With the centennial anniversary of Route 66 approaching in 2026, now is the time to plan your group getaway to Pulaski County, Missouri. Winding through the Ozarks, this stretch of this historic highway is among the most scenic on the entire route, flush with group-friendly adventures of all kinds. Pulaski County’s 33 miles of Route 66 include more than 50 exciting stops.
At the City of St. Robert Route 66 Neon Park, see restored neon signs that originated on Route 66 from St. Louis to Carthage, Missouri. This open-air museum is a site to behold by day, but absolutely stunning at night! Dive even further into the history of the region at the Old Stagecoach Stop, featuring docents in period dress, and the Pulaski County Museum, offering both guided and self-guided tours. Groups can pause for reflection at the Trail of Tears Memorial with six storyboards set up along beautiful Roubidoux Creek in a poignant reminder of this tragic time in history.
Visit downtown Waynesville for a self-guided exploration of this historic district. See artwork by famous muralist Ray Harvey, take photo opportunities with Hopper at Hopper’s Pub, and visit the 1903 Courthouse Museum, one of two courthouses along Route 66. Guided tour options are available for the “Waynesville Historic Walking Tour” for a fee.
For groups seeking more adventure, Pulaski County offers plenty of outdoor activities. Float down the Ozark waterways in a kayak, innertube, or raft. With rivers known for their gentle flow, groups can enjoy a journey of anywhere from two to eight hours. Pulaski County is home to several outfitters to serve your group’s paddle sports needs.
Pulaski County is a great destination for shopping and dining. Missouri’s Thrift and Sweets Trail is a self-guided tour of flea markets, gift shops, as well as tasty treats. For a taste of the old-fashioned tourist traps found along Route 66, visit Uranus Fudge Factory for some sweet desserts and a unique gift shop and general store. In another location fitting of vintage Route 66, shop for unique Ozark-themed gifts inside an old gas station at Rustic Treasures. You’ll also find a wide array of cuisine options, from local favorites Honey Chile’ Please, The Hub Restaurant, and Route 66 Taco & Wings, to national franchises like Cracker Barrel, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Culvers.
Whatever kind of adventure your group wants to have in this enthralling part of Missouri, the team at the Pulaski County Tourism Bureau is here to help. Start your journey at the modern Visitors Center, where the hospitality team will make your group feel special with customized goody bags and refreshments. From connecting you with area businesses for fun activities to assisting with locating lodging and dining venues to meet your needs, their services are designed to make your trip as easy and as enriching as possible.
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau
573-336-6355
visitpulaskicounty.org
Lead image:
City of St. Robert Route 66 Neon Park
Photo courtesy of Pulaski County Tourism Bureau
