If you’re looking for a fun motorcycle road trip to add to your itinerary this summer or fall, you’ll want to consider a Missouri Route 66 trip. Historic Route 66 spans from Chicago to Los Angeles, passing directly through Missouri. You can follow this route from St. Louis to Joplin, making for an enjoyable road trip through the great state of Missouri.
However, you’ll want to prepare adequately for your St. Louis to Joplin, MO, road trip. Read on to learn everything you need to know about taking a Missouri Route 66 motorcycle trip.
What Cities Does Route 66 Pass Through In Missouri?
Following Route 66 from northeast Missouri to the southwest border allows you to pass through several of the state’s most inviting cities.
The route picks up in St. Louis, MO, which is home to the Gateway Arch. This massive monument is the world’s tallest arch and is commonly known as the Gateway to the West.
After passing through St. Louis, you’ll make your way southwest through the following cities:
- Cuba
- Lebanon
- Springfield
- Carthage
- Joplin
You’ll also pass scenic farmland and sprawling landscapes as you traverse from city to city. Route 66 makes for an enjoyable motorcycle ride that combines a pleasant blend of city architecture with scenic views.
How Long Does It Take to Ride from St. Louis to Joplin?
Route 66 covers around 285 miles of roadway within Missouri. If you plan to ride directly from St. Louis to Joplin along this route, you can expect the trip to take just over 4 hours without stops.
However, unless you’re just passing through Missouri, you’ll probably want to stop and see at least a few attractions along the way. As a result, we recommend dedicating a whole day to your St. Louis to Joplin, MO, road trip.
What Should I Pack For My Route 66 Road Trip?
The supplies you need to pack for your road trip depend on how long you plan to be gone. If you’re planning a day trip from St. Louis to Joplin, you won’t need to take many additional supplies. However, if you’re going to stay overnight or turn your road trip into a week-long affair, you’ll need to pack accordingly.
At a minimum, we always recommend packing at least the following items when planning a road trip:
- Extra clothing: Rain storms can pop up out of nowhere in Missouri, and you’ll want to have extra dry clothes with you just in case you need them.
- Emergency supplies: Keeping a first aid kit, flashlight, tool kit, and list of emergency phone numbers in your storage compartment is always a smart idea.
- Maintenance tools: You should also pack a few essential motorcycle maintenance tools in your storage compartment, such as a tire compressor, a tire patch kit, a portable battery charger, and a set of handheld tools.
- Safety gear: Wearing adequate safety gear is essential while on busy roads like Route 66. Be sure to wear close-toed shoes, long pants, and a DOT-approved helmet during your trip.
Things to See Along Route 66 in Missouri
Route 66 famously packs in numerous fun attractions along the route. Some of these attractions you can experience from your bike as you ride by. Others require an up-close look or even a few hours of your time to experience fully.
Here are a few things to see and do along your St. Louis to Joplin, MO road trip:
- The Gateway Arch (St. Louis)
- Chain of Rocks Bridge (St. Louis)
- Route 66 Drive-In Theater (Carthage)
- Route 66 Mural City (Cuba)
- Fanning 66 Outpost General Store (Fanning)
- Route 66 Museum (Lebanon)
- Route 66 State Park (Eureka)
And before you hit the road, be sure to request your Law Tigers Rider Benefit Package. It comes with a $10,000 Hit-and-Run Reward, $10,000 Bike Theft Reward, Free Legal Advice for all Motorcycle Matters, Free Motorcycle Repair or Replacement Assistance, and a really great Document Holder – all FREE from your friends at Law Tigers! If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, give Law Tigers a call 1-888-863-7216, we’ve got your back.
