If you’re planning a Route 66 road trip through Missouri, one of the best stretches to explore is the journey from Cuba to Springfield. This section of the Mother Road offers the perfect blend of history, quirky attractions, and small-town charm that makes Route 66 so legendary. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or hitting Route 66 for the first time, this itinerary will guide you through some of the best stops between these two classic cities, each with its own unique character.
Your adventure starts in Cuba, Missouri, known for its vibrant murals and rich Route 66 history. After spending the night at the Wagon Wheel Motel, you’ll hit the road refreshed and ready to explore. As you drive west, make your first stop in Fanning to see the world’s largest rocking chair, a larger-than-life photo op that you won’t want to miss. Continue on to Rolla, where the University of Missouri’s Stonehenge replica makes for a fun and unexpected roadside stop.
Next up, enjoy a scenic drive over the historic Devil’s Elbow Bridge, an iconic Route 66 landmark that takes you back to the early days of the Mother Road. Just down the highway, prepare for some laughs at Uranus Fudge Factory, a quirky stop where the humor is as sweet as the fudge. This one-of-a-kind attraction is a must for anyone with a sense of adventure (and a sweet tooth). You’ll also find an iconic neon sign at the Munger Moss Motel, a quirky rock turned into a frog, plenty of open spaces to stretch your legs, and more. If you’re hungry along the way, stop for some mouthwatering barbecue, crispy catfish, or even a loaded potato.
From Cuba to Springfield, this stretch of Route 66 offers plenty of memorable stops that showcase Missouri’s love for the Mother Road. With its mix of history, oddities, and natural beauty, it’s a road trip you won’t soon forget. Ready to hit the road? Let’s dive into the full itinerary.
Route 66: Cuba to Springfield, Missouri Road Trip Itinerary
Route 66 in Cuba, Missouri
As you pull into Cuba, Missouri you’re greeted by the charm of the “Mural City.” It’s the perfect spot to slow down, soak in some local history, and spend the night at the historic Wagon Wheel Motel, a Route 66 staple since 1936. After checking in, take a stroll through town to admire the colorful murals that celebrate both the town’s past and its ties to the Mother Road. Grab dinner at Missouri Hick Bar-B-Q before settling in for the night, ready to drive toward Springfield!
Route 66 Rocker
In 2008, the “World’s Largest Rocking Chair” was unveiled on historic Route 66 outside the Fanning Outpost General Store in Cuba, Missouri. Though it no longer holds the official title, it remains the biggest rocking chair along Route 66, now known as the Route 66 Rocker!
Designed by John R. Bland and crafted by Joe Medwick, this colossal chair stands an impressive 42 feet tall and 20 feet wide, weighing in at a whopping 27,500 pounds. It was once the largest rocking chair in the entire United States.
Mule Trading Post Hillbilly Sign
The whirlygig hillbilly sign in Rolla was originally located at the Sterling Hillbilly Store in Hooker, Missouri. After that store closed in 2000 Carl and Zelma Smith restored it and installed it at the Mule Trading Post. While the store and museum is currently closed, the sign still stands, beckoning travelers from the road.
Stonehenge Replica
Discover the Stonehenge replica in Rolla, Missouri, on the Missouri University of Science and Technology campus (formerly the University of Missouri-Rolla). Known as UMR Stonehenge, this half-size partial replica of England’s ancient monument is conveniently located right on Route 66.
Mark Twain National Forest
For nature lovers, the Mark Twain National Forest is a true gem along Route 66. Spanning over 1.5 million acres of the Ozarks, it offers everything from floatable streams and sparkling lakes to caves and wilderness areas. Whether you’re up for hiking, biking, horseback riding, or just soaking in the natural beauty, this forest has something for everyone.
Tater Patch
Since 1965, this cozy roadside stop has been dishing up hearty comfort food to hungry travelers. The Tater Patch is famous for its loaded baked potatoes that hit the spot after a day on the road. Stop by for a meal that’ll fuel your journey, and stick around for some lively nightly entertainment that’ll make you feel right at home.
Historic Phelps County Courthouse
In Rolla, the Phelps County Courthouse stands as a piece of living history. Built in the 1860s, this Greek Revival brick building served as a Union hospital during the Civil War before becoming the courthouse until 1994.
A Slice of Pie
Craving something sweet or savory? Pull over for A Slice of Pie, right on Route 66. This cozy spot dishes up quiches, salads, pot pies, soups, and—of course—some of the best pies you’ll find on the road. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty or just a sweet treat, it’s the perfect pit stop for hungry travelers.
