Missouri
Step on Guides in Missouri
- David J. Eslick, Missouri Route 66 Tour Planner and Guide. A Springfield, Missouri native, having grown up a stone's throw away from Route 66 and a Springfield Historian, David is a wealth of information and stories of Route 66. He offers assistance in planning and a step-on guide service from Springfield, MO to Tulsa, OK. David is a Route 66 Association of Missouri Board Member and his relationships with Route 66 business owners and tourism officials enhances his opportunities for real and personal stories and experiences.Contact:
David Eslick
- Visit Joplin: The Visit Joplin office provides complimentary step-on tours with their staff. If the tours are during business hours (Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm) they only ask for a donation to the Joplin Historical Society (most tours give $3 - $5 per passenger). After hours and weekends, there is a charge per passenger if the group stays at a Joplin hotel it is less than groups not staying at a Joplin hotel. The step-on guide can join the motorcoach in a Carthage location and ride as far as Miami, OK. Beyond those limits, an additional charge will be made for the guide’s return transportation. Popular tour stops, while not directly on Route 66, include the Bonnie and Clyde Hideout Apartment, Grand Falls (Missouri’s largest continuously running waterfall) and the memorials at Cunningham Park, ground zero of the 2011 tornado that destroyed a third of Joplin.Contact:
Kerstin Landwer, Director of Sales
- Jax Welborn - Pics By Jax. Provides step-on guided tours along the historic route between Devils Elbow and Waynesville. She also provides walking tours of historic downtown Waynesville. Tours are personalized to fit your timeline. Cost varies depending on the time and number of passengers. Step-on tours make stops at Devils Elbow, Uranus Missouri, St. Robert Neon Park and the downtown square in Waynesville. Walking tours highlight the rich history of Waynesville, architecture and Route 66 Murals.Contact:
Jax Welborn
St. Louis, MO
- Chain of Rocks Bridge. With its distinctive 22-degree bend near the middle, it is an iconic steel truss bridge spanning part of the Mississippi River. Built in the 1920s, it served as a vital link in the historic Route 66. Despite its closure to vehicular traffic in the 1970s, the bridge remains a cherished landmark, attracting tourists and history enthusiasts alike, offering stunning views of the Mississippi River and serving as a testament to the golden age of American road travel. The bridge connects Missouri with an Illinois island in the Mississippi. Because it is necessary to cross another bridge with a 5-ton limit, from the Illinois mainland to the Island, it is a motor coach inaccessible from Illinois. In Missouri, Mississippi Greenway: Chain of Rocks Park is a gated park that is open from 8:00 AM until 30 minutes after sunset that allows access to the bridge. There is a covered pavilion with multiple places for people to sit, however, there are only two porta-pots available.
Address:
Chain of Rocks Park, 10820 Riverview Dr.,St. Louis, MO 63137 (Although this is the listed address, some GPS try to take you to the bridge in the middle of the Mississippi. For some GPS you must put in "Chain of Rocks Park" with the word "park" being the operative word).
Sullivan, MO
- Meramec Caverns: Meramec Caverns is situated along Route 66 in Stanton, Missouri. It is a spectacular underground attraction known for its stunning limestone formations and fascinating history. As one of Missouri's largest commercial caves, Meramec Caverns offers guided tours (the full tour is approx. 1 mile. An abbreviated tour that has less walking is also available) through its intricate chambers, where visitors can see impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and other natural formations. Other attractions available are: Zipline, gift store, Restaurant, and a Riverboat.
