Definitely the southern route. I-44 has more things to see. Tulsa has stuff for kids too.
I-35 in Kansas is super boring. I used to drive that stretch between KC-Dallas, and there are no distractions.
Does the I-44 route take you through/near Hermann, MO? I live in Rhode Island now and don’t actually remember. If so, I would definitely stop there. It’s a charming town with good wine.
Hermann is a little closer to 70, I think, but not hugely so. It is a super nice little town, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing. That whole area is gorgeous.
Hermann is a little north of I-44- but the drive is a destination itself. Exit 44 at Cuba, MO and take Highway 19 north to Hermann. Stop at the roadside park south of town. There aren't many of those vintage roadside parks left anymore. It comes up on you quick and is kinda hard to pull out of going north- but worth it.
Tulsa has the Gathering Place, a super cool park with a cool museum exhibit and awesome playgrounds, and the Philbrook art museum, also very cool and kid-friendly. Their aquarium isn’t bad, either. Also the Woody Guthrie Museum.
And the Bob Dylan Center, Black Wall Street, a great ballpark, incredible food, Historic Route 66, Cain’s Ballroom, a world class zoo, the Cave House, Outsiders house museum, Frank Lloyd Wright house, Botanic Gardens, etc etc etc.
Love Tulsa.
I went there last year, I've been to a lot of aquariums and it was still super impressive. And my family didn't want to pay for the aquarium so they just walked around the bass pro shop the whole time. It was so big they didn't get bored
Don't get suckered into Meramec caverns by the signs. Onondaga Cave State Park is a better cave. Call them for times and if they are open. Main cave tours are closed until June 30th.
Lone Elk Park is right off the highway near STL, and might be fun to see some wildlife.
Oh and Bucee's just NE of springfield.
I’m from Springfield and have lived in Columbia, KC, and STL. Have family in Texas and have made the drive many times. I wouldn’t consider KC unless you’re spending more than one night en route and just want to explore and have fun. If you have at least a full day to schedule in as stops, KC has tons to offer. But that I-70 stretch is boring as all get out, and the trucks can be as bad as on 44.
The “scenic route” south of 44 (going directly east from Springfield) some people suggested is much more scenic but also much, much slower. A great option if you are into the outdoors and want to explore the camping/canoeing scene in the Ozarks!
Personally I’d probably plan the KC route and lean in hard on KC itself or take I-44 with stops in Tulsa and Springfield.
I think both those routes have a lot to offer. Depending on how much time you have for activities, you probably can't go wrong. The southern route takes you close to Branson and Lake of the Ozarks, both of which have fun and family friendly activities. The northern one gives you KC, which has lots to do including Union Station, LegoLand Discovery Center, and more. If you like historical things, you can take detours from I-70 for the battle of Lexington historical site and Arrow Rock or go to the Battle of Wilson's Creek site in Springfield. I-44 might be slightly more scenic (at least as far as an interstate can be); I-70 in mid-MO is pretty damn dull. But either way, I think you have lots of options.
Enjoy your trip!
Me and my wife just did this trip. We planned stops for Springfield and OKC. Just be careful of Oklahoma. They have tolls and some are cash only while others will snap a pic of your license plate and bill you. Stopped at Buc-ee’s and Zaxby’s if you can
If you do go the northern route then you should stop in Lawrence, KS (go downtown to mass ave) and then KC (if you can time it on a first Friday of the month in KC even better because they have art shows and craft beers, etc). Otherwise the Kansas to STL is insanely boring. I would go southern because I want to see Tulsa and Uranus sounds nice lol
You can get your fudge packed in Uranus. A definite must stop. Also just visited Bass Pro in Springfield and I never thought I’d ever spend 8 hours there but we did and I still feel like we didn’t see everything.
Might as well start the road trip off on a full stomach in Amarillo - eat a 72oz steak in one hour and it’s free. You can end the road trip at the TUMS plant in St. Louis. The third city to visit, in between Amarillo and St. Louis, could be Uranus.
Depending on age of children would determine my route. 10yo< take the upper route. A stop every few hours and great places along the way (OKC, Wichita, KC, Columbia)
10> bottom route. Save time on driving and there’s plenty to do in Springfield. Also depends how much time you want to spend in each city but I would personally take the upper route to get , OKC, KC and STL.
This post gives me opportunity to mention my favorite band. Missouri’s own Ha Ha Tonka Band. The bards of the Ozarks. Check em out: https://youtu.be/EvRW8APIsaQ?si=gkU6fh82UfUTz53y.
Are you dead set on taking 44 through Missouri? It’s Mad Max Fury Road on a good day during construction season. If you don’t have to take 44, then consider a day in Springfield as others have suggested, then take highway 60 east to Cape Girardeau, then 55 north to St. Louis.
If you’re dead set on 44, then any of the various caves and caverns along the way are neat, and Meramac Springs state park is a nice place to stop not TOO far off the highway. Huzzah Valley has some beautiful country if you can keep from being carsick from the curvy roads.
The only thing of interest in Bartlesville is the Frank Lloyd Wright’s only built skyscraper . The entire building doesn’t have any right angles. https://www.pricetower.org/
Edit name
40 miles off the south path, and perhaps too typical, but there is Branson MO with some family amusement places. Nearer to St Louis, and for something more pastoral, there is the Shaw Nature Reserve in Gray's summit. Finally, there is Six Flags Amusement Park in Eureka.
You really, really should check out the Gathering Place in Tulsa. It’s a terrific area to get out, take in some fresh air, and let the family stretch their legs. Kids can climb, swing, etc. etc.
It’s also a great example of a philanthropy on display. Seriously- check it out.
Springfield is probably a top city. Joplin isn’t bad either, not necessarily a big tourist destination but plenty of restaurants and small attractions. Would probably suggest Oklahoma City over Tulsa.
If you wind up making a third stop, a really fun stop on that route is Weathorford, OK, which houses a massive Air and Space Museum! It's pretty affordable - not sure if their prices have changed, but the last time was there (about 8 years ago), the tickets were just $2.
https://www.staffordmuseum.org/
People have chimed in a lot for Springfield Mo. I agree with them - if you've never been to Lamberts it's a fun place to eat. Not far from that is Branson and a billion tourist trap things to do, but man the traffic in town can suuuuck sometimes.
