Strafford

Strafford, Missouri, combines the history of Route 66 with distinctive attractions and notable reminders of the town’s development. For planning your trip, it is worth exploring both its historical connections and its nature- and family-oriented experiences. Depending on whether you are interested in American transportation history, a visit to Wild Animal Safari, or a seasonal water attraction, you can choose your holiday rental in Strafford as a base for a wide variety of days out.

Route 66 and the history of Strafford

The town’s history dates back to its establishment by the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad: in April 1871, Strafford was laid out in lots by the railroad company. Another important chapter followed in 1926, when Route 66 was routed through Strafford. In the 1930s, traffic on this road supported businesses serving travelers and tourists. This development continues to shape several visible reminders in the town today.

On the wall of the town hall facing Route 66, there is a “Route 66 Mural.” The “Route 66 Historical Park” also features stylized replicas of the former Baumgatner's Station and the railroad depot of the city of Strafford. The city established the park to preserve the local Route 66 heritage. Anyone interested in the connection between road transportation, railroads, and local history will find several different starting points here for their own exploration.

About 1.5 miles south of present-day Strafford, a section of the overland route associated with the forced migration of Indigenous people known as the “Trail of Tears” also passed through the area. This historical connection represents a separate and serious aspect of the town’s history and complements the study of the later transportation routes.

Wildlife and water excursions

Wild Animal Safari, located at 124 Jungle Road, Strafford, Missouri 65757, offers educational excursions for school groups. In addition, customizable packages are available for birthday parties, family reunions, and corporate events. This makes it possible to plan a visit around the occasion of the trip without requiring all travelers to have the same interests. For a group, a connection with nature, shared learning, and a special event day can each be different reasons to include this activity.

The Howard Smith Park offers a different type of experience: a seasonal water-play area, known as a spray pad, is located at 408 E. Bumgarner Boulevard. If you would like to include a water break in your trip planning, you can set aside this location as a separate part of the day. Be sure to take its seasonal operation into account when making your specific plans.

Local flavors and suitable trip planning

One of the culinary stops is Joe’s Route 66 Diner. Burgers and hand-cut French fries are prepared to order there. This suits a trip in which the history of Route 66 is discovered not only through historic sites but also through a food culture connected with the road. Together with the mural, the Historical Park, and the other attractions, this creates a diverse picture of Strafford.

When looking for a holiday rental or vacation home, you can therefore first consider which themes should define your trip: historical discoveries related to Route 66, a visit to Wild Animal Safari, a seasonal visit to Howard Smith Park, or a combination of several interests. If you would also like to consider another location as part of the same trip planning, you can also take a look at Marshfield.

For the broader travel overview: Webster County.