Can you believe there are still hidden gems to uncover along Route 66? Veer off the tourist track and hunt down the ghost towns, roadside oddities, and cavernous wonders that reveal the real stories of America's Mother Road. Discover places like the Meramec Caverns in Missouri, a natural wonder and a historical hideout for outlaws like Jesse James. With ruins, relics, and more than a few laughs waiting for us down these detours, this will be a road trip to reveal the enduring magic of Route 66. Rediscover America together, one legendary attraction at a time.
1. Route 66 State Park, Eureka, Missouri
Route 66 State Park is situated where the town of Times Beach once stood. Times Beach was evacuated and demolished in the 1980s due to dioxin contamination. Visitors say the visitor's center and museum provide helpful historical context and background on Times Beach and Route 66. The staff are very knowledgeable and can provide local perspectives. The gift shop has a wide selection of Route 66 memorabilia. There are clean restrooms available. The park is divided by a river, so each side has to be accessed from different highway exits. Only the museum side has facilities currently. Overall, it's a nice open space to hike, bike, or run without crowds. The bridge restoration effort aims to connect both sides of the park better.
2. Devil's Rope Museum, McLean, Texas
The Devil's Rope Museum, established in 1991 in McLean, Texas, showcases the history of barbed wire and its impact on agricultural development and the transformation of the American landscape. With over 2,000 different types of barbed wire on display, the museum highlights its crucial role in taming the Wild West. The museum also features a variety of Texas Route 66 memorabilia and a Hall of Fame exhibit, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in both the history of barbed wire and the legacy of Route 66.
3. Two Guns Ghost Town, Two Guns, Arizona
Two Guns, once a popular tourist destination on Route 66, has a history filled with conflict and tragedy, including a deadly shootout in 1926. The site now features the ruins of an old trading post, zoo, and the infamous Apache Death Cave, along with ancient Native American petroglyphs, offering a haunting glimpse into Arizona’s past. Visitors can explore the area through a self-guided tour, taking in the remnants of the ghost town and the scenic views of Diablo Canyon. Though locating the Death Cave can be tricky, the historical significance and eerie atmosphere make Two Guns a worthwhile stop for Route 66 travelers.
4. Tinkertown Museum, Sandia Park, New Mexico
The Tinkertown Museum, created by folk artist Ross Ward, took over 40 years to construct and showcase an eclectic collection of over 50,000 glass bottles, antique toys, and a 22-room wood-carved miniature circus. Ward’s philosophy, “I did all this while you were watching TV,” embodies the creativity and ingenuity of American folk art. The museum offers a whimsical, interactive experience with animatronics and sideshows, making it a fun stop for both kids and adults. It stands as a testament to Ward’s lifelong dedication to his craft and is a unique, affordable destination on Route 66.
5. El Rancho Hotel, Gallup, New Mexico
The El Rancho Hotel, built in 1937 by the brother of Hollywood director D.W. Griffith, embodies the glamour of the Golden Age of Hollywood. It served as a temporary home for stars like John Wayne and Katharine Hepburn during the filming of Westerns, preserving Gallup's legacy as the “Movie Capital of the West.” The hotel features spacious, cozy rooms and a welcoming staff known for excellent service. With its charming lobby, mezzanine, restaurant, and balcony, the hotel is steeped in old Hollywood history and offers a unique experience compared to typical chain hotels. Visitors can also enjoy views of passing trains from the hotel. For more retro accommodations along Route 66, 6 Retro Motels for a Nostalgic Stay on Route 66.
6. Blue Whale of Catoosa, Catoosa, Oklahoma
One of the most iconic roadside attractions on Route 66, the Blue Whale of Catoosa, was built in the early 1970s by Hugh Davis as an anniversary gift for his wife. Originally a family swimming hole, the large, whimsical blue whale quickly became a beloved spot for travelers along the Mother Road. While swimming is no longer allowed, visitors can still explore the structure, walk along its tail, and enjoy a picnic in the scenic park area. The Blue Whale remains a symbol of the quirky, fun spirit of Route 66, offering a great photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs as you journey through Oklahoma.
7. Totem Pole Park, Foyil, Oklahoma
Created by folk artist Ed Galloway, Totem Pole Park features the world's largest concrete totem pole, standing at 90 feet tall. Built between 1937 and 1948, the park is a tribute to Galloway's dedication to Native American culture and art despite not being of Native descent. His work is known for its intricate details and craftsmanship, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in folk art. The small gift shop, run by volunteers, offers insights into the park’s history, and it's a great spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the quirky totem poles. For travelers with pets, there’s even a designated dog area away from the main attractions.
8. Gary's Gay Parita, Ash Grove, Missouri
Gary's Gay Parita, a replica of a 1930s Sinclair gas station, was rebuilt on the original site by Gary Turner, a beloved Route 66 enthusiast, as a tribute to the golden era of American road travel. The site, filled with vintage cars and Route 66 memorabilia, offers a nostalgic journey back in time, celebrating the era when the highway was America's main street. For Route 66 enthusiasts, Gary's Gay Parita is considered a must-see stop despite being a bit off the main path. Visitors rave about the friendly owners and the impressive collection of Route 66 memorabilia.
9. The Snow Cap Drive-In, Seligman, Arizona
A must-visit on Route 66, the Snow Cap Drive-In is a delightful blend of nostalgia and humor. Built in 1953 by Juan Delgadillo with scrap lumber from the railroad, the Snow Cap is famous for its quirky service and classic American fast food. Delgadillo's playful antics, like offering "cheeseburgers with cheese" and adorning the place with funny signs, have made it a beloved Route 66 icon. For more nostalgic feasts along Route 66, check out our list: 5 Vintage Diners on Route 66 for the Ultimate Retro Experience
10. Meramec Caverns, Stanton, Missouri
Take a guided tour through the Meramec Caverns, located in the Ozarks region, a 4.6-mile cave system renowned for its stunning mineral formations and rich history. Formed over millions of years, these caves were used by Native Americans for shelter and later by outlaws like Jesse James as a hideout. During the 1930s, Lester Dill developed the caverns into one of the first major roadside attractions along Route 66, captivating travelers with its unique underground world. The caverns feature rare speleothems and the "Stage Curtain," a massive mineral formation known for its grandeur.
The Open Road Awaits
As you venture off the busy interstate and onto the dusty backroads of Route 66, embrace the quirky detours and forgotten relics that tell the story of America's Mother Road. Let the abandoned trading posts, petrified wood, and folk art masterpieces spark your imagination about the people and cultures that shaped this legendary highway. Strike up a conversation with a local, and let the humor and hospitality that defined 20th-century travel wash over you. Most of all, take it slow. Route 66 invites you to meander through the past at your own pace, allowing fresh adventures to unfold around every turn. Make the journey the destination — who knows what hidden gems you might uncover.