From the famous Route 66 to the Gasconade River to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri’s Pulaski County is rich in things to see and do. Come check it out for yourself.

Brought to you in partnership with Pulaski County Tourism Bureau

The cool, crisp air of autumn beckons you outdoors to enjoy the spoils of Mother Nature before the cold, winter months. And as rolling hills ignite in a spectrum of reds, oranges, and yellows, there’s no better time to take in the fall scenery along America’s most historic highway. Embark on an autumnal adventure this year on the 33 miles of Historic Route 66 carving their way through the Ozarks in Pulaski County, Missouri!

Twisting through rolling hills ablaze in fall colors, the Big Piney and Gasconade rivers offer a spectacular view of the Ozark scenery.

Begin by soaking in the spectacular fall foliage firsthand in the Great Outdoors. Twisting and winding between the Ozark hills, the Big Piney and Gasconade rivers offer an unspoiled look at the blazing scenery from the comfort of a kayak or canoe drifting peacefully downstream. These very waters are also home to some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the country, offering anglers of all ages an opportunity to bring home a brand-new trophy. Plus, numerous outfitters around the county are on hand with all the equipment you could need for a day on the water, making your outdoor excursion effortless.

Once a small basic training post, Fort Leonard Wood is now a large Army Center of Excellence with numerous historical sites and museums paying tribute to the countless men and women whose military service began here.

After spending time immersing yourself in the Ozark wilderness, pay tribute to the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces at Fort Leonard Wood. Founded during World War II and evolving from a small basic training post to an Army Center of Excellence, this 63,000-acre fort is home to the John B. Mahaffey Museum Complex, the only location in the country to feature three U.S. Army museums in one complex — the U.S. Army Military Police Corps Regimental Museum, the U.S. Army Engineer Museum, and the U.S. Army Chemical Corps Museum — each spotlighting the fascinating history of the military. Fort Leonard Wood is also home to Memorial Grove Park & Walking Trail, a tranquil and somber experience honoring fallen soldiers with stunning bronze statues lining a concrete walking trail.

Ranging from architectural marvels to campy fun, the roadside stops lining 33 miles of Historic Route 66 in Pulaski County, MO, transport travelers back to a simpler time in American history.

 A road trip down the famed Mother Road isn’t complete without stopping at some of the more colorful — and in some cases, cheeky — roadside stops echoing the same attractions that lined Route 66 in its heyday. Witness sites like:

Plus an entire world of flavors just suitable for all palates. Tangy and smoky BBQ, savory tacos, fiery bulgogi… The toughest part is picking just one stop. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to turn this from a quick fall getaway into a multi-night stay!

The open road is calling you this fall — take the great American road trip today! Learn more and plan your trip at VisitPulaskiCounty.org!

All photos courtesy of Pulaski County Tourism Bureau