Ben Adhem” is translated from Arabic as “May His Tribe Increase!” and taken from the 1784 poem of the same name by Leigh Hunt. The building was officially dedicated on November 3, 1923.

The unique design came from Springfield architectural firm Heckenlively and Mark. They built the Shrine Mosque in a Saracen style, and the result is unlike anything else on the Mother Road. The exterior features ornate red brick walls and polychrome terracotta turrets. Inside, the Saracen design continues with rich colors and intricate detailing, much of it created on site rather than imported. Two impressive stained glass windows depicting a camel caravan, both designed by Stanley Uthwatt, adorn the auditorium walls.

At the time of its opening, the Shrine Mosque was the largest auditorium west of the Mississippi River and the second-largest stage in the country after the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City. That reputation drew some of the biggest names in entertainment and politics over the decades. Elvis Presley performed here in 1956. Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Steely Dan, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Foghat, REO Speedwagon, and Bob Dylan have all taken the stage. U.S. Presidents Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman, and Ronald Reagan have all appeared here as well. For many years the building also hosted the annual Shrine Circus.

Like a number of historic buildings along Route 66, the Shrine Mosque faced the threat of demolition at one point. It survived, underwent a major renovation in the late 1980s, and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Today, it remains an active venue. The auditorium seats up to 3,200 people, and the lower level event space holds an additional 1,300, making it a sought-after location for concerts, galas, weddings, and special events. It is also the host venue for the National Route 66 Centennial Telegraph Ball.

The lower level is also home to the Shrine Museum, tucked inside an original 1920s bank vault. The collection includes historical photographs, Shriner uniforms, playbills, newspaper articles, and other artifacts tracing the history of both the Shriners and the city of Springfield.

Last Modified:

July 3, 2026

State:

Attraction Type:

Roadside Attraction, Landmark

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Photos of the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri

Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri on Route 66

Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri on Route 66

Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri on Route 66

Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri on Route 66

Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri on Route 66

Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri on Route 66

Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri on Route 66

Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri on Route 66

Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri on Route 66

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque in Springfield, Missouri, here are some things to know before you go.

Where is the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque located on Route 66?

The Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque is located at 601 E. St. Louis St. in Springfield, Missouri. The building sits just east of downtown Springfield along the historic Route 66 alignment.

Where can you park?

Plenty of free street parking, free parking lots, and paid lots are available surrounding the landmark. Read street signs when parking, as spots may be closed for special events, restricted, or time-restricted during business hours. Many spots have a two-hour limit weekday mornings and afternoons.

Where to Stay Near the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest on your road trip with a stay at one of these Springfield, Missouri hotels near Route 66.

Hotel Vandivort

Hotel Vandivort is a high-end boutique hotel located in a former Masonic temple just off Park Central Square, making it convenient to dining, shopping, entertainment, and Route 66 attractions. The hotel decor mixes vintage and industrial elements to offer a unique backdrop to your stay. Upgrade your experience to suite with a kitchenette, balcony, or fireplace.

Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven

After a day behind the wheel, stopping at all of the Mother Road’s iconic roadside attractions, museums, restaurants, and more, a good shower and a comfy bed is always a welcome sight. Take that and add modern amenities, vintage charm, and a touch of Elvis, and you have the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven motel in Springfield, Missouri. Book a stay in the iconic Elvis Suite for a unique night!

Rockwood Motor Court

Rockwood Motor Court opened as a Tourist Camp in 1929, just three years after Route 66 was commissioned. Renovated in 2019, you’ll enjoy clean and comfortable rooms themed to eras of Route 66 with vintage décor, furniture, and memorabilia.

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Planning your Route 66 road trip? Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your go-to resource for crafting the perfect itinerary! With over 1,300 stops, including quirky roadside attractions, historic sites, and classic diners, our toolkit helps you prioritize what matters most to you. It’s the ultimate guide to making your road trip truly unique and memorable. Ready to hit the road? Start planning your adventure now! #Route66 #Route66RoadTrip #Route66TravelPlanning

Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

Are you ready to hit the Mother Road but feeling overwhelmed with planning? The Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your one-stop solution! Spanning 2,448 miles of pure Americana, Route 66 is packed with quirky attractions, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences—so why settle for a generic, outdated itinerary? Our toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,300 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your dream Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!

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