Few highways carry memories in their miles quite like Route 66. Commissioned in 1926, Route 66 spans 2,448 miles between Chicago, Illinois, and Santa Monica, California. Dubbed the «Main Street of America,» this legendary route has evolved far beyond its original purpose. Over the years, it has become a rite of passage for travelers nationwide, embodying the true spirit of the Great American Road Trip.
More than a line on a map, Route 66 is a journey where millions have chased sunsets, wandered through charming locales, including a few that inspired the fictional town of Radiator Springs in Disney-Pixar’s Cars, immersed themselves in art and culture, and celebrated 100 years of American travel at its finest. At its peak, the route’s popularity inspired Bobby Troup to write the 1946 hit «Route 66,» later recorded by musical greats Nat King Cole, Chuck Berry, and The Rolling Stones.
The glory days of Route 66 ended after the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 was signed by former President Dwight D. Eisenhower. With the completion of the Interstate Highway System, five major highways, Interstates 55, 44, 40, 15, and 10, rerouted traffic and gradually eclipsed Route 66, fading all the little map dots along the way.
Despite decades of decline, the «Mother Road» remains iconic, historic, and strewn with stops that continue to inspire road trips today. Travelers can still collect Route 66 passport stamps to commemorate their journey through each state.
To honor Route 66’s 100th anniversary, let’s hit the road and explore eight destinations that capture the soul of this storied highway.