St. Louis
Where Missouri's Route 66 begins
St. Louis is where Missouri's Route 66 journey begins — at the iconic Chain of Rocks Bridge over the Mississippi River. The Gateway Arch towers 630 feet over the riverfront, and the surrounding city delivers world-class BBQ at Pappy's Smokehouse, frozen custard legends at Ted Drewes, and one of America's most creative museums — the City Museum, built entirely from repurposed industrial materials.
The city's Route 66 heritage runs deep. Ted Drewes has been serving frozen custard to travelers since 1929, and Crown Candy Kitchen's soda fountain has been pouring malts since 1913. The Chain of Rocks Bridge, with its famous 22-degree bend, is now a pedestrian path offering spectacular river views.
exploreThings to See & Do
The Gateway Arch
CAN'T MISSAmerica's tallest man-made monument at 630 feet. The tram ride to the top offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and downtown St. Louis.
Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
CAN'T MISSThis mile-long bridge with its famous 22-degree bend is now a pedestrian and bicycle path offering spectacular Mississippi River views.
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
CAN'T MISSOpen since 1929, Ted Drewes serves the famous 'concrete' — frozen custard so thick it's served upside down.
City Museum
A wildly creative playground built from repurposed industrial materials. Part jungle gym, part art installation, entirely unique.
restaurantWhere to Eat
Pappy's Smokehouse
BBQ$$Memphis-style BBQ that regularly makes national 'best of' lists. The pork ribs and brisket are extraordinary. Arrive before 10:30 AM — they sell out daily.
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
American$RT66 CLASSICRoute 66 legend since 1929. The 'concrete' is the signature — served upside down to prove thickness.
Crown Candy Kitchen
Diner$RT66 CLASSICOld-school soda fountain and lunch counter open since 1913. The BLT is legendary and malts are made the original way.
Tips for Visiting St. Louis
Spend at least a full day in St. Louis — the Arch alone takes 2-3 hours with the tram wait.
Ted Drewes is seasonal (Feb–Dec) — check before visiting in winter.
The Chain of Rocks Bridge is best at sunrise or sunset for photos.