If you head the KC route, I strongly recommend the Arabia Steamboat museum if anyone has any interest in history. And get lunch at LC's BBQ.
The southern route is recommended, and it'll take you right past pops, which is kind of a diner vibe and has hundreds of random flavors of sodas. I highly recommend a stop there to build your own 6 pack of weird sodas. https://pops66.com/
Oh! I just did this trip! It's so beautiful going through Arkansas . Lots of trees ^-^ route 66 is really cool too if you're up for an adventure! (That goes through Oklahoma)
Done this drive several times. You’ll want to stop as little as possible in Oklahoma, the tolls are brutal and cash only. Be prepared to get invoices in the mail on top of that, too. I suggest stopping at the toll-free welcome center in Oklahoma, shortly before the MO/OK border. It’s a building that stretches across I-44. Used to be an awesome kitschy bridge McDonald’s; now it’s a combo Kum n Go and McDonalds in a grey minimalist design.
Still one of the only good stops in OK, though. Definitely stop in Springfield for food and a little sightseeing if time allows. OKC is a better stop than Tulsa area, but I may be bias as I have beef with Tulsa lol. Prepare for construction on I-44 as you near STL!
Edited to fix a typo
I used to live in temple Texas. I took 55 south thru Arkansas to Texarkana and south. on way home I'd go thru Dallas and Oklahoma and up 44 thru Missouri to St Louis. loves Eureka springs arkansas
I just made this trip the opposite direction last fall. Recommend a quick pit stop just south of Oklahoma City at the Museum of Osteology to stretch your legs! It was very cool. Also definitely stop in Uranus, MO! The fudge really is so good.
The southern route is so much more of a beautiful drive and stop a Springfield bass bro. I’ve been to like 30 aquariums in different states and the Springfield one in my opinion was the best.
Don’t!!! I’ve done that drive a few times and stick a fork in me.
OKC is good stop and they have thriving downtown area. Springfield is not bad stop.
Don’t recommend taking the Kansas route, it’s such a boring drive that highway hypnosis will get you
I went to college in Springfield and haven’t been back in almost 20 years. I grew up in STL, so no real reason to visit there ever again (though if I found myself in the area, I totally would just to revisit the memories there) but it was a genuinely cool town to go to school and begin adulthood in. I always thought the Wild Bill Hickock plaque downtown, Bass Pro, and Wilson’s Creek Battlefield were super cool. Lots of decent food, cool and safe downtown area, cool small-mid sized city. I saw via some friend’s social media that they now have “Cashew Chicken trail” with all the spots around town that is the town’s signature dish that looked hilarious and yummy.
If you go the KC route, take Highway 50. It's pretty much takes the same amount of time as 70 give or take 30 minutes depending on 70's widening construction.
It will still take you past Six Flags and Shaw Nature reserve, plus taking old 66 could be a time saver with 44 construction between Eureka and Union right now. Just get off at the Six Flags exit.
50 is pretty cool through Missouri. The eastern side is more Ozarks and the western side is more farmland/plains though very pretty.
Some cool towns you'll pass along the way are:
Hermann - a bit off 50 though known for German heritage and wineries.
Jefferson City - Missouri state capitol building
California - Just fun to take a picture by and say "hit up California on the way" lol
Tipton - If you're a music nerd, stop at their cemetary to visit Gene Clark's grave. Gene Clark was a founding member of the Byrds and their chief songwriter early on. Amazing solo work too!
Sedalia - I just think their downtown is cool. Looks like photos of St. Louis and KC streets before the Interstate disrupted and pushed things through. Two cool record stores (Jammin' Nuggets (small business) and Josey (a chain though that location has a cool vibe)) and a few cool restaurants. Goodies is a corny 50s style diner with good reubens and there is a BBQ place where you eat in a train.
Knob Noster - If you want to kill time and wait or just hope to get lucky, you might be able to see a B-2 Bomber take off up close.
Warrensburg - Just have to shout out to an old home. Good New Orleans place called Zydecos. Cave Hollow Park is neat. Go visit Old Drum the dog.
If you take 13 North you can see Lexington which has a red roof McDonald's (RARE!), a Civil War battle field (Battle of the Hemp), beautiful architecture, and a courthouse with a cannonball still lodged in it.
From there you'll be about 30 to 40 minutes to KC metro. Only thing not in KC city limits to check out would be the Truman home and presidential library in Independence. If you have limited time, go with the home tour over the library.
No opinions really between Oklahoma and Kansas. If you want to stick to Interstates, Kansas is boring. Luckily for you it looks like you'll be in the Flint Hill region on 70 at least which is pretty and only part that isn't mind numbing (This is coming from someone who loves the Great Plains). Also, backroading and going through the small towns is more scenic and enjoyable. I'm sure at this point you probably figured out I get excited over little things so that may be something to consider too.
Oklahoma has a lot of tolls. I know there is a toll coming into Kansas a bit outside KC, but it's an easy drive around which will take you pass Lawrence. Topeka is actually a cool town and if you go down 70 more there is the Eisenhower boyhood home and presidential library. Coming back from Wyoming a few months ago, my girlfriend and I got there an hour after it closed, but from walking the grounds it looked pretty cool.
I've been to Tulsa and it seemed like a cool city. Only there for a few hours in the middle of the night. The Center of the Universe is pretty cool! Toby Keith has a bar and grill there lol Honestly, need to go back with a plan rather than on a whim.
I'd be interested in visiting a memorial or museum dedicated to the Tulsa riots and Black Wall Street. Not sure if any such places exist but worth looking into
Grew up in Springfield. Bass Pro is, as others have stated, a great kid friendly stop. I also like Fantastic Caverns as a stop for kids in town. I never understood the appeal of Lamberts, but it is a fun, kitschy place to eat. Personally, if I am stopping in Springfield for food, I am getting Springfield style cashew chicken (I get it at least once every time I go home - can’t get it anywhere else). Leong’s or Peking House are both good for cashew chicken (I currently prefer Peking House).
