The Legendary Route 66: 4 reasons why it is so iconic

Spanning over 4,000 kilometers, Route 66 is more than just a highway—it’s a symbol of American history, adventure, and nostalgia. Dubbed "The Main Street of America," this legendary road has been immortalized in films, songs, and pop culture, making it one of the most famous road trip destinations in the world. From classic diners to historic landmarks, Route 66 offers travelers a journey through time, packed with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

These 4 reasons reflect why this route is still important many years after:

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1. A historic lifeline for America

When Route 66 was established in 1926, it quickly became a vital connection between rural communities and major cities. During the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, thousands of families used the highway to escape economic hardship, heading west to California in search of work and a better life. This journey was famously documented in John Steinbeck’s novel The Grapes of Wrath, where he referred to Route 66 as “The Mother Road.”

Additionally, during World War II, Route 66 served as a crucial transport route for military personnel and supplies. After the war, it became a symbol of prosperity, with families taking road trips to explore the expanding country. Motels, diners, and roadside attractions flourished along the highway, creating a unique travel culture that remains beloved today.

2. Economic growth and small-town America

Route 66 helped fuel the economic growth of small towns across eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. As one of the busiest highways in the U.S., it brought business to locally owned motels, restaurants, and gas stations. Many of these businesses, such as the famous Wigwam Motels and roadside diners, have been preserved and continue to attract tourists eager to experience the nostalgia of classic Americana.

3. A Pop Culture Icon

Route 66 has been immortalized in movies, TV shows, and music. The famous song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” by Bobby Troup, later covered by artists like Nat King Cole and The Rolling Stones, cemented the highway’s reputation in popular culture. The road was also featured in the classic "Route 66" TV series (1960–1964) and inspired settings in films like "Cars (2006)", which paid tribute to the vanishing roadside attractions of America’s past.

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4. A tourist attraction and national treasure

In 1985, Route 66 was officially decommissioned, as new interstate highways replaced much of its original path. However, nostalgia and historic preservation efforts have kept the Route 66 spirit alive.

Today, Route 66 is experiencing a revival, with many states designating portions of it as historic routes. Travelers from around the world embark on cross-country road trips to experience its unique charm, stopping at famous landmarks like:

• Cadillac Ranch (Texas): An art installation featuring Cadillac vehicles buried nose-down in the ground, offering an interactive experience for visitors.
• El Rancho Hotel (New Mexico): A historic hotel that hosted numerous Hollywood stars during the golden age of cinema.
• Santa Monica Pier (California): The official endpoint of Route 66, home to the famous sign marking the end of the highway.
• Pontiac Mural (Illinois): A vibrant mural celebrating the historical significance of Route 66 in American culture.
• Route 66 Museum (Oklahoma): A dedicated space preserving the rich history of the highway with interactive exhibits.

Additionally, the route passes through national parks like the Grand Canyon and natural landmarks such as the Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona, further enriching the experience for travelers.