Route 66: The Mother Road's Legacy and Secrets

A Journey Through History: Where Route 66 Begins and Ends

Historic Route 66, affectionately known as "The Mother Road," starts in the bustling streets of Chicago, Illinois, and stretches all the way to the sunny shores of Santa Monica, California. First established in 1926, this legendary highway covered a whopping 2,448 miles, connecting the heartland of America to the Pacific Coast.

Fascinating Route 66 Facts

It wasn’t always paved

When Route 66 opened in 1926, only 800 miles were paved. The rest? A mix of dirt, gravel, and even wooden planks. It wasn’t fully paved until 1937, becoming the first national highway to achieve this milestone. 

Shortest year-round route

While it wasn’t America’s longest road (that title belongs to U.S. Route 20), Route 66 was the shortest all-weather route connecting the Midwest to the Pacific Coast.

Father of Route 66

Cyrus Avery, a visionary businessman from Tulsa, Oklahoma, played a pivotal role in creating this historic highway. Dubbed the “Father of Route 66,” Avery also coined its famous nickname, "The Main Street of America." His efforts made Route 66 a vital connector for commerce, migration, and adventure.

The "Mother Road" in Literature and Music

John Steinbeck immortalized Route 66 in his 1939 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel The Grapes of Wrath, calling it “The Mother Road.” This moniker stuck, symbolizing the dreams and struggles of Dust Bowl migrants heading west in search of better opportunities.

And who can forget the timeless tune “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66”? Composed by Bobby Troup in 1946 and famously sung by Nat King Cole, this anthem celebrated the highway’s charm, winding its way into pop culture history. 

The 1960s  TV show “Route 66” followed two young adventurers exploring America in their Corvette. Filmed across 25 states, it became a hit for its stunning cinematography.  Disney’s movie simply titled Cars (2006) brought Route 66 back into the spotlight, with its fictional Radiator Springs representing the small towns that thrived along the highway.

States Along the Route: Miles and Memories

Traversing eight states, Route 66 offered travelers a taste of America’s diverse landscapes and cultures:

• Illinois - 301 miles
• Missouri - 317 miles
• Kansas - The shortest stretch at just 13 miles
• Oklahoma - The most significant portion at 432 miles
• Texas - 186 miles
• New Mexico - 487 miles, the longest in any state
• Arizona - 401 miles
• California - 314 miles

Each state contributed unique landmarks, from Illinois’ towering Gemini Giant statue to California’s Santa Monica Pier.

What Remains of Route 66 Today?

Though decommissioned in 1985 in favor of modern interstates, much of Route 66 remains drivable, with roughly 85% of its original path accessible to nostalgic adventurers. Some segments retain their original charm, while others have been overtaken by highways like I-40 and I-55.

Notable remnants include over 250 historic structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And, if you’re in New Mexico, don’t miss the “singing road” near Tijeras where driving at 45 mph plays “America the Beautiful” through your car’s vibrations—a magical experience for any traveler.

Rte. 66 Centennial - 2026

In 2026, the United States will mark a milestone: the 100th anniversary of Route 66, the legendary "Mother Road." First commissioned on November 11, 1926, this iconic highway stretched 2,448 miles and forever changed how Americans traveled west.

During the 1930s, it became a lifeline for families fleeing the Dust Bowl during the Great Depression. By the 1950s, it evolved into something new—a symbol of freedom, luring post-WWII travelers with promises of adventure and the open road. As interstate highways took over, Route 66 became less about the destination and more about the journey.

Now, nearly a century later, preparations for the centennial are in full swing. States along the route are planning big celebrations. Expect events, restored vintage neon signs, interactive exhibits at historic stops, improved signage, and even a digital passport app to guide visitors to the best attractions.

The Mother Road is ready to shine again. Let the countdown to 2026 begin!