Route 66 is on the verge of its 100th anniversary, and a 2,448-mile journey through eight states reveals a bold new chapter unfolding. From the legendary Muffler Men to Patel motels and neon-lit landmarks, small towns along America’s most iconic highway are coming back to life.
Subscribe
Adventure Tourism
Historical Sites
Route 66 is turning 100. So I drove all 2,448 miles of it — and watched it burst with new life
Photo by Thederrick
Key Takeaways:
- Route 66 is approaching its centennial, marking 100 years of American road travel.
- The highway extends 2,448 miles, spanning eight states.
- Roadside attractions like Muffler Men and Patel motels highlight local culture.
- Vibrant stops, including Tulsa and Tucumcari, light up the night.
- The route is experiencing renewed interest and vitality.
The Centennial Road
Friends, motorists, fellow Americans: Route 66 is turning 100. There’s nothing straightforward or predictable about this famed highway, which has long captured both the national imagination and international fascination. After nearly a century, Route 66 continues to beckon drivers from across the globe to experience its storied pavement and the promise of open-road adventure.
2,448 Miles and Counting
Covering more than two thousand miles and crossing eight states, Route 66 is as much a cultural institution as a highway. Along the way, travelers are greeted by towering Muffler Men statues, motels under the Patel name, and a tapestry of obscure roadside novelties that give each small town its own personality. For road trippers, it remains an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Americana woven into every pit stop.
Spotlight on Tulsa and Tucumcari
Tulsa and Tucumcari represent just two highlights on this epic journey. Luminous signs and neon lighting still blaze after sundown, paying tribute to the classic era of cross-country travel. As they approach their hundredth year, these towns prove that small communities can hold onto their heritage while also reimagining their own future.
A New Chapter for an Old Road
Far from a relic of the past, Route 66 is showing signs of renaissance. It continues to inspire travelers to veer off the interstate, take the slower path, and revel in the discoveries that lie between the bright lights. The 100th anniversary is not just a milestone—it’s a reminder that this legendary highway still pulses with the spirit of adventure and the promise of what lies ahead.
