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Route 66 Turns 100: The Mother Road Still Kicks
8 Apr
Summary
- Route 66, the iconic "Mother Road," celebrates its 100th anniversary this year.
- The highway evolved from an escape route to a quintessential American road trip.
- Vintage signs and restored attractions still beckon travelers along its path.
Route 66, affectionately known as the "Mother Road," is marking its centennial anniversary this year. Originally established in 1926, the highway has evolved significantly over the past century.
Initially, it served as a vital escape route for farmers fleeing the Dust Bowl in the 1930s. Today, it is celebrated as an iconic American road trip, drawing travelers with its enduring neon lights and vintage signs.
Iconic stops include the Cozy Dog Drive In in Springfield, Illinois, famous for its breaded hot dogs on a stick. The Chain of Rocks Bridge near St. Louis, though now a pedestrian and cycling path, offers unique engineering marvels.
Further along, the Kan-O-Tex Service Station in Galena, Kansas, inspired Pixar's "Cars." The Threatt Filling Station in Oklahoma stands as a testament to Black entrepreneurship along the route.
California marks the journey's end at the Santa Monica Pier, offering breathtaking Pacific Ocean views. Despite its age, Route 66 continues to offer a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure.