Stories

Let the Great American Road Trip Carry You to Pulaski County, MO

April 1, 2025

Does the spirit of wanderlust stir you to explore the world beyond your humble dwelling? Do you yearn to leave the cares, worries, and stresses of 21st-century life behind as you set out on the open road, nothing ahead but asphalt and brand-new experiences transporting you to a simpler time and place?

Whether you’re coming from the sun-bathed shores of Santa Monica or the windy, skyscraper-lined streets of Chicago, a road trip down Historic Route 66 is a timeless American experience. Full of mid-century nostalgia, kitschy roadside attractions, and natural wonders, the Mother Road has delighted and inspired transcontinental travelers for nearly 100 years — and no region captures the enchantment of America’s most famous highway quite like Pulaski County, MO.

Here, amid rolling Ozark hills blanketed by lush forests, the romance and wonder of the Mother Road lives on in small towns preserving the heritage of this landmark roadway. The 200-foot bluffs hugging the Big Piney River in the tiny community of Devils Elbow, dubbed one of the “seven scenic wonders of Missouri,” welcome travelers trekking westward across the iconic 1923 steel truss bridge, promising a breathtaking view of the twisting, winding river below that gave the humble hamlet its name. In the city of Saint Robert — itself a product of both Route 66 and the establishment of Fort Leonard Wood — rehabilitated signs that once lined the Mother Road cast a warm glow on the night sky once again at Route 66 Neon Park, showcasing the illumined indicators of rest and respite for a new generation of cross-country pilgrims. Meanwhile in nearby Waynesville — the Birthplace of the Byway — immerse in the remarkable history on display at sites like the 1903 Route 66 Courthouse Museum and the Old Stagecoach Stop.

 

A road trip through the Ozarks is more than just historical sites, though. Wonderful diners reminiscent of mid-century American eateries and serving delicious, homecooked meals spanning a world of flavors — from classic, American burgers to the fiery flavor of Korean bulgogi — line this stretch of America’s Main Street. Locally owned shops, boutiques, and antique shops offer rare opportunities to bring home vintage treasures. The famous Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store stands as a testament to the unique and downright bizarre attractions that once lured vacationers with an assortment of sweet treats, wacky and strange curiosities, and a generous dose of cheeky humor.

Additionally, outdoor adventures beckon road trippers to put their cars in park and breathe in the fresh air. Roubidoux Spring, a natural phenomenon and summertime favorite for locals, provides a serene spot to pull over and relax—and, if you’re feeling bold enough, plunge into the cool, clear waters. The Big Piney and Gasconade rivers that snake between the Ozark hills provide additional recreation opportunities, with world-class fishing and float trips beckoning all to reap Mother Nature’s bounties.

Your Ozarks adventure awaits — order your 2025 Getaway Guide for even more one-of-a-kind encounters, including relaxing float trips, thrilling fishing opportunities, military monuments and museums, and can’t-miss events you’ll want to plan your trip around. 

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