There are a lot of places along the Mother Road that claim a piece of Route 66 history. But in Springfield, Missouri, you’re not just passing through the story, you’re stepping right into where it officially began.
Back in 1926, before the road had its now-iconic number, it was just an idea: a cross-country highway meant to connect Chicago to Los Angeles. But right here in Springfield, inside the long-gone Colonial Hotel, that idea found its identity. Local businessman John T. Woodruff and highway advocate Cyrus Avery knew the road needed a name that would stick. And during a meeting that would go down in road trip history, they made their case loud and clear: “We prefer Sixty-Six to Sixty-Two!” Not long after, on April 30, 1926, a telegram was sent out from Springfield, officially designating the route as U.S. Route 66.
And just like that, Route 66 was born.
Today, Springfield proudly carries the title of the “Birthplace of Route 66,” and it doesn’t take much exploring to see why. This is a city where history isn’t tucked away behind glass, it’s out in the open, woven into downtown streets, roadside parks, murals, and even a few unexpected places that might just make you do a double take. From the very spot where that famous telegram was sent to modern tributes that celebrate the road’s legacy, Springfield offers a unique chance to experience Route 66 at its roots.
Springfield offers both a history lesson and a full-on Route 66 experience at every turn of the road. You’ll find classic roadside nostalgia, larger-than-life photo ops, quirky public art, and plenty of places to eat, explore, and stretch your legs after a long drive. Whether you’re here to stand where it all started, snap a photo with a bold Route 66 shield, or track down a giant fork, Springfield blends past and present in a way that feels both meaningful and unmistakably fun.
So if you’re mapping out your Route 66 road trip, don’t just breeze through Springfield. Pull over, take your time, and soak it in. Because this isn’t just another stop along the way. This is where the journey got its name.
Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri, The Birthplace of Route 66
- Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri, The Birthplace of Route 66
- The Birthplace of Route 66
- Birthplace of Route 66 Attractions in Springfield, Missouri
- Route 66 Attractions in Springfield, Missouri
- Springfield, Missouri Route 66 Museums
- Where to Eat in Springfield, Missouri
- Route 66 Hotels in Springfield, Missouri
- Map of Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri
The Birthplace of Route 66
It all started back in 1926, when a Springfield businessman named John T. Woodruff and Oklahoma Highway Chairman Cyrus Avery were lobbying for the new highway connecting the East and West coasts. While the initial proposal called for Route 60, then Route 62, Woodruff and Avery knew they needed something catchier. So, during a meeting at the historic Colonial Hotel (sadly demolished in 1997), they declared, “We prefer Sixty-Six to Sixty-Two!” The name had a rhythm to it—easy to say, easy to remember—and it didn’t take long for the room to agree.
On April 30, 1926, a telegram was sent from Springfield that would change road trip history, officially christening the Chicago-to-Los Angeles highway as “U.S. Route 66.” What began as a practical route across the country quickly grew into something much bigger—a symbol of freedom, mobility, and the open road.
Due to that historic moment, Springfield, Missouri proudly holds the title of the “Birthplace of Route 66.” And while the Colonial Hotel may be gone, the story still lives on across the city. You can stand near the very spot where the name was chosen, walk through downtown streets that once buzzed with early Route 66 travelers, and explore landmarks that honor the road’s beginnings.
Birthplace of Route 66 Attractions in Springfield, Missouri
Springfield, Missouri, is where the Mother Road got its name, and the city has made sure to mark that moment with a collection of attractions that celebrate its birthplace status in fun, creative, and meaningful ways.
From monuments and murals to parks and landmark spaces, these stops all tie back to that pivotal day in 1926 when Route 66 became Route 66. If you’re looking to connect with the roots of the Mother Road, this is where to start. These are the places that don’t just honor Route 66, they honor the moment it officially began.
Birthplace of Route 66 Monument
To mark your time in the city where it all began, pull over for a photo at the Birthplace of Route 66 Monument in Jubilee Park, just off Park Central Square. The monument, which was installed during the 2025 Birthplace of Route 66 Festival, features a large black-and-white Route 66 shield with cutouts in the two sixes, designed so you can climb in and around for a proper commemorative shot. While the design is similar to other selfie spots across the Mother Road, this one sets itself apart with a bold red banner that stretches across the top, reading “BIRTHPLACE OF ROUTE 66.”