Pulaski County and St. Robert, MO
- Pulaski County Tourism Bureau & Visitors Center: Offering a warm welcome to your group! Museum like, it features, three rooms full of Missouri tourism information, gift shop, and restrooms. Motorcoach parking available. They offer complimentary services for planning your itinerary, connecting you with businesses, requesting RFP’s for room blocks, dining and entertainment options. Services also include imagery for your marketing efforts, lanyards and welcome materials. They can be your boots on the ground in Pulaski County USA.Contact:
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau
- City of St. Robert Neon Park: Located within the George M. Reed Roadside Park, it is Missouri’s oldest continuously operating roadside park along Route 66. This open-air museum opens the spring of 2025 and features vintage neon signs that originated between St. Louis and Carthage. Signs have been restored to their former glory and light up Pulaski County’s night sky. Free admission. Motorcoach parking available.Contact:
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau
- Devils Elbow Bridge: is located along the Big Piney River. Presently, motorcoaches may not travel across the bridge. Recently a 16 ton limit was posted. If you approach the bridge from the north east there is nowhere to turn around. You must approach from the southwest.
In 2019 it was awarded the title of “Best Route 66 Location” by Missouri Life magazine. It stands as a testament to the era of American road travel. The bridge's distinctive design features a Warren pony truss, two Parker through trusses, and a curved eastern section with four concrete girder spans. Its graceful curve across the Big Piney River, combined with the surrounding scenic beauty of the Ozarks, has made it a beloved icon for Route 66 enthusiasts. Remnants of the Munger Moss Sandwich Shop/Elbow Inn BBQ can also be viewed.Contact:
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau
- Uranus Towne Center. A unique attraction located along historic Route 66 in St. Robert, Missouri, it is known for its quirky name and offbeat charm. The center is a playful destination featuring a variety of novelty shops, a popular fudge factory, a general store, and a unique museum dedicated to oddities and curiosities. While not an original Route 66 attraction, Uranus Towne Center is on a portion of the original Route 66 and captures the spirit of Route 66, and is a fun stop for travelers seeking a lighthearted and entertaining experience. Located at Exit 163, if you want to drive a portion of the Old Route 6Contact:
Laura
- Route 66 Diner: is a nostalgic gem that pays homage to the classic American diner experience. Although a recent addition to Route 66, this all-steel diner is steeped in the retro charm of the 1950s. The diner offers a cozy, vintage atmosphere with checkered floors, chrome accents, and jukebox tunes. It captures the essence of Route 66's rich history while serving up delicious, all-American fare.Contact:
Oksana
- Waynesville Square: Take a stroll throughout Waynesville and enjoy the beautiful murals created by the famous artist Ray Harvey. Take a group picture at the 8-foot 2-ton Route 66 Shield. Choose to enjoy a “free-roam” lunch at restaurants located around the square. Taste Missouri made brews, enjoy some delicious Missouri-made ice cream, and stroll the wonderful shops and boutiques. Visit the Cherokee Encampment and the National Park Service Trail of Tears Memorial, alongside the gorgeous Roubidoux Creek. 3 public parking lots are available for motorcoach parking. Public restrooms are available at businesses and Roubidoux Plaza. The Cherokee Encampment is walkable from the square. Parking is available at the memorial.Contact:
Doug Potts
Museums on the Waynesville Square: Plan your itinerary to include both the Old Stagecoach Stop and 1903 Courthouse Museums located on the Waynesville Square. Split your group between the two museums, switching locations. Plan a minimum of 45 minutes at each museum. Both museums will open special for groups with prior arrangements.
