Must See

Route 66 Mural City

Cuba, Missouri

MissouriRoadside Attraction

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links from which we make a commission from your purchases. Please review our full Terms and Conditions for more information. Note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided may have changed since initial publication.

Save to My Trip
Please login to bookmark Close

Cuba, Missouri is known as the town “where art meets history” and you can see the spirit of that moniker on nearly every street corner. The Route 66 murals in Cuba depict historic scenes with both local and national themes. Created between 2001 and 2007, the public art in this “Route 66 Mural City” memorializes celebrity visits from Harry S. Truman, Amelia Earhart and Bette Davis; revisits the Civil War; and celebrates the golden age of travel on The Mother Road.

Last Modified:

State:

Attraction Type:

,
Greetings From Cuba. This life-sized postcard highlights unique landmarks, murals, and local industry in Cuba. Postcards were popular souvenirs along Route 66 during the peak of the Mother Road acclaim. October 2003.

Route 66 Mural City

5 based on 1 reviews

Address:

506 W Washington St, Cuba, MO 65453

Hours:

Visible 24/7

Cost:

Free

Official Website Get Directions
Save to My Trip
Please login to bookmark Close

Photos of Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri

On September 4, 1928 Amelia Earhart made a forced emergency landing in Cuba. (Ryle’s Carwash, West Washington on Route 66) (artist: Shelly Smith Steiger and Julie Balogh Brand)
On September 4, 1928 Amelia Earhart made a forced emergency landing in Cuba. (Ryle’s Carwash, West Washington on Route 66) (artist: Shelly Smith Steiger and Julie Balogh Brand)
Local banker A.J. Barnett who owned Cuba’s first Model T. (Washington and Buchanan)
Local banker A.J. Barnett who owned Cuba’s first Model T. (Washington and Buchanan)
Prosperity Corner was the place in Cuba to meet and greet, do business, or pass the time in the 1900s. Originally part of H.H. Tieman’s General Merchandise Store, today the mural showcases scenes from that time period on the side of modern day Hayes Shoe Store. (E. Washington) (artist: Kelly Poling)
Prosperity Corner was the place in Cuba to meet and greet, do business, or pass the time in the 1900s. Originally part of H.H. Tieman’s General Merchandise Store, today the mural showcases scenes from that time period on the side of modern day Hayes Shoe Store. (E. Washington) (artist: Kelly Poling)
The Gold Star Boys on the “Blue Bonnet” train that transported soldiers during WWII. (Washington and Filmore)
The Gold Star Boys on the “Blue Bonnet” train that transported soldiers during WWII. (Washington and Filmore)
This mural depicts Al West Sr. who served as mayor of Cuba from 1946-1958 and was credited with modernizing the city by paving and lighting the town’s streets, extending the water and sewer systems, and purchasing the electrical system. (E. Washington) (Artists: from the Whitesitt Group in St. Louis, MO)
This mural depicts Al West Sr. who served as mayor of Cuba from 1946-1958 and was credited with modernizing the city by paving and lighting the town’s streets, extending the water and sewer systems, and purchasing the electrical system. (E. Washington) (Artists: from the Whitesitt Group in St. Louis, MO)
The Roberts-Judson Millworks mural recreates the look of the 1948 lumber, custom woodworking, and sheet metal production business. (N. Smith Street) (artist: Shelly Smith Steiger and Julie Balogh Brand )
The Roberts-Judson Millworks mural recreates the look of the 1948 lumber, custom woodworking, and sheet metal production business. (N. Smith Street) (artist: Shelly Smith Steiger and Julie Balogh Brand )
Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri - History at the 4-Way Mural (Hwy. 19 and Rt. 66) (artist: Ray Harvey)
Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri – History at the 4-Way Mural (Hwy. 19 and Rt. 66) (artist: Ray Harvey)
A mural depicting Senator Harry Truman, and the Homecoming Fair he attended in the area, who campaigned for reelection in Cuba in 1940. (artist: Jay Ferger)
A mural depicting Senator Harry Truman, and the Homecoming Fair he attended in the area, who campaigned for reelection in Cuba in 1940. (artist: Jay Ferger)
Academy Award winning actress Bette Davis stayed at the Southern Hotel in Cuba in November, 1948. A photographer snapped their photo against their will and was chased by Davis’s husband. He got away and the photo appeared in the Cuba News and Review. (Cuba Free Press Building, E. Washington) (artist: Ray Harvey)
Academy Award winning actress Bette Davis stayed at the Southern Hotel in Cuba in November, 1948. A photographer snapped their photo against their will and was chased by Davis’s husband. He got away and the photo appeared in the Cuba News and Review. (Cuba Free Press Building, E. Washington) (artist: Ray Harvey)
The Rescue at Leasburg (artist: Don Gray. text: Julie Nixon Krovicka)
The Rescue at Leasburg (artist: Don Gray. text: Julie Nixon Krovicka)
Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri - Viva Cuba’s Civil War mural depicting the Battle of the Huzzah and Confederates in Cuba (artist: Don Gray. text: Julie Nixon Krovicka)
Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri – Viva Cuba’s Civil War mural depicting the Battle of the Huzzah and Confederates in Cuba (artist: Don Gray. text: Julie Nixon Krovicka)
Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri - Viva Cuba’s Civil War mural depicting the Battle of the Huzzah and Confederates in Cuba (artist: Don Gray. text: Julie Nixon Krovicka)
Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri – Viva Cuba’s Civil War mural depicting the Battle of the Huzzah and Confederates in Cuba (artist: Don Gray. text: Julie Nixon Krovicka)
Osage Meeting in MissouriThe Osage were early inhabitants in this region, with whom the French cultivated strong trade relations. The trails established by the Osage eventually became Route 66 & I-44.
Osage Meeting in Missouri The Osage were early inhabitants in this region, with whom the French cultivated strong trade relations. The trails established by the Osage eventually became Route 66 & I-44.
Apples and Barrels. Viva Cuba's second mural depicts on of the town's my fascinating eras, 1895-1920. During that brief period, the apple was king. By 1900, Cuba was the largest producer, processor, and distributor of apples in the state of Missouri. Closely related to this was the barrel industry; quality apples were shipped by train in barrels. The early apple orchards that surrounded Cuba are long gone, but barrel-making remains one of our most stable enterprises. The people portrayed in the mural represent Cuba families known to have been a part of the apple industry. September 2001
Apples and Barrels. Viva Cuba’s second mural depicts on of the town’s my fascinating eras, 1895-1920. During that brief period, the apple was king. By 1900, Cuba was the largest producer, processor, and distributor of apples in the state of Missouri. Closely related to this was the barrel industry; quality apples were shipped by train in barrels. The early apple orchards that surrounded Cuba are long gone, but barrel-making remains one of our most stable enterprises. The people portrayed in the mural represent Cuba families known to have been a part of the apple industry. September 2001
A Day in the CooperageIn 2018, the McGinnis family celebrates 50 years in the barrel making business. They started in Cuba, Missouri with a small stave mill. In the 1980s, they began producing quality wine and whiskey barrels. Today, they sell barrels worldwide from logs purchased within a 100-mile radius of Cuba, August 2017
A Day in the Cooperage In 2018, the McGinnis family celebrates 50 years in the barrel making business. They started in Cuba, Missouri with a small stave mill. In the 1980s, they began producing quality wine and whiskey barrels. Today, they sell barrels worldwide from logs purchased within a 100-mile radius of Cuba, August 2017
Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri - The River Mural (North Franklin and W. Spencer) ( Smith Steiger and Balogh Brand)
The River Mural (North Franklin and W. Spencer) ( Smith Steiger and Balogh Brand)
Greetings From Cuba. This life-sized postcard highlights unique landmarks, murals, and local industry in Cuba. Postcards were popular souvenirs along Route 66 during the peak of the Mother Road acclaim. October 2003.
Greetings From Cuba. This life-sized postcard highlights unique landmarks, murals, and local industry in Cuba. Postcards were popular souvenirs along Route 66 during the peak of the Mother Road acclaim. October 2003.

