By Alex Bradford Cobb | Published: 8-19-26 | Last updated: 8-19-26

Author Jack D. Rittenhouse, who drove every mile of Route 66 in 1946 and wrote the first travel guide to the highway, described the Pulaski County stretch as “one of the most beautiful sections of the Ozarks.” That was 80 years ago. The limestone bluffs, the Big Piney River, and the original roadbed are still here. So is the 1923 curved bridge at Devil’s Elbow — the only curved bridge on Missouri’s Route 66 still open to traffic — and so are the small towns that grew up around the road when it was the main artery connecting Chicago to Los Angeles.

Pulaski County has 33 miles of Historic Route 66. Here’s what happened here and why it matters.

Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store: 14400 Hwy Z, St. Robert, MO 65584 | Open daily 8 AM – 8 PM (CST) | Exit 163 off I-44

Route 66 in Pulaski County: A Timeline

1926 — The Road Gets Its Name

Route 66 was officially established on November 11, 1926, named via telegram from Springfield, Missouri — the birthplace of the highway’s name. The route through Pulaski County was part of the original alignment, connecting the small towns of the Missouri Ozarks to the national highway system for the first time.

In the early years, much of the road through Pulaski County was unpaved. A resident of the era — Everett Graves, who worked as a blacksmith in the 1930s — was among the local craftsmen who contributed to the first paving of Route 66 through Missouri. The road that millions of travelers would eventually romanticize was built by hand, mile by mile, through the Ozark hills.

1923 — The Devil’s Elbow Bridge

The steel truss bridge at Devil’s Elbow was built in 1923 — three years before Route 66 was officially named — and was incorporated into the original alignment when the highway was established. The bridge spans the Big Piney River at the sharpest bend in the river’s course through Pulaski County, hemmed in by 200-foot limestone bluffs.

The name “Devil’s Elbow” predates the bridge and predates the road. It comes from the sharp turn of the Big Piney River below — a bend so severe that it once made it nearly impossible to float logs through the area. The nickname stuck, the loggers moved on, and the bridge made the bend accessible to automobiles.

Today the Devil’s Elbow bridge is the only curved bridge on Missouri’s Route 66 still open to vehicular traffic. The Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis — another famous Route 66 crossing — is now a pedestrian bridge. Devil’s Elbow is the last one still carrying cars across the Mother Road in its original capacity.

1926–1940s — The Golden Era

The decades between Route 66’s establishment and World War II were the road’s first golden era in Pulaski County. Motor courts, filling stations, diners, and tourist stops sprouted along the alignment through St. Robert, Waynesville, and the surrounding communities. Travelers heading west — to California, to opportunity, to a better life during the Depression years — passed through Pulaski County in growing numbers.

The construction of Fort Leonard Wood in December 1940 changed the county dramatically. The fort was built in the middle of a Missouri winter at extraordinary speed — at its peak, a new building was being completed every 45 minutes. The population of Pulaski County swelled with soldiers and the families who followed them, and the towns along Route 66 grew to serve them.

1950s–1960s — The Highway’s Peak

The postwar era was Route 66’s cultural peak. Car travel expanded rapidly, the American road trip became a genuine cultural institution, and Pulaski County’s stretch of the Mother Road was among the busiest in Missouri. The neon signs, the motor courts, the diners — the aesthetic that people now associate with Route 66 nostalgia — was built in this era.

1977 — Bypassed by I-44

Interstate 44 bypassed Historic Route 66 through Pulaski County in the 1970s. What had been the main artery of cross-country travel was gradually deprioritized as the interstate system made the old road redundant. Towns that had built their economies around the highway traffic had to adapt. Some did. Some didn’t.

2026 — The Centennial

Route 66 turns 100 in 2026, and Pulaski County is one of the most active Centennial celebration sites in Missouri. Events running through the year include:

The Great Race — The legendary antique car rally rolled into Waynesville’s historic square on June 26, 2026, with 130 competitors bringing vintage and collector cars through the county seat. The Great Race follows a course based on roads that existed when the cars were made — which means it follows the original Route 66 alignment through Pulaski County.

The Route 66 Yard Sale — Beginning July 31, 2026, a two-day event inviting visitors to explore sales covering approximately 100 miles of Route 66 through Missouri. Pulaski County is on the route, with vendors lining the Mother Road through the county.

The Big BAM — In September, the Big BAM bicycle ride passes through Pulaski County on its 333.5-mile trek from Joplin to the St. Louis suburbs. Riders camp at the historic Roubidoux Park in Waynesville before heading east.

For the full Centennial event calendar: celebratemo66.com and route66centennial.org.

The Historic Stops: Route 66 Through Pulaski County Today

Devil’s Elbow — The Signature Stop

The hamlet of Devil’s Elbow and its 1923 bridge are the most photographed Route 66 landmarks in Pulaski County. From the bridge, looking up at the limestone bluffs rising 200 feet above the Big Piney River, you understand why Rittenhouse called this one of the most beautiful sections of the Ozarks.

The bridge is still open to traffic — drive across it, then park and walk back. The view from the roadside is good; the view from the bridge is better.

Waynesville — The Birthplace of the Byway

Waynesville has been calling itself the “Birthplace of the Byway” — a reference to its role in the earliest days of the Route 66 corridor through Pulaski County. The 1903 Courthouse Museum on the downtown square holds the county’s Route 66 history in photographs, documents, and artifacts. The Old Stagecoach Stop museum, dating to the 1850s, predates the road but was incorporated into the Route 66 travel infrastructure when the highway came through.

The Route 66 shield on the courthouse grounds — 8 feet tall — is Waynesville’s most photographed landmark. It was installed for the Centennial.

