(StatePoint) From the windy, skyscraper-lined streets of Chicago to the sunny and sandy shores of Santa Monica, Historic Route 66 is full of iconic wonders that have captured the imaginations of cross-country travelers for 100 years. But perhaps no stretch of the Mother Road offers such natural beauty as the 33 miles that twist and wind through the Ozarks in Pulaski County, Missouri. Here, the history and heritage of the Mother Road live on not just in preserved roadside curios and attractions that echo the styles and allure of mid-century Americana, but also in the extraordinary events that draw in road trippers as well as generations of locals who have made a home here.
In June, the 2026 Great Race arrives in the county seat of Waynesville — the Birthplace of the Byway. This legendary rally rolls into the city’s historic square around noon on June 26, with 130 competitors bringing antique, vintage, and collector cars rumbling into town for lunch before heading back out on the open road. On June 27-28, the Cave State Cruisers Car & Bike Show celebrates the Route 66 centennial with food trucks, special events, and of course, a cruise-in featuring a fabulous collection of classic cars from all over the Show Me State.
Beginning July 31, residents and vendors alike line the Mother Road for the 2026 Route 66 Yard Sale. This two-day event invites visitors to explore a wide range of sales covering approximately 100 miles that are brimming with reclaimed treasures. In September, the 2026 Big BAM passes through Pulaski County, part of a 333.5-mile trek from Joplin to the St. Louis suburbs. In Pulaski County, riders will camp at the historic Roubidoux Park — home to the bubbling, natural wonder that is Roubidoux Spring — before heading east in the morning toward the Mississippi River.
Additionally, a variety of community events celebrate the rich history and culture of Route 66 as well as the communities through which it passes. The 37th Annual Mid America Freedom Rally, held from May 22-25 in Buckhorn, honors the fallen servicemen and women of the United States Armed Forces. Guests ages 21 and over enjoy a Memorial Presentation to remember the departed and celebrate alongside locals during live music sets all three days. The Pulaski County Regional Fair (June 17-20 in Saint Robert) promises the classic, Midwestern county fair experience with livestock shows and bull rides, along with a carnival midway and a wide variety of vendors.
And around each twist and turn of the Mother Road lies a new, iconic discovery. Witness the historic 1923 steel-truss bridge spanning the Big Piney River in the small community of Devils Elbow. Indulge in some sweet homemade treats — and a few giggles — at Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store. Tour the incredible military history on display at the Mahaffey Museum Complex at Fort Leonard Wood. And feast your eyes on dazzling restored signs at Route 66 Neon Park. See how the timeless spirit of Route 66 lives on a century later in Pulaski County, Missouri.
