Overlooked gems on Route 66 are often hiding in plain sight. One example is mere blocks from the original western terminus of US 66.

The Grand Central Market in the heart of the historic Los Angeles theatre district. is a culinary and cultural landmark that shouldn’t be missed. Established in 1917, this bustling market is home to a diverse array of food vendors, offering everything from classic American fare to international delicacies. Visitors can sample dishes from around the world while enjoying an amazing array of neon signage.

Overlooked Gems

The Blue Swallow Motel. The Ariston Café. Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner. The seasoned Route 66 adventurer and the armchair traveler have a list of their favorite places on Route 66.

While many travelers are familiar with iconic stops like the Cadillac Ranch and the Blue Whale of Catoosa, there are numerous often overlooked gems that deserve just as much attention. In this shared adventure from Jim Hinckley’s America, we’ll explore some of these hidden treasures, and a few of our favorite places. This list includes the Golden Light Café, Route 66 Museum in Lebanon, Missouri, the National Museum of Transportation, the Milburn Price Museum in Vega, Texas, and Cahokia Mounds.

Route 66 Museum, Lebanon, Missouri

In Lebanon, Missouri the Route 66 museum in the Lebanon-Laclede County Library is in my humble opinion a must-see attraction. This museum dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of Route 66 in central Missouri features an impressive collection of memorabilia, historic signage, photographs, and artifacts.

Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the evolution of travel in the area, the impact of Route 66 on local communities, and the stories of the people who traveled on this legendary highway. A diorama of the Nelson Dream Village that was once an acclaimed attraction is one of the museum’s treasures.

You can learn more about the Route 66 museum in Lebanon, and the places for pie in this charming community, by listening to the February 2, 2025 episode of Coffee With Jim. Joining host Jim Hinckley for this podcast was Gary Sosniecki of the Lebanon-Laclede County Route 66 Society.

National Museum of Transportation, St. Louis, Missouri

Located just a short drive from Route 66 east of St. Louis, the National Museum of Transportation is one of the nation’s premier museums. This expansive museum boasts one of the largest collections of transportation vehicles in the world, including locomotives, automobiles, aircraft, and boats.

Highlights include the Union Pacific Big Boy, one of the largest steam locomotives ever built, automobiles manufactured in St. Louis, and a Chrysler Turbine Car, a futuristic 1960s vehicle powered by a turbine engine. The museum also offers interactive exhibits and educational programs. This makes it a great destination for families and history buffs alike.

Milburn Price Museum, Vega, Texas

In the small town of Vega, Texas, the Milburn Price Museum offers a unique and charming look at local history and the legacy of Route 66 in the Texas Panhandle. This museum, housed in a historic building that once served as a grocery store, features exhibits that chronicle the history of Vega area ranching, and the impact of Route 66 on the community.

In addition to displays of vintage photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia, there are interesting opportunities for interactive experiences that bring to life. Imagine getting a selfie while sitting behind the wheel of a Model T Ford or creating a souvenir with a 19^th century printing press.

Other Overlooked Gems on Route 66

In addition to these standout museums and attractions, there are many other overlooked gems on Route 66. Here are some of our favorites:

• The Coleman Theatre, Miami, Oklahoma: This beautifully restored theatre, built in 1929, hosts live performances, movies, and special events, offering a glimpse into the golden age of entertainment.
• The Devil’s Elbow Bridge, Devil’s Elbow, Missouri: A historic 1920s truss bridge offering scenic views of the Big Piney River and surrounding bluffs. Since the 1930s Devils Elbow has been rated one of the top beauty spots in Missouri.
• The Blue Dome District, Tulsa, Oklahoma: A historic district filled with unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, centered around the iconic Blue Dome building. This one-of-a-kind landmark was built as a service station complex in the 1920s.
• The U-Drop Inn, Shamrock, Texas: A beautifully restored Art Deco building that once served as a gas station and café, now a visitor center and museum. And now the café is again providing hearty lunches!
• Scoops on 66, Kingman, Arizona: A 1930s diner converted to a delightful gourmet ice cream shop is part of a complex that includes Mudd on 66, a coffee shop in an old Route 66 roadhouse. Comin in March 2025 is Tin Can Alley, a collection of vintage Airstream trailers transformed into modern Airbnb lodging. Don’t forget to get a selfie with the murals created by acclaimed artist Ray Harvey.

Route 66 is more than just a highway. It’s a journey through America’s past and present, and a glimpse of the future filled with stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a road trip enthusiast, a foodie, or simply a curious traveler, these often-overlooked attractions offer a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry that makes up the Mother Road.

So next time you hit the road, take a detour and explore the hidden treasures that await along Route 66. Be sure to take time to talk to the people you meet along the way. They are the magic that infuses Route 66 with its infectious sense of wonder and excitement.