Route 66: A Journey to the Heart of America Turns 100

Route 66, that symbolic lifeline of the American travel spirit, is turning 100 years old. And it will do so in grand style—with a celebration spanning its more than 2,400 miles (3,900 kilometers), crossing multiple U.S. states that are ready to honor this legendary route.

Kicking Off Where It All Began: Chicago

It was during the second day of IPW 2024, held in Chicago, that the official kickoff for this historic celebration took place. Tourism delegations, international media, and industry experts gathered to learn how the United States plans to commemorate one of its most iconic travel routes.

Amid excitement and pride, attendees were reminded that Route 66 is more than just a highway—it's a symbol of freedom, diversity, and authenticity. State representatives shared their plans, emphasizing how the route continues to connect cultures and landscapes, past and future.

“Route 66 is more than pavement: it’s pure nostalgia and a symbol of the American experience and spirit that transcends geography.”

A Century of History, a Legacy to Explore

Established in 1926 to link Chicago with Santa Monica, Route 66 served as the main artery of America for decades. A road of migrants, dreamers, rock and roll, and pop culture, it remains one of the most legendary road trips in the world.

In 2026, a full century will have passed since its first journey, and each of the states it crosses—Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, and California—will celebrate with a mix of nostalgia, innovation, and tourism.

A Gem for International Tourism

For many travelers—especially from Europe and Latin America—driving Route 66 is the road trip of a lifetime. And with good reason: according to Brand USA, the highway generates over $150 million per year, much of it from international tourism.

With its retro diners, neon signs, historic motels, and ever-changing scenery, Route 66 is a journey through time, offering an experience that is deeply American, yet universally appealing.

For its centennial, the goal is twofold: honor the past while looking toward the future, with sustainable travel options, thematic trails, and immersive experiences designed for a new generation of explorers.

Illinois: Where the Journey Begins

As the starting point of the route, Illinois is going all out. The state will offer a five-day itinerary featuring over 100 experiences, from museum visits and urban art tours to electric vehicle road trips.

Chicago, Springfield, and other cities along the route will host vintage-themed events and an immersive art installation in June 2025.

“There’s never been a better time to hit Route 66 from Illinois,” said Cory Jobe, President & CEO of Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau.

Missouri: Springfield, the Heart of the Celebration

Springfield, Missouri, where Route 66 was officially born in 1926, will be the national host city for the centennial in April 2026. According to Stephen Foutes, it will be a must-visit for those eager to dive into the road's history, featuring attractions such as the Neon Park, the Big Red Museum, and the historic streets of St. Louis and Joplin.

Kansas and Oklahoma: Classic Route 66 Spirit

In Kansas, Route 66 stretches only 13 miles (21 kilometers), but towns like Riverton and Baxter Springs offer a complete immersion in classic Americana. Once you enter Oklahoma, the experience intensifies—it boasts the longest drivable stretch of the original highway.

Backed by a $6.6 million investment, Oklahoma is restoring landmarks, original segments, and museums. The city of Tulsa, known for its vibrant culinary scene, will be one of the journey's highlights.

“Oklahoma doesn’t just want to preserve the past—it wants you to live it like it’s brand new,” said Kerry Barrick, Route 66 Coordinator.

Texas: Pop Art and Panhandle Hospitality

Though relatively short—about 180 miles (290 kilometers)—the Texas stretch of Route 66 is packed with iconic stops, explained Tim Fennell. Amarillo is the heart of the route, home to the famous Cadillac Ranch, an open-air art installation that symbolizes American pop culture.

In Adrian, travelers will find the exact midpoint of the route, proudly marked by the Midpoint Café. Small towns like Groom, Shamrock, and Vega offer classic motels, vintage gas stations, and that unforgettable Texan hospitality.

New Mexico: Where Art and History Meet

Few places reflect Route 66’s diversity better than New Mexico, noted Lancing Adams. In Albuquerque, an 18-mile stretch will be transformed into an urban art gallery with murals, sculptures, and augmented reality experiences.

Santa Fe and Gallup add deep cultural richness, thanks to their Indigenous heritage. Highlights include the Intertribal Festival and the iconic Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari.

Arizona: Route 66 in Its Most Authentic Form

Arizona holds the longest uninterrupted stretch of Route 66—158 miles of living history. From the Petrified Forest to the Flagstaff Observatory, where Pluto was discovered, the state offers a mix of natural wonders and cultural gems, said Alix Skelpsa Ridgway.

Towns like Winslow, Kingman, and Peach Springs complete this journey back in time, still captivating modern travelers with adventurous spirits.

California: The Grand Finale (or Beginning) on the Pacific

California’s stretch of Route 66 is pure cinema magic. From the Mojave Desert to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, the state offers more than 310 miles (500 km) of unforgettable moments, according to Caroline Beteta.

Palm Springs, Beverly Hills, Big Bear—every stop has its own appeal, whether it’s for the scenery, cuisine, or Hollywood legacy. A digital travel guide is already available at VisitCalifornia.com to help plan your dream Route 66 journey.

More Than a Celebration—A Rediscovery

Celebrating 100 years of Route 66 is more than just a series of festivals and exhibitions. It’s an open invitation to rediscover one of the most influential roads in modern history.

From nostalgic gas stations to digital art, this centennial will be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to live—or relive—an experience that has shaped the journeys of millions of travelers.