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri, here are some things to know before you go.

What is Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri?

Route 66 Mural City refers to Cuba’s collection of large outdoor murals spread throughout town celebrating local and national history, Route 66 lore, and community heritage. These vibrant, painted works turn the entire downtown into an open-air art gallery that attracts visitors from around the world.

Where are the murals located and how many are there?

The murals are scattered along the Historic Route 66 corridor and downtown streets throughout Cuba. There are about 14–15 murals, each telling a unique story about the town’s past, famous visitors, industries, and connection to the Mother Road.

Is there an admission fee to see the murals?

No, visiting the murals is completely free. Because they’re outdoors along public streets and buildings, you can enjoy and photograph them anytime during daylight hours at no cost.

When is the best time to see the murals?

The murals are visible year-round, but they’re easiest to enjoy during daylight hours when colors are brightest and you can walk between panels on a self-guided tour. Early morning or late afternoon light also makes for better photos.

How do I find all the murals—is there a map?

A mural map and guide are available at the Cuba Visitor Center at the corner of the North Service Road and I-44 (71 State Hwy P, Cuba, MO 65453) and online to help you plan a walk or drive through town to see each piece. Many murals also include QR codes you can scan to learn the story behind the artwork as you go.

Where can you park to see the murals in Cuba, Missouri?

The murals are scattered throughout the town. Easy street parking is available near most of them. For many, they are easily walkable from a single parking space or your nearby motel. Or you can drive between them. While in town, explore all of Route 66 in Cuba Missouri.

Is this a popular Route 66 attraction?

Yes! Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri, is a popular stop for Route 66 road trippers. It is one of our picks for the 66 Route 66 Attractions Worth Pulling Over For and 66 Most Instagrammable Spots on Route 66.

Where to Stay Near Route 66 Mural City

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

Wagon Wheel Motel

The Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Missouri is the oldest continually operated motel on Route 66. This iconic motel has offered lodging to travelers since 1938 and is now fully restored.

The Manor House Inn

The Manor House Inn (formerly The Lenz HoMoTel and The Lenz Manor) was built in 1903. In 1932, it opened as a motel and continues serving travelers until 1975. In 2028 it was acquired by new owners who restored and updated the property, allowing them to open their doors to travelers once again.

The Wildwood Hotel

The Wildwood Hotel is a quiet boutique hotel located near St. Louis in Wildwood Town Center. With a charming French chateau-style architecture and warm European country lodge ambiance, the property offer free daily continental breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and a heated indoor pool with hot tub.

St. Louis Union Station Hotel

An icon since 1894, the St. Louis Union Station is a vintage gem wrapped in elegant archways and décor. Admire the famous Grand Hall, experience all the on-site attractions, enjoy 3D light shows and a 100-foot waterfall, and access the fitness center and seasonal outdoor pool. All just a mile from downtown St. Louis and a short drive to Route 66 attractions.

Enhance your visit to the St. Louis area with a tour! Whether you love family-friendly adventures, landmarks, or nature there are plenty of options for everyone.

Attractions Near Route 66 Mural City

Plan Your Missouri Route 66 Road Trip

Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

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
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!

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!

Reviews & Ratings

5 based on 1 reviews

1 Review of Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri

  1. So many great murals to see in town! Grab a map from the visitor’s center or your motel and walk around town to see all the great art and read more about the history of the town.

    Reply

Leave a Review of Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, Missouri

Rate and Leave a Review

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.