Route 66 Carthage

With its Route 66 icons, civil war battle sites, elegant mansions, art galleries, and unique shops, the southwest Missouri town of Carthage offers a myriad of attractions for visitors.

I was captivated by its charm on my very first visit; this town is overflowing with character.

No trip down Route 66 – or to southwest Missouri – is complete without stopping in Carthage.

So here’s what I suggest:

1. Read through the following list of my favorite Carthage attractions (click on the highlighted links to read about my experiences at each of them).

2. Pick a few things that interest you.

3. Spend at least one morning exploring those in Carthage.

I bet you’ll be back for more.

Learn Some History

The stately, castle-like building situated smack dab in the center of the downtown square is the Jasper County Courthouse. You’ll want to start there because, well, you just won’t be able to tear your eyes away from it. Its presence is that powerful.

After taking photos of the exterior, go inside and see the murals and displays about Carthage history…

…and the Route 66 exhibit. Oh, and definitely take a ride in the open-cage elevator, which is still operated by hand.

From the courthouse, take a short walk to the Civil War Museum, located one block north of the square. It was here that I learned that the first major land battle of that war took place just a few miles from the museum.

I was fascinated with the diorama of the battle, as well as the exhibit about the guerillas, and the display about Belle Star, who was known as the “Bandit Queen.”

Fuel Up

After your history lesson, head back to the square to Mother Road Coffee.

Enjoy a warm, homemade cinnamon roll and a cup of joe while you mingle with both locals and Route 66 travelers. I had a great time reading through the guest book in the front of the shop and seeing where people have traveled from.

Hunt for Treasures

There are stores on the Carthage square that sell antique and vintage items. Goad’s Antiques and the Screen Door are two shops where you can find treasures from times gone by. Click here to read about my vintage shopping experience at these stores (plus stores in Joplin).

Art lovers, you’re in for a treat, too. Carthage has a strong art community and there are several galleries where you can view the local talent. See the ethereal nature photographs of Koral Martin at Koka Art Gallery, and the breathtaking historical paintings of Andy Thomas at Cherry’s Art Emporium.

For more information on art galleries in Carthage, click here.

A few miles from the square, Carthage artist Lowell Davis has created a one-of-a-kind town called Red Oak II. This collection of early 20th-century rural structures transports visitors back to simpler times.

You can also find Davis’ sculptures throughout the town, and probably Davis, himself (he lives in a home there).

Route 66 Icons

Get your cameras ready! A few structures from the heyday of the Mother Road culture still remain in Carthage, including the Boots Motel, located a few blocks west of the downtown square.

You don’t see architecture like this anymore.

Built by Arthur Boots in 1939, this motel had radios in each guest room, a modern amenity for travelers at the time.

The 66 Drive-In Theatre is another Mother Road icon in Carthage. Built in 1949, many of the original features remain: the neon sign out front, the ticket booth, the concession stand, the playground, and the 66-foot-high movie screen house (the movie screen itself has been updated).

We’ve enjoyed many summer nights movies at this drive-in. Where else can you hear the peaceful sound of crickets chirping in the background while you watch Godzilla destroy a skyscraper?

Whether it’s Route 66, civil war history, shopping, or just escaping from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Carthage offers something that lures travelers to stop and enjoy this colorful town.

WANT MORE?

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This article was commissioned by the Joplin CVB, however the opinions expressed are purely my own. The purpose of Joplin MO Life is to highlight all the best that our area has to offer, and when an article is written about a restaurant, business, attraction, or event, it is because I have had an enjoyable experience and want to share it with others.

Click here to visit the Joplin CVB’s Facebook page.

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Living Life to The Fullest!

I love seeking out new experiences and finding places off the beaten path. I started Joplin MO Life in August 2013 as a way to share my discoveries with others in the Joplin community so that they can learn about the resources that exist right in their own backyards.

I have worked in education and event planning, and have always loved to write. I hold a master's degree in journalism from the University of Oklahoma and a bachelor's degree in marketing from Tulane University.