Whether you’re getting ready to cruise the Mother Road or looking to get off the beaten path, Carthage and Joplin will be just your speed. You’ll get a taste of days-gone-by Americana, interesting local history and tasty food. So buckle up and get down to southwest Missouri – just keep the speed limit in mind.
Play
A. 66 Drive-In Theatre
Enjoy a movie the old fashioned way at the 66 Drive-In Theatre. Load your car up with lawn chairs and settle in to see two movies for the price of one. There is a brief intermission between films, which is the perfect opportunity to stop by the concession stand for a tasty treat.
Learn
A. Battle of Carthage State Historic Site
Visit a quiet meadow that was once the site of a Civil War battle. The nearby spring that made the area an ideal encampment for both Union and Confederate troops still peacefully flows. An on-site display provides information about the battle and how it set the stage for a larger battle one month later at Wilson’s Creek in Springfield.
B. Carthage Civil War Museum
History buffs will be in their element at the Carthage Civil War Museum. The museum focuses on the Battle of Carthage, the first full-scale land battle of the Civil War. A video describes the impacts of the Civil War on the Ozark Mountains and how skirmishes were fought on the terrain.
Eat
A. The Woodshed Burger House
If a classic American meal is what you’re looking for, you won’t be disappointed by the burgers at The Woodshed Burger House. The restaurant, located in the back of Cherry’s Art Emporium, serves up gourmet burgers, steaks, salads and some seriously cheesy pizza.
B. Boomers BBQ and Catering
Sample genuine Missouri barbecue at Boomer’s BBQ. The family-owned business has a mouthwatering menu of classic barbecue favorites and new, inventive dishes like Boomer’s Pork Parfait – five layers of pulled pork and twice baked potato casserole. Guests can enjoy a meal in the dining room or grab something to go at the drive-thru window.