[malo]

I would vote for the southern route.

Tunica NW to Springfield, MO, where you get on I-44. No poker in Springfield, but if you like outdoor stuff, the original location of Bass Pro Shops (it's huge) is worth a stop.

Once on I-44 you will be doing the modern day version of Route 66. Down through Joplin and into Oklahoma. 90 mi from Springfield, you hit Miami OK with two poker rooms. Buffalo Run and Quapaw. 2 1/2 hours further west you are in Tulsa, where you have Cherokee and Creek Nation. After that, your next poker stop will probably be Albuquerque.

If you Google Route 66, you'll find some sites dedicated to driving the route and checking out some of the restored vintage motels and landmarks, if you are interested.

Whichever route you choose...have a great time!