Everything about Route 66: curious facts and attractions

Who has not ever said that his dream was to do Route 66? What many people do not know is that, in recent years, doing Route 66 has become one of the most desired destinations in the world. For this reason, in today’s article, we want to talk about the experience of traveling through all the places on this route, for what became so famous and the most essential information you should know if you want to do Route 66.

And you, would you dare to do it?

The historic Route 66: when was it made?

Route 66 was created on November 11, 1926, although until 1927 it was not marked as a route. It began in Chicago, specifically Illinois, and went through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, down to its end in Los Angeles. It became a perfect way to travel the United States from the West Coast to the East Coast, traveling a route of approximately 2,448 miles.

It is important to note that currently the original Route 66 no longer exists, that is, the original road cannot be traveled uninterruptedly. Even so, some extensive sections have been maintained to remember the essence of the original Route 66.

Although it has now become a well-known route, at the time, Route 66 served as an opportunity for a new life for all those migrants who traveled it in order to find a new beginning. Little by little, the route began to fill up with service stations, motels, restaurants, and everything necessary to guarantee a good trip to all those who traveled this path.

How long is Route 66? Why is it famous?

Route 66 was created by businessmen from Illinois and Oklahoma who thought it would be a good idea to connect the coasts of the United States through a single highway, from Chicago to Los Angeles. Over the years, its 2,448 miles became the favorite place for many motorcyclists and as a result of the large influx of people who passed through the area, it became more and more famous among the street of America. And therefore, as we have mentioned, more and more businesses began to be created from bars, restaurants, gas stations…

Where does Route 66 start and end?

Route 66, also known as Mother Road or Highway 66, begins in Chicago, specifically between the confluence of Jackson Boulevard and Michigan Avenue. And it ends at the Santa Monica pier in California where an original sign has been kept and which has become an iconic element.

Route 66 and its main attractions

If after reading this information you have decided to plan your own Route 66, we are going to leave you below a series of recommendations of the main roadside attractions that you can visit on your route:

Blue Whale of Catoosa

One of the first places we want to recommend is the Blue Whale of Catoosa, located in Oklahoma. Over the years, it has become one of the most popular attractions on the entire route. It was built in 1970 by Hugh Davis as a gift for his wife since she was very fond of whales. In addition, near this attraction, you can also visit Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park, which is a classic and historic place where you can see a park full of colored totems.

Cadicall Ranch

The Cadillac Ranch has become another of the most popular and must-see stops. It is one of the most typical places of Route 66, as 10 buried Cadillacs can be seen painted as visitors were encouraged to bring their own spray paint and graffiti some of the cars. As a result, painting one of the Cadillacs has turned into a true tradition for many.

Grand Canyon West

The Grand Canyon West has become one of the most impressive places of all the way and it is one of the best natural wonders of the whole world that you can visit during Route 66.

Oatman

The next place we want to include as one of the best attractions to visit on Route 66, is the small town of Oatman. This stands out for being one of the most curious towns on the entire route since you can visit this town, located in Arizona, while you are surrounded by donkeys.

Santa Monica Pier

As we have mentioned previously, Route 66 ends at Santa Monica Pier. This place is not only essential for this reason but also because it is a classic place within Californian culture. In consequence, it is highly recommended to take a walk along the mythical Santa Monica Pier and enjoy one of the best sunsets that you have surely seen.

Is it possible to make a road trip through Route 66?

For many years, it has been possible to take a trip and visit the best places on Route 66. You can do it by car, motorhome, or even in the well-known Harleys to live the country road experience even more.

If you are thinking of traveling Route 66 in the coming years, we will leave you a series of recommendations so that you can make your trip without any problem. The adventure on this trip is guaranteed, even so, it is advisable to have some aspects of the trip planned. For example, what part of the route do you want to visit, which days we can make the trip and also what monuments we want to visit.

Planning the days and the route will allow you to know where you are going to be able to sleep in the event that you do the tour by motorcycle, car, or other transport. In addition, it will also allow you to visit the essentials of each place and thus be able to discover other unplanned places.