Route 66’s Quirkiest Stops: 9 Museums That Will Surprise You

Route 66, the legendary “Main Street of America,” is famous for its scenic beauty, iconic diners, and nostalgic Americana. But beyond the classic attractions, there lies a collection of truly unique and bizarre museums that make the journey along this historic route even more unforgettable.

Whether you’re a road trip enthusiast, a history buff, or just in search of the unusual, these nine quirky museums will surprise and delight you. Get ready to explore the strange and the wonderful along one of America’s most famous highways.

1. The Route 66 Museum (Barstow, California)

Barstow, California, is home to one of the most iconic stops along Route 66. The Route 66 Museum offers a fascinating collection of memorabilia celebrating the rich history of the highway. However, what sets this museum apart is its quirky exhibits, such as a collection of neon signs, a 1950s-era gas pump, and even a replica of an old-fashioned roadside diner. It’s the perfect place to start your Route 66 adventure while immersing yourself in the history of the “Mother Road.”

2. The Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas)

While not technically a traditional museum, the Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo is a must-see roadside attraction. This outdoor “art installation” features 10 vintage Cadillacs half-buried nose-first in the ground. Visitors are encouraged to leave their mark by spray-painting the cars, making it a dynamic and ever-changing tribute to creativity and roadside art. It’s certainly one of the most eccentric stops on Route 66!

3. The International Route 66 Mother Road Festival Museum (Springfield, Illinois)

Located in Springfield, Illinois, this museum is a celebration of all things Route 66. What makes it unique, though, is its combination of classic car displays, historical photos, and a collection of Route 66-themed memorabilia that brings the highway’s golden era back to life. The museum also offers interactive exhibits, including vintage gas station displays and even a recreated Route 66 diner, making it a fun stop for families and history enthusiasts alike.

4. The Museum of Neon Art (Los Angeles, California)

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As you travel along Route 66, you can’t miss a stop at the Museum of Neon Art in Los Angeles. Specializing in neon signage and light art, this quirky museum explores the history and cultural significance of neon lights in America.

The collection features iconic signs from Route 66’s heyday, as well as modern neon creations, offering a dazzling visual experience. It’s the perfect place to celebrate the flashy, colorful side of American roadside culture.

5. The National Route 66 Museum (Pontiac, Illinois)

The National Route 66 Museum in Pontiac, Illinois, may be small, but it’s packed with quirky and fascinating displays.

Housed in a building that looks like an old service station, the museum offers a fun look at the history of Route 66 through a series of engaging exhibits, including vintage cars, old gas pumps, and memorabilia from motels and diners. Pontiac is also home to several Route 66 murals, so it’s worth spending some time wandering the town to soak in the roadside charm.

6. The Jesse James Museum (St. Joseph, Missouri)

St. Joseph, Missouri, is home to the Jesse James Museum, which tells the story of the infamous outlaw who met his end in this very city. While not directly linked to Route 66, this quirky museum is a fun stop for those interested in Western folklore and the history of one of the most notorious figures in American history.

The museum features artifacts, photos, and exhibits that dive deep into Jesse James’ life, offering a glimpse into the myth and legend of the infamous bandit.

7. The Mule Memorial Museum (Devils Elbow, Missouri)

Located in the small town of Devils Elbow, Missouri, this offbeat museum celebrates the humble mule’s role in transportation and trade along Route 66.

The Mule Memorial Museum offers a charming collection of memorabilia and artifacts, including photos, saddles, and stories that highlight the importance of mules in America’s history. The museum also offers insights into the natural beauty and history of the Ozarks, making it a quirky and educational stop along the way.

8. The Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store (Uranus, Missouri)

If you’re looking for a truly eccentric stop, look no further than the Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store. Located in the aptly named Uranus, Missouri, this quirky little attraction is known for its hilarious signs, funky souvenirs, and, of course, delicious fudge. While it may not be a traditional museum, it’s a fun and lighthearted place to take a break, snap some photos, and enjoy some sweet treats along Route 66.

9. The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum (Clinton, Oklahoma)

Oklahoma’s Route 66 Museum in Clinton is a nostalgic journey back in time, offering visitors a chance to explore the early days of the highway through a series of quirky exhibits.

Among its treasures are displays of vintage automobiles, interactive exhibits on the Mother Road’s cultural impact, and memorabilia from classic motels and roadside attractions. The museum also showcases the history of Route 66 in Oklahoma, including the role it played in the state’s development and the unique towns it connected.

Route 66 is more than just a highway; it’s a celebration of Americana, and these quirky museums along the way offer a glimpse into the weird, wonderful, and sometimes unexpected side of American history.

From vintage cars and neon signs to oddball attractions like a half-buried Cadillac ranch and a mule memorial, these stops along the historic route will surprise and entertain you.

Whether you’re driving the entire stretch or just visiting a few key towns, don’t miss the opportunity to explore these offbeat museums that make Route 66 one of the most iconic road trips in the world.

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