The Ultimate Route 66 Adventure
Cruising Through History: Your Ultimate Route 66 Adventure
Route 66 isn’t just a road; it’s a living, breathing time capsule of Americana. Spanning 2,448 miles and crossing through eight states, this iconic highway connects Chicago to Los Angeles while offering endless opportunities for adventure. Fondly nicknamed the “Mother Road” and “America’s Main Street,” Route 66 is more than a journey—it’s an experience.
From quirky roadside attractions to vintage motels, colorful murals, eye catching neon, and jaw-dropping natural wonders, this iconic stretch is a treasure trove for adventurers. But the sheer abundance of sights can make planning overwhelming. That’s where Tours of Distinction steps in, offering a professionally guided tour through some of Route 66’s most captivating stops in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Sit back, relax, and let us treat you like the “king and queen” of the road!
Spotlight on Amarillo, Texas: The Historic Gem of Route 66
Amarillo, Texas, proudly boasts its first and only historic district, blending architectural styles like Spanish Revival, Art Deco, and Art Modern preserving 13 blocks of cafes, antique shops, restaurants, and nightspots. Whether you’re a history buff, a shopaholic, or a foodie, this area has something for everyone.
Here’s what you shouldn’t miss, Sixth Street Antique Mall, a treasure hunter’s dream, the Nat Bookstore located in a former dance hall, Blue Sage Pottery & Art Gallery showcasing unique works by talented local artists, and Barnaby’s Beanery that has been serving up their famous cornbread cheeseburger for over four decades.
Cadillac Ranch: A Pop Art Masterpiece
If you’ve ever imagined what happens when creativity meets car culture, Cadillac Ranch is your answer. Nestled in a Texas field, this larger-than-life art installation features ten Cadillacs, each buried nose-first at a dramatic 60-degree angle. What’s the inspiration, you ask? It’s said to mimic the angle of the Pyramids of Giza—a nod to timelessness and intrigue.
Created by the innovative art collective Ant Farm and funded by eccentric millionaire Stanley Marsh 3, Cadillac Ranch offers a fascinating look at the evolution of Cadillac tail fins, spanning models from 1949 to 1963.
But Cadillac Ranch isn’t just for viewing. It’s interactive! Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their mark, adding to the ever-changing graffiti that blankets the cars. Whether you’re an art lover, car enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique photo op, Cadillac Ranch is a stop that surprises and delights. It’s a bold celebration of America’s enduring love affair with the automobile.
Glenrio: Ghostly Route 66
Nestled on the Texas-New Mexico border lies Glenrio, New Mexico, one of the most fascinating stops on Route 66. Once a bustling railroad town in the early 1900s, it later became a vibrant pit stop for travelers during the golden age of Route 66. But the story of Glenrio is far from ordinary—its unique position straddling two states led to some peculiar scenarios. For example, mail arrived on the Texas side but traveled to a New Mexico post office, bars were only found in New Mexico, as Texas was a dry county, and gas stations thrived on the Texas side due to lower fuel taxes.
During the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, Glenrio buzzed with life, catering to travelers crossing the dusty plains. However, the closure of the Rock Island Railroad Depot in 1955 marked the beginning of the end for Glenrio. When Interstate 40 bypassed the town in 1970, the once-thriving hub became a ghost town.
Today, visitors explore 17 abandoned buildings that sit frozen in time, offering them a glimpse into a bygone era. It’s no surprise that this mid-century relic is on the National Register of Historic Places. Walking through Glenrio feels like stepping into a time capsule, evoking memories of adventurous motor travelers and the spirit of the American West.
New Mexico Route 66 Museum
No Route 66 adventure would be complete without a stop at the New Mexico Route 66 Museum. Located in Tucumcari, New Mexico this charming gem celebrates the history, culture, and vibrancy of the Mother Road through stunning exhibits and artifacts. Highlights include Michael Campanelli’s Route 66 Photo Exhibit of 166 stunning photos capturing the route from Chicago to L.A. in one sweeping display, a retro diner scene, and automotive Treasures like the 1929 Ford Model A Sedan, 1937 Studebaker President, and 1956 Mercury Montclair. Whether you’re a history buff, a car lover, or simply someone who appreciates the charm of yesteryear, this museum is a celebration of Route 66’s enduring legacy.
Discover the Charm of Tucumcari, Route 66’s Hidden Gem
Nestled along the iconic Route 66, Tucumcari, New Mexico is a beloved destination for travelers seeking nostalgia, charm, and a vibrant slice of Americana. Known as the largest town between Amarillo, Texas, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, this stop offers a delightful mix of vintage hotels like the famous Blue Swallow, dazzling neon signs, and quirky attractions. Among the treasures of Tucumcari, one spot stands out above the rest: Tee Pee Curios. Built in the 1940s, Tee Pee Curios started as a humble Gulf gas station. Over time, this roadside gem evolved into one of the most iconic stops for Route 66 enthusiasts. Its unmistakable teepee-shaped entrance captures the spirit of the highway’s golden age: bold, creative, and unapologetically fun. Tee Pee Curios is more than just a building—it’s a treasure trove for travelers. Step inside, and you’ll find an eclectic collection of Route 66 memorabilia and New Mexico-inspired gifts.
