Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, California
Route 66, also known as the “Main Street of America” or the “Mother Road,” holds a special place in American history and culture. Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this iconic highway played a significant role in shaping the nation’s identity, economy, and popular imagination.
Route 66 was established in 1926 as one of the original highways in the U.S. Highway System, connecting rural and urban communities across eight states. It served as a vital artery for westward migration during the Dust Bowl era of the 1930s, providing hope and opportunity to thousands of families seeking a better life in California. During the heyday of Route 66 in the mid-20th century, it became synonymous with the American road trip experience, immortalized in literature, music, and film.
The construction of the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s and 1960s led to the decline of Route 66 as a major thoroughfare, but efforts to preserve and promote its legacy have led to a revival of interest in recent years.
- Chicago, Illinois: Route 66 begins in the Windy City at the intersection of Adams Street and Michigan Avenue. While neither of us started here, we have visited the area and their are plenty sites to see.
- Check out our blog on Things to Do: Illinois
- St. Louis, Missouri: Home to the Gateway Arch, St. Louis offers a glimpse into the history of westward expansion.
- Check out our blog on Things To Do: St. Louis, MO
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Explore the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, which honors the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.
- Check out our blog on Things to Do: Oklahoma
- Amarillo, Texas: This is one of our favorite stops includes the Big Texan and the Cadillac Ranch.
- See below for the full details on what to see and do when visiting Amarillo.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico: Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant arts scene of Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the United States.
- Check out our blog on Things To Do: New Mexico
- Los Angeles, California: Conclude your Route 66 adventure in the City of Angels, where the highway ends at the Santa Monica Pier.
- Check out our blog on Things to Do: Los Angeles, California
The Same
As seasoned travelers, both parties have their own take on this iconic American road trip as part of a mid-west road trip. Though they didn’t actually do it from start to finish. Regardless of how you decide to do it, here are some of our highlights.
Amarillo, Texas is a city located in the Texas Panhandle, the seat of Potter County. It is the most populous city in the Texas Panhandle, with an estimated population of 201,291 in 2022.
Big Texan Steak Ranch
Enjoy a classic steak dinner at the Big Texan Steak Ranch before continuing your journey west. Amarillo is home to the famous Big Texan Steak Ranch, where visitors can indulge in a Texas-sized steak dinner. The restaurant is known for its 72-ounce steak challenge, where brave diners attempt to finish a massive steak, along with sides, in under an hour. The first time the Dink’s visited they prime rib was amazing and the Family enjoyed their steak as well. However, the second time we ordered delivery to our hotel and it ended up being overcooked. So definitely recommend eating there and enjoying the full atmosphere.
Cadillac Ranch
Make a pit stop at the Cadillac Ranch, a quirky art installation featuring a row of graffiti-covered Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground. This unique art installation features ten Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground, creating a striking visual spectacle against the vast Texas skyline. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their mark on the cars, making Cadillac Ranch a constantly evolving work of art that reflects the creativity and spirit of Route 66 travelers. The Family came prepared and the kids enjoyed spraying the cars.
Route 66 Historic District
Route 66 Historic District, a six-block stretch of Route 66 that has been restored to its original 1950s appearance. Visitors can shop, eat, and explore the district’s many historic buildings.
The DINKs
Between Amarillo, TX and Santa Fe, NM we stopped at several additional sites along Route 66.
Blue Swallow Motel
Continuing westward along Route 66, we arrive in Tucumcari, New Mexico, home to the iconic Blue Swallow Motel. Built in 1939, this charming motel is a classic example of mid-century roadside architecture and has been lovingly restored to its original glory. With its neon sign, vintage furnishings, and warm hospitality, the Blue Swallow Motel offers travelers a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of American motoring.
Texas First/Last Motel
As we cross into Texas, we’ll make a pit stop at the Texas First/Last Motel in Groom, Texas. This quirky roadside attraction is known for its humorous sign, which proudly proclaims “Last Motel in Texas” for eastbound travelers and “First Motel in Texas” for westbound travelers. While the motel itself is no longer in operation, the sign has become a beloved landmark along Route 66, attracting visitors from near and far.
Midpoint Café
Our journey along Route 66 brings us to the Midpoint Café in Adrian, Texas, which proudly claims to be the halfway point between Chicago and Los Angeles. This charming diner has been serving hungry travelers since 1928 and is famous for its homemade pies and friendly service. Be sure to stop in for a slice of pie and a cup of coffee as you soak in the nostalgic atmosphere of this Route 66 landmark.
VW Slug Bug Ranch
The VW Slug Bug Ranch is a quirky roadside attraction located along Historic Route 66 in Conway, Texas. Similar to the more famous Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo, the Slug Bug Ranch features a row of Volkswagen Beetles buried nose-down in the ground, resembling a miniature version of the Cadillac Ranch. Visitors to the Slug Bug Ranch can explore the colorful array of Volkswagen Beetles, which have been adorned with graffiti, artwork, and messages left behind by travelers. Like its counterpart, the Slug Bug Ranch encourages visitors to leave their mark by adding their own graffiti or paint to the vehicles.
The Family
Embarking on a journey along Route 66 with the family required a balance between exploration and efficiency. With children in tow, we carefully selected stops to ensure a smooth travel experience without prolonging our journey unnecessarily. Navigating this iconic route offered us glimpses of Americana and history, blending adventure with practicality as we set out to discover the heart and soul of America’s Main Street together.
The Fort Smith National Historic Site
The Fort Smith National Historic Site, located in Fort Smith, Arkansas, preserves and interprets the history of the area’s role in the expansion of the United States into the western frontier. Established in 1961, the site encompasses several historic structures and exhibits that provide visitors with insights into the region’s military history, frontier justice system, and cultural heritage.
See our Blog on Things To Do: Arkansas for the full details https://doubletaketravel.com/2024/04/14/things-to-do-arkansas
So, who did Route 66 better
The Dinks or The Family? It’s hard to say. But one thing’s for sure – both parties had a blast exploring the iconic sights and quirky attractions of America’s most famous highway. Cheers to the memories made and the adventures yet to come!
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