Explore the map of Route 66, known as the "Main Street of America," spans approximately 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. Established in 1926, it served as a major path for those migrating west, especially during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. Route 66 passes through eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. It is celebrated for its role in American history and culture, with numerous historic landmarks and vintage motels along its path. In 1985, it was officially removed from the United States Highway System, but its legacy endures through preservation efforts and cultural references.
Explore RT 66 Map / map of route 66 start to finish with the help of a map. The US Highway 66 was one of the initial highways in the USA Numbered Highway System. This became one of the most acclaimed roads in the US, initially ran from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica city in Los Angeles County of California state, covering a total length of 2,448 miles or 3,940 km.
United States Maps in our Store - Order High Resolution Vector and Raster Files
Route 66 of the United States
Route 66, often referred to as the "Main Street of America" or the "Mother Road," is one of the most iconic highways in the United States. Established on November 11, 1926, Route 66 originally ran from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, covering a total of 2,448 miles. This historic highway played a crucial role in the development of America's infrastructure and culture, symbolizing freedom, adventure, and the American dream.
Historical Significance
Route 66 was commissioned as part of the original U.S. Highway System. Conceived by entrepreneur Cyrus Avery, the route connected small towns across eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. The highway facilitated the movement of goods and people, contributing significantly to the economic development of the communities it passed through.
During the Great Depression, Route 66 became a major path for migrants heading west in search of work, particularly those affected by the Dust Bowl. John Steinbeck famously referred to it as the "Mother Road" in his novel The Grapes of Wrath, highlighting its role as a lifeline for struggling Americans.
Economic Impact
The creation of Route 66 had a profound economic impact on the towns and cities along its path. Businesses such as motels, diners, gas stations, and tourist attractions sprang up to cater to travelers. Iconic establishments like the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, and the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico, became symbols of the Route 66 experience.
The highway also boosted the tourism industry, encouraging Americans to explore their country by car. Road trips along Route 66 became a quintessential American experience, celebrated in popular culture through songs, literature, and films.
Decline and Decommissioning
The advent of the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s led to the decline of Route 66. President Dwight D. Eisenhower's push for a network of faster, more efficient highways meant that many sections of Route 66 were bypassed by new interstates. Over time, this caused a decrease in traffic and economic activity along the old highway.
On June 27, 1985, Route 66 was officially decommissioned as a U.S. Highway. It was replaced by segments of Interstates 55, 44, 40, 15, and 10. Despite this, the cultural and historical significance of Route 66 has ensured its continued popularity among travelers and nostalgia enthusiasts.
Revival and Preservation
In response to the decommissioning, various efforts have been made to preserve and revive Route 66. Many states have designated portions of the old highway as "Historic Route 66," and numerous preservation organizations work to maintain its landmarks and promote tourism.
The National Park Service's Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program, established in 1999, provides grants and assistance to preserve the historic sites and structures along the route. This program aims to keep the spirit of Route 66 alive for future generations by supporting local efforts to restore and maintain the iconic landmarks.
Key Attractions and Landmarks
Route 66 is dotted with numerous attractions and landmarks that capture the essence of mid-20th-century America. Some of the most notable include:
Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas): An art installation featuring ten half-buried Cadillacs, which has become an iconic symbol of Route 66.
Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, California): The western terminus of Route 66, offering visitors a historic plaque marking the end of the journey.
Chain of Rocks Bridge (St. Louis, Missouri): A unique mile-long bridge crossing the Mississippi River, now a pedestrian and cycling path.
Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona): Home to an extensive collection of petrified wood and stunning desert landscapes.
Route 66 Museum (Clinton, Oklahoma): Showcasing memorabilia, photographs, and exhibits that chronicle the history and cultural impact of the highway.
Route 66 in Popular Culture
Route 66 has been immortalized in popular culture, reinforcing its status as a symbol of American adventure. The song "Route 66," written by Bobby Troup and covered by artists like Nat King Cole and The Rolling Stones, celebrated the highway's allure. The 1960s TV show "Route 66" followed two young men traveling the country in a Corvette, further embedding the highway in American consciousness.
Modern-Day Route 66
Today, Route 66 remains a beloved route for road trip enthusiasts and history buffs. Many travelers embark on journeys to experience the nostalgia and charm of the Mother Road. Driving along Route 66 offers a unique opportunity to explore small-town America, enjoy quirky roadside attractions, and connect with the rich history of the highway.
Several annual events and festivals celebrate the legacy of Route 66, including car shows, parades, and cultural festivals. These events draw thousands of visitors each year, contributing to the ongoing preservation and appreciation of this historic highway.