John’s Modern Cabins
John’s Modern Cabins, once a stop for weary travelers along Route 66 in Missouri, now stands as a haunting reminder of the highway’s golden days. Built in the 1930s, these rustic log cabins provided basic accommodations for those making the long journey west. Over the decades, as Route 66 was bypassed, the cabins fell into disrepair. Today, visitors will find only remnants of the original structures, giving the site a ghost town-like feel. While the cabins are no longer in use, they offer a nostalgic look back. New owners hope to bring new life into the property.
Larry Baggett’s Trail of Tears Memorial
Larry Baggett’s folk-art rock creations were set up as a monument to the Cherokee Trail of Tears, which crossed his land. The concrete and stone sculptures honored the Cherokee Nation who suffered in the area and were forced to relocate from the southeastern United States to Indian Territory in Oklahoma. After Baggett died in 2003 the property closed, but it is now being restored and open with limited hours. You can still pull over to see his self-portrait rock sculpture in front of the gate and, if you’re lucky get a tour when they’re open.
Hooker Cut
Hooker Cut is one of the most unique sections of the drive on Route 66. One of the earliest examples of a four-lane divided highway, this part of the road was carved through the rugged Ozark hills in the 1940s, and was considered a major engineering feat at the time, making travel safer and faster for the increasing number of drivers on the Mother Road. Today, visitors driving along this stretch can still marvel at the towering rock walls that were cut away to make room for the highway. Though traffic has quieted since Route 66 was decommissioned, the scenery and history make Hooker Cut a must-see for any road-tripper exploring Missouri’s Ozarks.
Devil’s Elbow Bridge
The iconic Devil’s Elbow Bridge isn’t just any bridge—it’s a piece of Route 66 history. Built in 1923, this steel truss bridge stretches 588 feet over the Big Piney River. It’s a Route 66 original and has earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. As one of the few remaining bridges from the road’s early days, it’s a must-visit for both history buffs and road trippers chasing classic Americana.
Sweetwater Bar-B-Que
Sweetwater Bar-B-Que is a casual barbecue restaurant offering delicious food in country-style surroundings. Grab a sandwich or combo plate with beef, pork, turkey, ham, sausage, spicy sausage, chicken, ribs, fish, wings, or cajun shrimp. Try it with a side of country coleslaw, juicy corn, hillbilly beans, Missouri potato salad, or green beans.
Uranus, Missouri – Uranus Fudge Factory And General Store
If you’re seeking a unique roadside attraction on Route 66, you’ve got to pick Uranus—Uranus, Missouri, that is. This quirky spot is brimming with fun stops, from the Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store, where you can grab some delicious fudge or quirky souvenirs, to Putt Pirates for a round of mini golf to the wonderful and weird Uranus Sideshow Museum. Explore the array of oddities and weird roadside attractions that make Uranus a must-visit destination.
Uranus is packed with oversized oddities: keep an eye out for a giant belt buckle, a big neon sign, a rocket ship, a light-up Route 66 mural, the Mega Mayor Muffler Man, and much more.
Route 66 Neon Park
Route 66 Neon Park in St. Robert, Missouri, is a unique roadside attraction that showcases restored vintage neon signs from businesses that once lined the Mother Road. Located in George M. Reed Roadside Park, it features glowing signs from motels, diners, and shops that bring Route 66 history to life. It’s a great stop for photos, a dose of nostalgia, and a glimpse into Missouri’s neon-lit past.
Pulaski County Visitors Center
Visit the Pulaski County Visitors Center where knowledgeable staff can assist you in planning your trip in the area and throughout Missouri. You can also explore informative displays and a gift shop.
Frog Rock
On a hill overlooking Route 66 in Waynesville, you’ll find the unusual and beloved roadside attraction known as Frog Rock. In the 1990s, when the Missouri Department of Transportation widened Route 66 to three lanes, local tattoo artist Phil Nelson transformed a big rock into a frog by sculpting and painting it. Today, it remains a cherished sight for anyone passing by.
1903 Courthouse Museum
Since 1969 the Pulaski County Museum & Historical Society has been dedicated to preserving the history and memory of Pulaski County, the state’s pioneer families and the local legacies of Trail of Tears, the Civil War, the Frisco Railroad, Route 66, and Fort Leonard Wood. The 1903 Courthouse Museum is open limited hours for tours, during which you can stop for a guided tour of the rich history of Pulaski County.
Big Route 66 Shield
The Big Route 66 Shield in Waynesville, Missouri is a massive 8-by-8-foot sign that weighs over 1,000 pounds and proudly pays tribute to the legacy of the Mother Road. It’s the perfect backrop for Route 66 selfies!
Old Stagecoach Stop
The Old Stagecoach Stop (also previously known as the Tourist Hotel, Black Hotel, Johnson House, and the Waynesville House), is a historic hotel built in the 1850s. Now the property serves as a 10-room museum where each area is restored to reflect a different usage or era from its history.