St. Robert — The Commercial Hub

St. Robert grew up alongside Fort Leonard Wood and Route 66 simultaneously, becoming the commercial center of the county. The Route 66 Neon Park in George M. Reed Roadside Park is the newest Route 66 landmark in the county — a growing collection of restored neon signs from defunct businesses along the Missouri alignment, lit from dusk to midnight. It represents the same era of Route 66 history as the motor courts and diners that defined the road’s golden era, preserved in working neon.

Uranus — The Current Chapter

Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store opened on the Route 66 alignment in St. Robert on July 2, 2015. It’s the newest entry in Pulaski County’s Route 66 story — a roadside attraction built in the tradition of the attractions that made the Mother Road what it is, with a gift shop, a sideshow museum, mini golf, ice cream, and fudge made fresh daily in our on-site kitchen.

The Mega Mayor overlooking Route 66 from the Putt Pirates course is the newest landmark on the alignment. He’s watching the centennial happen from the best vantage point on the road.

14400 Hwy Z, St. Robert, MO 65584 | Open daily 8 AM – 8 PM (CST) | Exit 163 off I-44

Drive the Historic Alignment

The Pulaski County Tourism Bureau maintains a turn-by-turn Historic Route 66 Driving Tour brochure covering 50-plus stops along the 33-mile alignment through the county. Pick one up at the Visitors Center in St. Robert or download it at visitpulaskicounty.org.

The full alignment runs roughly parallel to I-44. The key is to get off the interstate and drive the old road — that’s where the history is.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many miles of Route 66 are in Pulaski County Missouri? 33 miles — described by author Jack D. Rittenhouse in 1946 as “one of the most beautiful sections of the Ozarks.” The alignment runs through Devil’s Elbow, Waynesville, St. Robert, and the surrounding communities.

What is the history of Route 66 in Pulaski County? Route 66 was established in 1926 and incorporated the existing road through Pulaski County into its alignment. The 1923 Devil’s Elbow bridge predates the highway’s naming. Fort Leonard Wood’s construction in 1940 transformed the county. The interstate bypassed the old road in the 1970s; the 2026 Centennial has brought renewed attention and investment to the alignment.

What is the Devil’s Elbow bridge? A 1923 steel truss bridge over the Big Piney River in the hamlet of Devil’s Elbow, Pulaski County. It is the only curved bridge on Missouri’s Route 66 still open to vehicular traffic. The name comes from the sharp bend in the Big Piney River below, which made log-floating nearly impossible in the early timber industry.

Is Uranus on Route 66 in Pulaski County? Yes — Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store is at 14400 Hwy Z, St. Robert, on the historic Route 66 alignment through Pulaski County, off I-44 Exit 163. Open daily 8 AM – 8 PM (CST).

What Route 66 Centennial events are happening in Pulaski County in 2026? The Great Race antique car rally passed through Waynesville on June 26. The Route 66 Yard Sale runs along the alignment starting July 31. The Big BAM bicycle ride passes through in September. For current events: visitpulaskicounty.org and celebratemo66.com.

What is the Route 66 Neon Park in St. Robert? A collection of restored vintage neon signs from defunct Route 66 businesses, displayed in George M. Reed Roadside Park adjacent to Uranus in St. Robert. Free, pet-friendly, and lit from dusk to midnight.

For the complete Missouri Route 66 itinerary, see Route 66 Centennial Road Trip: The Missouri Stretch. For a weekend guide to Pulaski County, see A Weekend in Pulaski County: What Locals Actually Do.

Alex Bradford Cobb is a strapping young man who works for the Mayor in a semi-legal indentured servitude arrangement, similar to how Dubai was built, and possibly the pyramids. What works, works, and there’s no need to reinvent the wheel.

By Alex Bradford Cobb | Published: 7/30/26 | Last updated: 7/30/26

Missouri has 317 miles of Route 66 and enough good food along it to make the drive as much about eating as it is about driving. From a frozen custard stand that’s been on Chippewa Street in St. Louis since 1941 to a barbecue joint in Cuba that’s earned a reputation as one of the best on the entire route, Missouri’s stretch of the Mother Road feeds you well if you know where to stop.

This is the list I’d hand a friend driving west from St. Louis. Uranus isn’t a restaurant, but we’re on the route and we feed you — fudge, popcorn, ice cream, and jerky at 14400 Hwy Z, St. Robert, MO. We’ll tell you exactly when you’ll hit us on the drive.

St. Louis: Where the Drive Begins

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

6726 Chippewa St, St. Louis, MO 63109

The non-negotiable St. Louis stop. Ted Drewes has been on Chippewa Street since 1941 and invented the “concrete” — frozen custard so thick it’s served upside down without spilling. It is not a gimmick. The custard is genuinely excellent and the line on a summer evening is its own St. Louis experience. The Fox Treat — a concrete with hot fudge, raspberries, and macadamia nuts — is the order if you want to try something beyond the classic.

Open seasonally; Ted Drewes closes in winter.

Carl’s Drive-In

9033 Manchester Rd, Brentwood, MO 63144

A genuine 1950s drive-in west of St. Louis on the historic Route 66 alignment, operating since 1959. Burgers, fries, and root beer floats at a walk-up window with car-hop service. The kind of stop that makes the whole road trip feel like it’s starting properly.

Big Chief Roadhouse

Wildwood, MO

Founded in 1928, the Big Chief was one of the first restaurants on a paved stretch of Route 66 — a novelty in the era of dirt roads. Babe Ruth and Al Capone are both said to have passed through, which is an eclectic guest list. Today it operates as a full-service restaurant with Midwest comfort food and the kind of history that takes decades to accumulate.

