Historic Rt 66 Map Travel Guide
Introduction
Historic Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America, is a famous highway that runs from Chicago to Santa Monica, passing through eight states and covering a distance of 2,448 miles. This iconic road has been featured in movies, songs, and literature, and attracts millions of tourists every year. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports along the Historic Rt 66 Map.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions along the Historic Rt 66 Map is the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. This unique art installation features ten Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground, and visitors are allowed to spray paint them. Another must-see attraction is the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, which is a 630-foot stainless steel arch that offers stunning views of the city. The Grand Canyon in Arizona is also a popular stop, with its breathtaking views and hiking trails.
Hidden Gems
For those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona is a unique place to stay. The motel rooms are shaped like tepees, and it is a great photo opportunity. Another hidden gem is the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, which is a giant blue whale sculpture that was built as a surprise anniversary gift for the owner’s wife in the 1970s.
Food Scene
The food scene along the Historic Rt 66 Map offers a variety of options, from classic diners to ethnic cuisine. The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas is known for its 72-ounce steak challenge, while the Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Illinois is famous for its corn dogs. The Frontier Restaurant in Albuquerque, New Mexico offers New Mexican cuisine, such as green chile stew and enchiladas.
Budget-Friendly Tips
For budget-friendly tips, consider staying at motels or camping grounds along the way. These options are usually cheaper than hotels and offer a more authentic experience. Another tip is to pack snacks and drinks instead of eating out for every meal.
Outdoor Adventures
The outdoor adventures along the Historic Rt 66 Map are endless. From hiking and camping to kayaking and fishing, there is something for everyone. The Ozark National Forest in Arkansas offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives. The Grand Canyon in Arizona offers hiking trails and rafting trips. The Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona offers hiking trails and unique geological formations.
Historical Landmarks
There are many historical landmarks along the Historic Rt 66 Map, including the Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma, which showcases the history of the road and its impact on America. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois is the former home of President Abraham Lincoln and offers tours and exhibits. The Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona is home to ancient petrified wood and fossils.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are many family-friendly activities along the Historic Rt 66 Map, including the City Museum in St. Louis, Missouri, which is an interactive museum with caves, tunnels, and slides. The Oklahoma City Zoo in Oklahoma offers a variety of animals and exhibits. The Grand Canyon in Arizona offers family-friendly hiking trails and mule rides.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For off-the-beaten-path experiences, consider visiting the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico, which is a vintage motel that has been preserved to its original state. The Devil’s Rope Museum in McLean, Texas showcases the history of barbed wire and its impact on the American West. The Wigwam Village Motel in Holbrook, Arizona offers a unique tepee-shaped motel experience.
Natural Wonders
The natural wonders along the Historic Rt 66 Map are breathtaking. The Grand Canyon in Arizona is a must-see, with its stunning views and hiking trails. The Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona is home to ancient petrified wood and fossils. The Ozark National Forest in Arkansas offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
Vibrant Nightlife
For those looking for a vibrant nightlife, check out the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego, California, which offers restaurants, bars, and live music. The Delmar Loop in St. Louis, Missouri offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and music venues. The Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas offers restaurants, bars, and night cruises.
Local Markets
The local markets along the Historic Rt 66 Map offer unique shopping experiences. The Santa Fe Farmers Market in New Mexico offers fresh produce and handmade crafts. The Tulsa Farmers Market in Oklahoma offers a variety of local goods, including honey, bread, and flowers. The Phoenix Public Market in Arizona offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
While the Historic Rt 66 Map does not pass through any beaches, there are many nearby options. The Santa Monica Pier in California offers a beach and amusement park. The Gulf Shores in Alabama offers a beach and fishing opportunities. The mountains along the route, including the Ozarks in Arkansas and the San Bernardino Mountains in California, offer hiking and scenic drives.
Cultural Immersion
The Historic Rt 66 Map offers many opportunities for cultural immersion. The Pueblo Indian culture is prevalent in New Mexico, with many museums and cultural centers. The Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, Illinois showcases the history and culture of the road. The Hispanic culture is prevalent in Arizona, with many festivals and celebrations.
Art and Music Scene
The art and music scene along the Historic Rt 66 Map is diverse and vibrant. The Santa Fe Opera in New Mexico offers world-class performances in a stunning setting. The Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma is a unique art installation. The City Museum in St. Louis, Missouri offers interactive art exhibits.
Walking Tours
There are many walking tours along the Historic Rt 66 Map. The Albuquerque Old Town Walking Tour in New Mexico offers a glimpse into the city’s history and culture. The Pontiac Walking Tour in Illinois offers a look at the city’s murals and public art. The Tulsa Art Deco Walking Tour in Oklahoma offers a look at the city’s architecture and history.
Architectural Marvels
The architectural marvels along the Historic Rt 66 Map are impressive. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri is a 630-foot stainless steel arch that offers stunning views of the city. The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona is a unique example of roadside architecture. The Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas is a unique art installation.
Historical Sites
The Historical sites along the Historic Rt 66 Map are numerous. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois is the former home of President Abraham Lincoln and offers tours and exhibits. The Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma showcases the history of the road and its impact on America. The Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona is home to ancient petrified wood and fossils.
Biking Routes
For those looking for biking routes, the Katy Trail State Park in Missouri offers a 240-mile trail that follows the Missouri River. The Santa Fe Trail in New Mexico offers a 19-mile trail that follows the historic trade route. The Pacific Electric Trail in California offers a 21-mile trail that follows the historic Pacific Electric Railway.
Wellness Retreats
The Historic Rt 66 Map offers many wellness retreats. The Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa in New Mexico offers natural hot springs and spa treatments. The Sedona Wellness Retreat in Arizona offers meditation and yoga classes. The Esalen Institute in California offers workshops and retreats focused on personal growth and healing.
Adventure Sports
The adventure sports along the Historic Rt 66 Map are numerous. The Grand Canyon in Arizona offers hiking trails and rafting trips. The Ozark National Forest in Arkansas offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives. The San Bernardino Mountains in California offer hiking, skiing, and snowboarding opportunities.
In conclusion, the Historic Rt 66 Map offers a wide variety of attractions and experiences for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether you are interested in history, nature, culture, or adventure, there is something for everyone along this iconic road.