We all know about Route 66, we cannot enter a truck stop on a road trip without some sort of reference to the iconic road.
Route 66 is famous, making more camios in movies and songs than you and I can boast about. “Route 66” by Bobby Troup, TV series (the 1960s’ “Route 66”) and films like Pixar’s “Cars”.
The road was even famously called the “Mother Road” by author John Steinbeck. So, what makes Route 66 the most famous road in the history of the country?
A Symbol of Opportunity
In the 1920s, businessmen John Woodruff and Cyrus Avery envisioned a superhighway that would link Los Angeles to Chicago and link the West to the East.
Their plans evolved and became even more ambitious when they merged with the government. Route 66 would connect the main streets of numerous urban and rural areas.
It would essentially be the road that symbolized opportunity to millions of Americans who sought opportunities in various parts of the country.
It became everything they envisioned and more. Millions of Americans relocated to new towns and cities; the West became a modern community from its former status as a wild frontier; and the American road evolved to a superhighway from dirty, unpaved roads.
Visually Astounding
Virtually every highway has memorable sights. However, Route 66 is probably the one with the most interesting sights across its length. The highway, for instance, showcases some of the most incredible views in the country.
In New Mexico, there are various archaeological sites to visit, and in Arizona, you can view Sedona’s red rocks or the Grand Canyon. Route 66 also has attractions you’ll be hard pressed to find anywhere else, like stores with vintage automobiles and gas pumps or the Cozy Dog Drive In, which gave the world the famous hot dog on a stick.
Gone, Not Forgotten
Route 66 was officially decommissioned in 1985. It had become obsolete in the wake of interstates. However, about 85% of it is still navigable. If you haven’t, you owe it to yourself to visit this great American icon.
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