Cuba: Two Reasons to Stop

Missouri Hick Bar-B-Q

913 E Washington St, Cuba, MO 65453

One of the most consistently recommended barbecue stops on the entire Route 66, not just Missouri’s stretch. Missouri Hick serves ribs, smoked chicken, pulled pork, and the pork steak sandwich — a Missouri original that’s worth ordering if you’ve never had one. The atmosphere is unpretentious and the food is the reason people come back.

Shelly’s Route 66 Café

Cuba, MO

A classic hometown diner serving home-cooked favorites to locals and road-trippers alike. The kind of place where the coffee is always on and the portions are honest.

Cuba is also the Mural City of Route 66 — 14 large-scale murals on downtown buildings — so a slow cruise through after lunch is worth adding to the stop.

Rolla: The Pie Stop

Slice of Pie

601 Kingsighway, Rolla, MO 65401

A small bakery with a devoted following and pies that justify the detour on their own. Traditional apple, peach, sweet potato, and custard — and rotating seasonal varieties that change with what’s available. It’s the kind of place that looks unassuming from the outside and delivers completely.

Rolla is also home to the Totem Pole Trading Post and the Route 66 Museum in the public library, so a quick stop here can cover lunch and a bit of roadside history in one go.

St. Robert / Pulaski County: The Halfway Stop

Route 66 Diner — St. Robert

St. Robert, MO

A chrome-and-neon 1950s diner right on the Route 66 corridor in St. Robert — checkered floors, red-and-white booths, a lit jukebox by the door, and classic American comfort food. The theming is committed and the food is reliable diner fare. The right stop if you want the Route 66 aesthetic with your meal.

Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store — Fudge, Ice Cream & Snacks

14400 Hwy Z, St. Robert, MO 65584 | Open daily 8 AM – 8 PM (CST) | Exit 163 off I-44

Not a restaurant, but the right place to fuel up between proper meals. Fresh fudge made daily in our on-site kitchen in nineteen flavors, Uranus Ice Cream Co. (open 11 AM – 6 PM), and a full snack lineup including gourmet popcorn and beef jerky for the road. The ice cream alone — one lick and you’ll go nuts — is a reason to stop even if you’ve just eaten.

The Route 66 Neon Park is right next door, lit from dusk to midnight. Come back in the evening if you’re staying the night in St. Robert.

Hoppers Pub — Waynesville

Waynesville, MO (10 minutes east of Uranus on Route 66)

66 draft beers on tap, Route 66 memorabilia covering the walls, and food that makes you want to stay longer than you planned. Hoppers is the local favorite for a sit-down meal in Pulaski County — the draft selection alone makes it worth the slight detour into Waynesville.

Dowd’s Catfish and BBQ — Lebanon

Lebanon, MO

About 45 minutes west of St. Robert on Route 66, Dowd’s is known for Southern hospitality and Bayou-style food — fried catfish, barbecue, the kind of cooking that takes all day to produce and five minutes to finish. A solid dinner stop if you’re ending your day in Lebanon near the Munger Moss Motel.

Springfield: The Birthplace Has Good Food

College Street Café

Springfield, MO

A Route 66 institution since the 1950s, operating on the College Street alignment of Route 66 adjacent to the Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park. Classic diner fare — meatloaf, country fried steak, chicken tenders, French toast, hand-patted burgers — served by people who’ve been doing it for decades. The kind of place that defines “reliable” in the best possible sense.

Historic Steak ‘N Shake — Springfield

On Route 66, Springfield, MO

The Springfield Steak ‘N Shake has been on Route 66 since 1962 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. It still looks largely the way it did when it opened. Order the Original Double ‘N Cheese Combo — double patty, American cheese, pickles, toasted bun, fries, and a shake. It’s a fast food chain, but this particular location is a piece of American road history.

Carthage & Joplin: The Western End

66 Drive-In Snack Bar — Carthage

17231 Old 66 Blvd, Carthage, MO 64836

The 66 Drive-In is one of the last operating drive-in theaters on Route 66, and the snack bar that comes with a double feature on a summer Saturday night is part of the experience. Popcorn, hot dogs, the classics. Come for the movie, stay for the atmosphere. In 2026 the drive-in is running a Centennial Film Festival series through the summer.

Stogey’s Coney Island — Joplin

Joplin, MO

A Route 66 comfort food institution for over 40 years. Burgers, chili, sandwiches, and the namesake Coney dog — topped with chili, cheddar, and onions. The Fiesta Frito Pie is the adventurous order. Straightforward, generous, and exactly the kind of place that ends a Missouri Route 66 drive on the right note.

Planning Your Route 66 Missouri Meal Schedule

Here’s how I’d structure eating across the full Missouri drive, heading west:

• St. Louis: Ted Drewes for frozen custard before you leave the city
• Cuba: Missouri Hick Bar-B-Q for lunch — the pork steak sandwich
• Rolla: Slice of Pie for a mid-afternoon stop
• St. Robert: Uranus for fudge and ice cream, Hoppers Pub in Waynesville for dinner if you’re staying the night
• Springfield: College Street Café for breakfast on Day 2, or the historic Steak ‘N Shake
• Joplin: Stogey’s Coney Island to close the drive

That’s one full day of eating on one of America’s great road trip routes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best restaurants on Route 66 in Missouri? Ted Drewes Frozen Custard in St. Louis, Missouri Hick Bar-B-Q in Cuba, Hoppers Pub in Waynesville, College Street Café in Springfield, and Stogey’s Coney Island in Joplin are the strongest stops across the full Missouri stretch.

What is the most famous food stop on Route 66 in Missouri? Ted Drewes Frozen Custard in St. Louis — operating since 1941, inventor of the “concrete,” and one of the most recognized stops on the entire Route 66.