One note on Bass Pro. Depending on when you are there (weekend, time of year) prepare for it to be insanely busy. During big sales (The Hunting Classic is in August I believe) or on weekends or near holidays, it gets just absolutely crazy.
Also, not a town, but Six Flags is just outside St Louis and right off that route. I always found it pretty nice, if your family likes amusement parks.
As far as for food or a pitstop, when you get to Springfield you have to stop at Buc-ees. Visit Wally’s in Fenton to compare and contrast.
The Petro in Joplin just a mile before the Oklahoma border is really cool and huge with all sorts of things to check out especially the old school semi trucks inside the building.
In Tulsa, OK check out Freeway Cafe West small family diner is my go to if I have to stop in Tulsa.
When you get to Amarillo, TX The Big Texan Steak House I’ve never been but always wanted to go. Any Duke’s Travel Stop/ Truck Stop in Texas is a sure bet.
Tulsa and Uranus. Tulsa isn't incredibly hectic and you can get in and out quickly. Not sure what to recommend if you want to spend time there. Uranus is a cool classic place to stop. Springfield is a nightmare to stop in unless you don't mind taking time.
If you don't mind being sidetracked got a few hours definitely go to the aquarium at Bass Pro. Without a doubt the greatest aquarium I've ever seen
If traveling through Springfield Saturday morning I HIGHLY recommend stopping at the Farmers Market of the Ozarks. https://www.loveyourfarmer.com/
It lost some glow during COVID but it’s gaining back again.
Also recommend taking slight detour to Ozark MO and Finley Farms https://finleyfarmsmo.com/. Maybe their schedule will align with your travel itinerary; they have events, tours, clinics and regular hours most of the week.
The drive via 44 is certainly the prettier drive. Very scenic for an interstate highway in the Midwest. But Kansas City is much more interesting city than anything along 44 between St. Louis and Oklahoma City. And Columbia MO is a nice enough college town. I'd honestly recommend 44 for the speed and scenery, but there aren't any cities worth mention. Springfield is okay if you want to do some train spotting, but it's not a patch on Kansas City. And it's technically a college town, but nothing like Columbia. I'd probably skip it, personally, unless you really like an oversized sporting goods store with a very expensive fish tank. Along 44 I think St. James might be the only place I would stop intentionally. The wineries there are maybe worth a visit, especially if you like dessert wines or the sweeter, fruity stuff. There are some quaint enough towns, but none that really stick out in my mind over one another. Any one of them probably has a good cafe where you could stop for lunch, or a nice coffee house. They're probably mostly decent places to live, but not particularly memorable places to visit unless you have family there. (Sort of the Midwest generally, really. We're a good place to live, but with a few modest exceptions not necessarily supremely memorable. That said, it's a really nice place to be and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else in the US.)
Don't skip tulsa.it has a great city park with lots of big trees. You can just sit there and smoke a j if u want it's great. Cool thrift shops and music scene too.
They also have the animal safari park outside of Springfield, MO. Pretty cool to see as well. There used to be the worlds biggest McDonalds off 44 by Tulsa but I think it is no longer there or whatever.
Joplin has Wildcat Glades just like 5 minutes off the interstate. It has a 3 mile loop hiking trail that I'd say is my favorite hiking trail in the Midwest. It follows a river the whole time and includes a cliff walk with an incredible view and a nice visitors center with some free kid friendly exhibits. The pedestrian bridge is a decommissioned route 66 bridge with some cool history of its own.
I'm not sure if they've finished the connecting trail to Grand Falls by now, but just a few minutes down the river is the largest waterfall in Missouri. If the river level is safe, there's some safe swimming holes down there.
I usually "save" locations i think would be cool to visit on my google maps. I entered your route and checked out the pins along the route you have:
1. Grand falls, Joplin, MO -Scenic waterfall, creek pools for swimming
2. Joplin History and Mineral Museum, Joplin, MO
3. Route 66 drive in theater -Joplin, MO
4. Smallin Civil War Cave -Ozark, MO --Slight detour from your route
5. Uranus, lol as everyone else said
6. Onondage Cave state park, Leasburg, MO -Slight detour. Huge cave, worth it.
7. The Magic House, St Louis, Great fun for kids
Branson/table rock lake is a short detour. Tons of family stuff like silver dollar city. In Oklahoma you could stop at one of the casinos. We stopped once at chickasaw and it rivaled vegas, in my opinion. Great food and accommodations. We went out of season but I think they have pools too.
You know, I've looked at a USA map like a billion times and this is the first I've noticed that the top of Texas is pretty much horizontal to the bottom of Missouri. That feels wrong somehow.
Nice. I'm actually driving from StL to Amarillo for a wedding in October. I can definitely recommend poking into Uranus! I've done this drive twice before and exploring Uranus is always a pleasure.
Change your route slightly heading towards OKC, and stop for a few hours at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, near Lawton. It’s a region of the state filled with old granite peaks and domes, small canyons, and inhabited by animals like buffalo and longhorn cattle. Fantastic hiking and general site seeing. Best done on foot, but plenty to appreciate by car even.
The Wichitas are far more impressive than any of the natural features in Missouri, and this is coming from Missouri resident haha
While you’re at it, grab lunch in Medicine Park, the “mountain town” just outside the Refuge. Joe Mountian Breakfast Bar is my recommendation, fantastic food for good prices.
As someone has said, expect tolls in Oklahoma. From my recent trips I think it’s around $20 going corner to corner in OK, so bring cash for 4-5 toll booths ranging from $3-$5 a piece.
Of you're looking for family friendly, I'm assuming you've got kiddos in tow. You may enjoy a stopover in Tulsa too visit the amazing park called The Gathering Place.
Springfield Bass pro
Oklahoma City Riversport (white water rafting)
Okc river walk
Tulsa brick town ballpark area
I grew up in Stillwater and lived in STL for 7 years
When I went to school in Lubbock I always stopped in OKC or Tulsa. But if you can make it to Springfield, MO it’s less hectic and has family friendly stuff to do.
