Best of Route 66: Unmissable Experiences to Enjoy
The allure of the open road has always captivated adventurers and dreamers alike. The Route 66, often referred to as the "Mother Road," is more than just a highway; it's a nostalgic journey through the heart of America. The anticipation of exploring this iconic route can be tinged with uncertainty—questions about boredom, crowded attractions, and the overall experience often arise. But as those who have traveled it can attest, this legendary road trip is an adventure filled with unforgettable moments and surprises at every turn.
In this article, we delve into the highlights of Route 66, providing insights and tips for those contemplating this remarkable journey. Whether you're a road trip veteran or a first-time traveler, what follows is a treasure trove of experiences that make traversing the Route 66 a must-do.
The endless miles of road
Worried about monotony? Think again! The Route 66 is a testament to the joy of road trips. Driving through diverse states, encountering breathtaking landscapes, and engaging with fascinating stories create an adventure that feels priceless. Each day presents a new opportunity to discover the unexpected, making every mile an exhilarating experience.
Tip: Curate a travel playlist that sets the mood for your journey. We created a playlist that accompanied us beautifully on this adventure!
Stepping back in time at diners
Visiting a diner is like stepping into a time machine, transporting you back to the 1950s. The charm of these establishments lies not just in their looks, but in the experiences they offer. The vintage decor and classic menu items create a delightful ambiance that you won’t forget anytime soon.
Recommendation: One of our favorite stops was Lucille’s Roadhouse in Oklahoma, where Rober indulged in a mouthwatering burger while I savored a pulled pork sandwich. It was simply divine!
Exploring thematic museums
Think museums are boring? Think again! The thematic museums along Route 66 are a goldmine of history and vintage treasures. Each location tells the story of the road, showcasing fascinating collections that highlight its cultural significance. From antique cars to quirky memorabilia, there's something for everyone.
If you're short on time, don’t miss these two gems:
- National Route 66 Museum in Elk City: This is arguably the most comprehensive and visited museum along the route. Admission is only $5, and it’s well worth it!
- Russell's Restaurant Museum: Located between Adrian and Tucumcari, this museum is free and filled with everything from vintage cars to memorabilia featuring icons like Marilyn Monroe and Elvis. The owner is incredibly friendly, adding to the charm.
Discovering the deep America
Route 66 reveals a side of America that is often overlooked—a land of vast deserts, Native American reservations, and ghost towns. This journey takes you through the heart of the Midwest, a region that often doesn't make it to Hollywood films but plays a crucial role in American history and culture.
Experiencing this "deep America" is a reminder of the diverse tapestry that makes up the nation, showcasing its rich heritage beyond the glittering skylines of cities like New York or San Francisco.
The charm of road signs
We're not typically souvenir collectors, but the vintage road signs along Route 66 were hard to resist. The neon signs of motels are particularly captivating, with the Blue Swallow Motel being our favorite. It's a piece of history that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the road.
Among the more whimsical signs are those from Burma Shave, a series of six sequential signs featuring humorous rhymes:
Example: the poorest guy in the human race can have a million dollar face, if you dislike big traffic fines slow down til you can read these signs…
These signs were once common on highways across the country, but now they are rare artifacts of Americana, with some still visible along the route, particularly around Ash Fork and Seligman, Arizona.
For more on the history of these signs, check out Burma Shave.
The quirky attractions
Quirky attractions abound on Route 66, and we loved every one of them. Some of our favorites included:
- The iconic teepees of Wigwam Motel and the Jack Rabbit Trading Post, featuring a giant rabbit perfect for photo ops.
- The Blue Whale of Catoosa, where you can walk inside the belly of a whale—a surreal experience!
- Cars on the Route, where fans of the animated movie "Cars" can see memorabilia from the film.
- Ed Galloway's Totem Pole Park, a stunning park filled with colorful totem poles and artistic displays.
Every day on this route brings new and unexpected discoveries, ensuring that no two journeys are ever the same.
Meeting the characters of the road
The people we encountered along Route 66 were some of the friendliest and most colorful characters we've ever met. One memorable moment took place in a small bar in a tiny Missouri town, where we shared drinks and laughter with locals who were just as curious about us as we were about them.
Meeting iconic figures along the route also enriched our experience. One standout was Harley, who serenaded us with his rendition of “Get Your Kicks on Route 66.” Another delightful encounter was with Elmer, the creator of the Bottle Ranch—a whimsical spot made entirely of colorful bottles. We also connected with John, the genial caretaker of the Gay Parita station, who welcomed us with postcards and delicious ice cream, making us feel right at home.
The nostalgia of motels
Motels are an essential part of the Route 66 experience. Each town features legendary motels that evoke the charm of the 1960s, complete with neon lights and retro aesthetics. These nostalgic havens are a treat for those with a penchant for the quirky and the vintage.
While we didn’t stay in any motels during our RV travels, we made sure to stop by iconic places like the Wigwam Motel, known for its unique teepee-shaped rooms, and the Blue Swallow Motel, famous for its pastel colors and historic signage. There are literally hundreds of motels along the route, each with its own unique character.
National Parks and scenic landscapes
Many travelers may not realize that there is a National Park right on Route 66: the Petrified Forest National Park. This remarkable park features ancient petrified trees and breathtaking viewpoints that make it a must-visit.
While crossing New Mexico, we chose to detour to Santa Fe and then to Albuquerque. In the town's tourism office, we were recommended to visit the relatively unknown Tent Rock National Park, where we were awed by the unique tent-shaped rock formations. It was an unexpected delight with hardly any visitors around!
Beyond National Parks, the landscapes along Route 66 are nothing short of spectacular. You’ll encounter lush green fields, striking red mountains, and vast deserts, often sharing the road with long, winding trains that honk as they pass by—an experience you won’t forget.
Traveling the Route 66 in an RV
Initially, we were apprehensive about traveling in an RV. The distance seemed daunting, and the idea of spending days in a large vehicle was intimidating. However, it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made! We parked at Indian casinos, by lakesides, and even at Walmart parking lots, embracing the spontaneous nature of the journey.
We cooked pasta amidst the stunning backdrop of petrified trees, indulged in massive burgers with milkshakes, and followed the trail of "Breaking Bad" locations for a dose of our favorite show. Experiencing Route 66 fully from the comfort of an RV was like living the adventure on steroids, allowing us to immerse ourselves in every moment.
If you have the opportunity, we highly recommend this way of traveling!
These experiences represent what we consider to be the best of Route 66. It has undoubtedly been one of the most remarkable journeys of our lives—unique, fascinating, and far from boring. In fact, we would jump at the chance to drive this legendary road again in a few years, hoping it remains as enchanting as it is today!
For those looking for a visual glimpse into the adventures that await on Route 66, check out this video:
Deja una respuesta