Is there good food near Uranus Missouri? Yes — the Route 66 Diner is in St. Robert, and Hoppers Pub in Waynesville (10 minutes east on Route 66) has 66 draft beers and a full menu. Uranus itself serves fudge, ice cream, popcorn, and jerky at 14400 Hwy Z, St. Robert, MO 65584, open daily 8 AM – 8 PM (CST).

What is a pork steak sandwich and where can I get one on Route 66? A pork steak sandwich is a Missouri original — a thick cut of pork shoulder, grilled or smoked, served on a bun. Missouri Hick Bar-B-Q in Cuba is one of the best places to try it on the Route 66 drive.

Are there good vegetarian options on Route 66 in Missouri? Most Route 66 restaurants lean heavily toward classic American comfort food — burgers, barbecue, fried fish. Ted Drewes, Slice of Pie, and College Street Café are the most vegetarian-friendly stops on this list.

Where should I eat if I’m only stopping once in Missouri? Missouri Hick Bar-B-Q in Cuba if you want the definitive Missouri Route 66 meal. Ted Drewes in St. Louis if you’re only passing through briefly and want the most iconic single stop.

For the full Missouri Route 66 itinerary with mile markers and drive times, see Route 66 Centennial Road Trip: The Missouri Stretch. Or read the 15 best overall Route 66 stops in Missouri.

Alex Bradford Cobb is a strapping young man who works for the Mayor in a semi-legal indentured servitude arrangement, similar to how Dubai was built, and possibly the pyramids. What works, works, and there’s no need to reinvent the wheel.

By Alex Bradford Cobb | Published: 7-9-26 | Last updated: 7-9-26

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Pulaski County sits in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, bisected by Historic Route 66 and home to Fort Leonard Wood, the Roubidoux River, Devil’s Elbow, and more history per square mile than most counties twice its size. It’s not a place most people plan a weekend around. It should be.

This is the guide I’d give a friend who asked what to do here — not the tourism brochure version, but the honest one. Two days, covering St. Robert, Waynesville, and the surrounding Ozark landscape that most road-trippers miss because they’re too busy following I-44.

Useful resource before you go: The Pulaski County Tourism Bureau offers a free Getaway Guide and a Historic Waynesville Walking Tour brochure available at the Visitors Center in St. Robert and at shops throughout downtown Waynesville.

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Friday Evening: Arrive, Eat, Get Your Bearings

The county has over 20 hotels and motels in the St. Robert area — more options than you’d expect, largely because Fort Leonard Wood generates steady traffic year-round.

For dinner, head into Waynesville’s downtown square. Hoppers Pub on Historic Route 66 is the local favorite — 66 draft beers on tap, Route 66 memorabilia covering the walls, and food that makes you want to stay longer than you planned. It’s the kind of place that turns a Friday night stop into a three-hour visit.

After dinner, walk the square. Waynesville’s downtown is compact and genuinely charming — vintage buildings, local boutiques, and the kind of lived-in character that comes from a community that’s been here since 1832.

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Saturday Morning: History in Waynesville

 

Start Saturday at the 1903 Courthouse Museum on the Waynesville square. The building is one of only two remaining period courthouses on the Missouri Route 66 alignment, designed by architect Henry H. Hohenschild, and the upstairs courtroom is exceptionally well-preserved. Exhibits cover Pulaski County history from pioneer life through Fort Leonard Wood’s World War II-era construction. Open Saturdays, May through September, 10 AM – 2 PM. Free admission; donations welcome.

Right next door, the Old Stagecoach Stop Museum is the oldest building in Pulaski County — an 1850s stagecoach way station that was commandeered by Union forces as a hospital during the Civil War and later served as a Route 66 hotel. Both museums are on the National Register of Historic Places. Open Saturdays, April through September, 10 AM – 4 PM.

The 8-foot Route 66 shield on the courthouse grounds is Waynesville’s most-photographed spot and worth the photo before you leave the square.

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Saturday Late Morning: Roubidoux Park & the Spring

From the square, it’s a short walk to Roubidoux Park on the banks of the Roubidoux River. The park is connected by a paved trail to Laughlin Park, which is home to the Roubidoux Spring — a genuine Ozarks gem and a favorite local swimming hole in the summer months. Local legend says that if you dip your toes in the spring water, you’ll return to Waynesville. Whether that’s true or not, the spring is cold, clear, and beautiful.

Along the trail between the parks, look for the National Park Service interpretive panels marking the Trail of Tears Cherokee Campsite. The five-span concrete arch bridge built in 1923 is worth a photo too — it’s the kind of detail that makes a walking trail feel like a history lesson.

Saturday morning tip: If you’re here between May and October, the Pulaski County Farmers Market runs Saturdays 8 AM – noon at the Farmers Market Pavilion near the Roubidoux Spring Campground. Fresh produce, locally roasted coffee, baked goods, food trucks, and local crafts. Worth building your morning around if you can.

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Saturday Afternoon: Devil’s Elbow & the Gasconade

After lunch, take the scenic drive out to Devil’s Elbow — one of the most beautiful stretches of original Route 66 in Missouri and the kind of stop that makes you understand what the Mother Road was actually about before the interstates made it irrelevant.

Devil’s Elbow gets its name from the sharp bend in the Big Piney River here, hemmed in by 200-foot limestone bluffs. The 1923 steel truss bridge over the Big Piney is one of the most photographed Route 66 landmarks in Pulaski County — narrow, atmospheric, and still standing after more than 100 years. Pull over and walk it if you can.