- Old Stagecoach Stop Museum: Guides will greet your group in period costume and share information about the oldest building in Pulaski County which began as a log cabin and later served as a stagecoach stop, Civil War Hospital and motel. 12 rooms focus on different decades of operation.Contact:
Jeannie Porter
- 1903 Pulaski County Courthouse Museum: The signing of Missouri’s legislation recognizing Route 66 as an historic byway occurred outside this courthouse. This beautiful courtroom features information on domestications, farming and local history. It is one of 2 courthouses located along Missouri’s Route 66. Group Tours are scheduled to fit your itinerary needs. Maximum 15-20 guests.Contact:
Denise and Mike Seevers
- Hopper’s Pub: Hopper's Pub is a Route 66 landmark in Waynesville, Missouri. It's a classic American roadhouse with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The pub is known for its friendly service, delicious food, and extensive drink menu. If you're looking for a classic Route 66 experience, Hopper's Pub is a must-visit. Groups are welcome to dine buffet style at this “hoppin’ place, named in honor of WH (Waynesville Hill) Croaker, the famous Frog Rock who overlooks the town of Waynesville. Motorcoach drop off and pickup in front of the business. They will open special hours for groups. Parking is available in a public parking lot.Contact:
Ursula Lebioda
- Drachenfutter’s on 66: Enjoy breakfast, lunch or coffee and bakery goods at this eclectic café. It has Route 66 souvenirs and a comfortable atmosphere. An outside patio area is also available. Motorcoach parking available.Contact:
Mary Tromblee
Springfield, MO
- Route 66 Visitor Center:
Contact:
Melissa Martelli
- Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven. Has 30 two-bedded (full-size beds) on the front section of the motel. Only one king bed in this section. Multiple king and two-bedded rooms in the remainder of the motel. Easy in and out for a motorcoach. Rooms are spotlessly clean, and smaller than present hotel rooms. Decorated in original style, they also have a nice pavilion out front and Tracy will pick up food and beverages at cost if you want to have evening refreshments for the group. It is not private, so other guests may join you. The purpose is to encourage Route 66 "roadies" from around the world to get to know each other. Some specialty rooms. Contact: Tracy Agee (General Manager).
Contact:
Tracy Agee (General Manager)- Rockwood Motor Court: The oldest operating motor court on Route 66. It is a wonderful spot for individuals to stay, however, it only has 10 rooms. Phylis welcomes motorcoach groups to stop and enjoy the court. There are multiple outdoor spots for people to sit and enjoy the atmosphere and memorabilia. Advance notice is required. Phylis will talk to the group and tour the outer area, however, rooms are not usually available to be seen. Do not pull a motorcoach into the court. The Church next to the motor court allows motorcoaches to pull in to unload and turn around. Phylis' "regular" job is in the food industry, and she will set up multiple choices including snacks (evening or afternoon), dessert, etc. Speak with Phylis about the options and cost.
Contact:
Phylis
- Fantastic Caverns: Known for its unique "ride-through" tours, it is one of the few caverns in the world where visitors can explore its stunning underground landscapes from the comfort of a tram. The guided tours take guests through a series of impressive rock formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones, all illuminated to showcase their natural beauty. Fantastic Caverns has a rich history, having been discovered in the late 1800s and used for various purposes over the years, including as a speakeasy during Prohibition. The unique tour format makes it suitable for visitors of all ages and mobility levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the natural wonders of this historic cavern.
Contact:
Herbert Heck
- History Museum on the Square. John Woodruff, a businessman from Springfield, Missouri, was instrumental in initiating the construction of Route 66 which makes Springfield, MO a pivotal part of any Route 66 tour. The museum vividly portrays the rich heritage of Route 66 and offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and historical significance of America's most celebrated highway. The museum is willing to open for motor coach groups on days it is normally closed, and also in the evening. At these times they are willing to do catered meals. Phylis (with Rockwood Motor Court) is willing to cater the dinner at the museum followed by dessert at the Rockwood Motor Court for one inclusive price.
Contact:
Abby Foster
- Red’s Giant Hamburg was a legendary establishment on Route 66. It is an iconic symbol of the classic American roadside diner. Known for its historic significance as one if not the first drive-thru restaurants in the country, Red's boasts a nostalgic charm with its vintage signage and retro decor. The original restaurant was demolished in 1997, however, David Cambell purchased the rights to the name and signage from the original owner's widow and recreated it in a new location with all the traditional nostalgia.
- Route 66 Car Museum. Nestled along the iconic Route 66, this museum showcases a dazzling array of vintage automobiles that evoke the nostalgia and spirit of America's most famous highway. From classic muscle cars to sleek roadsters, each vehicle tells a unique story of innovation and craftsmanship. With interactive displays, informative exhibits, and passionate guides, the Route 66 Car Museum offers an immersive journey through the evolution of transportation. The museum is willing to open in the evening for catered dinners.
