You can’t road trip on Main Street of America without stopping at at least one of the many informative and fun Route 66 museums along the way.
In all eight states of The Mother Road you will find museums devoted to Route 66 itself, with exhibits, displays, artifacts, and mementos that celebrate the road while providing historical context and insights. But the extent of what you’ll find doesn’t stop there. There are local museums devoted to the town or region they reside in. There are quirky museums that highlight everything from rattlesnakes to barbed wire. to McDonald’s. There are museums that feature vintage cars and motorcycles, like the ones that might have driven the famous road in its heyday. You can even find small collections to view at some of the many visitors centers along your way.
Looking for the best Route 66 museums to add to your road trip itinerary? Use the filters below to search our museums directory by location or keyword to fill your travel plan. Whether you’re visiting just one of the eight states on The Mother Road (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, or California) or driving the entire journey from Chicago to Los Angeles (or vice versa), there are plenty of fun places to stop awaiting you.
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Route 66 Car Museum in Springfield, Missouri
The Route 66 Car Museum in Springfield, Missouri, is a privately owned collection of more than 75 vehicles spanning the early 1900s through the 1990s. Open since 2016, the museum features a mix of classic cars, sports cars, and movie vehicles, including rare and award-winning models.
Must SeeNational Route 66 Museum in Elk City, Oklahoma
The National Route 66 Museum in Elk City, Oklahoma celebrates the Mother Road in both Oklahoma and beyond. Focused on the people who lived and work on Route 66, along with the automobiles and places that defined it, the museum campus offers an interactive tour through history.
Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford, Oklahoma
The Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford, Oklahoma, features aviation and space exhibits tied to local astronaut Thomas P. Stafford.
Heartland of America Museum in Weatherford, Oklahoma
The Heartland of America Museum in Weatherford, Oklahoma, features exhibits on local history, Route 66, and everyday life in western Oklahoma.
Must SeeBaxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station in Baxter Springs, Kansas
The Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station in Baxter Springs, Kansas has been a Route 66 attraction since 1930. It now serves as a Kansas Route 66 Visitor Center where you can learn about the past, plan your future travels, and maybe even meet a local celebrity, Dean “Crazy Legs” Walker.
Galena Mining and Historical Museum in Galena, Kansas
Galena, Kansas, a town named after the lead ore "galena" that once thrived here, is a Route 66 town with a fascinating history. Founded in the late 19th century during a surge in lead and zinc mining, Galena quickly grew as miners flocked to tap into its rich resources.
Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum in Baxter Springs, Kansas
Just a block off Route 66 in Baxter Springs, Kansas, the Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum invites travelers to dig into the rich history of the area. Housed in a two-story, 23,000-square-foot building, this museum takes visitors on a journey through time, uncovering the stories, struggles, and successes that shaped this corner of the Ozarks.
Route 66 Museum in Lebanon, Missouri
The Route 66 Museum in Lebanon, Missouri 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.
Must SeeRed Oak II, Missoura in Carthage, Missouri
Red Oak II, Missoura in Carthage, Missouri is seemingly a ghost town, but actually is so much more. It is an open-air museum, historical landmark, art project, and roadside attraction in one. Located just off of Route 66 it’s a must-see road trip stop. Red Oak II was the vision of artist Lowell Davis.
Missouri Route 66 Welcome Center Rest Area in Conway, Missouri
Travel old Route 66 without leaving Missouri…and get some snacks and a bathroom break while you’re there. The Missouri Route 66 Welcome Center Rest Area in Conway has a definitive theme alongside its amenities. When you exit your car at this Route 66-themed rest stop in Missouri you’ll first be greeted with a light-up sign.