From Devil’s Elbow, the Gasconade River is a short drive and one of the best float rivers in Missouri. Several outfitters in the area run canoe and kayak trips down the Gasconade and the Big Piney. The Pulaski County Tourism Bureau can point you to current operators at visitpulaskicounty.org

For the afternoon, choose your own adventure:

• Float the Gasconade or Big Piney
• Drive the full 33-mile stretch of Historic Route 66 through Pulaski County with the county’s illustrated driving tour brochure
• Hike the trails near Devil’s Elbow

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Saturday Evening: Uranus & the Neon Park

Head back toward St. Robert for the evening. Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store is at 14400 Hwy Z — open until 8 PM (CST) — and it’s the right way to close a day of Ozarks history: fudge made fresh in our on-site kitchen in 19 flavors, the Sideshow Museum, Putt Pirates Mini Golf, and Uranus Ice Cream Co.

Then walk across to George M. Reed Roadside Park and the Route 66 Neon Park — a growing collection of restored vintage neon signs from defunct motels and businesses along Missouri’s Route 66, lit up in the evening oak trees along the historic alignment. Come at dusk. The signs look exactly like they did in 1958 and it’s one of the better free things to do in Pulaski County.

An entire busload of kids from a church camp came by on June 30th and they all bought fudge and souvenirs.

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Sunday Morning: Fort Leonard Wood & the Mahaffey Museums

Fort Leonard Wood is one of the largest Army training bases in the United States, and it has something most bases don’t: three excellent museums in one building, all free to visit.

The John B. Mahaffey Museum Complex houses the U.S. Army Military Police Corps Museum, the U.S. Army Chemical Corps Museum, and the U.S. Army Engineer Museum side by side — the only place in the country where you can tour all three Army branch museums in a single visit. The MP Museum’s exhibit on the Iraq War is particularly well-regarded for its first-hand accounts and detail. The Engineer Museum has working models and a realistic immersive experience of Army engineering.

Practical note: Bring a photo ID for base access.

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Sunday Afternoon: Before You Go

If you have a couple of hours before heading out:

Historic Talbot House in Waynesville — a fully restored 19th-century home run by a guide who, by all accounts, is loaded with information and humor. The hand-cranked drum piano inside is a highlight.

Frog Rock — a granite boulder on the roadside in Waynesville that someone decided looked like a frog and painted accordingly. The townspeople maintain it and there’s an annual Frogtoberfest celebration. It’s genuinely not a big thing, but it’s the kind of small local detail that makes a town feel like a place rather than a stop. October 1-4, 2026

Theatre on the Square — if something’s playing during your visit, Waynesville’s community playhouse is worth an afternoon matinee. Find current season schedule at visitpulaskicounty.org

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Practical Notes

Getting here: St. Robert and Waynesville are both just off I-44, roughly midway across Missouri. From St. Louis, about 2 hours west. From Springfield, about 1 hour east.

Accommodations: Over 20 hotels and motels in the St. Robert area, concentrated near the Fort Leonard Wood gates.

For military families: Fort Leonard Wood brings a steady flow of families new to Pulaski County. The museums are free, Roubidoux Park is excellent for kids, and Uranus is less than ten miles from the main gate — a quick and easy afternoon outing for families on the post.

Events worth timing your visit around:

• Hogs & Frogs Festival — Waynesville, annual Route 66 motorcycle event with three days of activities
• Frogtoberfest — annual celebration of Frog Rock: October 1-4, 2026
• Pulaski County Farmers Market — every Saturday, 8 AM – noon, May through October
• Free Donut 5K — every third Saturday in Waynesville

For the full events calendar: visitpulaskicounty.org/events

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pulaski County Missouri known for? Fort Leonard Wood, Historic Route 66, the Roubidoux River, and Devil’s Elbow. The county has 33 miles of Route 66 alignment, one of the largest Army training bases in the country, and some of the most scenic Ozark river country in Missouri.

What is there to do in Waynesville Missouri? The 1903 Courthouse Museum, Old Stagecoach Stop Museum, Roubidoux Park and Spring, Historic Talbot House, Hoppers Pub, Theatre on the Square, and the Waynesville downtown square with local boutiques, antiques, and restaurants.

What is there to do in St. Robert Missouri? Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store, the Route 66 Neon Park, Tiger Typhoon Water Park, and easy access to Fort Leonard Wood’s Mahaffey Museum Complex. St. Robert is the county’s main commercial hub with over 20 hotels and a wide range of restaurants.

How far is Uranus from Fort Leonard Wood? About 10 minutes from the main gate on Hwy Z. Uranus is at 14400 Hwy Z, St. Robert, MO 65584. Open daily 8 AM – 8 PM (CST).

Is Devil’s Elbow worth visiting? Yes — it’s one of the most scenic stretches of original Route 66 in Missouri. The 1923 steel truss bridge over the Big Piney River is one of the most photographed Route 66 landmarks in the state. It’s about 10 miles and worth the drive.

Can you float the Gasconade River in Pulaski County? Yes — the Gasconade and Big Piney Rivers both run through Pulaski County and are popular float rivers in summer. Several local outfitters offer canoe and kayak rentals; check visitpulaskicounty.org for current operators.

What is the best time to visit Pulaski County? Summer for floating, the Farmers Market, and Roubidoux Spring. Fall for the Ozark scenery and Hogs & Frogs Festival. The Route 66 Centennial in 2026 makes this year particularly good for a visit.

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For more on Uranus and its place on Route 66, see the Complete Visitor’s Guide to Uranus Missouri and the Route 66 Centennial Road Trip itinerary.

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Alex Bradford Cobb is a strapping young man who works for the Mayor in a semi-legal indentured servitude arrangement, similar to how Dubai was built, and possibly the pyramids. What works, works, and there’s no need to reinvent the wheel.

By Alex Bradford Cobb | Published: 7/1/26 | Last updated: 7/1/26

Missouri has more Route 66 miles than any other state — 317 of them, running from St. Louis to Joplin, through rolling Ozark hills, small towns that froze in 1965, and some of the most iconic roadside stops in America. In the Centennial year, it’s the stretch to drive. Here’s how to do it right, with mile markers, drive times, and honest notes on what’s worth your time at each stop.

Uranus is your lunch stop and your fudge stop. We’ll tell you exactly when you’ll hit us on both itineraries.

Before You Go

Total distance: St. Louis to Joplin, approximately 317 miles. Navigation note: Route 66 doesn’t always follow I-44. Where the historic alignment diverges, it’s worth taking the old road — that’s where the good stuff is. Use a dedicated Route 66 navigation app or download the Missouri Route 66 Association’s turn-by-turn guide before you leave. The Missouri Route 66 Association has current resources.

Best time to go: Summer and fall are peak season. The Centennial means more events and more traffic in 2026 — check celebratemo66.com for events along your route before you leave.

The One-Day Express (St. Louis to Joplin, ~6 hours driving)

This is the drive-it-in-a-day version — best for people who want to say they drove Missouri’s Route 66 without taking a week off work. You’ll hit the highlights and still make Joplin by dinnertime.

Stop 1 — St. Louis: Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

Mile marker: 0 | Drive time from previous stop: —

Start at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge on the northeast edge of St. Louis. Opened in 1929, it was one of Route 66’s original crossings of the Mississippi River, and it’s famous for the unusual 22-degree bend in the middle of the structure — an engineering quirk that gave drivers a jolt when it was open to traffic. Today it’s a pedestrian and cycling bridge, and it’s worth a walk across. The views of the river are excellent and the bend still makes you do a double-take.

From here, head south toward the Gateway Arch. If you haven’t been, ride the tram to the top — the views are worth it. Then pick up Route 66 heading southwest.

Drive time to next stop: Approximately 45 minutes to Sullivan.

Stop 2 — Sullivan: Meramec Caverns

Mile marker: ~75

One of Missouri’s most-visited caves and a Route 66 institution. Meramec Caverns has been pulling in road-trippers since the 1930s, and the cave itself is genuinely impressive — massive formations, multiple chambers, and enough history to fill a guided tour. Jesse James allegedly used it as a hideout. Whether that’s true or not, the cave is real and the tour is worth the hour.

Drive time to next stop: Approximately 30 minutes to Cuba.

Stop 3 — Cuba: The Mural City

Mile marker: ~105

Cuba calls itself the Mural City of Route 66, and it earns the name. The downtown is covered in large-scale murals depicting Missouri and Route 66 history — painted on the sides of buildings, visible from the road, and worth a slow cruise through town. Stop, get out, walk the main drag. Cuba is also a good place to grab coffee or a quick bite before the next stretch.

Drive time to next stop: Approximately 30 minutes to Rolla.

Stop 4 — Rolla: The Mule Trading Post & Route 66 Museum

Mile marker: ~120

Rolla has a cluster of classic Route 66 stops worth a quick pass. The Mule Trading Post nearby is another vintage stop worth a glance. The Route 66 Museum in the Rolla Public Library has a solid collection of memorabilia if you want context for what you’re driving through.

Drive time to next stop: Approximately 30 minutes to St. Robert/Uranus.

Stop 5 — St. Robert: Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store ⭐ LUNCH STOP

Mile marker: ~150 | Exit 161 off I-44

This is us. Pull off at Exit 161 — you’ll see the signs and, depending on your approach, a brachiosaurus. Uranus is the halfway point on the Missouri stretch, which makes it the natural lunch stop on this itinerary and a good place to stretch your legs, fill up on fudge, and buy something ridiculous for the road.

We’re at 14400 State Hwy Z, St. Robert, MO 65584. Open daily 8 AM – 9 PM.

What to do here: Fudge Factory (get a sampler, trust us), gift shop (Lip Shit, air fresheners, apparel), sideshow museum, playground, Hot Dog stand, Ice Cream, Putt Pirates Minigolf.

It’s best to get there and then decide what to do first based on how many people are there already. Also, Minigolf is across the street, so please stop, look, and listen before crossing, because none of those cars will stop for you. They’ll obliterate you and keep on driving. Pedestrians aren’t people to motorists.

Drive time to next stop: Approximately 45 minutes to Lebanon.

Stop 6 — Lebanon: Munger Moss Motel

Mile marker: ~185

The Munger Moss is one of the most photographed motels on Route 66 — a classic 1940s motor court with neon signage and a roadside aesthetic that looks like it was designed to appear in a road trip movie. It’s still operating as a motel, and even if you’re not staying the night, the exterior is a must-photograph stop. Lebanon also has good options for a coffee break.

Drive time to next stop: Approximately 45 minutes to Springfield.

Stop 7 — Springfield: Birthplace of Route 66

Mile marker: ~235

Springfield is where Route 66 was named. On April 30, 1926, officials gathered here and sent the telegram proposing “U.S. Route 66” as the name for the new highway. The Birthplace Plaza at the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and St. Louis Street marks the spot — there’s a commemorative sculpture installed for the Centennial this year.

While you’re here: the Route 66 Car Museum on West College Street has 100-plus vintage cars and is worth an hour. The History Museum on the Square gives you the full Route 66 context. And if you want a Centennial-specific stop, Springfield is hosting events throughout 2026 — check the local calendar before you arrive.

Drive time to next stop: Approximately 1 hour to Carthage.

Stop 8 — Carthage: Boots Court Motel & Mural Park

Mile marker: ~285

Carthage has two must-stops. Boots Court Motel is another beautifully preserved 1939 motor court — the curved art deco building is one of the most recognizable structures on Missouri’s Route 66. And the downtown Mural Park at 619 S. Main Street features large tile murals plus a replica 1964 red Corvette embedded in a wall that’s become a Route 66 photo landmark.