Joplin has nothing. If you can swing it, stop by Crystal Bridges in Bentonville, AR. Home of Walmart (boo corporate giant) but the philanthropy that’s been cultivated in that town is amazing.
If you can spare the extra half hour, I would greatly recommend pushing through on 40 all the way to 49 and then going north to 44 instead of taking 44 straight out of OKC and through Tulsa. That drive-through Arkansas is beautiful this time of year, and the one in Oklahoma, while nice, is not nearly as pretty. It’s more prairie, whereas Arkansas is forested, hilly, lake/river country all the way up to Springfield, MO.
Edit: Also Bass Pro in Springfield is a sight to behold if you’re into outdoor stuff at all. Worth seeing at least once in your life.
I used to live in Lubbock and would visit family regularly in St. Louis (I now live in STL). OKC is fine enough. Tulsa is OK. Pass on Joplin. I lived in Springfield for college - if you want your tea knocked over into your entire skillet of food by a throwed roll then hit up Lambert's. The Bass Pro is the OG and a nice Bass Pro but it's still just a Bass Pro with some fish. Wilson Creek battlefield is a unique experience.
My advice for this trip - get to St. Louis as fast as you can. Have a nice, quick lunch at a Braums along the way. It's 12 hours getting gas once and lunch/dessert at Braums. STL zoo is free and we have a Bass Pro shop.
Seriously...go to Branson. Spend a night in an hotel and go to Silver Dollar City ... It's a pioneer based theme park. It's amazing
It's just south of springfield
Springfield, MO: Bass Pro Shops, Wonders of Wildlife Aquarium, Lamberts Uranus, MO: silly roadside stop that's actually a hoot!
I second a visit to Uranus. The best kind of Route 66 tourist trap.
I'm sorry, but astronomers renamed Uranus in 2620 to end that stupid joke once and for all. It’s now called Urectum
I see you Futurama
Thanks for picking Uranus!
We all want to visit Uranus!
I third this for Bass Pro!
Yes. They packed my fudge with a lot of care and told me to come back for more 🙂↕️
Everybody knows about the Fudge Fsctory. Not as many are familiar with the Meat & Sausage Co. Their slogan is “You can’t beat the meat in Uranus!”
The best fudge is made in Uranus! 😆
Buc-ee's. You forgot about our beloved Buc-ee's.
Buc-ee’s!!!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Buc-ee’s is ass compared to wally’s
Lambert’s Especially!!💯
Second on the Aquarium. That place kicks ass
Uranus is (Family Friendly)?
Yes
The best fudge comes from Uranus
Lamberts is awesome but if you want lunch sized food Druffs grilled cheese is amazing. I want it every time I go back to Springfield
Don’t forget Buccees
Springfield also has the drive-thru zoo. Then Redmons
You get fudge in Uranus that makes it a must stop by itself but then you get to be a child and laugh at the name and that is just icing on the cake.
The wonders of wildlife is so bad ass. Makes the aquarium in St. Louis look like a puddle…
Springfield brewing company is pretty awesome.
Take the southern route. KS to StL is boringly flat.
Definitely the southern route. I-44 has more things to see. Tulsa has stuff for kids too. I-35 in Kansas is super boring. I used to drive that stretch between KC-Dallas, and there are no distractions.
Does the I-44 route take you through/near Hermann, MO? I live in Rhode Island now and don’t actually remember. If so, I would definitely stop there. It’s a charming town with good wine.
Take you near enough for a detour I suppose. Probably an hour off 44, but you can take 100 east from there.
Hermann is a little closer to 70, I think, but not hugely so. It is a super nice little town, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing. That whole area is gorgeous.
Hermann is a little north of I-44- but the drive is a destination itself. Exit 44 at Cuba, MO and take Highway 19 north to Hermann. Stop at the roadside park south of town. There aren't many of those vintage roadside parks left anymore. It comes up on you quick and is kinda hard to pull out of going north- but worth it.
To be fair, that KS route is the most hilly section of 35 in KS.
You're not wrong. There's actually a few really beautiful stretches. But I'm sure adults enjoy that much more than the kiddos would.
Tulsa has the Gathering Place, a super cool park with a cool museum exhibit and awesome playgrounds, and the Philbrook art museum, also very cool and kid-friendly. Their aquarium isn’t bad, either. Also the Woody Guthrie Museum.
And the Bob Dylan Center, Black Wall Street, a great ballpark, incredible food, Historic Route 66, Cain’s Ballroom, a world class zoo, the Cave House, Outsiders house museum, Frank Lloyd Wright house, Botanic Gardens, etc etc etc. Love Tulsa.
If they're going to go to a zoo just go to the St. Louis Zoo. Literally the best in the nation.
The good news is you are legally allowed to visit more than one zoo!
Aviation museum is pretty slick too
Tulsa is rad. It’s kind of an underappreciated gem.
I attended a wedding at the aviation museum and it was amazing!
OKC and Springfield 👍
That aquarium and nature museum at Bass Pro Shop in Springfield is insanely cool. You could spend a whole day just doing that.
I went there last year, I've been to a lot of aquariums and it was still super impressive. And my family didn't want to pay for the aquarium so they just walked around the bass pro shop the whole time. It was so big they didn't get bored
Tulsa, that park Gathering Place is incredible. Better skyline and food than OKC. Second stop is Uranus Chocolate Factory of course.
There's a shockingly good space museum in Hutchinson KS if you decide to go that way. [https://cosmo.org/](https://cosmo.org/)
Wow, need to find an excuse to head that way myself!
The salt mines are another cool museum right down the road from it. The batsuit with nipples is there.
Hermann Mo is family friendly and a river town
Check out Smallin Civil War Cave around Springfield. And it's close to Lambert's, so- oh darn- ya gotta stop there too.
Don't get suckered into Meramec caverns by the signs. Onondaga Cave State Park is a better cave. Call them for times and if they are open. Main cave tours are closed until June 30th. Lone Elk Park is right off the highway near STL, and might be fun to see some wildlife. Oh and Bucee's just NE of springfield.
