Carl,
We took 65 south out of Branson, MO to 412 in northern Arkansas. Then 412 to 59 near Siloam Springs, got onto 259 and took that all the way into Texas. We usually take I-44 out of Missouri (my mom actually lives in Ava, but we met her in Branson this time) to 69, then stay on 75 to I-45.
It probably took a little longer, but it was much prettier, and we avoided Dallas. We got caught in construction south of Corsicana, TX on I-45 and heavy traffic in Dallas on the way up there, which is what prompted us to try this route.
I got confused at Siloam Springs, though, and ended up taking Arkansas state highway 59 instead of U.S. 59. It took me a few minutes before I realized that we were on the wrong 59!
If I find myself in that area again, I'll seek out those other locomotives. Thanks for the info!