The City of Waynesville Welcomes Big BAM Riders!

Big BAM riders will receive a hearty welcome when arriving at Waynesville for the conclusion of Day 3. The charming community nestled in a picturesque Ozark Mountain valley has a reputation for hospitality.

First settled in 1832 when G.W. Gibson made his home near the “Big Spring” on the Kickapoo Trace, Waynesville is named for Revolutionary War hero “Mad” Anthony Wayne. The seat of Pulaski County, the town has a vibrant, historic downtown that is infused with arts, entertainment, great food, culture, and Midwestern hospitality with small-town Americana charm.

Big BAM base camp is at Waynesville City Park which lies along the banks of the Roubidoux River. Take a stroll on the paved walking trail to splash in the Roubidoux Spring. Local legend states that if you dip your toes in the cool, clear spring water that you will make your way back to Waynesville in the future. Mayor Luge Hardman invites and encourages you to test the legend!

As you ramble along the trail you will discover National Park Service interpretive signage depicting the tragic Trail of Tears. The 1923 five-span concrete arch bridge will have you reaching for your camera. It’s not the only spot in town for fantastic photo opportunities though! (Tip- Pulaski County Tourism Bureau will have free Waynesville Walking Tour brochures as well as a complimentary Route 66 guide on hand. You can find them on Vendor Row in Waynesville City Park.)

Story boards reveal the tragic tale of the Trail of Tears at Laughlin Park in Waynesville, MO. Image by Laura Huffman for Pulaski County Tourism Bureau.

Explore downtown’s historic square and you will be rewarded with unique eats, drinks, and museums. Taste the Bavarian Alps at Ursula’s Schnitzelhaus/Paradise Deli. Hideaway with friends on the comfy couches at Cellar 66 Wine Bar & Restaurant. Nona’s Kitchen, housed in an iconic Route 66 building, dishes up filling, home-style nourishment. Hoppers Pub features 66 draft beers on tap.

Courtesy of Hoppers Pub

Pulaski County Museum is housed in the former 1903 Courthouse. One of only two remaining period courthouses on Route 66 in Missouri, this structure served residents of Pulaski County for well over 80 years. The building was designed by noted architect Henry H. Hohenschild. The upstairs courtroom is a pristine example of craftsmanship. The Old Stagecoach Stop Museum, also located on the Square, began in the 1850’s as a double pen log building on the St. Louis to Springfield stage route. During the Civil War the building was commandeered by the occupying Union force as a hospital. Both museums are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

History inside! Pulaski County Museum in Waynesville, MO. Image by Laura Huffman.

Several eras of Waynesville’s history are represented at the Old Stagecoach Stop in Waynesville, MO. Image by Laura Huffman.

Shop your way around town! You will find antique stores, boutiques, gift shops, souvenir shops, a music store, an art gallery, and even a (scuba) dive shop! Many merchants will gladly arrange to ship your new-found treasures home for you.

Roubidoux Bridge in Waynesville, MO. Image by Laura Huffman for Pulaski County Tourism Bureau.

Buses will be available at Waynesville City Park to shuttle Big BAM riders around town.

Scoot back to basecamp for live entertainment under the stars. 399th Army Band will rock the bandstand before Two-Bit Steve takes the stage at 6 p.m.

Two-Bit Steve. Image courtesy of Two-Bit Steve.

The City of Waynesville hopes that our community captures your heart just as the natural beauty of the area captured George W. Gibson, over 175 years ago.

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Big BAM Day 3 RV Parks
Big BAM Day 3 Amusements, Attractions, & Sites of Significance
Big BAM Day 3: More Fun Along the Route!

Powered in part by Pulaski County Tourism Bureau- the destination marketing agency for Pulaski County, Missouri. The bureau, funded by the hotel/motel transient guest tax, promotes tourism throughout the county and markets their destination to fuel the local business climate and broaden the local tax base.