Contact:
Guy Mace
Ash Grove, MO
- Gary's Gay Parita: Traditional gas station located in Paris Springs, MO plus lots of other memorabilia. Perfect stop for a motorcoach.. Google lists the address as: 21118 Old 66, Ash Grove, MO 65604. Located on an original portion of Route 66, it is not in the actual town of Ash Grove. As you turn on the road there is a sign "Weight limit 8 tons." This refers to a bridge that is just past Gary's Gay Parita. After stopping at Gary's Gay Parita there is plenty of room for the Motorcoach to turn around and go back to the bypass and continue on Route 66. Perfect place to stop. Only negative is there are no regular restrooms, only porta pots. Recommend that you make a stop prior to arriving. George and Barb welcome groups. The original station was built in 1930 and has been in Barb's family ever since. Barb and George welcomes groups with complimentary refreshments. Requires advance notice. They have a covered pavilion behind the stations and will work with groups if they want to bring box lunches or have her set up a lunch. Ask her about what is available.
Address:
21118 Old 66, Ash Grove, MO 65604Contact:
Barbara
- Spencer Station: Located on Route 66 just past the Gay Parita, it is presently not ready for groups. It is only open on weekends. It is located in Spenser, MO on one of the original untouched sections of Route 66. There is a one-lane original picturesque bridge on Route 66 just before the Station. Weight limit: 30 tons. Height: 13'6".
Contact: Ed Klein.Contact:
Ed KleinPhone:
number not available
Reeds, MO
- Lottie's Soda Shoppe. It has a great story. It is the story of a Route 66 romance between a Soda Jerk named Lottie and a Grease Monkey named Valgene. There are limited restrooms, however, they will work with motorcoaches and give a good price for a prepaid snack. This will give people time to use the restrooms and to look at the memorabilia that is on the walls, including plaques displaying some of Lottie's recipes. Contact: Mary or her boss Stephanie Lee,
Contact:
Mary or Stephanie Lee
Carthage, MO
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Carthage, Missouri is a town rich in history and charm. Known as the "Queen City of the Ozarks," Carthage played a pivotal role during the Civil War, most notably during the Battle of Carthage in 1861, one of the first significant battles of the war. The town was rebuilt after being largely destroyed during the conflict, leading to the construction of an iconic courthouse. The Jasper County Courthouse is a striking example of Romanesque Revival architecture and one of the most iconic courthouses in the Midwest. It is constructed from locally sourced Carthage marble, giving it a grand and enduring appearance. Its design features towering spires, arched windows, and intricate stone carvings, making it a prominent landmark in the town. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is a must-see for visitors to the area, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich history and architectural heritage. Located along Route 66, the town embraced the spirit of the Mother Road, offering travelers historic sites and unique attractions such as Red Oaks II, the Boots Motel, and the Precious Moments Chapel. Today, Carthage stands as a blend of rich historical heritage and small-town charm, drawing visitors for both its past and its welcoming atmosphere.
- Red Oaks II: When Lowell Davis returned to his hometown of Red Oak it had died, so he bought a field and gradually moved and restored the town with abandoned buildings from the area and Route 66. It is now a unique roadside attraction on Route 66. Lowell Davis, transformed his property into a nostalgic village reminiscent of early 20th-century rural America. The site includes a collection of old buildings, vintage vehicles, and various pieces of Americana, all set in a peaceful countryside setting. It's a quirky and picturesque spot for Route 66 travelers looking for a break from the open road. In addition to doing a tour, it is a place where lunch can be arranged.
Contact:
Jeremy Morris
- Boots Court Motel: is a boutique motel on Route 66 in Carthage. Designed in the Streamline Moderne style, it opened its doors in 1939 and was a popular stop for travelers along the Mother Road. The motel's distinctive architecture, with its sleek lines and neon accents, reflected the era's love of speed and modernity. It has a rich history, having been featured in several movies and TV shows, including "The Grapes of Wrath" and "Route 66." Its location on Route 66 makes it a popular destination for tourists and Route 66 enthusiasts, who come to experience the motel's unique atmosphere and its place in American history.It is next to the Boots Court Visitor Center. At present they are not doing tours of the motel.
