Plan a weekend away to Pulaski County USA around one of community upcoming events. Book your overnight stay at one of our comfortable and convenient hotels.
January 16: Donut Run/Walk/Bike/Ruck – St Robert, MO
Visit our Events section of our website for additional activities listed on the Festival & Events, Community Events and Nightlife Calendars.
During the pandemic changes occur rapidly. Contact event host to confirm event and to verify COVID procedures. Masks and social distancing are highly recommended. If you do not feel well or have been exposed, choose to not attend. Please follow CDC recommendations, and local Health Department recommendations and trends.
To add your Pulaski County event to our Event Promotion Program, visit our online calendar
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau released a #DoTheFive video campaign late last week. The humorous 1:51 video features cameos by well-known Pulaski County personalities.
Although the video will make you laugh, the message is serious. It briefly details five things that can be easily done to slow the spread of the Coronavirus.
Louie Keen, the larger-than-life “Mayor of Uranus” is the owner of Uranus Fudge Factory near Saint Robert. Along with his sidekick Tiffany Baker, the pair is seen with the world-famous Hooker Cut landmark as the backdrop. Pulaski County features 33 miles of Route 66 for travelers to explore.
Darrell Todd Maurina, the county’s most recognizable workaholic was a shoo-in for the fishing scene. Seeing the Pulaski County Daily News editor in a relaxing setting might be more shocking to some viewers than Keen’s over-the-top sense of humor.
This is the second video that Pulaski County Tourism Bureau has released featuring Springfield, Missouri comedian Jeff Houghton. Former Waynesville City Clerk Carol Welch, who appeared as rapper L.L. Cool Grey in the first video returned for a second cameo in this production.
Beth Wiles, Executive Director, said “We wanted to deliver a chuckle to the folks who gave two minutes of their time to watch our video. The message is serious though.” Wiles strongly encourages those who choose to travel during the pandemic to #DoTheFive so we can all #TravelConfidently. She added “when you are ready for a relaxing vacation in Missouri’s Ozark Mountains choose Pulaski County. There’s more than you thought!”
“Fire meat.” If those words make your mouth water head to Pulaski County Bulgogi Trail in the Missouri Ozarks for grilled Bulgogi dishes that will make your taste buds sing!
Korean Beef Bulgogi Rice Bowl. Image by HealthierMi
Bulgogi is thinly sliced ribeye, sirloin, or other prime cuts of beef. The meat is marinated in a mixture of black pepper, garlic, sugar, sesame oil, and soy sauce and then grilled or stir-fried. The marinade and the heat combine to create a mildly sweet, smoky, savory flavor bomb that makes each bite a treasure.
Bulgogi is usually served with a side of white (or fried) rice. It pairs well with egg drop soup and Kimchi. Traditionally made with beef, the dish can also be prepared using pork, chicken, or seafood.
Saint Robert, outside the main gate of Fort Leonard Wood, has been a haven for authentic Korean Bulgogi for decades.
Gather your fellow foodies and road trip to Central Missouri in the Ozark Mountains for authentic tastes of South Korea!
Spicy Pork Bulgogi. Image by Chloe Lim.
Bulgogi House
Bulgogi House (1018 Missouri Avenue, Suite 14, Saint Robert, 573-336-7550) is a mainstay for Bulgogi in Saint Robert. It has been described as “totally authentic cuisine and atmosphere.” Bulgogi House is a favorite for many people who miss Korean cuisine.
“Bulgogi house is my go-to Korean restaurant in town. I typically cook Korean dishes at home each day. Sometimes I get lazy or too busy to cook and call in for an order. I am a huge critic when it comes to Korean food and this place always delivers.”
Nahyun K. via Yelp
Café Korea
Café Korea (839 VFW Memorial Drive, Saint Robert, 573-336-3232) has been a hit with hungry patrons in Saint Robert for ten years. Bring cash or be prepared to pay with a check. An ATM is available on the premises.
“Friendly staff and amazing food. Our favorite is the beef bulgogi. We travel 45 minutes sometimes just to eat at Café Korea!”
