Route 66, the iconic American highway, has inspired countless travelers since its establishment in 1926. Stretching over 2,400 miles from Santa Monica, California, to Chicago, Illinois, this legendary route captures the spirit of adventure and nostalgia. Popularized in songs, TV series, and literature such as The Grapes of Wrath, Route 66 remains one of the most famous road trip destinations in the world. In June 2019, a father and son embarked on a 14-day journey along this historic highway, capturing its essence and encouraging others to follow their tracks.
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Starting Point: Santa Monica, California
The adventure began at the Santa Monica Pier, the symbolic end (or start) of Route 66. Although the original endpoint lies a few blocks east, the pier’s “End of the Trail” sign has become a must-see photo spot. After snapping photos and walking along the bustling pier, they visited the Will Rogers Memorial Highway plaque, honoring the route’s alternate name.
California Highlights
The first leg of the journey took them through the vibrant streets of Los Angeles, bypassing Hollywood to focus on hidden gems along Route 66. Stops included the Arroyo Seco Parkway, one of the oldest freeways in the West, and quirky roadside attractions like the Chicken Boy statue and Galco’s Old World Sodas in Highland Park.
Pasadena offered historic landmarks such as the Fair Oaks Pharmacy and Soda Fountain, where the duo indulged in old-fashioned phosphate sodas. They also visited the iconic Colorado Street Bridge and marveled at its early 20th-century architecture. Continuing eastward, the drive led through charming towns like Monrovia, home to the Aztec Hotel, and Rancho Cucamonga, featuring the beautifully restored Cucamonga Service Station.
Wigwam Motels and Neon Nights
In San Bernardino, they stayed at the Wigwam Motel, one of the last remaining teepee-shaped motels on the route. These motels, made famous by their unique architecture and appearance in the movie Cars, embody the roadside culture of Route 66.
San Bernardino also served up dinner at the historic Mitla Cafe, a Mexican restaurant that inspired the creation of Taco Bell. This blend of cultural history and culinary delight exemplified the diverse experiences Route 66 offers.
Crossing the Desert to Arizona
Leaving California, the journey continued through the Mojave Desert and into Arizona. Highlights included Oatman, a quaint mining town known for its roaming donkeys and Wild West atmosphere. They also visited the picturesque Sitgreaves Pass and Cool Springs, capturing breathtaking views of the rugged landscape.
In Kingman, the Route 66 Museum offered a deep dive into the highway’s history. Further along, Seligman, considered the “birthplace of Route 66,” charmed with its retro vibe and dedication to preserving the route’s legacy.
Exploring New Mexico’s Rich Heritage
Crossing into New Mexico, they discovered the unique blend of Native American and Spanish cultures. Stops included the Blue Hole in Santa Rosa, a natural spring-fed pool perfect for cooling off, and Albuquerque’s Old Town, where adobe architecture and colorful markets transported them back in time.
The journey through New Mexico highlighted the state’s rugged beauty and historical significance, with scenic detours to the Rio Puerco Bridge and the city of Gallup, home to the historic El Rancho Hotel.
Texas and the Midpoint of Route 66
Texas offered a mix of kitschy attractions and hearty meals. They visited the Midpoint Cafe in Adrian, marking the halfway point of Route 66, and left their mark at the Cadillac Ranch, where visitors can spray-paint old Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground.
In Amarillo, the Big Texan Steak Ranch provided a quintessential Texas experience with its famous 72-ounce steak challenge. The state’s wide-open spaces and quirky roadside stops added a unique flavor to the journey.
Missouri and Illinois: The Final Stretch
Missouri’s rolling hills and small towns showcased the charm of America’s heartland. They stopped at the Meramec Caverns, known as Jesse James’s hideout, and the retro Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba. The journey culminated in Illinois, with stops at the Cozy Dog Drive-In, birthplace of the corn dog, and the Gemini Giant, a towering muffler man statue in Wilmington.
The trip ended in Chicago at the “End of Route 66” sign, completing a two-week adventure that celebrated the history, culture, and spirit of America’s most famous highway.
Share Your Route 66 Stories
Have you ever dreamed of driving Route 66? What landmarks or towns would you visit? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below to join the conversation and keep the spirit of the Mother Road alive.