Route 66, the iconic ‘Main Street of America,’ weaves a tapestry of nostalgia, adventure, and boundless exploration across the heartland of the United States. For generations, this legendary highway has beckoned travelers with its promise of scenic beauty, historical landmarks, and a taste of authentic Americana. But with great journeys come frequently asked questions (FAQ), and in the spirit of discovery, we’ve gathered the most pressing inquiries about Route 66 FAQ.
This historic highway, officially established on November 11, 1926, originally stretched from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, covering approximately 2,448 miles (3,940 kilometres). Unfortunately, Route 66 was decommissioned as a U.S. highway in 1985, but its legacy is a symbol of the great American road trip and the vibrant spirit of exploration.
Route 66 is not just a historic highway; it’s also a corridor rich with fascinating museums that capture the essence of American culture and history. Along the journey, you’ll encounter a diverse array of museums. In Pontiac, Illinois, you can visit the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum, showcasing the iconic people and places that have made Route 66 a cultural treasure. You will find plenty of Instagrammable spots in the First Hundred Miles of Route 66.
Route 66 FAQ
Where does Route 66 Start and End?
Beginning close to the Art Institute of Chicago, you can find the Route 66 sign at Jackson Blvd. and Michigan Ave. in downtown Chicago and ends at the Santa Monica Pier in California.
How long is Route 66?
The original Route 66 highway was 2,448 miles or 3,940 kilometres from Illinois to California.
How long does it take to drive Route 66?
Because of the long distance, you should take around three weeks to drive or travel on Route 66.
What is so Special about Route 66?
More than any other road in the United States, Route 66 symbolizes the renewed optimism that led to the country’s economic recovery after the Second World War.
How Long was Route 66 in use?
The official lifespan ran from 1926 to 1985 when it was decommissioned.
What States Does Route 66 Go Through?
Route 66 runs through 8 different states within the United States. From east to west, it runs through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
Why is Route 99 Called The Mother Road?
John Steinbeck proclaimed Route 66 the Mother Road in his 1939 book The Grapes of Wrath. “The Mother Road” beckoned desperate migrants fleeing the Dust Bowl as they moved west in search of jobs in the 1930s.
Where do Route 66 and Lincoln Highway meet?
The city of Joliet, Illinois, long has been known by historians as boasting the intersection of two historic roads — Route 66 and the Lincoln Highway.
Why did America abandon Route 66?
Virtually all roads, including Route 66, were functionally obsolete because of narrow pavements and antiquated structural features that reduced carrying capacity. Emergency road-building measures developed during wartime left bridges and culverts woefully inadequate for postwar needs.
What National Parks are on or near Route 66?
Going down this route, you can visit the following National Park or Park Service (and Historic sites) on or near Route 66:
1. Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Illinois
2. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
3. Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, Missouri
4. Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico
5. Petroglyph National Monument, New Mexico
6. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
7. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
8. Hoover Dam & Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada
9. Mojave National Preserve, California
10. Joshua Tree National Park, California
What are the most photographed landmarks on Route 66?
1. Route 66 Begin sign (Chicago, Illinois)
2. The Gemini Giant (Wilmington, Illinois)
3. Gateway Arch (St. Louis, Missouri)
4. 66-foot Pop’s Soda Bottle (Arcadia, Oklahoma)
5. Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas)
6. Midpoint Cafe (Adrian, Texas)
7. Blue Swallow Motel (Tucumcari, New Mexico)
8. Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, Arizona
9. Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, California)
10. Route 66 Shield Signs (various locations on Route 66)
When is the best time to drive on Route 66?
The best months would be early spring, April, May, and even June. Early fall, September and October would also be a good time to travel. Summer months can be very hot, and summer travelers will be plentiful.
Margarita Ibbott is a travel and lifestyle blogger. She blogs about travel in Canada, the United States and Europe giving practical advice through restaurant, hotel and attraction reviews. She writes for DownshiftingPRO.com and other online media outlets.