Eric & Nikki F. via Google
Lucky House Chinese Restaurant
Lucky House Chinese Restaurant (119 St. Robert Boulevard, Sant Robert, 573-336-2313) is primarily known for their delicious Chinese food. In addition to traditional beef Bulgogi Lucky House offers chicken, pork, & shrimp Bulgogi.
“Nice food to eat for a lazy weekend! Prices are good for what you get, and the food comes steaming hot! Delicious too!”
Oasia R. via Google
Korean Spicy Bulgogi Beef. Image by Else Hui.
Mi Suks Oriental Restaurant
No other eatery has been serving Bulgogi in the Fort Leonard Wood area longer than Mi Suks Oriental Restaurant (1058 Missouri Avenue, Saint Robert, 573-336-4770). Mi Suks does not take cards, so bring cash.
“Best bulgogi ever! The owner says it’s a secret recipe she brought from home and you can’t go wrong with original homestyle cooking. These are humble people with authentic food.”
Tye E. via Google
Ocean Buffet
If you prefer your Bulgogi in an all-you-can-eat setting pay Ocean Buffet (225 St. Robert Boulevard, Saint Robert, 573-451-2178) a visit!
“This was probably the best Asian buffet I have ever been to in my life. They had such a diverse amount of selections available.”
Jacob S. via Google
Silk Road
For Bulgogi off the beaten path head north to the charming town of Richland. Richland locals get their Bulgogi fix at Silk Road (215 South Pine, Richland, 573-765-5900).
“Here on business and Silk Road was recommended for lunch. Wonderful lunch special. Went back for lunch on Day 2!”
Legendary road trips and one-of-a-kind Mom & Pop restaurants go together like bacon & eggs! From A-to-Z, Pulaski County’s stretch of Route 66 in the Missouri Ozarks has a surprising variety of delicious, unique eateries that will fit any budget and tastes. For more dining inspiration check out these Seven Yummy Mom & Pop Restaurants Near Fort Leonard Wood or visit https://visitpulaskicounty.org/dining/.
A Taste of St. Louis
Image via Andy’s Pizza
Only one mile south of historic Route 66, Andy’s Pizza(690 Missouri Avenue, Suite 5, Saint Robert, 573-451-2288) brings St. Louis-style pizza to the Fort Leonard Wood area. White Cheddar, Swiss, and Provolone cheeses combine to create gooey, buttery Provel cheese. Along with a cracker-thin crust, Provel is a mainstay of St. Louis-style pizzas. Other signatures of Saint Louis-style pizza are the tavern cut and a sweetness to the sauce.
“So yummy!! They have a super thin crust, Saint Louis style. This allows the flavors to be center stage here. There was such a crunchy and yet flaky delicate crust. This pizza is absolutely perfect for when you want FLAVOR and not something heavy and bready.”
Savannah J. via Yelp
Authentic Mexican Flavors
Image via El Cabrito Mexican Restaurant
Tacos aren’t just for Tuesdays in Pulaski County, Missouri! El Cabrito Mexican Restaurant’s(560 Old Route 66, Saint Robert, 573-336-4373) enthusiastic fan base has taken off since they first opened their doors in 2016 in Saint Robert. El Cabrito serves a delicious take on the staples that you expect from your favorite Mexican restaurants- quesadillas, burritos, fajitas and more. Adventurous eaters should try Tacos de Lengua. These beef tongue tacos have been described as “perfect” and “heaven.”
“I have a new favorite Mexican restaurant!!! Everything was super good- food, margaritas, service & price! We will be back!”
Jinnie A. via Facebook
Neighborhood Global Pub
Image via Hoppers Pub
When your neighborhood pub is on Route 66 in downtown Waynesville it becomes a tavern with global appeal. Hoppers Pub(318 Historic 66 East, Waynesville, 573-774-0135) has the spirit of the Mother Road packed into every corner. Proprietress Ursula Lebioda and the Hoppers crew have been dishing up classic pub grub and serving 66 beers on tap since opening in 2014. The Hoppers Burger is topped with pepperjack cheese, jalapeno poppers, bacon, and a fried pickle. For a unique twist order the Frog Legs.
“The best place in town for a cold pint and great food. Their customer service is top-notch! You will feel right at home in this historic Route 66 pub- a must stop if driving through or staying in town!”
