ray harvey mural

10 Things To Do in Cuba Missouri

Welcome to Cuba, Missouri! Also known as the Route 66 Mural City, Cuba is known for art, history, water, and wine! There are plenty of things to do in Cuba, MO that will bring smiles to the whole family! We’ve even uncovered a few awesome fun selfie spots travelers can’t resist! Every corner is Instagram-worthy! Come see what we mean. 

First thing, download the VISITCUBAMO app from Google Play or the Apple Store. Once installed users have access to maps, events, and descriptions of area attractions, restaurants, wineries, and much more. 

Directions to Cuba, Missouri are easy! Find us in Central Missouri, just south of St. Louis on I-44 at EXIT 208. Just off the exit, stop at the Cuba Visitors Center for local maps, state hunting and fishing information, lodging and camping info too.

Tour the Outdoor Murals 

Situated along the Route 66 corridor, the Historic Uptown tells Cuba’s history from the start in 1857. Each mural depicts an iconic tale of war, adventure, intrigue, and love. Pick up a FREE mural map at the Visitors Center or Uptown near the murals. Better yet, use the VISITCUBAMO app to navigate the mural trail. Learn more. 

The Millworks is one of 14 murals in the Route 66 Mural City

Tour the Indoor Murals

The moniker, Route 66 Mural City is well deserved. Walk into any of the many businesses in Cuba and see more works of art. At Mace grocery, the produce section has a glorious mural that shows a farmer’s bounty.  The local bakery has artwork inside and out. The interior walls are covered with bread bakers and country scenes. Outside around the back, playful characters adorn the building. At the Midway Petroleum Plaza, look overhead for a delightful array of classic automobiles painted by famed muralist Ray Harvey to celebrate Route 66. Even the Crawford County Historical Museum has interior murals depicting life as a teenager in the 1950’s. Learn more.

This interior mural at Dottie’s was painted by muralist, Ray Harvey.

Visit the Museum

The Crawford County Historical Society is not what you expect from a small-town museum. In fact, exhibits rotate monthly to keep patrons coming back. View artifacts and exhibits that include handmade quilts, vintage apparel, Osage artifacts, archaic farm tools, and much more.  Located at 308 N. Smith Street in Cuba, MO. Learn more.

The Crawford County Historical Society Museum was once a public school.

Explore Recklein Commons 

This quiet street provides a beautiful setting for the Cuba Veterans Memorial. This granite monument is inscribed with the names of local veterans who served our country.  Across the street, the Crawford County Public Library District provides books, videos, internet access, and printers. Learn more.

The Veterans Memorial on North Smith Street

Cruise Historic Route 66

The city of Cuba is fortunate to have Route 66 run through the center of town. At the intersection of Route 66 and Highway 19 is Weir on 66, a new take on an old tradition. Formerly the Fourway, this new eatery welcomes the travelers into a  1931 Phillips 66 Station for a unique dining experience. Along the route, there is the Historic Landmark Wagon Wheel Motel & Connie”s Shoppe which is the oldest operating motel on Route 66.  Learn more.

The Wagon Wheel Motel, oldest operating motel on Route 66 and is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places

Go to the County Fair

Join the city of Cuba at the Crawford County Fair in July. A tradition for over  70 years, the county fair offers agricultural exhibits, pageants, LIVE concerts, food, and carnival rides. Located at Hood Park, this event is family-friendly and is a guaranteed good time! Learn more.

The commemorative Crawford County Fair mural

Stop at the Fanning Outpost

A fun and delicious stop on Route 66, this stop is a prime source of gourmet popcorn, flavored fudge, funky sodas, and Route 66 memorabilia. Outside, travels encounter the largest Red Rocker in Missouri which presents the perfect selfie opportunity. If you want the whole family in the picture, the friendly folks inside will take the photo for you! Learn more

The Giant Red Rocker at Fanning Outpost

Discover Local Osage History

Stop at the Cuba Visitor Center off I-44 EXIT 208. Upon arrival, the 35 ft. tall steel Osage Legacy Monument, created by local artist Glen Tutterow, greets travelers. Inside the center, watch a short documentary about the Osage people and their impact on today’s highway system. See artworks or George Catlin, a famed artist for painting Native Americans.  Learn more. 

Osage Legacy Trail Monument at the Visitors Center

Embrace Local Flavors

Eat, drink, and be merry at locally-owned and operated eateries. Choose from award-winning BBQ from Missouri Hick, or try comic book-inspired gourmet options at Audrey’s Eatery located inside the Little Shop of Comics. All aboard at Frisco’s Grill and Pub for great American comfort food in a train station atmosphere. Savor a great breakfast or lunch at Shelly’s Route 66 Cafe. Take your taste buds south of the border at Riviera Maya where the margaritas are cold and the salsa is hot! But wait, there’s more! Visit Belmont Vineyards or Peaceful Bend Winery for local wine, brews, and delicious menu options that include locally sourced ingredients.   Learn more.

Award Winning BBQ featured on the Travel Channel

Play in a Park

Cuba Missouri loves to play. Visit Hood Park, home of the Crawford County Fair. From dawn to dusk visitors can walk, bike, fish, play ball, have a picnic and so much more. To cool off, go to Tangle Creek Park, home to the Cuba Municipal Pool and Splash Park. For a quiet stroll or stop, visit Viva Cuba Gardens at the center of town. Created and maintained by Viva Cuba volunteers, this park is a beautiful space to walk, read, or reflect on the day. The garden includes an 1873 Train Replica created by local artists Glen and Curtis Tutterrow.  Learn more.

Visit one of our parks!

Plan a Visit

Guess what? We are just getting started! There are so many Route 66 attractions and things to do in Cuba, MO, we want to keep you coming back! Please contact each attraction directly for specific information on seasonal hours and COVID-19 restrictions. For more information about Cuba, Missouri, contact the Cuba Visitor Center at 573-885-2531 or email us at info@visitcubamo.com. 

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