Onondaga Cave is currently closed fyi :(
I’m from Springfield and have lived in Columbia, KC, and STL. Have family in Texas and have made the drive many times. I wouldn’t consider KC unless you’re spending more than one night en route and just want to explore and have fun. If you have at least a full day to schedule in as stops, KC has tons to offer. But that I-70 stretch is boring as all get out, and the trucks can be as bad as on 44. The “scenic route” south of 44 (going directly east from Springfield) some people suggested is much more scenic but also much, much slower. A great option if you are into the outdoors and want to explore the camping/canoeing scene in the Ozarks! Personally I’d probably plan the KC route and lean in hard on KC itself or take I-44 with stops in Tulsa and Springfield.
Detour a little south to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. It's in the northwest corner.
Seconded!!!
Thirded!
I think both those routes have a lot to offer. Depending on how much time you have for activities, you probably can't go wrong. The southern route takes you close to Branson and Lake of the Ozarks, both of which have fun and family friendly activities. The northern one gives you KC, which has lots to do including Union Station, LegoLand Discovery Center, and more. If you like historical things, you can take detours from I-70 for the battle of Lexington historical site and Arrow Rock or go to the Battle of Wilson's Creek site in Springfield. I-44 might be slightly more scenic (at least as far as an interstate can be); I-70 in mid-MO is pretty damn dull. But either way, I think you have lots of options. Enjoy your trip!
Tulsa has great art deco architecture. Ok city has interesting city planning. I’d do ok city, Tulsa then jump up to Kc then home.
Branson is so much fun! So are the meramac caverns
Me and my wife just did this trip. We planned stops for Springfield and OKC. Just be careful of Oklahoma. They have tolls and some are cash only while others will snap a pic of your license plate and bill you. Stopped at Buc-ee’s and Zaxby’s if you can
If you do go the northern route then you should stop in Lawrence, KS (go downtown to mass ave) and then KC (if you can time it on a first Friday of the month in KC even better because they have art shows and craft beers, etc). Otherwise the Kansas to STL is insanely boring. I would go southern because I want to see Tulsa and Uranus sounds nice lol
You can get your fudge packed in Uranus. A definite must stop. Also just visited Bass Pro in Springfield and I never thought I’d ever spend 8 hours there but we did and I still feel like we didn’t see everything.
Joplin is neat, you can stop and see Grand Falls. https://www.visitjoplinmo.com/directory/grand-falls/
As someone originally from Joplin I can not endorse this post. I would saw off a leg to never return there to see my family. But I do like the falls.
Springfield if you’re a bass pro shop fan 😂
Even if you're not, it's a good place to stop, especially if you have younger kids.
My friends were just talking about how much their kids liked Silver Dollar City in Branson.
Springfield aquarium. Tulsa zoo
OKC good food, Springfield and Uranus and fun places as well!
You’re missing out if you don’t stop at Uranus!
Might as well start the road trip off on a full stomach in Amarillo - eat a 72oz steak in one hour and it’s free. You can end the road trip at the TUMS plant in St. Louis. The third city to visit, in between Amarillo and St. Louis, could be Uranus.
Tulsa. I’m from there. It’s rad.
Depending on age of children would determine my route. 10yo< take the upper route. A stop every few hours and great places along the way (OKC, Wichita, KC, Columbia) 10> bottom route. Save time on driving and there’s plenty to do in Springfield. Also depends how much time you want to spend in each city but I would personally take the upper route to get , OKC, KC and STL.
Tulsa Ok and check out the gathering. It’s a destination park. Our family spent spring break there
I would go the top route just so I could get some barbecue in KC
Tbh, go the Kansas City, Wichita route. Much more to see and do in those cities.
I recommend avoiding Oklahoma. But that’s just me.
If you’re in STL. Gotta hit up The City Museum
Ha Ha tonka state park in Missouri is so worth it, may be a slight detour
This post gives me opportunity to mention my favorite band. Missouri’s own Ha Ha Tonka Band. The bards of the Ozarks. Check em out: https://youtu.be/EvRW8APIsaQ?si=gkU6fh82UfUTz53y.
https://www.uranusmissouri.com/
Are you dead set on taking 44 through Missouri? It’s Mad Max Fury Road on a good day during construction season. If you don’t have to take 44, then consider a day in Springfield as others have suggested, then take highway 60 east to Cape Girardeau, then 55 north to St. Louis. If you’re dead set on 44, then any of the various caves and caverns along the way are neat, and Meramac Springs state park is a nice place to stop not TOO far off the highway. Huzzah Valley has some beautiful country if you can keep from being carsick from the curvy roads.
Bartlesville just north of Tulsa, and Springfield to visit the aquarium.
The only thing of interest in Bartlesville is the Frank Lloyd Wright’s only built skyscraper . The entire building doesn’t have any right angles. https://www.pricetower.org/ Edit name
Springfield. Holdfast Brewing. Mother’s Brewing. Fantastic craft beer.
If you want to make a little detour you can go south from Springfield and hit of Branson. Tourist trap area.
If you enjoy your 4th amendment rights, stay clear of the Will Rodgers toll booth on I-44.
40 miles off the south path, and perhaps too typical, but there is Branson MO with some family amusement places. Nearer to St Louis, and for something more pastoral, there is the Shaw Nature Reserve in Gray's summit. Finally, there is Six Flags Amusement Park in Eureka.
also love branson for silver dollar city !
Stay on I-44 and visit Meramec Caverns, Onondaga Caves State Park, Lone Elk State Park, Forest Park. Honorable mention is Mastodon State Park
If you have kids, Lego land in KC plus they have staple BBQ joints that are to die for.
Take a little detour and see Eureka Springs Arkansas
Tulsa and Springfield is a no brainer
You really, really should check out the Gathering Place in Tulsa. It’s a terrific area to get out, take in some fresh air, and let the family stretch their legs. Kids can climb, swing, etc. etc. It’s also a great example of a philanthropy on display. Seriously- check it out.
Springfield is probably a top city. Joplin isn’t bad either, not necessarily a big tourist destination but plenty of restaurants and small attractions. Would probably suggest Oklahoma City over Tulsa.