Drive time to Joplin: Approximately 25 minutes.

Final Stop — Joplin: Route 66 Mural Park

Mile marker: ~317

Joplin is the western terminus of Missouri’s Route 66. The downtown Mural Park is the traditional endpoint photo stop — murals depicting the highway’s history, the replica Corvette, and enough Route 66 signage to fill a photo roll. Joplin is a real city with good food options; it’s a solid place to end the drive or spend the night before continuing west into Kansas.

The Two-Day Version (The Full Experience)

If you have two days, the itinerary above becomes considerably more enjoyable. Here’s how to split it:

Day 1: St. Louis to Uranus (~150 miles) Follow Stops 1–5 above at a relaxed pace. Spend real time at Meramec Caverns (the tour is worth it). Walk Cuba’s murals properly. Stay overnight in Rolla or St. Robert — there are good options near the Fort Leonard Wood area. I stayed at a Baymont that I really enjoyed one time. A decent hot tub and gym, and breakfast wasn’t bad, either!

Day 2: Uranus to Joplin (~167 miles) Start with breakfast near St. Robert, then continue through Lebanon, Springfield, Carthage, and Joplin. With a full day for this half, you can do the Route 66 Car Museum in Springfield properly and still make Joplin by late afternoon.

Practical Notes

Fuel: Gas stations are plentiful on I-44. On the historic alignment, they’re less reliable — fill up in larger towns.

Accommodations: Classic Route 66 motor courts (Munger Moss in Lebanon, Boots Court in Carthage) book up during Centennial summer. Reserve ahead.

Weather: Missouri summers are hot and humid. Start early, carry water, and plan indoor stops for the afternoon.

The Centennial Passport: The official U.S. Route 66 Centennial Passport is a limited-edition collector’s item being developed for 2026. Check route66centennial.org for availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to drive Route 66 across Missouri? Driving time alone is roughly 5–6 hours non-stop from St. Louis to Joplin. With stops, plan for a full day (one-day express) or two relaxed days (recommended).

What is the best Route 66 stop in Missouri? That depends on what you’re after. For history, Springfield’s Birthplace Plaza is the essential stop. For roadside atmosphere, Meramec Caverns and the Munger Moss Motel are classics. For fudge and a laugh, that’s us.

Where is the halfway point on Missouri’s Route 66? Pulaski County — roughly the St. Robert/Waynesville area, where Uranus is located at Exit 161 off I-44. It’s a natural lunch stop on the drive.

Is Route 66 in Missouri worth driving in 2026? Yes, and more than usual. The Centennial has spurred real investment in signage, restoration, and events along the Missouri stretch. There’s more to see in 2026 than there was five years ago.

Can I drive Route 66 Missouri in one day? Yes — the one-day itinerary above covers the highlights in roughly 6 hours of driving plus stops. It’s a long day but doable if you’re continuing on to Kansas or Oklahoma.

For a ranked breakdown of the some of the best individual stops on Missouri’s Route 66, see our guide. That one goes deeper on each stop; this one routes them.

For current Centennial events along the Missouri stretch: celebratemo66.com and route66centennial.org.

There has never been a better time to “Get Your Kicks.” In 2026, the Mother Road celebrates its 100th Anniversary, and Missouri (the official birthplace of Route 66) is throwing the ultimate year-long party.

 

From the neon-lit streets of St. Louis to the rolling hills of the Ozarks to the wildly entertaining Uranus Fudge Factory, here is your complete guide to Missouri’s most essential stops for this historic Route 66 Centennial year.

 

🧠Quick Facts (The “Mother Road” at a Glance)

Fact	Detail
Total Missouri Miles	Approximately 317 miles of drivable history.
Official Birthday	April 30, 1926 (The name was proposed in Springfield, MO).
The “Giraffe” Look	Missouri is famous for “Native Stone” architecture (aka “Giraffe Rock”).
2026 Theme	“100 Years of Kicks” — The official centennial slogan.
Highest Point	Marshfield, MO (elevation 1,490 ft) — the highest point on the route between Chicago and the Rockies.
Iconic Sweet Shop	Uranus Fudge Factory –– Missouri’s most famous roadside fudge destination, right on Route 66!

Stop 1: St. Louis & The Gateway to the Mother Road

Your journey begins where the road crosses the mighty Mississippi. St. Louis is the perfect blend of historic nostalgia and modern energy.

• Old Chain of Rocks Bridge: This isn’t just a bridge; it’s a landmark with a literal 22-degree bend. It’s now pedestrian-only, making it the perfect spot for a “Welcome to Missouri” photo op.
• Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: You haven’t truly “done” 66 until you’ve held a Chocolate Chip Cookie Concrete upside down. They’ve been serving travelers since 1929, and the line is part of the experience.
• National Museum of Transportation: For the 2026 Centennial, they’ve launched a special exhibit celebrating the car culture that made this road famous. A deep dive worth the stop.

 

Stop 2: Uranus Fudge Factory: Missouri’s Wildest Route 66 Destination

Located on Route 66 in St. Robert, Missouri, the Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store isn’t just a stop: it’s the stop! Equal parts roadside attraction, entertainment complex, and shamelessly pun-forward experience, this is exactly what the Mother Road was built for.

