Exploring Route 66 is like taking a journey through American history, filled with iconic landmarks that capture the spirit of the open road. From quirky roadside attractions to natural wonders, these 15 must-visit stops offer a glimpse into the charm and nostalgia that have made Route 66 a legendary highway.
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Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas)
Cadillac Ranch, a striking art installation in the Texas desert, features ten classic Cadillacs buried nose-down in the earth. Created in 1974 by a group of artists from San Francisco, the installation invites visitors to leave their mark by adding graffiti. This constantly evolving canvas embodies the creative and free-spirited vibe of Route 66, making it a must-see for anyone traveling the historic route.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa (Catoosa, Oklahoma)
Built in the early 1970s as a gift from Hugh Davis to his wife, the Blue Whale of Catoosa quickly became a beloved roadside attraction. The 80-foot-long, smiling blue whale sits serenely on a small pond, offering a whimsical and nostalgic stop for travelers. Its playful design not only captures the fun-loving spirit of Route 66 but also provides a fantastic photo opportunity.
The Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, Arizona)
Offering a unique chance to sleep in a room shaped like a giant teepee, the Wigwam Motel is a classic slice of Americana. Built in the 1950s, it’s one of the few remaining Wigwam Villages in the United States. With vintage cars parked outside and retro decor inside, staying here feels like stepping back in time, making it an unforgettable experience along Route 66.
The Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, California)
Marking the western end of Route 66, the Santa Monica Pier is a fitting finale for those journeying the entire highway. This historic pier boasts stunning ocean views, a vintage amusement park, and the iconic Route 66 “End of the Trail” sign. As you stand here, the expanse of the Pacific Ocean before you, it’s easy to reflect on the road’s rich history and the adventures it has inspired.
The Gateway Arch (St. Louis, Missouri)
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, towering 630 feet above the city, symbolizes the gateway to the American West. Visitors can ride to the top for breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. Its sleek, modern design offers a striking contrast to the nostalgic feel of Route 66, representing the road’s journey from past to present.
The Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)
A visit to Petrified Forest National Park offers travelers a glimpse into a prehistoric world, with landscapes filled with ancient petrified wood and colorful badlands. Route 66 once wound through this park, and remnants of the old road can still be spotted today. The park’s natural beauty and unique geological formations provide a stark yet beautiful contrast to the man-made attractions typically found along the highway.
The Route 66 Museum (Clinton, Oklahoma)
The Route 66 Museum in Clinton is an essential stop for anyone interested in the rich history of the Mother Road. Through immersive exhibits, including vintage cars and memorabilia, visitors are transported back in time to different eras of Route 66. This museum not only preserves the highway’s legacy but also highlights its impact on American culture.
The Midpoint Café (Adrian, Texas)
Located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica, the Midpoint Café is a cherished stop for Route 66 travelers. This nostalgic diner, famous for its homemade pies with “Ugly Crust,” offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Marking the midpoint of the journey, it’s a perfect place to pause and reflect on the miles traveled and the adventures still ahead.
The Meramec Caverns (Stanton, Missouri)
Beneath the hills of Stanton, Missouri, lies the Meramec Caverns, a network of stunning underground caves. Known for their connection to Jesse James and other outlaws, these caverns offer guided tours that showcase impressive rock formations and hidden rivers. The caverns blend natural beauty with folklore, making them a fascinating stop along Route 66.
The Tower Station and U-Drop Inn Café (Shamrock, Texas)
Standing as a testament to the Art Deco style of the 1930s, the Tower Station and U-Drop Inn Café are among the most photographed landmarks on Route 66. Built in 1936, these beautifully restored buildings now serve as a visitor center and museum. By night, the glowing neon lights create a mesmerizing scene that transports visitors back to the golden age of Route 66.
The Tucumcari Murals (Tucumcari, New Mexico)
Tucumcari, known for its vibrant murals, is a town steeped in Route 66 history. These murals, found throughout the town, depict scenes of life along the highway, blending art and history in a unique way. Exploring these colorful works offers visitors an immersive experience in the culture and stories that have defined the Mother Road.
The Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum (Pontiac, Illinois)
The Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Mother Road. Inside, you’ll find an array of exhibits, from vintage cars to personal stories of those who traveled the highway. This museum provides a deep dive into the cultural impact of Route 66, making it an essential stop for anyone passionate about the road’s history.
The Gemini Giant (Wilmington, Illinois)
The Gemini Giant, a towering fiberglass “Muffler Man,” has become an iconic figure on Route 66. Standing outside the Launching Pad Drive-In, this 30-foot-tall statue, dressed in a space helmet and holding a rocket, embodies the space-age enthusiasm of the 1960s. It’s a quirky and fun landmark that captures the playful spirit of the Mother Road.
The El Rancho Hotel (Gallup, New Mexico)
The El Rancho Hotel, built in 1937, offers a glimpse into the glamorous past of Route 66, once serving as a favorite stop for Hollywood stars. The hotel’s rustic charm, grand lobby, and vintage decor evoke the golden age of travel. Whether staying overnight or just visiting, the El Rancho Hotel provides a nostalgic connection to the road’s storied past.
The Cozy Dog Drive-In (Springfield, Illinois)
Known as the birthplace of the corn dog, the Cozy Dog Drive-In has been a Route 66 staple since 1949. This family-owned diner continues to serve up its famous “Cozy Dogs,” a treat that has become synonymous with the Mother Road. Beyond just a quick bite, a visit here is a culinary pilgrimage for food lovers traveling Route 66.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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