Enrique W. via Google
A Taste of the Ozarks
Image by Michael Buck via Google
Sweetwater Bar-B-Que’s(14076 Highway Z, Saint Robert, 573-336-8830) mouthwatering barbecue has been winning new fans since 1999. Order your ribs, pulled pork, chopped beef brisket, boneless chicken, ham, turkey, or sausage by the pound, as part of a dinner, or on a sandwich. Don’t skip the savory “fixin’s” and sweet desserts! The joint isn’t hard to find- just roll down your windows as you approach Interstate 44 Exit 163. The savory aroma will guide you into the parking lot.
“Oh My Gosh! You have to eat here. Best BBQ chicken ever. So delicious. Just go if you ever have the chance. It smells divine in there!”
Cindy S. via Google
A Taste of Bavaria
Image by David S. via Yelp
Ursula’s Schnitzelhaus & Paradise Delicatessen(311 North Street, Waynesville, 573-774-8422) brings an authentic taste of Bavaria, Germany to downtown Waynesville, Missouri. Ursula and her family dish up sausages and schnitzels that taste like Oktoberfest year-round! Save room for German Cheesecake or Apple Strudel!
“Tucked away one block north of historic Route 66 in downtown Waynesville. Authentic German food served up by a genuine family with a quirkiness that will endear them as characters on the Mother Road. Their schnitzel sandwich was exactly what I was expecting and hoping for.”
Laura H. via Facebook
Distinctive Contemporary Atmosphere
Image via Z Loft Hotel, Bar, & Grill
Just off Route 66, tucked into an Ozarks “holler”, Z Loft first opened its doors to the public in 2013. The Farris family envisioned an “eat, play, stay” concept between Saint Louis and Springfield, Missouri- and they succeeded. The family combined their culinary roots with their hotelier skills and Z Loft was born. Z Loft Bar & Grill promises “innovative twists on classic, flavorful cuisine” and “expertly crafted cocktails served in just the right glass.”
“Wonderful grill with beautiful outdoor dining patio, gracious service, and delicious hand-tossed wood-fired pizzas, calzones, and quesadillas.”
KingFarmer via Trip Advisor
Some reviews have been edited for clarity and length.
Gravel grinding isn’t new to Pulaski County. The Nasty Pulaski Gravel Grind Bike Race has been held the first Saturday in October since 2018. More and more cyclists are discovering that Pulaski County’s gravel roads and rural routes are filled with stunning scenery and leg-quivering climbs. If you haven’t registered for Nasty Pulaski there is still time to so.
Image courtesy of Nasty Pulaski Gravel Grind Bike Race.
In the meantime, here are three great gravel grinding routes with stunning Ozark Mountain scenery and compelling historic sites in Pulaski County to pedal.
Holy Schlicht!
This 25-mile ride begins and ends on at Schlicht Springs Access on the Gasconade River near Crocker, Missouri. The area is named for John Schlicht, a German immigrant, who purchased the old Gasconade Mill in 1876. The ride loops through a residential area of Crocker and then heads west to the village of Swedeborg. The end of the ride will reward you with dramatic Gasconade River views.
Image courtesy of Nasty Pulaski Gravel Grind Bike Race.
10 Crossings
Another 25-mile ride, 10 Crossingsbegins and ends at Riddle Bridge Access on the Gasconade River near Saint Robert. This spin crosses Jones Creek five times, the Gasconade River twice. You will also cross Clemens Creek and the Maries River. A portion of the route near Dixon parallels what is now BNSF Railway tracks. The majestic Yellow Bluff signifies the end of your ride.
Image courtesy of Nasty Pulaski Gravel Grind Bike Race.
Turkey Tracks
Turkey Tracks, a 25-mile loop, begins and ends at Mitschele Access on the Gasconade River south of Richland. This ride winds through farmland dotted by silos and country churches. Some of the farms along this route have been held by the same family for more than 100 years. Pedal between the Gasconade River and the towering limestone bluff that is the site of the former Ozark Springs Resort.
Image courtesy of Nasty Pulaski Gravel Grind Bike Race.