Birthplace Plaza
Birthplace Plaza is soon to be the newest landmark in the city that started it all, a permanent civic space honoring Springfield’s role as the official Birthplace of Route 66. The plaza will sit at the original site of the Colonial Hotel. It was there, on April 30, 1926, during a Rotary convention, that a telegram was sent officially naming America’s most iconic highway “Route 66.” The completed plaza will include a six-story mural, The Ghost of the Colonial Hotel sculpture, a 10-by-14-foot mosaic map of Route 66, and an interpretive kiosk.
Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park
The Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park in Springfield, Missouri pays respects to the city’s roots with a small pullover park packed with nostalgia.
The star attraction of this Route 66 park is a replica of the “Giant Hamburg” sign that was once a Route 66 attraction in itself. The original stood outside of a Route 66 restaurant that opened in the 1940s and is believed to be the world’s first drive through. Red’s Giant Hamburg closed in 1984 and the location was torn down, but this replica pays homage to that once famous Route 66 institution.
Route 66 Attractions in Springfield, Missouri
All across the “Birthplace of Route 66,” you’ll find classic roadside attractions, historic landmarks, public art, and quirky stops that make it well worth easing off the gas and pulling over for a closer look. But Springfield isn’t only about Route 66 history. It’s also a lively, modern city with plenty of places that go beyond the road.
Below, you’ll find a mix of Route 66 must-sees, attractions located right along the route, and a few worthwhile side trips that prove Springfield is a destination in its own right.
College Street Great Mosaic Wall
Across the street from the Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park is another Springfield, Missouri Route 66 attraction: the College Street Great Mosaic Wall. These Route 66 mosaics were created by Springfield artist Christine Schilling with the help of local children. The project was dedicated in September 2001 with dozens of mosaic images reflecting on the Mother Road.
Hubcaps on Route 66 Sculpture
The Hubcaps on Route 66 Sculpture pays homage to the memories of The Mother Road and all the hubcapped cars that have made the journey across it. This roadside attraction displays a giant 66 covered in shiny hubcaps. It’s part of Sculpture Walk Springfield which places public art all around the city.
Route 66 Visitor Center
The Route 66 Visitor Center in downtown Springfield has information on the city, Route 66, and the surrounding areas along with maps, guides, and driving directions. Stop by for travel information and inspiration or to grab a souvenir.
Gillioz Theatre
The historic 1926 Gillioz Theatre was built by bridge-builder M. E. Gillioz of Monett, Missouri. It features ornate paintings and detailed architectural elements throughout. Originally the venue served as a hybrid theatre, hosting both vaudeville and film presentations. Today it hosts a variety of film presentations, live theatre, music concerts, comedy, opera, and more.
Crystal Cave
Originally opened in 1893, Crystal Cave is the second oldest show cave in Missouri. Take a guided tour through this spectacular cave to witness stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, waterfalls, and rare helictites formations.
Fantastic Caverns
Fantastic Caverns offers a unique experience with its tram tours through the caverns’ expansive chambers. The only ride-through cave tour in the United States, visitors can comfortably explore this underground realm, marveling at intricate formations and learning about the cave’s rich history. Discover giant floor-to-ceiling columns, glistening minerals, tiny cave pearls, and more.
Historic Rock Fountain Tourist Court Motel
Rock Fountain Tourist Court Motel is a historic Route 66 accommodation that dates back to 1945. Built by Mac MacCandless, the property was constructed in the cottage style with nine rock cabins surrounding a rock fountain. The historic motel is now a private apartment complex, Melinda Court, and not open to the public. But you can admire it as you drive by.
Park Central Square
Park Central Square is a central square designed by renowned landscape architect Lawrence Halprin and his associates in the early 1970s. Find seating areas and an impressive limestone fountain.
Jordan Valley Park
Jordan Valley Park is a 12-acre green oasis in the middle of an urban area. The park features jumping fountains, a shaded picnic area, a walking trail, an outdoor amphitheater, unique children’s play features, and several unique sculptures.
Greetings from Springfield Mural
This fun Greetings from Springfield Mural is painted to resemble a vintage postcard and features many local sites, including a Route 66 shield and the road. But this isn’t the only mural in Springfield, Missouri. If you want to find more, check out this great guide or this one!
