Route 66: Unique & Quirky America
From Oklahoma City to St. Louis w/ Branson
"Get Your Kicks on Route 66" as we tour this historic highway on a leisurely stretch from Oklahoma City to St. Louis. Route 66 was established in 1926 and ultimately stretched almost 2,500 miles through eight states. It captured Americans’ imagination and exposed millions of citizens to small towns across the country. We begin in Oklahoma City and during our exploration of this famed route, we will visit unique and quirky roadside attractions. Mid-way through we'll stop in the Ozark town of Branson, Missouri, which has become famous for its live music shows and other vacation attractions. This tour is a slice of Americana you're certain to love.
Route 66: Unique & Quirky America
September 19 - September 25, 2027Highlights
- Visit Quirky Route 66 Roadside Attractions
- Meet a World-Renowned Budweiser Clydesdale
- Visit the Solemn Oklahoma City National Memorial
- Gaze Westward from the top of the St. Louis Arch
- Take in a Branson Variety Show
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for things to see and do
- And More... See itinerary for details
Activity
Read more about WTT Activity Levels
- 70% Easy
- 30% Moderate (extensive walking, some long travel days)
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
Itinerary
Sunday, 19 September 2027: Arrive Oklahoma City; Welcome Meeting and Dinner (D)
Schedule your arrival into Oklahoma City no later than 4:00pm and take local transportation to the hotel. The tour begins at 6:00pm in the lobby of our hotel. We will make introductions and then enjoy a Welcome Dinner to get better acquainted. Overnight Oklahoma City - 2 nights
Monday, 20 September 2027: Oklahoma City National Memorial; National Cowboy Museum (B,L)
Oklahoma City is a modern metropolis with deep frontier roots. While stockyards and cowboy hats may be characteristic of this city, it was the tragic April 1995 bombing of a federal building that propelled the city into international headlines. Our day begins with a visit to the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, which offers a moving tribute that honors the victims, survivors and first responders of that day. This afternoon, get a taste of the Old West at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, which preserves the histories and cultures of the American West. We return to our hotel late in the afternoon with time to walk around Bricktown, an area where once-abandoned warehouses have been re-imagined as the crossroads for dining, shopping, and nightlife in OKC.
Tuesday, 21 September 2027: Historic Route 66 Road Trip (B,L)
We are “road-tripping” today, meandering along a stretch of Historic Route 66 that has become an icon of American culture and history. Born in 1926 as one of our country’s first numbered highways, the legendary old road begins in Chicago and passes through the heart of the United States until it reaches Los Angeles. While much of the old highway has been replaced by modern interstates, many of the towns and cities along the original route have protected their Route 66 heritage. We make our way east through Oklahoma and into Missouri, stepping back in time to when the journey was part of the fun. We’ll take in some of the country’s most classic roadside scenes – kitschy neon signs, landmark buildings, restored gas stations, vintage motor courts, and make stops for sights and photos as the mood strikes us. Overnight Joplin – 1 night
Wednesday, 22 September 2027: Travel to Branson; Free Afternoon; Variety Show & Dinner (B,D)
Our road trip continues today as we make our way to to Branson, Missouri, a town dominated by the views of the Ozark mountains. There will be a bit of downtime in early afternoon to wander about and take in the many sights along the strip known as 76 Country Boulevard. Yes, Branson can be a little kitschy, but it has become world-famous for its plethora of live entertainment and is home to more theater shows than Broadway! We regroup late afternoon to have dinner together and see a show. Overnight Branson - 1 night
Thursday, 23 September 2027: Depart for St. Louis; Budweiser Brewery & Clydesdales Visit (B,L)
Today we are off to St. Louis, Missouri, making a few select stops along the way. Upon arrival in St. Louis, we'll visit the downtown Budweiser Brewery to see where they make the freshest King of Beers. From the Prohibition era to Super Bowl commercials, there is perhaps nothing more iconic in Budweiser’s storied history than its team of Clydesdale horses. More than just a mascot, the Clydesdales have been an integral part of Anheuser-Busch for more than 80 years. We will get up close and personal with one of the horses during our visit to the brewery campus. And of course, for those who want, we'll enjoy a beer! Overnight St. Louis - 2 nights
Friday, 24 September 2027: Gateway Arch National Park; River Cruise; Farewell Dinner (B,D)
St. Louis is known, appropriately, as the Gateway to the West as it was the last “big city” stop before pioneers ventured into the untamed western wilderness. The monument to our country’s westward expansion is the Gateway Arch, an engineering marvel that soars 630 feet. It is the world's largest arch and the nation's tallest monument. We begin with a tram to the top of the arch to take in sweeping views of the Mississippi River. Early this afternoon, we're in for some of the best views of St. Louis’ working riverfront as we take a riverboat cruise up the Mississippi. This afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. Tonight, we will gather together for our Farewell Dinner.