The fudge alone is worth pulling off the highway. Made fresh on-site in over a dozen flavours, it’s the kind of thing you’ll be talking about in Kansas. But the Fudge Factory is just the beginning:

• The Sideshow Museum: A collection of oddities and curiosities that would make P.T. Barnum jealous.
• Putt Pirates Mini Golf: 18 holes of swashbuckling fun for the whole crew.
• Tacos Uranus: Because every great road trip deserves a great taco stop.
• Old-Fashioned ice cream served the way Route 66 intended.
• The General Store: Packed floor-to-cieling with novelties, gifts, and enough Uranus merchandise to fill your trunk.

If you’re planning your Route 66 Missouri 2026 road trip, do yourself a favour: make Uranus your home base for the Pulaski County stretch. There is nothing else like it on the entire Mother Road.

 

Stop 3: The Ozarks: Caves, Murals, & Natural Beauty

As you head Southwest, the landscape opens into the beautiful, rugged Ozarks. This is where the “roadside attraction” was perfected.

• Meramec Caverns (Sullivan): Once a hideout for the outlaw Jesse James, these caves are a cool 58°F (This is America, so you will not be getting Celsius conversions from this blog!) year-round. Look for the iconic painted barns on your way in!
• Cuba’s Murals: Known as “Mural City,” Cuba offers 14 massive outdoor paintings depicting local history. While you’re there, stop by the Wagon Wheel Motel, widely cited as the oldest continuously-operating motel on the entire route.

 

Stop 4: Pulaski County & Devil’s Elbow: The Most Scenic Drive in Missouri

While much of the Mother Road is about neon and concrete, this stretch is all about the rugged, natural beauty of the Ozark mountains. It’s arguably the most scenic drive in the entire state!

• Devil’s Elbow Bridge: This 1923 steel-truss bridge overlooks the Big Piney River and massive limestone bluffs. It’s a favourite spot for photographers, especially in the fall.
• The “Giraffe” Stone Architecture: Keep an eye out for the unique rock patterns on vintage gas stations and homes.
• Elbow Inn & BBQ: A legendary biker bar and pitstop. For the 2026 Centennial, look for special community “fish fries” and outdoor concerts held right by the riverbanks here.

 

Stop 5: Springfield: The Birthplace of Route 66

Springfield is where the name “Route 66” was officially proposed in 1926, making it the heart of the 2026 Centennial celebrations. If you’re only stopping in one city this trip, make it here.

• History Museum on the Square: This museum houses a premier Route 66 gallery. In 2026, they are hosting a special Centennial speaker series featuring historians and “roadies” from across the globe.
• Gary’s Gay Parita (Miller): A short drive west of Springfield sits this lovingly-restored 1930s Sinclair station. It’s a favourite for photographers and a great place to swap stories with other travelers. Verify current visiting hours before you go.
• 66 Drive-In Theatre (Carthage): Catch a flick under the stars at one of the few original drive-ins still in operation. The neon marquee alone is worth the stop!

 

Stop 6: Joplin & The Tri-State Mining District

Before you cross the border into Kansas (which only has 13 miles of the route!), Joplin offers a gritty, inspiring look at the “Tri-State” mining history that built this region.

• Bonnie & Clyde Hideout: History buffs can visit the site where the infamous duo had their deadly shootout with police in 1933.
• Joplin City Hall Murals: Created by Thomas Hart Benton (the famous Missouri artist), these murals tell the story of the city’s rough-and-tumble lead and zinc mining days.
• World Street Painting Festival (June 2026): Joplin will be hosting world-class artists who will turn the downtown pavement into a 3D optical illusion gallery specifically themed around the Route 66 100th Anniversary. It’s going to be a massive draw for the Centennial year!

 

Know Before You Go (Your 2026 Route 66 Missouri Survival Guide)

• Book Your Stays Now: With the 100th Anniversary in full swing, historic motels like the Boots Court and the newly reopened Shamrock Court (reopening Spring 2026) are booking up months in advance. Verify availability and opening dates directly with each property.
• The “Dead Zone” Rule: While digital GPS is great, some rural stretches of the Ozarks have spotty cell service. Pick up a printed Road Atlas as a nostalgic (and necessary) backup before you leave.
• Follow the Shield: Look for the brown “Historic Route 66” signs. In 2026, Missouri has also installed new LED-lit Centennial Monuments at key stops––scan the QR codes on them for hidden local history!
• The “Today Show” Crowd: If you’re visiting Springfield for the April 30th kickoff, expect heavy crowds. The TODAY Show will be broadcasting live, so arrive downtown by 6:00 AM if you want to be on TV.
• Pack for Layers: Missouri spring weather is unpredictable. You might start the day in a light jacket and end it in a T-shirt at a drive-in.
• Grab a Centennial Passport: Stop at any Missouri Welcome Center to grab a Centennial Passport. If you collect stamps from the “Must-See” stops, you can earn a limited-edition 2026 completion coin.

 

📅2026 Centennial Events: Plan Your Trip Around These

If you’re planning your trip, try to align your dates with these major Missouri milestones:

 

Event	Location	2026 Dates
National Centennial Kickoff	Springfield	April 30 – May 3
Route 66 Centennial Festival	St. Louis	May 1 – 4
World Street Painting Festival	Joplin	June 2 – 6
Birthplace of Route 66 Festival	Springfield	August 7 – 8

 

🛌Sleep in History: Where to Stay on the Mother Road

To get the authentic vibe, skip the interstate hotels. Book a room at the Boots Court in Carthage (where Clark Gable famously stayed) or the Rail Haven in Springfield, which features a dedicated Elvis Presley suite.

 

Ready to Hit the Pavement? 

Missouri’s stretch of the Mother Road is a living museum, and in 2026, the lights have never been brighter. Make Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store your anchor stop for the Pulaski County stretch––there is nothing else on Route 66 quite like it. Come for the fudge. Stay for everything else.

Additional Resources:

 

www.mo66.us

www.route66centennial.org