- Carthage Square: Bus parking is available in several different locations; contact Experience Carthage for directions. Dining and shopping make this a great location for lunch on your own, or snack and shop on your own. Cherry’s Custom Framing and Art Gallery also offers a restaurant in the back of the building where groups may be accommodated with prior notice. The square is also home to the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum, which is free, but a donation is appreciated. This museum commemorates the first Civil War land battle west of the Mississippi. Space is limited inside the small museum, so groups should split up to visit.
- Carthage Civil War Museum
Contact:
Steve Cottrell - Cherry's Custom Framing and Art Gallery
Contact:
Cherry
- Precious Moments Chapel: Located also in Carthage, MO is the Precious Moments Chapel. Sam Butcher began marketing his child-like figures in the early 1970s. The Chapel was begun in 1989. While not on the original route, it is just off Route 66 and is very group-friendly. This includes its restaurant "A Taste of Italy." For Route 66 travelers, the Precious Moments Chapel's connection to the iconic collectibles makes it a unique stop.
Contact:
Wendy
- Experience Carthage, MO: can assist in guided tours of the area customized to the time you have available. There is also a visitor center.
Phone:
417-237-7000
Webb City, MO
- King Jack Park: A kneeling miner statue is a favorite selfie spot. The Parks and Recreation Department’s main office is also located at the front of King Jack Park in the rebuilt Prosperity Junction train depot. Next to the train depot is the #1 trolley barn, home to the restored 1920’s Number 60 Southwest Missouri Electric Railroad Association's trolley. The trolley carries passengers on a circular 1-mile track inside the park for special events and programs. The Park is also home to the Mining Days Community Building which can seat 100 diners. Meals can be catered in by several area restaurants. Contact the city of Webb City to reserve the facility. The park also hosts the award-winning Webb City Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings year-round.
Contact for Webb City Tourism:
Erin Braker
Contact for City of Webb City:
Brian Waggoner
- Praying Hands Memorial in Webb City, MO. This landmark, along Route 66, was built in 1972. The memorial features a striking sculpture of two hands clasped in prayer, reaching towards the sky. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the community and provides a poignant pause for reflection amidst the journey along Route 66. Since it is a memorial park, there is no contact. There is a plaque at the memorial that people can read. There is parking available for the motorcoach.
Joplin, MO
- Route 66 Visitors Center: Located in historic City Hall on Route 66 in downtown Joplin, this is the home of Visit Joplin MO. The former Newton’s Department Store was converted into offices for the City of Joplin in 2003. The store was built in 1910 during the height of Joplin’s wealth and has two stories of multi-stall bathrooms, which makes this location a popular motorcoach rest stop. Parking is available on the north side of City Hall on 6th Street. Contact Visit Joplin to alert to arrival as far in advance as possible to ensure cones are put out to block the spaces).The staff of Visit Joplin offers a free history talk about Joplin’s beginnings using City Hall’s murals. Joplin at the Turn of the Century, 1896-1906: Painted by world-renowned American Regionalist artist Thomas Hart Benton, this is his only autobiographical work and one of his finest creations. This mural was the final piece that Benton signed, and it was dedicated to our city in 1973, on Joplin's 100th birthday. Evolution of a Mural: Located on the mezzanine of City Hall, this exhibit traces the development of Benton's thought process as he designed his final mural. The exhibit includes rough drawings of this monumental work in progress as well as one of Benton’s few remaining maquettes (3-D clay model) known to exist. Route 66 - Joplin, Missouri: Proving that talent runs deep in the family, Benton’s grandson Anthony Benton Gude created a mural to reflect another booming era in Joplin’s history. Gude’s mural highlights the mid-20th-century popularity of Route 66 and its impact on the vitality of Joplin’s Main Street and was completed and dedicated in April 2010. The mural was funded by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Cultural Affairs committee. Free and open to the public Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and by appointment on the weekends. Free souvenirs are available, and the office will mail postcards for free, paying any postage costs. The office is also a stamp location in the Route 66 Passport. Visit Joplin staff will then guide motorcoach groups across Route 66 and down a block to the Route 66 Mural Park, home to 2 tile murals depicting Route 66. There is also a fiberglass half of a 1963 Corvette for photo ops. Contact Visit Joplin staff as far in advance as possible to ensure availability for tour.Downtown Joplin, around the Visitors Center, is home to several restaurants so makes a perfect stop for lunch on your own. Located on the block north of City Hall, Hackett Hot Wings can seat a large motorcoach group. Contact Visit Joplin for more information.
