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Explore Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri
The Birthplace of Route 66
Welcome to the place where it all began. Springfield, Missouri is proudly known as the official birthplace of Route 66—and we invite you to rediscover America’s most famous highway from right here in the heart of the Ozarks.
Whether you’re chasing nostalgia, creating new memories, or just looking for a good slice of pie and a scenic ride, you’ll find something unforgettable around every turn.
Route 66 Things to Do
Discover some of the must-do attractions on, and off the Route. We recommend a 2-3 day stay to experience the best attractions Springfield has to offer.
Route 66 Places to Stay
From neon-lit motels, to modern amenities, there's somewhere to stay overnight. Discover deals and accommodations.
Route 66 Planning & Inspiration
Use these helpful planning tools, like custom itineraries and mood boards, to help you design your perfect Route 66 trip to Springfield, MO.
Group Tour Travel
A great resource for travel professionals to discover amazing places to take their groups and celebrate Route 66.
Route 66 Must-Do Attractions
Whatever your pace, discover attractions both on and off the Route. A great way to spend 2 to 3 days in Springfield.
On the Route Attractions
Other Unique Local Attractions
Wonders of Wildlife
Immersive wildlife museum and aquarium with 35,000 live animals.
View AttractionEvent Highlight:
The Birthplace of Route 66 Festival
The Birthplace of Route 66 Festival is an annual celebration held in downtown Springfield, Missouri, commemorating the city's pivotal role in the creation of the iconic U.S. Route 66. In 1926, Springfield was the site where the name "Route 66" was first proposed, marking the city's significance in American transportation history.
Route 66 Lodging
Stay Overnight on the Route
Additional Lodging in Town
Oasis Hotel and Convention Center
Modern amenities with tropical vibes, perfect for events and groups.
View LodgingUniversity Plaza Hotel
Spacious downtown hotel near parks, dining, and convention center.
View LodgingRoute 66 Planning & Inspiration
Itineraries & Blogs
2-Day Authentic Route 66 Itinerary
Experience classic nostalgia and charm on the Mother Road.
Discover More2-Day Itinerary - Classic Meets Cool
A 2-day itinerary with a mixture of classic and modern vibes.
Discover More2-Day Group Route 66 Itinerary
The best way's to spend 2 days traveling with your group.
Discover MoreCustom A.I. Route 66 Itinerary Builder
Use A.I. to build your own custom Route 66 itinerary in Springfield, MO.
Discover MoreCruise the Birthplace of Route 66
Get your kicks on Route 66 by visiting these points of interest along the historic...
Discover MoreRoute 66 Inspiration Board
Must-Stop for Planning
The Route 66 Visitor Center
One of the first stops to make in Springfield for any Route 66 fan is the Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center, a primary source of information for any Mother Road adventurer. The center offers maps, driving directions and regional highlights that help visitors discover the top things to see and do in the Springfield area and some historical tidbits.
Present your Route 66 Passport Here! Get it Stamped and receive a FREE GIFT!
815 E. St. Louis Street, Ste 100
Springfield, MO 65806
Route 66 Group Tour Travel
Bring your group to the Birthplace of Route 66 for a nostalgic journey through classic Americana. From vintage cars and neon-lit motels to immersive museums and roadside photo ops, Springfield is the perfect stop for motorcoach tours, car clubs, and history lovers chasing the Mother Road.
Best Accommodations for Groups
Motorcoach Parking
Available at most major attractions & lodging accommodations.
Group Dining
Tons of unique dining options for groups with 20+ travelers.
Local Step-On Guides
Contact us to book a local step-on guide to tour you through Springfield.
Plan Around Annual Events
Plan your trip around event like the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival.
Sample Group Three-Day Itinerary

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Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
Immersive aquarium and wildlife museum with 35,000 animals.
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Lunch at Hemingway’s Blue Water Cafe
Seafood and homestyle eats in Bass Pro Shops® Outdoor World®.
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Bass Pro Shops® Outdoor World®
The original 500,000 sq ft store with multiple free museums.
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Performance at the Historic Gillioz Theatre
Route 66-era theatre hosting concerts and comedy.

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Route 66 Guided Driving Tour
Explore Springfield’s historic Route 66 sites with a local guide.
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History Museum on the Square
From prehistoric times to Route 66 legends — it's all here.
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Park Central Square
Walk historic downtown streets with art, shops, and stories.
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Lunch at Steak ‘n Shake on Historic Route 66
Burgers, fries, and milkshakes at a classic Route 66 joint.
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Springfield Art Museum
Explore art from American masters to modern exhibitions.
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Pythian Castle
Springfield’s only castle, rich with history and ghost tales.

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Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield
Walk Civil War battlefields and learn about key Missouri history.
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Lunch at Leong’s Asian Diner
Springfield-style Cashew Chicken where it all began!
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Fantastic Caverns
America’s only ride-thru cave — a natural wonder of Missouri.
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Springfield Cardinals
Catch a ballgame at Hammons Field, home to future Cardinals stars.