State park preserving the history of America's Mother Road through museum exhibits, scenic trails, river views, wildlife habitats, and remnants of historic transportation routes.
Visitor Center: March through October, 9am to 4pm daily
How to Get There
From St. Louis (30 mi): Take I-44 southwest toward Eureka, exit onto North Outer Road, and follow signs to the park entrance located near the Meramec River and the historic Route 66 corridor.
Overview
Route 66 State Park offers visitors an opportunity to experience both the natural beauty of the Missouri landscape and the enduring legacy of America's most famous highway. Located along the Meramec River in Eureka, the park occupies land once associated with the historic town of Times Beach and includes portions of the original Route 66 corridor. Its visitor center is housed within the former Bridgehead Inn, a roadhouse dating to 1935 that served travelers during the golden age of automobile tourism. Exhibits inside the center explore the history, culture, and economic impact of Route 66 while highlighting the communities that flourished along its path.
Beyond its transportation heritage, the park provides a diverse outdoor recreation experience. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that wind through forests, restored prairie landscapes, and riverfront habitats supporting more than 175 species of birds. Scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and interpretive displays help connect the area's natural environment with its rich historical significance. The combination of Route 66 history, wildlife viewing, and easy access from the St. Louis metropolitan area makes the park one of Missouri's premier destinations for travelers seeking both outdoor adventure and a deeper appreciation of the Mother Road.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official Missouri State Parks resources for the Route 66 State Park, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0.
