The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge was the original Mississippi River crossing on Route 66.

Celebrate 100 Years of Route 66

Whether you’re chasing the warm glow of vintage neon, capturing the perfect shot of polished chrome, savoring the timeless flavor of roadside eateries or joining a neighborhood festival honoring the Mother Road, St. Louis is a must-stop on your centennial road trip.

Here, rich history, quirky icons and vibrant culture come together. Find your rhythm, follow the road and experience the spirit of Route 66 firsthand.

The Legacy of the Mother Road

From the iconic neon glow of Crestwood Bowl to the gravity-defying “concretes” at Ted Drewes, Route 66 unfolds as a living gallery of Americana through the Gateway City. Plan a journey that carries you across the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, along the tracks of the National Museum of Transportation and into the subterranean wonders of Meramec Caverns.

The National Museum of Transportation has a Route 66 exhibit.

Must-Try Route 66 Diners

Savor the simple pleasures of the Mother Road at the diners that have fueled generations of travelers. From the 16-stool counter at Carl’s Drive-In to the deliciously messy slinger at Courtesy Diner, don’t miss the chance to settle into vinyl seats, sip bottomless coffee and soak up the neon-lit hospitality that make St. Louis a premier pit stop for food-lovers and road-trippers alike.

Carl's Drive-In serves griddled smash burgers and housemade root beer along Route 66 in St Louis.

Retro Neon Along Route 66

Take this as a sign: Route 66 should be your next adventure. In St. Louis, the spirit of the historic highway shines bright thanks to a collection of dazzling neon. The glowing beacons flicker to life after sunset, illuminating classic diners, retro motels and lovingly preserved roadside landmarks. Follow the lights and you’ll discover Route 66 is still an experience worth chasing.

Through the cars in the parking lot, the Crestwood Bowl neon sign glows along Route 66.

All for Insta: 35 Picture-Perfect Spots in St. Louis

St. Louis Suds

The “King of Beers” may be rooted in St. Louis, but the local beer scene is always evolving. Sample funky, barrel-aged sours in Maplewood, sip organic citrus wheats along the Great River Road or pair a city-supporting pale ale with a backyard lobster roll in Kirkwood – and discover why St. Louis ranks among the best beer cities in the country.

Groups enjoy craft beer at 4 Hands Brewing Co., one of the best St. Louis breweries.

Sports by the Season

Looking for a thrill? Join one of the best fanbases in the country! From “ka-kaws” at The Dome to original chants at Energizer Park, St. Louis lives and breathes sports. Grab your red and blue and jump into the heart of the action – no matter the month.

Fans cheer on St. Louis CITY SC at Citypark.

Free Fun for All

In St. Louis, a world-class getaway doesn’t come with a high price tag. From the sprawling habitats of the Saint Louis Zoo to the contemporary galleries of the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, you can experience endless fun at any age. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture or an outdoor enthusiast, top-tier attractions await – free of charge.

A kid observes black-and-white colobuses at the Saint Louis Zoo.

Helpful Links & Resources

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