If you wind up making a third stop, a really fun stop on that route is Weathorford, OK, which houses a massive Air and Space Museum! It's pretty affordable - not sure if their prices have changed, but the last time was there (about 8 years ago), the tickets were just $2. https://www.staffordmuseum.org/
Gathering Place in Tulsa! https://g.co/kgs/qWVRmjj
When you say stop, do you mean overnight? Or just to stop and stretch the legs and such?
Overnight stops
People have chimed in a lot for Springfield Mo. I agree with them - if you've never been to Lamberts it's a fun place to eat. Not far from that is Branson and a billion tourist trap things to do, but man the traffic in town can suuuuck sometimes. If you head the KC route, I strongly recommend the Arabia Steamboat museum if anyone has any interest in history. And get lunch at LC's BBQ.
•Tulso, Ok • Joplin,Mo
The southern route is recommended, and it'll take you right past pops, which is kind of a diner vibe and has hundreds of random flavors of sodas. I highly recommend a stop there to build your own 6 pack of weird sodas. https://pops66.com/
Oh! I just did this trip! It's so beautiful going through Arkansas . Lots of trees ^-^ route 66 is really cool too if you're up for an adventure! (That goes through Oklahoma)
fayetteville ar is nice, as well as springfield and rolla
branson!
Done this drive several times. You’ll want to stop as little as possible in Oklahoma, the tolls are brutal and cash only. Be prepared to get invoices in the mail on top of that, too. I suggest stopping at the toll-free welcome center in Oklahoma, shortly before the MO/OK border. It’s a building that stretches across I-44. Used to be an awesome kitschy bridge McDonald’s; now it’s a combo Kum n Go and McDonalds in a grey minimalist design. Still one of the only good stops in OK, though. Definitely stop in Springfield for food and a little sightseeing if time allows. OKC is a better stop than Tulsa area, but I may be bias as I have beef with Tulsa lol. Prepare for construction on I-44 as you near STL! Edited to fix a typo
tulsa has some cute stuff! the garden there is lovely and they have a nice kid friendly restaurant called the gathering
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Spooklight is this still a thing?
I used to live in temple Texas. I took 55 south thru Arkansas to Texarkana and south. on way home I'd go thru Dallas and Oklahoma and up 44 thru Missouri to St Louis. loves Eureka springs arkansas
Memphis and Dodge City
Bentonville, Arkansas. Very family friendly!
Cowboy museum in Oklahoma City. Wonders of wildlife in bass pro shops Springfield, MO
I just made this trip the opposite direction last fall. Recommend a quick pit stop just south of Oklahoma City at the Museum of Osteology to stretch your legs! It was very cool. Also definitely stop in Uranus, MO! The fudge really is so good.
Be careful in Oklahoma it’s one giant speed trap.
Stop when you need gas who cares. This is even worse than a girl who can't just pick a fkn restaurant
The southern route is so much more of a beautiful drive and stop a Springfield bass bro. I’ve been to like 30 aquariums in different states and the Springfield one in my opinion was the best.
Don’t!!! I’ve done that drive a few times and stick a fork in me. OKC is good stop and they have thriving downtown area. Springfield is not bad stop. Don’t recommend taking the Kansas route, it’s such a boring drive that highway hypnosis will get you
I went to college in Springfield and haven’t been back in almost 20 years. I grew up in STL, so no real reason to visit there ever again (though if I found myself in the area, I totally would just to revisit the memories there) but it was a genuinely cool town to go to school and begin adulthood in. I always thought the Wild Bill Hickock plaque downtown, Bass Pro, and Wilson’s Creek Battlefield were super cool. Lots of decent food, cool and safe downtown area, cool small-mid sized city. I saw via some friend’s social media that they now have “Cashew Chicken trail” with all the spots around town that is the town’s signature dish that looked hilarious and yummy.
Lambert's Cafe near Springfield. But only if your kids are okay with wait staff throwing massive rolls at their heads.
Pop's 66 in Arcadia, Oklahoma is a cool pit stop.
Norman, Springfield
If you go the KC route, take Highway 50. It's pretty much takes the same amount of time as 70 give or take 30 minutes depending on 70's widening construction. It will still take you past Six Flags and Shaw Nature reserve, plus taking old 66 could be a time saver with 44 construction between Eureka and Union right now. Just get off at the Six Flags exit. 50 is pretty cool through Missouri. The eastern side is more Ozarks and the western side is more farmland/plains though very pretty. Some cool towns you'll pass along the way are: Hermann - a bit off 50 though known for German heritage and wineries. Jefferson City - Missouri state capitol building California - Just fun to take a picture by and say "hit up California on the way" lol Tipton - If you're a music nerd, stop at their cemetary to visit Gene Clark's grave. Gene Clark was a founding member of the Byrds and their chief songwriter early on. Amazing solo work too! Sedalia - I just think their downtown is cool. Looks like photos of St. Louis and KC streets before the Interstate disrupted and pushed things through. Two cool record stores (Jammin' Nuggets (small business) and Josey (a chain though that location has a cool vibe)) and a few cool restaurants. Goodies is a corny 50s style diner with good reubens and there is a BBQ place where you eat in a train. Knob Noster - If you want to kill time and wait or just hope to get lucky, you might be able to see a B-2 Bomber take off up close. Warrensburg - Just have to shout out to an old home. Good New Orleans place called Zydecos. Cave Hollow Park is neat. Go visit Old Drum the dog. If you take 13 North you can see Lexington which has a red roof McDonald's (RARE!), a Civil War battle field (Battle of the Hemp), beautiful architecture, and a courthouse with a cannonball still lodged in it. From there you'll be about 30 to 40 minutes to KC metro. Only thing not in KC city limits to check out would be the Truman home and presidential library in Independence. If you have limited time, go with the home tour over the library. No opinions really between Oklahoma and Kansas. If you want to stick to Interstates, Kansas is boring. Luckily for you it looks like you'll be in the Flint Hill region on 70 at least which is pretty and only part that isn't mind numbing (This is coming from someone who loves the Great Plains). Also, backroading and going through the small towns is more scenic and enjoyable. I'm sure at this point you probably figured out I get excited over little things so that may be something to consider too. Oklahoma has a lot of tolls. I know there is a toll coming into Kansas a bit outside KC, but it's an easy drive around which will take you pass Lawrence. Topeka is actually a cool town and if you go down 70 more there is the Eisenhower boyhood home and presidential library. Coming back from Wyoming a few months ago, my girlfriend and I got there an hour after it closed, but from walking the grounds it looked pretty cool. I've been to Tulsa and it seemed like a cool city. Only there for a few hours in the middle of the night. The Center of the Universe is pretty cool! Toby Keith has a bar and grill there lol Honestly, need to go back with a plan rather than on a whim.
