An iconic journey that captures the spirit of the open road
From Chicago to Los Angeles, this famous highway crosses 2,400 miles (3,862km) of the United States. When construction began in 1926, Route 66 connected a variety of roads into one, scenic route through the plains of the Midwest and deserts of the Southwest.
Following WWII, as more families were able to afford cars and leisure time, the highway - and the small towns along the way - flourished, creating the iconic neon vibes we know today. Route 66 became a symbol of freedom, adventure and the American dream
By 1984, massive interstates bypassed the scenic route, leaving the small towns behind. But, the mystique of the road has led to interest from mom-and-pop business owners, historians and travelers, allowing sections of the road to become designated National Scenic Routes.
Whether you're looking for national parks, incredible local food or neon kitsch, here is your guide to "get your kicks on Route 66."
“The Mother Road” passes through eight states and has become America’s most iconic route since it was first created in 1926. In this episode of Vox Almanac, Phil Edwards explores the history of the road, its roadside attractions and the many people whose homes are along the way.
A quick, visually striking tour of 28 of Chicago's classic buildings constructed in the 1920s and 1930s, the heyday of skyscraper construction.
For more than 40 years, the St Louis' Gateway Arch has beckoned visitors with its iconic, awe-inspiring shape. The vision of renowned architect Eero Saarinen, it commemorates Thomas Jefferson and St. Louis' role in the westward expansion of the United States. Bob Moore, historian with the National Park Service, shares some of its history.
From humble roots to worldwide sensation, learn the story behind Kansas City barbecue, the city's most well-known and beloved cuisine.
Josh Lynch is the founder and owner of The Dog House, a food truck in Tulsa, Oklahoma, that sells specialty hot dogs. Their wild combinations and friendly service keeps customers coming back for more.
This classic treat from the Lone Star State features a thin, fluffy cake and a rich, fudgy frosting. Serious Eats shares tips and tricks to make the best version at home.
Over 500 hot air balloons take to the skies each October for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the largest event of its kind in the world. This timelapse footage, featured in National Geographic’s Short Film Showcase, captures highlights from the nine-day event, from the illuminating glow of the balloons before dawn to festivities after the sun has set.
Join hosts Jack and Colton as they discover ancient history in Arizona—from ancient Native dwellings to the park’s namesake petrified wood (trees that have turned to rock) and the remains of now-extinct animals.
Arizona contains one of the longest remaining stretches of the original Route 66, extending across the state from Holbrook in the east to Seligman and Kingman in the west. Experience some of these historic sites and meet the locals who call these towns on "The Mother Road" home.
Located in the Mojave Desert of southeastern California, this is one of the most popular national parks in the US. Whether you’re interested in hiking to a lush oasis, driving to scenic view points, or taking in the park’s namesake trees, this guide will help you to experience the best of the park.
With Chuck Barry, Ray Charles, Ritchie Valens, Elvis and more, this Spotify station will have you grooving your way down "The Mother Road."
The best guide to Route 66, the "Main Street of America," that runs from Chicago to Santa Monica. By Jerry McClanahan.
First published in 1939, Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize-winning epic of the Great Depression chronicles the Dust Bowl migration of the 1930s and tells the story of one Oklahoma farm family, the Joads—driven from their homestead and forced to travel west via Route 66 to the promised land of California. Also available as an audiobook. By John Steinbeck.
Lightning McQueen, a hotshot rookie race car driven to succeed, discovers that life is about the journey, not the finish line, when he finds himself unexpectedly detoured in the sleepy Route 66 town of Radiator Springs. When the high-speed interstate was created, the offbeat citizens of the town (like their real-life counterparts), were bypassed.
Time to plan your own road trip through the heartland?
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