Joplin Missouri

Stops Along Historic Route 66

Take a unique glimpse into the past at must-see sites along the Mother Road. As you follow Route 66 through Joplin, you’ll come upon the Murphysburg Historic District, a neighborhood of meticulously preserved homes from the early 1900s. Admire this time capsule of architecture, then head to Route 66 Mural Park to see larger than life artistic depictions of what it was like to travel the road in its heyday. Joplin City Hall reveals even more stirring murals: Take a guided tour to see them all and glean some insights into how the rise of Route 66 shaped the town’s way of life. Joplin’s creative spirit comes alive at the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts, where rotating displays and community workshops often feature local artists.

Storied Past

For 13 days in 1933, infamous outlaws Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow rented a quaint garage apartment in Joplin before being discovered and fleeing. Today, the Joplin History & Mineral Museum preserves artifacts from the duo’s stint in Joplin – including photos and jewelry they left behind. This fascinating museum also details Joplin’s origins as a mining boomtown, its connection to famous baseball player Mickey Mantle and an entire wing of mineral specimen collected in the area. Enter through a replica mine shaft to browse an exceptional collection of lead, zinc and mineral ores. This eclectic look at local history is not to be missed. Nearby, visit the George Washington Carver National Monument to spend a day exploring the legacy of the “Plant Doctor,” who was born into slavery before becoming one of the USA’s most influential scientists. See his family homestead and three stories of exhibits in the Discovery Area any time of year, or visit during July to take part in the annual Carver Day Celebration with guest speakers, live music and special events for children.

Fresh-Air Wonders

Go outdoors to see all Joplin has to offer, like the largest continuously flowing natural waterfall in Missouri: Grand Falls. Experience this four-meter-tall wonder during the spring, when the park is filled with lush greenery, or travel during the fall to witness the water set against a backdrop of kaleidoscope colors. A short drive from Grand Falls, stand in three states at once and snap a picture at the Tri-State Marker where Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma meet.

Recreated after the first city park was destroyed by a powerful tornado in 2011, Cunningham Park pays tribute to the lives lost and historical structures damaged in the natural disaster. The new reflecting pond and butterfly garden offer a space to reflect on the tragedy and look ahead to the community’s future. The Rotary Sculpture Garden – built to celebrate Joplin’s resilience – permanently exhibits 30 sculptures by 14 world renowned artists installed throughout Mercy Park.