Waynesville Route 66 Mural
Find this fun Route 66 mural by artist Ray Harvey on the side of the Waynesville Dollar General. The large-scale art prominently displays the name of the town with a Route 66 shield standing in place of the V. Each of the letters displays a different local scene.
Giant Bowling Pin
As you’re driving west, look out for another quirky roadside attraction: a giant bowling pin outside of a bowling alley!
Gasconade River Bridge
The Gasconade River Bridge, located near Hazelgreen was built in 1923. This steel truss bridge once carried travelers across the scenic Gasconade River as they journeyed through the Ozarks. Though no longer open to vehicles, the bridge stands as a reminder of the engineering marvels that helped make Route 66 the “Main Street of America.”
Boswell Park
Boswell Park is a recreational area in Lebanon that features tennis courts, an aquatic center, a playground, and ball fields. You’ll also find three large Route 66 murals!
Dowd’s Catfish and BBQ
Dowd’s Catfish and BBQ in Lebanon is a casual Bayou-themed restaurant on Route 66.
Dowd’s is best known for their delicious southern fried catfish, available in both standard and spicy varieties. But the full menu also offers barbecue dishes, burgers, steaks, seafood, salads, and chicken along with sides such as fries, cheesy corn, fried okra, coleslaw, and barbecue beans.
Route 66 Museum
Located inside the Lebanon-Laclede County Library, the Route 66 Museum in Lebanon is dedicated to celebrating The Mother Road, with a special spotlight on the local area.
Step back in time as you wander through displays and life-sized dioramas, like a 1950s gas station, complete with vintage pumps and a classic car from the era. There’s even a recreated tourist cabin and a diner that feels like it’s straight out of yesteryear.
Munger Moss Motel
The Munger Moss Motel in Lebanon, Missouri was built in 1946. The site originally operated as a filling station and restaurant (Munger-Moss Sandwich Shop) and the motel was added on after the business relocated. While the site is not currently operating as a motel, visitors can still stop by to admire the neon sign.
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.
Redmon’s Candy Factory & World’s Largest Gift Store
Make sure to pull over at Redmon’s Candy Factory in Phillipsburg, Missouri, for a sweet break on your Route 66 adventure! Whether you’re craving homemade fudge, candy by the pound, popcorn, or a fun soda to keep you refreshed, this place has it all. Swing across the parking lot to pick up a souvenir at the World’s Largest Gift Store.
Missouri Route 66 Welcome Center Rest Area
The Missouri Route 66 Welcome Center Rest Area in Conway has a definitive theme alongside its amenities. Stretch your legs by taking a wander down a path and checking out the enclosed picnic areas that come with facades reminiscent of classic Route 66 businesses.
Inside, along with bathrooms and vending machines, there’s an information center with maps and travel brochures to help you plan your road trip.
Hubble Telescope Replica Statue
The Hubble Space Telescope is one of NASA’s largest and most significant space telescopes, operating since 1990 and maintained in space by astronauts. While the Hubble Telescope Replica Statue in Marshfield, Missouri, is just a quarter of the size of the real telescope, it offers a much more accessible attraction for the public.
Edwin Powell Hubble (1889-1953), a renowned American astronomer and Marshfield’s most famous former resident, is honored with this replica.
Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri
You’ve arrived at your destination—Springfield, Missouri! More than just a stop on the Mother Road, Springfield is where Route 66 was officially born back in 1926. As the birthplace of this iconic highway, the city holds a special place in Route 66 history, and it’s still a must-visit for any road tripper looking to soak in that classic charm.
From original Route 66 landmarks to quirky roadside attractions, parks, diners, and motels, Springfield is packed with spots to add to your itinerary. Keep your eyes peeled, because there’s plenty to explore on and off the old route!
As your journey from Cuba to Springfield winds down, you’ve soaked up some of the best that Route 66 has to offer. Starting in Cuba with its iconic murals and the nostalgic Wagon Wheel Motel, you’ve experienced a slice of small-town Americana that sets the perfect tone for your road trip. Springfield, the birthplace of Route 66, greets you with its rich history and vibrant downtown, making it a fitting end to this leg of your adventure. But don’t pack up your road trip spirit just yet—there’s still more to explore!
Up next, the road leads west to Joplin, where Missouri’s charm meets the excitement of crossing into Kansas. There, you’ll encounter a short but sweet stretch of Route 66, filled with its own unique attractions. From Kansas, Oklahoma awaits with even more classic stops, quirky roadside attractions, and history that will continue to bring the Mother Road to life. So, as you gear up for the next part of your journey, keep your eyes on the road—there’s plenty more to see!