The Gray/Campbell Farmstead
The Gray/Campbell Farmstead is one of the oldest remaining houses in Springfield, Missouri. The house was built in 1856 and here you can find a log kitchen, a two-crib barn, a log granary, and a one-room schoolhouse. The farmstead is a not-for-profit historic site, dedicated to teaching younger generations about life in the 1860s.
World’s Second Largest Fork
Located in the parking lot of an office complex in Springfield, Missouri is the World’s Second Largest Fork. This 35-foot tall, 11-ton utensil was once the biggest fork in the world. It might have lost the title, but it will still be one of the biggest forks you’ll ever see.
Getaway Golf
For a fun excursion, head to Getaway Golf. This travel-themed entertainment venue lets you experience the world outside of Route 66, showcasing top destinations from the United States and beyond, like the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon.
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
While not a specific Route 66 attraction, this shop is one of the most visited in all of Missouri. The flagship store for the Bass Pro chain, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World has almost 500,000 square feet dedicated to the beauty of the outdoors. Find waterfalls, aquariums, an indoor firing range, and Tracker Boat showroom alongside a large selection of outdoor, camping, hunting, fishing, and boating gear.
Buc-ee’s
Buc-ee’s is a popular travel center chain that lures travelers in with an impressive fleet of fueling stations, a massive convenience store, and some of the cleanest bathrooms you’ll find on the road. The first Buc-ee’s on Route 66 opened in Springfield, Missouri in 2023.
Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque
The Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque is one of the most architecturally striking (and one of the most historically layered) buildings on Route 66. Built in 1923, the five-story building was constructed as the home of the Abou Ben Adhem Shriners and, at the time of its opening, was the largest auditorium west of the Mississippi River.
Route 66 Bigfoot Mural
The Route 66 Bigfoot Mural depicts Bigfoot striding toward a tall black and white Route 66 sign against a bright blue sky. It’s one of many fun murals you can find across Springfield.
Bud’s Tire & Wheel
Bud’s Tire & Wheel in Springfield, Missouri, is a working racing tire and wheel shop, but it’s also one of the most welcoming and character-filled stops on Route 66. Stop by to take photos with their fun themed murals!
Route 66 Ampersand Sculpture
Standing in front of a gas station on Route 66, you’ll find an eight-foot-tall ampersand sculpture that’s a quirky homage to the local community.
Woodruff Building
The Woodruff Building at the corner of Park Central East and Jefferson Avenue is one of the most historically significant addresses in Springfield. On April 30, 1926, the number 66 was first proposed for the new highway connecting Chicago to Los Angeles, right here, in John T. Woodruff upstairs office.
Springfield, Missouri Route 66 Museums
If you want to dig a little deeper into the story of the Mother Road, Springfield’s museums are a great place to start. From Route 66 history and classic cars to local heritage and broader Ozarks stories, these stops add context to everything you’ve been seeing along the road.
History Museum on the Square
History Museum on the Square is located right on historic Route 66 in Springfield. The museum has a range of permanent and temporary exhibits that tell the significant events in Springfield through objects, individuals, and histories. Particularly of interest to those traveling on The Mother Road is a 66-foot-long timeline and map that guides you through a vintage trip along Route 66.
Route 66 Car Museum
This Route 66 Car Museum features a collection of more than 75 vintage sports cars, 1907 to 1980 classic automobiles, and movie and celebrity cars. This privately-owned collection is housed in a garage-style space with a gift shop.
Railroad Historical Museum
The Railroad Historical Museum is dedicated to the preservation of the history of railroading. Walk through antique train cars, including a 1943-era Frisco Locomotive No. 4524, a Burlington Baggage Car, a Chicago and Northwestern Bilevel Commuter Car, and a Burlington Northern Caboose and find artifacts, equipment, and hands-on activities for children and adults.
Air and Military Museum of the Ozarks
This hands-on patriotic museum features restored vintage military equipment, including aircrafts, jeeps, and uniforms. The museum is dedicated to educating and preserving the country’s military history.
Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
The Johnny Morris Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is a not-for-profit educational conservation-themed attraction in Springfield, Missouri. Spanning 350,000 square feet with over 1.5 miles of trails, Wonders of Wildlife takes you on an educational journey.
