Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America or the Mother Road, was one of the original highways in the United States highway system. It was established on November 11, 1926, and ran from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. It was 2,448 miles long and passed through eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The History of Route 66
Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America or the Mother Road, was one of the original highways in the United States highway system. It was established on November 11, 1926, and ran from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. It was 2,448 miles long and passed through eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
Route 66 was a major route for migrants traveling from the Dust Bowl to California during the Great Depression. It was also a popular route for tourists who wanted to explore the West. The highway was decommissioned in 1985, but many stretches of the road still exist, and it is a popular tourist attraction today.
Where Does Route 66 Begin and End?
Route 66 begins in Chicago, Illinois, at the intersection of Jackson Boulevard and Michigan Avenue. The road then heads southwest through Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas before entering Oklahoma. It continues through Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and finally ends in Santa Monica, California, at the intersection of Olympic Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard.
The total distance of Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica is 2,448 miles. The road passes through many small towns, big cities, and scenic areas, making it a popular route for travelers.
Why Was Route 66 Decommissioned?
Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985 after it was replaced by the Interstate Highway System. The interstate system was faster and safer than Route 66, and it was able to handle more traffic. Many of the towns and businesses along Route 66 suffered after the highway was decommissioned because they relied on the traffic from the road for their livelihood.
However, in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Route 66, and many of the towns and businesses along the road have been restored and revitalized. The road is now a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of American culture and history.
Question and Answer
Q: What Are Some of the Highlights Along Route 66?
A: There are many highlights along Route 66, including the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, and the Santa Monica Pier in California.
Q: How Long Does It Take to Drive Route 66?
A: It typically takes about two weeks to drive Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica, but the length of time can vary depending on how much time you want to spend in each town and how much sightseeing you want to do along the way.
Q: Is Route 66 Still Drivable?
A: Yes, many stretches of Route 66 are still drivable today. However, some parts of the road have been closed or rerouted, so it is important to plan your route carefully before setting out on a road trip.
Q: Why Is Route 66 Important to American History?
A: Route 66 is important to American history because it played a significant role in the migration of people from the Dust Bowl to California during the Great Depression. It was also a major route for tourists and travelers, and it became a symbol of American freedom and adventure.
Q: What Is the Best Time of Year to Drive Route 66?
A: The best time of year to drive Route 66 is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, the road can be driven year-round, so it is up to personal preference.
Q: What Are Some Tips for Driving Route 66?
A: Some tips for driving Route 66 include planning your route carefully, taking your time, and exploring the small towns and attractions along the way. It is also important to be prepared for changes in weather and road conditions.
Conclusion
Route 66 is a historic highway that played a significant role in American history and culture. It ran from Chicago to Santa Monica and passed through eight states, offering travelers a chance to explore small towns, big cities, and scenic areas. Although it was decommissioned in 1985, it remains a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of American freedom and adventure.
