Cottrell’s
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Cottrell’s began in 1951 as Big Bob’s Drive-In, a small ice cream stand in Pacific, Missouri, that grew into Cottrell’s Dairy Freeze and eventually Cottrell’s Travel Center.
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Known for its classic roadside offerings like hot dogs, hamburgers, malts, and sundaes, the business thrived on Route 66 traffic. It became particularly popular during the Lenten season for its fish baskets and shrimp dinners, drawing Catholic families and weekend travelers alike. Its evolution from a simple stand to a bustling travel hub cemented its place in Route 66 history as a beloved stop for road-weary diners.