Red Cedar Inn viewpoint + preservation story

About the Attraction

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A stop at the Red Cedar Inn Museum & Visitor Center on Route 66 in Pacific, Missouri, offers a unique window into the region’s roadside heritage and the story of preservation. Here’s what to expect:

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• Historic Landmark: Built in 1934, the Red Cedar Inn originally served as a family-run restaurant and inn, quickly becoming a beloved gathering place for travelers and locals along Route 66.
• Engaging Exhibits: The museum features displays on Route 66 history, the local Pacific community, and the Red Cedar Inn’s own storied past, including its famous fried chicken and role as a social hub.
• Preservation Success: After closing in 2005, the building was saved from demolition by community efforts and is now carefully restored, with original wood flooring and architectural details preserved. It reopened as a museum and visitor center, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.
• Community Spirit: The Red Cedar Inn’s transformation highlights the power of local advocacy and the importance of preserving Route 66 landmarks as living history.

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It’s a meaningful stop for anyone interested in the nostalgia and ongoing preservation of America’s Mother Road.