Route 66, often called the “Mother Road,” is an iconic symbol of American culture and history. Stretching 2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, this historic highway has captured the imagination of travelers for nearly a century. It represents the spirit of adventure, freedom, and the American dream, winding through eight states and countless small towns. Today, we embark on a virtual journey along this legendary road, exploring its rich history, unique attractions, and enduring legacy.
Historical significance of U.S. route 66: from dust bowl migration to post-war prosperity
Route 66 was officially established in 1926, connecting Chicago to Los Angeles. It quickly became a vital artery for commerce and travel across the American heartland. During the 1930s, the highway gained national prominence as the primary route for Dust Bowl migrants fleeing the drought-stricken plains for California’s promise of a better life.
The road’s significance grew further during World War II, serving as a crucial supply route for military equipment and personnel. In the post-war era, Route 66 symbolized American prosperity and mobility, as families embarked on cross-country road trips in their newly acquired automobiles.
By the 1950s, Route 66 had become deeply ingrained in American popular culture, immortalized in John Steinbeck’s novel “The Grapes of Wrath” and Bobby Troup’s hit song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66.” The highway’s cultural impact extended far beyond its practical use, representing the American spirit of exploration and freedom .
“Route 66 is a giant chute down which most migrants were funneled.”
However, the construction of the Interstate Highway System in the 1960s and 1970s led to the gradual decommissioning of Route 66. By 1985, it was officially removed from the U.S. Highway System. Despite this, the road’s cultural significance has endured, inspiring preservation efforts and attracting nostalgic travelers from around the world.
Iconic route 66 landmarks and attractions across eight states
A journey along Route 66 is peppered with unique attractions and landmarks that showcase the diverse character of America’s heartland. From quirky roadside oddities to breathtaking natural wonders, the Mother Road offers a treasure trove of experiences for the intrepid traveler.
Chicago’s buckingham fountain: the eastern terminus
The journey begins in Chicago, where the majestic Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park marks the eastern starting point of Route 66. This impressive Beaux Arts-style fountain, one of the largest in the world, serves as a grand send-off for travelers embarking on their westward adventure.
Cadillac ranch: amarillo’s automotive art installation
As you enter the Texas Panhandle, you’ll encounter one of Route 66’s most iconic and Instagram-worthy attractions: Cadillac Ranch. This public art installation features ten vintage Cadillacs half-buried nose-first in the ground, their tail fins pointing skyward. Visitors are encouraged to add their own colorful touches with spray paint, creating an ever-changing canvas that reflects the spirit of the road.
Grand canyon detour: williams to flagstaff connection
While not directly on Route 66, the Grand Canyon is a must-see detour for many travelers. The historic town of Williams, Arizona, known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” serves as a jumping-off point for this natural wonder. The 60-mile stretch between Williams and Flagstaff offers stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks and access to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
Santa monica pier: the western end of the “mother road”
The journey concludes at the Santa Monica Pier, where Route 66 meets the Pacific Ocean. This iconic landmark, with its Ferris wheel and carousel, provides a fitting finale to the cross-country adventure. The “End of the Trail” sign on the pier offers a perfect photo opportunity to commemorate the completion of this epic road trip.
Architectural heritage along route 66: art deco, streamline moderne, and googie styles
Route 66 serves as a living museum of 20th-century American architecture, showcasing styles that evolved alongside the road itself. The highway’s heyday coincided with the rise of several distinctive architectural movements, each leaving its mark on the towns and cities along the route.
Art Deco, popular in the 1920s and 1930s, is characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, and lavish ornamentation. Many buildings along Route 66, particularly in larger cities like Tulsa, Oklahoma, feature this elegant style. The Tulsa Club Hotel , for example, stands as a stunning example of Art Deco architecture, its facade adorned with intricate geometric patterns and stylized floral motifs.
Streamline Moderne, an offshoot of Art Deco that emerged in the 1930s, emphasized aerodynamic curves and horizontal lines. This style is evident in many of the service stations and diners that dot the route, their sleek designs evoking a sense of speed and modernity. The U-Drop Inn in Shamrock, Texas, with its curving walls and neon tower, is a prime example of this futuristic aesthetic.
Googie architecture, born in Southern California in the 1940s, represents the optimism and space-age enthusiasm of the post-war era. Characterized by upswept roofs, boomerang shapes, and atomic imagery, Googie style is particularly prevalent in the motels and restaurants of the western portion of Route 66. The iconic wigwam-shaped rooms of the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, exemplify the playful, eye-catching nature of this architectural style.
“The architecture along Route 66 tells the story of America’s journey through the 20th century, from the elegance of Art Deco to the futuristic vision of Googie.”
These diverse architectural styles not only add visual interest to the Route 66 journey but also provide valuable insights into the changing aesthetics and cultural values of mid-century America. Preserving these structures has become a key focus of Route 66 conservation efforts, ensuring that future generations can experience this unique architectural heritage.
Culinary journey through route 66: regional specialties and classic diners
A road trip along Route 66 is as much a culinary adventure as it is a historical one. The highway traverses diverse regions, each with its own distinctive flavors and specialties. From hearty Midwestern fare to Southwestern spices, the Mother Road offers a taste of America’s varied culinary landscape.
Lou mitchell’s restaurant: chicago’s breakfast institution
Your gastronomic journey begins in Chicago at Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant, a Route 66 institution since 1923. Known for serving complimentary donut holes and Milk Duds to waiting customers, Lou Mitchell’s offers classic American breakfast fare, including fluffy omelets and their famous malted waffles . It’s the perfect fuel for the long road ahead.
