This Missouri Town Has The Most Walkable Downtown

Motorheads may recognize Carthage as a pitstop along Route 66, but the town is also one of the most walkable downtowns in Missouri. The historic district is centered on the Jasper County Courthouse, a Romanesque landmark that ranks among the most photographed buildings in Missouri. From the courthouse square, visitors can easily explore nearby green spaces like Central Park, learn about local history at the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum, or see Route 66 heritage at the iconic Boots Court Motel. Those are only a couple of attractions that visitors will find on the streets of Carthage, Missouri’s most walkable downtown.

Historic Downtown Carthage Square

The Jasper County Courthouse was built between 1894 and 1895. It was constructed using locally sourced limestone known as Carthage marble, which showcases the Richardsonian Romanesque architectural style. Its architectural style, along with its physical features like turrets, towers, and arches, is reminiscent of a medieval castle. The courthouse contributes to Carthage’s reputation for striking architecture and is the second-most-photographed building in Missouri, second only to the St. Louis Arch.

Although it still operates as a working courthouse, it is open to the public. Visitors can view a wrought-iron cage elevator installed in 1916 and still in use today, military artifacts, mining specimens, a display showcasing the history of Route 66, and a mural depicting the local area's history.

Downtown Dining

Outside the courthouse, visitors will find many places to eat lining the square. The Carthage Deli has been a staple in Carthage for over 45 years. It is placed in the northwest corner of the square, housed inside the former Bank of Carthage building. It is particularly popular with travelers on Route 66 who are lured in by its 1950s furnishings and décor. Whether you are driving Route 66 or walking around downtown, it is the perfect place to refuel on sandwiches and coffee.

Hatcher’s Coffeehouse is down the street from the deli. They specialize in coffee and tea beverages, as well as baked goods, which are perfect to take on the go and snack on while you move through downtown.

For a more substantial meal, The Woodshed Steak and Burger House serves gourmet burgers, steaks, salmon, salads, and a full-service bar to pair drinks with your meal.

Carthage’s History and Culture

From the square, head up Grant Street, where you will arrive at the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum. The Battle of Carthage was the first full-scale land battle of the Civil War, an event which is commemorated on a wall-sized mural within the museum. Additionally, the museum contains artifacts, a diorama of the battle, and a video presentation detailing the Civil War.

Head along West 2nd Street and onto Garrison Avenue, where you will arrive at the historic 1939 Boots Court Motel. The motel was originally designed for the tourism industry along Route 66. While it still operates as a motel, visitors can join guided tours and browse a collection of Route 66 souvenirs from the gift shop inside the visitors center. The visitors center is housed inside the former Sinclair gas station, where handcrafted goods from 21 local artists and vendors are available for purchase.

Downtown Green Spaces

Make your way down Garrison Avenue until you reach Central Park, one of the oldest and most popular parks in town. The park is equipped with shaded pavilions, a Victorian fountain in the middle of the park, a playground, and restrooms. There is also a bandstand, which is used for events throughout the year, such as Concerts in the Park, a free concert series held in the summer that draws in large crowds.

Further along Chestnut Street, Carter Park has an asphalt trail looped throughout it, which is popular among walkers and bikers, a large field for outdoor recreation, and an enclosed ball court. Additionally, it also has seating and picnic areas.

The Battle of Carthage State Historic Site borders Carter Park. The site contains a large, open meadow which appears much the same as it did the day the battle was fought. There is also an interpretive shelter that explains the history of the battle.

Road Trip on Route 66

After you have made your way around downtown Carthage, get back in the car and drive along Route 66 to the town of Webb City, which is about 10 miles west. Route 66 Cardinal Park welcomes visitors into the city and is decorated with mining equipment from Webb City’s zinc and lead mining past.

Joplin is another Route 66 stop located about 15 miles southwest of Carthage. Tour the Route 66 Mural Park, America’s Longest Museum. Visitors can view multiple murals, including one that depicts the route in its entirety.

Finally, Springfield, or the birthplace of Route 66, is about 60 miles east. The Route 66 Car Museum houses a collection of 75 sports cars. The cars are all classics from 1907 to 1980, many of them rare and unique models.

Missouri's Most Walkable Downtown

Whether you are staying in Carthage or simply passing through as you drive across Route 66, be sure to take the time to get out of your car and walk the streets of downtown Carthage. Not only does it have some of the most striking architecture in Missouri, but it is also loaded with cultural and historical heritage. From the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site to the Boots Court Motel, every corner of downtown tells a story. With so much to see within a few blocks, Carthage gives those who slow down and experience it one step at a time the most walkable downtown experience in Missouri.