Where to Eat in Springfield, Missouri
Long days behind the wheel tend to work up an appetite, and Springfield delivers when it’s time to pull over and refuel. As the Birthplace of Route 66, the city serves up a mix of classic diners, historic roadside stops, and modern restaurants that keep the spirit of the Mother Road alive—one plate at a time.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast before hitting the road, a quick lunch between attractions, or a sit-down dinner to cap off the day, there are plenty of spots worth the stop. From longtime Route 66 favorites to newer additions just off the route, these are the places that make Springfield just as satisfying for your taste buds as it is for your itinerary.
College Street Cafe
College Street Cafe is one of the original Springfield cafes on Route 66. Originally opened in the 1950s it has gone through several owners over the years, but the restaurant has always served up classic down-home diner fare to hungry travelers.
Route 66 Steak ‘n Shake
The Route 66 Steak ‘n Shake, also known as the St. Louis Street Steak In Shake, is a historic location of the chain that was listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 2012. The restaurant was built on Route 66 in 1963. Stop for a meal and a milkshake and check out the vintage original signs!
Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes
A relatively newer option for dining in Springfield, Missouri is Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes. Since 2015 this restaurant has served inventive burgers and fries paired boozy and non-boozy shakes.
Druff’s
For one of the best grilled cheese sandwiches on Route 66, in one of the most historically significant locations on Route 66, head to Druff’s. This grilled cheese-focused diner is located right in the Woodruff Building, where Route 66 was named.
Civil Kitchen
Civil Kitchen brings a fresh approach to comfort food right on Route 66. The menu draws on Southern and Midwestern influences, putting a modern spin on familiar favorites, like seafood beignets, a signature chicken and waffles, banh mi tacos, and a buffalo cauliflower wrap, all made from scratch with fresh ingredients.
The European
The European in Springfield, Missouri, is a scratch-made kitchen on Park Central Square serving breakfast, lunch, pastries, gourmet desserts, and Lavazza espresso drinks in a historic location.
Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe
Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe is a dining spot where the building is just as interesting as the food. The restaurant occupies two historic Springfield addresses that once housed Gailey’s Pharmacy and The Seville Hotel. And the menu matches the eclectic atmosphere.
The Golden Girl Rum Club
After a full day of exploring the Birthplace of Route 66 in Springfield, cap off the night with a tropical cocktail at The Golden Girl Rum Club. This modern bar with a retro twist fits right into the old-meets-new spirit of the modern-day Mother Road.
Mother’s Brewing Company
Mother’s Brewing Company is Springfield, Missouri’s largest craft brewery. Fittingly located right off the Mother Road, this brewery promises craft beers made with a mother’s love.
New House Chinese Food
Springfield, Missouri is famous for being the Birthplace of Route 66. But it is also the birthplace of Springfield-Style Cashew Chicken, a dish that put this Ozarks city on the American Chinese food map. Try it for yourself at New House Chinese Food.
Trailer Perk Coffee
Trailer Perk Coffee is a retro-styled drive-through coffee shop sitting right on Route 66. But the spot has more history than its relatively recent opening suggests. The lot was the original home of Red’s Giant Hamburg, widely credited as the first drive-through restaurant ever.
Route 66 Hotels in Springfield, Missouri
Spending the night in Springfield, Missouri? You’ll find no shortage of places to stay—but if you want the full Route 66 experience, this is the place to lean into it.
As the Birthplace of Route 66, Springfield is home to a collection of classic motels and thoughtfully restored roadside stays that bring a bit of that mid-century motor court magic into the present day. Think neon signs, vintage details, and easy pull-up parking that feels tailor-made for road trippers.
Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic stay right along the route or a comfortable home base close to the action, these Route 66 hotels offer more than just a place to sleep, they’re part of the journey itself.
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.
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.
Rest Haven Court
Rest Haven Court is a classic motor hotel in Springfield, Missouri. Look for the bright neon sign with the big neon arrow. It was erected in 1953!
Want more Springfield Route 66 hotels? Explore more here and peruse reviews.
Map of Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri
Use the map below to explore all the best things to do in Springfield, Missouri. Or, download our full Missouri Route 66 map to your phone!