The cozy dog Drive-In: springfield’s corn dog innovator
As you enter Springfield, Illinois, make a stop at the Cozy Dog Drive-In, birthplace of the corn dog on a stick. This family-owned establishment has been serving their “Cozy Dogs” since 1946, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Route 66 cuisine.
POPS soda ranch: arcadia’s modern route 66 attraction
In Arcadia, Oklahoma, POPS soda ranch offers a modern twist on the classic Route 66 experience. This futuristic gas station and restaurant boasts a collection of over 700 flavors of soda, housed in a sleek building adorned with a 66-foot tall soda bottle sculpture. It’s a perfect blend of Route 66 nostalgia and contemporary design.
Delgadillo’s snow cap Drive-In: seligman’s quirky eatery
No culinary tour of Route 66 would be complete without a visit to Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman, Arizona. This quirky establishment, known for its humorous signs and oddball decor, serves up classic American fare with a side of humor. Don’t miss their famous cheeseburger with cheese , a playful nod to the restaurant’s whimsical spirit.
Beyond these iconic eateries, Route 66 offers a wealth of regional specialties to sample along the way. In Missouri, try the famous St. Louis-style barbecue. New Mexico brings a taste of the Southwest with its green chile cheeseburgers. And in California, finish your journey with fresh seafood at one of Santa Monica’s beachfront restaurants.
| State | Must-Try Dish |
|---|---|
| Illinois | Deep-dish pizza |
| Missouri | St. Louis-style barbecue |
| Oklahoma | Chicken fried steak |
| New Mexico | Green chile cheeseburger |
| Arizona | Navajo taco |
The culinary landscape of Route 66 is a testament to America’s diverse food culture, offering everything from comfort food classics to regional delicacies. Each meal along the way is not just sustenance, but a chance to experience the unique flavors and traditions of America’s heartland.
Route 66 preservation efforts: national scenic byway designation and restoration projects
As the importance of Interstate highways grew, Route 66 faced the threat of being lost to history. However, dedicated preservation efforts have ensured that significant portions of the Mother Road remain accessible to modern travelers, allowing them to experience the nostalgia and charm of this iconic highway.
In 1999, the National Route 66 Preservation Bill was signed into law, allocating $10 million for the preservation and restoration of historic sites along the route. This legislation marked a turning point in the efforts to protect Route 66’s legacy, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.
One of the most significant preservation milestones came in 2005 when the entire stretch of Route 66 was designated as a National Scenic Byway. This designation not only brought increased attention to the road but also made it eligible for additional federal funds for preservation and promotion.
Numerous restoration projects have breathed new life into iconic Route 66 landmarks. For example, the Painted Desert Trading Post in Arizona, long abandoned and deteriorating, has been carefully restored to its former glory. Similarly, the historic Boots Motel in Carthage, Missouri, has been renovated to offer visitors an authentic 1940s lodging experience.
These preservation efforts extend beyond physical structures to include the intangible heritage of Route 66. Oral history projects have been launched to capture the stories of those who lived and worked along the road during its heyday. These narratives provide valuable insights into the social and economic impact of Route 66 on the communities it traversed.
“Preserving Route 66 is not just about maintaining old buildings; it’s about keeping alive a vital part of American history and culture.”
The Route 66 Economic Impact Study, conducted in 2011, highlighted the ongoing economic benefits of preservation efforts. The study found that Route 66 tourism generated significant revenue for the eight states it passes through, underscoring the importance of continued conservation and promotion.
Modern-day route 66 road trip planning: navigation challenges and resources
Planning a Route 66 road trip today presents unique challenges. The decommissioning of the highway means that many sections have been rerouted, renamed, or even disappeared entirely. However, with careful planning and the right resources, you can still experience the essence of this historic route.
EZ66 guide: jerry McClanahan’s turn-by-turn navigation book
One of the most valuable resources for Route 66 travelers is Jerry McClanahan’s “EZ66 Guide for Travelers.” This comprehensive guidebook provides turn-by-turn directions for following the historic alignment of Route 66. Updated regularly, it includes information on road conditions, attractions, and accommodations along the way.
Route 66 navigation app: GPS-based guidance for authentic alignments
For those preferring a digital solution, the Route 66 Navigation app offers GPS-based guidance specifically designed for following the historic Route 66 alignments. This app not only provides directions but also includes information about points of interest and allows users to track their progress along the entire route.
State-specific route 66 associations and their visitor resources
Each of the eight Route 66 states has its own association dedicated to preserving and promoting its section of the Mother Road. These organizations often provide detailed maps, guides, and visitor information specific to their state’s portion of Route 66. Their websites and visitor centers can be invaluable resources for trip planning.
When planning your Route 66 adventure, consider the following tips:
- Allow plenty of time for your journey. Rushing through defeats the purpose of experiencing the road’s unique character.
- Be flexible with your itinerary. Some of the best experiences on Route 66 come from spontaneous detours and discoveries.
- Research accommodation options in advance, especially if you’re interested in staying at historic motels along the route.
- Check the operating hours of attractions and restaurants, as many small businesses along Route 66 have limited or seasonal hours.
- Embrace the spirit of the road. Route 66 is about the journey, not just the destination.
Remember that while GPS and modern mapping services can be helpful, they often don’t distinguish between the historic Route 66 alignment and newer roads. Using a combination of dedicated Route 66 resources and modern technology will ensure you don’t miss out on the authentic Route 66 experience.
As you embark on your Route 66 adventure, you’re not just taking a road trip; you’re participating in a living piece of American history. The Mother Road continues to captivate travelers from around the world, offering a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of America. Whether you’re drawn by the nostalgia, the architecture, the cuisine, or simply the allure of the open road, Route 66 promises an unforgettable journey through the American experience.