Address:
Contact:
Patrick Tuttle, Executive Director or Kerstin Landwer, Director of Sales - Bonnie and Clyde Hideout Apartment: While not on Route 66, this location is an important piece of the history of Bonnie and Clyde. In 1933, the infamous Barrow Gang spent 13 days resting and recovering in Joplin from their crime spree. They rented this quaint garage apartment on the city’s south side. What was intended to be a vacation ended with the gang killing County Constable Wes Harryman and Joplin Police Officer Harry McGinnis when law enforcement attempted a raid on what they suspected at the time to be bootleggers. Buses can park in front of the building and there is a historical marker located there. There is no entry into the apartment.Contact:
Visit Joplin for more info. - Candy House Gourmet: Using family recipes over one hundred years old, this specialty chocolate and candy shop is popular with motorcoach tours. Tours of the small chocolate factory may be arranged if staff is available. Bus parking is available in front of the shop. The shop is just off Route 66, and within walkable distance from Joplin’s City Hall.Contact:
Kayla Koff - Historic Murphysburg District: Adjacent to Route 66 and downtown Joplin, this neighborhood is where the founding fathers of Joplin built the stately homes which embodied their success. A variety of architectural styles are represented here, including Craftsman, Queen Anne, American Foursquare, and Eclectic. There are historical markers in front of the homes detailing their names and when they were built, making it easy for self-guided tours by foot or by motorcoach. You can also find tours on their website.Contact:
Paula CallihanPhone:
417-483-3116
- Cunningham Park: This was the site of the May 22, 2011, tornado that devastated Joplin. This memorial park features several symbolic tributes: A Tribute to the Volunteers: The Miracle of Human Spirit features four circles which represent Rescue, Recovery, Demolition, and Rebirth. A mosaic in the center symbolizes the miraculous “Butterfly Stories,” which were told by many children after the storm, and the shards of the mosaic pedestals represent broken lives being put back together again. The bronze hard hat, gloves, sledgehammer, and hammer represent the heroic efforts of rescuers and volunteers. Just south of the volunteer tribute, next to a replica of a historical fountain, is a plaque memorializing the 161 lives lost on May 22, 2011; exactly 161 trees have been planted in the park to honor those lives as well. A nearby reflecting pond built on the site of the park’s original playground commemorates the lives of the children lost in the storm. In the northeast corner of the park, are the outlines of three homes that were destroyed in the tornado. Here you can read about the tornado and recovery, walk through the Butterfly Garden, or sit and reflect on a bench in front of one of the fountains. A series of bronze panels under the outlines of the homes tells the story of the tornado, its effects, statistics, and recovery.Contact:
Visit Joplin for more information. - Joplin History & Mineral Museum: Located in Schifferdecker Par, and while not directly on Route 66, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region that Route 66 traversed. Joplin, Missouri, was once a bustling mining town, and the museum delves into its rich mining heritage. By understanding the historical significance of Joplin's mining past, visitors to the museum gain a deeper appreciation for the economic and social factors that shaped the landscape of Route 66. The museum can also be the location for a lunch catered by the Red Onion Café.