History
Route 66, often called the "Mother Road," is one of the most famous highways in the United States, symbolizing freedom, adventure, and the American dream. Established on November 11, 1926, Route 66 originally spanned 2,448 miles, running from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. Its history is rich with cultural significance, economic impact, and a legacy that continues to captivate travelers and historians alike.
Early Beginnings and Establishment
Route 66 was conceived as part of the original U.S. Highway System, aimed at creating a coherent and accessible road network across the country. The idea for this transcontinental route was largely championed by Cyrus Avery, an Oklahoma businessman who recognized the need for better roads to connect rural and urban areas. Avery's vision was to create a highway that facilitated east-west travel and linked rural communities with larger cities.
The route was carefully planned to pass through as many small towns as possible, ensuring that these communities would benefit from increased traffic and commerce. This decision played a crucial role in the development of many towns along the route, providing them with economic opportunities and access to the broader national economy.
The Great Depression and Dust Bowl Migration
During the Great Depression, Route 66 became a critical path for thousands of Americans seeking better opportunities. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s devastated the agricultural regions of the Midwest, forcing many farming families to abandon their homes and migrate westward in search of work and a more stable life. John Steinbeck’s novel "The Grapes of Wrath" poignantly captured this migration, referring to Route 66 as the "Mother Road."
The highway facilitated the movement of these "Okies" (a term often used to describe migrants from Oklahoma) to California, where they hoped to find employment in agriculture and other industries. Route 66 thus became a symbol of hope and resilience during one of the darkest periods in American history.
World War II and Post-War Boom
World War II brought significant changes to Route 66. The highway played a vital role in the mobilization efforts, serving as a major route for transporting military personnel and supplies. Numerous military bases and training facilities were established along the route, further increasing its strategic importance.
After the war, Route 66 experienced a boom in tourism and travel, driven by the economic prosperity of the post-war era. Americans took to the roads in unprecedented numbers, exploring the country and seeking leisure and adventure. The rise of car culture during the 1950s and 1960s transformed Route 66 into a symbol of freedom and exploration.
Businesses along the route flourished, with motels, diners, gas stations, and tourist attractions catering to the needs of travelers. Iconic establishments such as the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, and the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico, became symbols of the Route 66 experience.
Decline and Decommissioning
The construction of the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s and 1960s marked the beginning of the decline of Route 66. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, inspired by the efficient German autobahn network, initiated the development of a nationwide system of high-speed, limited-access highways. The new interstates provided faster and more direct routes, bypassing many of the small towns and winding paths of Route 66.
As segments of the interstate system were completed, traffic on Route 66 dwindled, leading to economic hardships for businesses and communities that depended on the highway. By the early 1980s, many sections of Route 66 had been replaced by interstates, and on June 27, 1985, the highway was officially decommissioned as a U.S. Highway.
Preservation and Revival
Despite its decommissioning, the cultural and historical significance of Route 66 has led to numerous efforts to preserve and revive the iconic highway. Preservation organizations, local communities, and enthusiasts have worked tirelessly to protect the landmarks and heritage of Route 66.
The National Park Service's Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program, established in 1999, provides grants and assistance to preserve the historic sites and structures along the route. This program aims to maintain the character and legacy of Route 66, ensuring that future generations can experience its unique history.
Many states have designated segments of the old highway as "Historic Route 66," and these sections have become popular tourist destinations. Annual events, festivals, and car rallies celebrate the heritage of Route 66, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
Key Landmarks and Attractions
Route 66 is dotted with numerous landmarks and attractions that capture the spirit of mid-20th-century America. Some of the most notable include:
Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas): An art installation featuring ten half-buried Cadillacs, which has become an iconic symbol of Route 66.
Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, California): The western terminus of Route 66, offering a historic plaque marking the end of the journey.
Chain of Rocks Bridge (St. Louis, Missouri): A unique mile-long bridge crossing the Mississippi River, now a pedestrian and cycling path.
Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona): Home to an extensive collection of petrified wood and stunning desert landscapes.
Route 66 Museum (Clinton, Oklahoma): Showcasing memorabilia, photographs, and exhibits that chronicle the history and cultural impact of the highway.
Route 66 in Popular Culture
Route 66 has been immortalized in popular culture, reinforcing its status as a symbol of American adventure. The song "Route 66," written by Bobby Troup and covered by artists like Nat King Cole and The Rolling Stones, celebrated the highway's allure. The 1960s TV show "Route 66" followed two young men traveling the country in a Corvette, further embedding the highway in American consciousness.
Modern-Day Route 66
Today, Route 66 remains a beloved route for road trip enthusiasts and history buffs. Many travelers embark on journeys to experience the nostalgia and charm of the Mother Road. Driving along Route 66 offers a unique opportunity to explore small-town America, enjoy quirky roadside attractions, and connect with the rich history of the highway.