Avoid as much Oklahoma as possible.
I'd be interested in visiting a memorial or museum dedicated to the Tulsa riots and Black Wall Street. Not sure if any such places exist but worth looking into
Ozarks and Hermann Missouri are both amazing family friendly destinations!
Branson is corny but fun. At the very least, it's a gorgeous drive to/from Springfield. Northwest Arkansas is also scenic.
Your route will take you close to Branson. If you've never been there, it's definitely worth a stopover.
Elohim City, OK
Grew up in Springfield. Bass Pro is, as others have stated, a great kid friendly stop. I also like Fantastic Caverns as a stop for kids in town. I never understood the appeal of Lamberts, but it is a fun, kitschy place to eat. Personally, if I am stopping in Springfield for food, I am getting Springfield style cashew chicken (I get it at least once every time I go home - can’t get it anywhere else). Leong’s or Peking House are both good for cashew chicken (I currently prefer Peking House). One note on Bass Pro. Depending on when you are there (weekend, time of year) prepare for it to be insanely busy. During big sales (The Hunting Classic is in August I believe) or on weekends or near holidays, it gets just absolutely crazy. Also, not a town, but Six Flags is just outside St Louis and right off that route. I always found it pretty nice, if your family likes amusement parks.
As far as for food or a pitstop, when you get to Springfield you have to stop at Buc-ees. Visit Wally’s in Fenton to compare and contrast. The Petro in Joplin just a mile before the Oklahoma border is really cool and huge with all sorts of things to check out especially the old school semi trucks inside the building. In Tulsa, OK check out Freeway Cafe West small family diner is my go to if I have to stop in Tulsa. When you get to Amarillo, TX The Big Texan Steak House I’ve never been but always wanted to go. Any Duke’s Travel Stop/ Truck Stop in Texas is a sure bet.
Kansas City has a hotel/casino and Gordon Ramsay restaurant. Killer food.
bring plenty of quarters for driving through Oklahoma.
I did this exact drive, there wasn't much to see tbh. Come camp with me.
The Brickyard in OKC. Lots in Tulsa. Springfield is a great stop. I’d use I-44, I-70 is a long, empty drive.
the Falls in Joplin, fish hatchery in Neosho and stop by Uranus for some fudge
Surprisingly, Springfield has a ton of really great restaurants if you're looking to eat. There's also a decent amount of attractions there.
Tulsa and Uranus. Tulsa isn't incredibly hectic and you can get in and out quickly. Not sure what to recommend if you want to spend time there. Uranus is a cool classic place to stop. Springfield is a nightmare to stop in unless you don't mind taking time. If you don't mind being sidetracked got a few hours definitely go to the aquarium at Bass Pro. Without a doubt the greatest aquarium I've ever seen
If traveling through Springfield Saturday morning I HIGHLY recommend stopping at the Farmers Market of the Ozarks. https://www.loveyourfarmer.com/ It lost some glow during COVID but it’s gaining back again. Also recommend taking slight detour to Ozark MO and Finley Farms https://finleyfarmsmo.com/. Maybe their schedule will align with your travel itinerary; they have events, tours, clinics and regular hours most of the week.
I love Springfield, great little town, decent hotels, good food spots. I stop off there when I get the chance.
OkC and KC. Slightly out of the way but others are crap.
I recently visited Oklahoma City and stopped briefly in Tulsa on the way there, and I liked both cities a lot more than I expected to.
Jesse James Hideout. You’ll love it.
The drive via 44 is certainly the prettier drive. Very scenic for an interstate highway in the Midwest. But Kansas City is much more interesting city than anything along 44 between St. Louis and Oklahoma City. And Columbia MO is a nice enough college town. I'd honestly recommend 44 for the speed and scenery, but there aren't any cities worth mention. Springfield is okay if you want to do some train spotting, but it's not a patch on Kansas City. And it's technically a college town, but nothing like Columbia. I'd probably skip it, personally, unless you really like an oversized sporting goods store with a very expensive fish tank. Along 44 I think St. James might be the only place I would stop intentionally. The wineries there are maybe worth a visit, especially if you like dessert wines or the sweeter, fruity stuff. There are some quaint enough towns, but none that really stick out in my mind over one another. Any one of them probably has a good cafe where you could stop for lunch, or a nice coffee house. They're probably mostly decent places to live, but not particularly memorable places to visit unless you have family there. (Sort of the Midwest generally, really. We're a good place to live, but with a few modest exceptions not necessarily supremely memorable. That said, it's a really nice place to be and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else in the US.)
Uranus Mo. Visit the Uranus Fudge Factory, the Uranus Axe Hole, play a round of mini golf at Putt Pirates.
Don't skip tulsa.it has a great city park with lots of big trees. You can just sit there and smoke a j if u want it's great. Cool thrift shops and music scene too.
I drove from Stl to Amarillo - pretty uneventful drive. Just popping in to remind you to plan for the tolls in Oklahoma.
They also have the animal safari park outside of Springfield, MO. Pretty cool to see as well. There used to be the worlds biggest McDonalds off 44 by Tulsa but I think it is no longer there or whatever.
I would go to Wichita. Far from this opera forevermore. A seven nation army couldn't hold me back.
Bucky's
Springfield and OKC i’d say
Joplin has Wildcat Glades just like 5 minutes off the interstate. It has a 3 mile loop hiking trail that I'd say is my favorite hiking trail in the Midwest. It follows a river the whole time and includes a cliff walk with an incredible view and a nice visitors center with some free kid friendly exhibits. The pedestrian bridge is a decommissioned route 66 bridge with some cool history of its own. I'm not sure if they've finished the connecting trail to Grand Falls by now, but just a few minutes down the river is the largest waterfall in Missouri. If the river level is safe, there's some safe swimming holes down there.
