Why is Route 66 so famous today?
Route 66 holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans and travelers from around the world. The historic route, also known as the Main Street of America, was one of the original highways within the U.S. Highway System. It ran from Chicago, Illinois, through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and ending in Santa Monica, California. Route 66 was established in 1926 and served as a major thoroughfare for those who migrated west during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. It was also integral in the transportation of goods and military personnel during World War II. Despite being officially removed from the U.S. Highway System in 1985, the mystique and allure of Route 66 continue to captivate people today.
The History of Route 66
Route 66 was the first highway to connect the Midwest to the West Coast, providing a path for countless migrants, vacationers, and commercial travelers. The route was paved with concrete in the 1930s, and countless businesses sprang up along the roadway to cater to the needs of the travelers. Iconic motels, diners, gas stations, and tourist attractions lined the route, creating a sense of nostalgia and Americana that is still celebrated today.
What are the iconic landmarks along Route 66?
One of the most famous landmarks along Route 66 is the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, where ten Cadillac cars are buried nose-first in the ground. The Wigwam Motels in Holbrook, Arizona, and San Bernardino, California, are also synonymous with the route, offering travelers the chance to stay in one of the iconic teepee-shaped motel rooms. The Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma, and the Lauterbach Tire Shop in Springfield, Illinois, also serve as popular stops along the route.
What impact did Route 66 have on America?
Route 66 played a significant role in the development of the American economy, as it facilitated the transportation of goods and people from the heartland to the west coast. It also served as a lifeline for many small towns and communities, providing a steady stream of travelers and tourists who brought much-needed revenue to the area. Route 66 became so ingrained in the American consciousness that it was immortalized in music and popular culture, further cementing its status as an iconic symbol of the American road trip.
