If you're a road trip enthusiast, chances are you've heard of Route 66. This iconic highway stretches from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, and was once the main route for cross-country travel. Today, Route 66 is a popular tourist destination, with travelers from all over the world eager to experience the nostalgia and Americana of this historic road. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Route 66 map with cities, highlighting some of the must-see stops along the way.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you're a road trip enthusiast, chances are you've heard of Route 66. This iconic highway stretches from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, and was once the main route for cross-country travel. Today, Route 66 is a popular tourist destination, with travelers from all over the world eager to experience the nostalgia and Americana of this historic road. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Route 66 map with cities, highlighting some of the must-see stops along the way.
The History of Route 66
Route 66 was established in 1926 and quickly became a popular route for travelers headed west. The highway played a significant role in connecting rural communities with larger cities, and it also served as a major thoroughfare for military personnel during World War II. The rise of the interstate highway system in the 1950s and 1960s led to the decline of Route 66, and by 1985, the highway had been decommissioned. However, the nostalgia and history of Route 66 have kept it alive in the hearts of many, and today, travelers can still experience a taste of what it was like to travel the Mother Road.
Planning Your Route 66 Road Trip
Before hitting the road, it's important to plan your Route 66 itinerary. While the highway spans over 2,400 miles, not all of it is drivable, and some stretches are more scenic than others. When planning your trip, consider what stops you want to make and how much time you have. Some popular stops along Route 66 include:
- The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri
- The Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas
- The Grand Canyon in Arizona
- The Santa Monica Pier in California
It's also important to consider the time of year you're traveling. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can bring snow and icy roads. Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to travel Route 66.
Route 66 Map with Cities
The Route 66 map with cities highlights some of the major towns and cities along the highway. Starting in Chicago, travelers will pass through cities such as St. Louis, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff before reaching their final destination in Santa Monica. Each city offers its own unique charm and history, from the Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the neon lights of Albuquerque.
Question: What are some of the must-visit cities along Route 66?
Answer: Some of the must-visit cities along Route 66 include St. Louis, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff.
What to See and Do Along Route 66
There's no shortage of things to see and do along Route 66. In addition to the popular tourist attractions, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Some of the top things to see and do along Route 66 include:
- Visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri
- Take a tour of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum
- Explore the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona
- Drive through the Painted Desert in Arizona
- Stop at the famous Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas
Question: What are some of the top things to see and do along Route 66?
Answer: Some of the top things to see and do along Route 66 include visiting the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, exploring the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, and stopping at the famous Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas.
The Best Route 66 Restaurants and Eateries
No road trip is complete without some delicious eats, and Route 66 has plenty of options for hungry travelers. Some of the best Route 66 restaurants and eateries include:
- The Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Illinois
- The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas
- The Rock Cafe in Stroud, Oklahoma
- The Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman, Arizona
Question: What are some of the best Route 66 restaurants and eateries?
Answer: Some of the best Route 66 restaurants and eateries include The Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Illinois, The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, and The Rock Cafe in Stroud, Oklahoma.
Conclusion
A Route 66 road trip is a bucket-list item for many travelers, and for good reason. This historic highway offers a glimpse into a bygone era of American travel, with plenty of nostalgia and Americana along the way. Whether you're a seasoned road tripper or a first-time traveler, a journey along Route 66 is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
