Discover St. Louis Missouri on Route 66

Discover the History of Route 66 in St. Louis with Your Guide, Big Mike

Greetings, fellow Route 66 enthusiasts! Big Mike here, your personal guide to the Mother Road, and proud owner of Route 66 Road Relics in Seligman, Arizona. Today, we’re setting our sights on St. Louis, Missouri, a city with a rich Route 66 history and a whole lot of charm.

St. Louis: A Route 66 Crossroads

St. Louis, with its prime location on the Mississippi River, has long been a central point in American history. When Route 66 came along in 1926, it added another layer of excitement to this already vibrant city. St. Louis became a major stop for travelers heading west, and its businesses and attractions thrived during the heyday of the Mother Road.  

Route 66’s Impact on St. Louis

Route 66 brought significant economic growth to St. Louis. Motels, restaurants, gas stations, and tourist attractions sprang up along the route, catering to the needs of travelers. The city’s transportation infrastructure also improved, with new roads and bridges built to accommodate the increasing traffic.  

But Route 66’s impact on St. Louis went beyond economics. It also played a role in shaping the city’s culture and identity. Route 66 became a symbol of freedom, adventure, and the American spirit. It brought people from all walks of life together, creating a sense of community and shared experience.  

Historic Route 66 Landmarks in St. Louis

St. Louis is home to several historic Route 66 landmarks that tell the story of the Mother Road and its impact on the city.  

• Chain of Rocks Bridge: This unique bridge, with its 22-degree bend in the middle, was built in 1929 and served as a major crossing point for Route 66 travelers over the Mississippi River. It’s a reminder of the engineering challenges and innovations that made Route 66 possible.
• Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: This beloved frozen custard stand has been a St. Louis tradition since 1929. Its location on Route 66 made it a popular stop for travelers seeking a sweet treat on their journey.
• Crown Candy Kitchen: This classic diner, established in 1913, has been serving up delicious food to Route 66 travelers and locals alike for over a century. Its vintage atmosphere and hearty meals make it a true Route 66 experience.  
• Missouri History Museum: This museum houses exhibits that showcase the history of St. Louis and Missouri, including the impact of Route 66 on the region. It’s a great place to learn about the people, places, and events that shaped the Mother Road.  
• Hi-Pointe Theatre: This historic theater, built in 1922, provided entertainment for Route 66 travelers and locals alike. It’s still in operation today, offering a unique movie-going experience.
• Maplewood: This charming town, located just outside St. Louis, was a popular stop for Route 66 travelers seeking a break from the city. Its historic downtown area still retains much of its Route 66 charm.
• Route 66 State Park: This park preserves a section of the original Route 66 alignment and features a visitor center with exhibits on the history of the Mother Road.

Route 66’s Legacy in St. Louis

Route 66 may have been decommissioned as a national highway in 1985, but its legacy lives on in St. Louis. The city has embraced its Route 66 heritage, preserving historic landmarks and promoting Route 66 tourism.

Today, travelers can still experience the magic of Route 66 in St. Louis by visiting its iconic landmarks, enjoying classic diners and roadside attractions, and learning about its rich history. Route 66 continues to inspire a sense of adventure and nostalgia, reminding us of a time when the open road held the promise of new experiences and endless possibilities.

Get Your Kicks with Big Mike

So, if you’re ready to step back in time and experience the history and charm of Route 66, St. Louis is calling your name. Come explore this vibrant city and discover the stories and landmarks that make it a true Route 66 gem!

And remember, as Bobby Troup sang, “Get your kicks on Route 66!” You won’t regret it.

And don’t forget to stop by and see me at Route 66 Road Relics in Seligman, Arizona! I’d love to hear about your Route 66 adventures. for more information on our store https://route66roadrelics.com/our-store/