Norwegian classic-car tour rolls into southwest Missouri

The Norwegian group that's driving antique cars the length of Route 66 made its way into Strafford, Mo., on its way to nearby Springfield, according to the Springfield News-Leader. Here's something that cracked me up: "What surprised the group so far is the attention we get from the public when driving. People are yelling and … Continue reading Norwegian classic-car tour rolls into southwest Missouri

A Route 66 guide to the “Cars” movie

Updated June 17, 2018 If you just saw the "Cars" movie and want to find more information about Route 66, welcome. First, the Radiator Springs shown in "Cars" is a fictional town. Historic Route 66 exists. On the real Route 66, there is a Baxter Springs in Kansas and a Peach Springs in Arizona. But … Continue reading A Route 66 guide to the “Cars” movie

Keep your fingers crossed

The Carthage Press in Carthage, Mo., reports: A possible vote next week by the District 7 Transportation Enhancement Program committee may lead to the creation of a Route 66 museum in the Courthouse. The enhancement funds go toward non-transportation projections such as trails, streetscaping and museums that have a connection with Route 66. Presiding Commissioner … Continue reading Keep your fingers crossed

“Cars” news roundup for June 8

The Indianapolis Star talked to "Cars" actors Richard Petty and Bonnie Hunt. Here's another Richard Petty interview, this time by the Chicago Tribune.  John Ratzenberger, who plays Mack the semi-truck in the film, is interviewed. And on Thursday evening, Rotten Tomatoes gave "Cars" its desirable Certified Fresh rating. The explanation: "Rotten Tomatoes awards the Certified … Continue reading “Cars” news roundup for June 8

Exotic Animal Paradise to close

Exotic Animal Paradise, a drive-through animal park that's operated on old Route 66 for nearly 35 years near Strafford, Mo., announced Thursday it is set to close Oct. 1, according to the Springfield News-Leader. The animal park was sold to a real-estate developer, the newspaper said. It will make way for a golf course and … Continue reading Exotic Animal Paradise to close

Idol worship at the Edwardsville festival

The 10th annual Festival 66 in Edwardsville, Ill., is taking a page from the wildly popular TV show "American Idol" and holding a singing contest, reports the Belleville News-Democrat. The big event, however, will be the car cruise at 7 p.m. Saturday. More than 200 classic vehicles participate each year. I was stopped in the … Continue reading Idol worship at the Edwardsville festival

Legends of America site marks third anniversary

The EMediaWire reports that the Legends of America site is marking its third year of existence this year. Legends owner Kathy Weiser of Lenexa, Kansas, became consumed by her creation, quitting her full time job two years ago to focus full time on the website. Full of facts and fancy about destinations in the American … Continue reading Legends of America site marks third anniversary

Riding the 844 train

  Ace Jackalope of The Lope blog not only went to see Union Pacific Railroad's historic No. 844 steam engine when it made a recent stop in the Route 66 town of Claremore, Okla., but he also rode it clear to Kansas City. Click here for the story and a lot more great photos.

Follow the bloggers

The girls on the Route 66 travel blog are having a blast. They danced with a fleet-footed old man at the Round Barn in Arcadia, Okla., had their vehicle jimmied open after they accidently locked their keys in it at the Midpoint Cafe in Adrian, Texas, and got a tour of the Blue Swallow Motel … Continue reading Follow the bloggers

Missouri travel advisory

The Springfield (Mo.) News-Leader reports that reconstruction on Interstate 44 between mile markers 135 and 145 on Interstate 44 east of Lebanon will begin in earnest Wednesday afternoon.  This is on top of delays on I-44 in St. Louis County and Franklin County. Motorists crossing Missouri have seen delays of up to one hour. Of … Continue reading Missouri travel advisory