Battling the HEAT in America's Heartland!

On our way to Tulsa, OK, Karla and I had a relaxing lunch at the Rock Cafe in Stroud, OK., a 1939 cafe on Route 66 that became the inspiration behind Sally Carrera in the Pixar film CARS.  It was 100 degrees outside but tourists and locals filled the very hospitable Route 66 icon.

Saturday afternoon found us at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum (TASM) where we boondocked (Harvest Host) for the night.  Battling the heat, we spent the afternoon at the museum touring and exploring.  TASM tells the story of Oklahoma's rich aerospace history with interactive exhibits that educate and entertain visitors.  Karla thoroughly enjoyed the museum (pic below).

Venturing to St. Louis, MO we passed through Catoosa, OK where we visited the infamous Blue Whale.....a waterfront structure that has become one of the most recognizable attractions on "The Mother Road".  Karla was adamant we stop and explore this Route 66 treasure.  Continuing our journey, we arrived in Baxter Springs, KS on Sunday afternoon and boondocked for the night.  Some may not know, but "The Mother Road" routes 13.2 miles through "The Sunflower State" small towns such as Baxter Springs and Galena.  Karla and I trolled through these towns taking in the many historic sites. 

After a quick overnight in Leasburg, MO we reached the St. Louis, MO area Tuesday afternoon.  First, we visited Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, another Route 66 icon, on our way to downtown.  Ted Drewes has been selling frozen custard for over 80 years.  His attention to quality has set the standard for frozen custard in St. Louis.  Then we parked RVMakes3 and visited the Gateway Arch National Park where we cooled off for a bit while touring the museum.  Even though it was 100 degrees in downtown St. Louis, we had a terrific time touring the park.

   

Tonight we are resting at Carlyle Lake in Carlyle, IL.  Tomorrow begins our final segment of this cross country trip as we plan to be back in "The 513" on Friday.  Please check in for another post later this week as our adventure continues.  We look forward to seeing each and everyone of you soon.  And (as always), we are coming to a driveway near you.  Take care!