Saturday, 25 September 2027: Return Home (B)
Sadly, our time together has come to an end. Schedule your departure at your convenience. Your Tour Leader can assist with organizing travelers into small groups so you can ride-share to the airport if you wish.
Route 66: Unique & Quirky America
September 19 - September 25, 2027Pricing
Room Share
$2,648.00Single Room
$3,660.00Non-Members
ADD $50.00Status of this Tour
More than 1/2 Full
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Airport transfers
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages other than coffee, tea & still water unless otherwise noted
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Director
- Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Tuesday, 23 Mar 2027: Last day $250 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Monday, 21 Jun 2027: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Thursday, 5 Aug 2027 results in a cancellation penalty of 50% of your Total Tour Cost.
Thursday, 5 Aug 2027: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after
your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your
cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance is not included in the cost of the tour. It is your responsibility to determine the amount and type of coverage you require to recoup some or all of your travel investment, whether you cancel, are unable to complete the tour, or the tour cannot operate. Section 4.0 of WTT Terms & Conditions explains what will happen to your payments in the unlikely event that your tour cannot operate. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
Route 66: Unique & Quirky America
September 19 - September 25, 2027Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air arrangements as follows:
When searching for flights for this trip, be sure to search "Multi-city" or "Multiple Destinations." For comparison, you may also want to search for one-way fares.
Arrival Airport: OKC - Oklahoma City, OK (Will Rogers World Airport)
Arrival Date: Sunday, September 19. Arrive no later than 4:00pm.
Arrival Transfer: Use local taxi or shuttle. Details provided in Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: STL - St. Louis, MO (St. Louis Lambert International Airport)
Departure Date: Saturday, September 25th. Depart at your convenience.
Departure Transfer: Use local shuttle or taxi service. WTT Tour Leader will assist in coordinating ride sharing.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are not included: WTT will provide suggestions to get to the hotel in your Final Travel Instructions about 2-3 weeks before the start of the tour. You'll also be able to see who else is arriving at the same time if you want to coordinate ride-sharing to the hotel.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Oklahoma City: Fordson Hotel Oklahoma City
Joplin: Drury Inn and Suites Joplin
Branson: Best Western Center Pointe Inn
St. Louis: Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Union Station - MO
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Myriad Botanical Gardens Visit
$228.00 Roomshare pp $363.00 Single Occupancy
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
Additional Reminders About This Tour
Route 66: Unique & Quirky America
September 19 - September 25, 2027Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
- 70% Easy
- 30% Moderate (extensive walking, some long travel days)
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Leader when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Leader will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Leader.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian and gluten-free dietary requests can be accommodated on this tour with limited selections.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general the temperature, rainfall and humidity levels vary based on the time of the year. We suggest you monitor weather apps before you depart for the most current information.
For This Trip You May Want—
- Shoes that are comfortable for walking
- Refillable water bottle
- Smart-casual wear if you'd like to dress up a bit for dinners
- Lightweight but warm jacket/sweater for the cool mornings and evenings or the unusually brisk day
- Inexpensive rain poncho or travel umbrella, just in case
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
We will be using the WTT coach on this tour. The luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations and the requirement that travelers manage their belongings.
- It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- You may bring one suitcase and a day pack or shoulder bag to keep with you in the coach.
- Maximum suitcase size: 22-24 inches in height. This is the size of bag that fits into the overhead bins of aircraft. Suitcases larger than this will not fit properly in the WTT coach; don't bring them.
- The weight of your bag should not exceed 30 pounds as you will need to lift it into the coach luggage compartment.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach and load it on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient. The possibility of steps exist at most hotel entrances.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
All tips to local guides during your tour will be paid on your behalf.
- You are responsible for tipping wait staff, porters, or other individuals who provide a service to you at the hotel, or other public locations.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
What other Additional Information do I need to know?
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
Route 66: Unique & Quirky America
September 19 - September 25, 2027SPACE RESERVATION REQUEST
If becoming a member and signing up for a tour at the same time, you only need to fill out this form.
Our Promise to You
It doesn’t matter which tour you choose.
You’ll find your people and make memories that last a lifetime.