Santa Rosa: A Friendly Oasis
As you approach Santa Rosa, New Mexico you’ll be greeted by vintage signs, classic buildings, and a quintessential Main Street. This picturesque setting is more than just a feast for the eyes—it’s a journey into the past. The town’s main strip is lined with cozy cafes, unique shops, and family-owned restaurants where weary travelers can take a moment to relax, refuel, and enjoy a hearty slice of down-home friendliness. If you’re a movie buff, you might recognize Santa Rosa from the iconic film “The Grapes of Wrath”, where a freight train crosses the Pecos River in a memorable scene. Just a short drive from Santa Rosa lies the Fort Sumner Historic Site, a location that holds deep historical and cultural meaning. This site is home to the Bosque Redondo Indian Reservation, a place that tells the story of the Navajo and Mescalero Apache peoples who endured the Long Walk in the 1860s.
Santa Fe - A Mile High Capital
Santa Fe, New Mexico, is not only the state capital but also a treasure trove of history, culture, and connection to one of the most iconic highways in America - Route 66. Though it is no longer directly on the legendary roadway, Santa Fe’s ties to Route 66 and its predecessor, the Santa Fe Trail, a 19th century transportation route that connected the Midwest to the Southwest makes it a must-visit destination. Santa Fe is home to some captivating landmarks like San Miguel Mission, thought to be the oldest church in the U.S., Loretto Chapel, and La Fonda on the Plaza Hotel overlooking the Santa Fe Plaza. These sites, all within walking distance of one another, offer a glimpse into the city’s unique blend of Spanish, Native American, and Western influences.
Discover the Magic of Route 66 in Albuquerque
Route 66 in Albuquerque offers a rare chance to experience an authentic fusion of old and new. Whether you’re exploring the retro vibes of Nob Hill, the energetic University area, the bustling Downtown, or the historic charm of Old Town, every place has its own distinct personality. Central Avenue, which serves as the modern-day incarnation of Route 66, connects locals and visitors alike to Albuquerque’s diverse neighborhoods. One of the most iconic features of Route 66 in Albuquerque is its classic neon signage, glowing proudly over the road. These vintage artifacts not only pay homage to a bygone era but also add to the unique ABQ attitude that makes this city so special.
Journey to a Prehistoric Wonderland - Petrified Forest National Park
This high-desert geologic treasure chest unveils a world from over 200 million years ago, where ancient ecosystems left their mark on the surreal landscape. Two of its most iconic features are the ancient Triassic fossils, showcasing plants and animals that once thrived over 200 million years ago, and petrified wood, shimmering in vibrant hues and preserved in stone. The painted desert with its hues of pink, orange, and red create an otherworldly backdrop, making it a photographer’s dream.
Winslow: More than a Song
Nestled in the heart of northern Arizona, Winslow became an unexpected cultural hotspot in 1972 thanks to the Eagles’ classic hit “Take It Easy.” The iconic line, “standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona,” not only immortalized this small town in rock history but also turned it into a must-visit destination for fans around the world. Today, visitors can relive the song’s magic with a stop at the Standin’ on the Corner Park. This quirky landmark features a mural and a life-sized statue perfect for a photo op that captures the spirit of the tune. Before musical fame, Winslow was part of Rte. 66 as well as a stop on the Santa Fe RR. Its historic district is a living testament to that era, preserving the architecture and atmosphere of a bygone time. One of the most popular places in town is the Turquoise Room, a restaurant and shop at an on-site historic trading post, a perfect blend of Southwest hospitality.
Two Guns, Arizona: A Forgotten Town
Perched on the east rim of Canyon Diablo, Two Guns, Arizona is a place where history whispers through the cracks of crumbling stone walls. Once a bustling stop along Route 66, this ghost town now stands as a haunting reminder of a bygone era. The skeletal remains of hand-crafted buildings and faded signs tell tales of the travelers, dreamers, and adventurers who once breathed life into this desert outpost.
Jerome -“Wickedest Town in the West”
Nestled in the rugged hills of central Arizona lies Jerome, a town with a history as colorful as its copper-rich soil. Once celebrated as the “Wickedest Town in the West,” Jerome has evolved from a booming mining hub to the largest ghost town in America—and, finally, to a charming cultural destination. Not to be missed are art galleries and boutiques located in former bordellos, restaurants that occupy spaces once used as opium dens, and historic saloons, some of Arizona’s oldest where echoes of miners’ laughter and stories still linger in the air.