Welcome to Springfield, Missouri, where you’ll find the original Bass Pro Shops, Springfield-style cashew chicken, and the true heart of Route 66 still beating strong. For almost a century, the Mother Road has stood as a symbol of American freedom, adventure, and culture. So, buckle up—we’re heading to where it all began.
The Birth of an American legend
Route 66 didn’t just happen overnight; it was pieced together from old Native American trails, farm roads, and bumpy paths. Believe it or not, back in the 1840s, a stagecoach line even ran along part of the route!
Fast-forward to the late 1800s, and with more cars on the road, travel was tricky because of rough road conditions. The answer? A brand-new highway system!
But what would they call it? In a meeting between Missouri State Highway Commission Chief Engineer Bion H. Piepmeier and Oklahoma Department of Highways Chairman Cyrus Avery, the catchy number “66” stuck.
From Springfield’s own Colonial Hotel, they sent the official telegraph naming it Route 66. That simple decision didn’t just pave the way (literally); it turned Springfield into the birthplace of the ultimate American road trip.
Cruisin’ into culture
By the mid-1900s, Route 66 wasn’t just a road anymore—it had become a cultural sensation. Thanks to Bobby Troup’s catchy tune and the “Route 66” TV show, the road caught America’s imagination.
Soon enough, roadside attractions, motels, and diners popped up all along the route, and Springfield was right in the middle of it all.
In fact, Springfield was home to the very first fast food drive-through at Red’s Giant Hamburg. Wondering why it’s called Hamburg? Well, Red Chaney, the owner, originally wanted to name the restaurant “Red’s Giant Hamburger,” but he had to cut off the “er” so the sign fit under nearby power lines! The quirky name paired with delicious food made Red’s a local legend.
Today, while the original is gone, you can still visit a recreation of this iconic spot to grab a burger, fries, and ice cream. And, yes, there’s a retro car parked outside to complete the experience.
Pull over a second!
Speaking of cars, the mid-1900s gave us some of the coolest, most iconic rides in history. Think Oldsmobiles, Thunderbirds, and those classic Volkswagen vans, all cruising along Route 66 through Springfield.
Want to see some up close? The Route 66 Car Museum is where you can check out vintage cars, famous movie vehicles, and more. It’s like taking a joyride back in time.
Preserving the Mother Road
The federal interstate system may have slowed down traffic on Route 66 by the 1970s, but it sure didn’t stop the road from becoming an American legend. Today, Springfield proudly keeps the spirit of Route 66 alive and well.
Take a stroll through downtown Springfield, and you’ll find historic Route 66 landmarks from the early 1900s, like the Gillioz Theatre. Originally a movie palace, the Gillioz now hosts live performances, concerts, and events, all while bringing a little Route 66 magic to modern-day Springfield.
Want more Mother Road history? Head to the History Museum on the Square, where you’ll learn all about Springfield’s connection to Route 66.
These experiences are just a glimpse of what Springfield brings to the Route 66 adventure. This city in the Ozarks offers endless ways to make your Mother Road journey truly unforgettable.
Ready to write your own Route 66 story?
Let the Springfield CVB help you plan the perfect Route 66 adventure, packed with some (or all) of the amazing experiences listed above! Whether you need itineraries, hotel bookings, transportation coordination, or more, we’ve got you covered.
Just reach out to Melissa Martelli, group sales manager, at melissa@springfieldmo.org, or call +1.417.881.5300, ext. 107, to get started.
Your next epic road trip awaits, right here in the birthplace of Route 66.
Photos by Springfield, MO CVB, unless otherwise noted