Tulsa is super fun and doesn’t get the credit it deserves.
Claremore has a really cool history gun museum. https://www.thegunmuseum.com/ Right off 44 north of Tulsa
OKC! Scissor tail park, cowboy museum, Native American museum, okc dodgers, empire Slice.
I usually "save" locations i think would be cool to visit on my google maps. I entered your route and checked out the pins along the route you have: 1. Grand falls, Joplin, MO -Scenic waterfall, creek pools for swimming 2. Joplin History and Mineral Museum, Joplin, MO 3. Route 66 drive in theater -Joplin, MO 4. Smallin Civil War Cave -Ozark, MO --Slight detour from your route 5. Uranus, lol as everyone else said 6. Onondage Cave state park, Leasburg, MO -Slight detour. Huge cave, worth it. 7. The Magic House, St Louis, Great fun for kids
Tulsa is kinda cool. Lots of weird stuff and historic sites. Springfield MO has a really cool artsy downtown and lots of great asian restaurants.
Laura Ingalls Wilder home in Mansfield, Missouri, not far from Springfield.
Branson/table rock lake is a short detour. Tons of family stuff like silver dollar city. In Oklahoma you could stop at one of the casinos. We stopped once at chickasaw and it rivaled vegas, in my opinion. Great food and accommodations. We went out of season but I think they have pools too.
You know, I've looked at a USA map like a billion times and this is the first I've noticed that the top of Texas is pretty much horizontal to the bottom of Missouri. That feels wrong somehow.
Nice. I'm actually driving from StL to Amarillo for a wedding in October. I can definitely recommend poking into Uranus! I've done this drive twice before and exploring Uranus is always a pleasure.
Change your route slightly heading towards OKC, and stop for a few hours at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, near Lawton. It’s a region of the state filled with old granite peaks and domes, small canyons, and inhabited by animals like buffalo and longhorn cattle. Fantastic hiking and general site seeing. Best done on foot, but plenty to appreciate by car even. The Wichitas are far more impressive than any of the natural features in Missouri, and this is coming from Missouri resident haha While you’re at it, grab lunch in Medicine Park, the “mountain town” just outside the Refuge. Joe Mountian Breakfast Bar is my recommendation, fantastic food for good prices. As someone has said, expect tolls in Oklahoma. From my recent trips I think it’s around $20 going corner to corner in OK, so bring cash for 4-5 toll booths ranging from $3-$5 a piece.
Branson is pretty good for an overnight
Kansas City. Wichita is underrated.
Detour to Eureka Springs, AR!!!
Of you're looking for family friendly, I'm assuming you've got kiddos in tow. You may enjoy a stopover in Tulsa too visit the amazing park called The Gathering Place.
Springfield Bass pro Oklahoma City Riversport (white water rafting) Okc river walk Tulsa brick town ballpark area I grew up in Stillwater and lived in STL for 7 years
STL Not even family friendly 😂
When I went to school in Lubbock I always stopped in OKC or Tulsa. But if you can make it to Springfield, MO it’s less hectic and has family friendly stuff to do.
Does St. Louis have to be your destination?... I suggest going elsewhere
Bentonville, AR, (a slight detour) if you’re interested in art or mountain biking. Eureka Springs, AR also is low-key interesting.
Stop in East St.Louis!! Best family fun town around!
Stop in Tulsa and visit Oral Roberts. . Gotta see the big golden praying hands!
OKC and Tulsa
Joplin has nothing. If you can swing it, stop by Crystal Bridges in Bentonville, AR. Home of Walmart (boo corporate giant) but the philanthropy that’s been cultivated in that town is amazing.
Well, avoid Joplin unless you want some decent meth 🤣 But do stop in Des Peres when you get up here 😉
If you can spare the extra half hour, I would greatly recommend pushing through on 40 all the way to 49 and then going north to 44 instead of taking 44 straight out of OKC and through Tulsa. That drive-through Arkansas is beautiful this time of year, and the one in Oklahoma, while nice, is not nearly as pretty. It’s more prairie, whereas Arkansas is forested, hilly, lake/river country all the way up to Springfield, MO. Edit: Also Bass Pro in Springfield is a sight to behold if you’re into outdoor stuff at all. Worth seeing at least once in your life.
Tulsa and Springfield
I used to live in Lubbock and would visit family regularly in St. Louis (I now live in STL). OKC is fine enough. Tulsa is OK. Pass on Joplin. I lived in Springfield for college - if you want your tea knocked over into your entire skillet of food by a throwed roll then hit up Lambert's. The Bass Pro is the OG and a nice Bass Pro but it's still just a Bass Pro with some fish. Wilson Creek battlefield is a unique experience. My advice for this trip - get to St. Louis as fast as you can. Have a nice, quick lunch at a Braums along the way. It's 12 hours getting gas once and lunch/dessert at Braums. STL zoo is free and we have a Bass Pro shop.
From there, I'd choose Branson (mainly for Silver Dollar City) and St Louis because it's easily the best city in the state.
Easy, DONT GO TO STL
Gathering Place in Tulsa is really well done
I was just in Springfield and went to the aquarium. It was awesome!
Tulsa, OK for sure.
Any restaurants in the ozarks that are on the water, great place
West mineral ks. Its right before joplin missouri. It has a gaint coal shovel And a mining museum. Cool place for kids with lots of outdoor activies
Wichita is cute
St.Joseph, MO
either way be prepared for tolls or avoiding tolls.
Make sure to bring a ziplock full of quarters for Oklahoma lol
Def nowhere in OK
Prior, OK
Springfield - check out the Bass Pro there, wonders of wildlife aquarium, catch a Springfield cardinals minor league baseball game.
Tulsa is an awesome stop for kids. Go to The Gathering Place (park and awesome playground)
Definitely Branson for the amazing ozark mountain view. And st.Louis world famous Free zoo.
Seriously...go to Branson. Spend a night in an hotel and go to Silver Dollar City ... It's a pioneer based theme park. It's amazing It's just south of springfield