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Original Route 66 Map
Discover the Best Attractions and Hidden Gems on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 is a historic highway that stretches over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica and passes through eight states. This iconic road trip offers an unforgettable journey through America’s heartland, with plenty of attractions and hidden gems to explore along the way.
One of the top attractions on the Original Route 66 is the Grand Canyon, one of the world’s seven natural wonders. This breathtaking natural wonder is best explored by hiking, rafting, or helicopter tours. Other must-see attractions include the Petrified Forest National Park, the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, and the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
For those looking for hidden gems, the Original Route 66 has plenty to offer. Some of the best include the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico, the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, and the Totem Pole Park in Foyil, Oklahoma.
Experience the Delicious Food Scene on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 is also known for its delicious food scene, with plenty of diners, cafes, and roadside eateries offering classic American cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include the famous Chicago-style hot dog, the Texas-style barbecue, and the Oklahoma-style fried onion burger.
For a unique culinary experience, don’t miss the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, where you can try to finish a 72-ounce steak in under an hour for a chance to win a free meal. Other noteworthy eateries include the Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Illinois, and the Rock Cafe in Stroud, Oklahoma.
Explore the Great Outdoors on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to rafting and fishing. Some of the best outdoor destinations include the Ozark National Forest in Arkansas, the Santa Fe National Forest in New Mexico, and the Mojave National Preserve in California.
For a unique outdoor experience, consider visiting the Meteor Crater in Arizona, where you can see the impact site of a meteor that struck the earth over 50,000 years ago.
Discover the Historical Landmarks on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 is also rich in history, with many landmarks and museums that showcase the road’s significance in American culture. Some of the must-see historical sites include the Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, and the Route 66 State Park in Eureka, Missouri.
Other noteworthy landmarks include the Painted Desert Inn in Arizona, the Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis, and the Wigwam Village Motel in Arizona.
Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 is also a great destination for families, with many fun and educational activities for kids of all ages. Some of the best family-friendly attractions include the Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington, Texas, the World’s Largest Toy Museum in Branson, Missouri, and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
For a unique family experience, consider a visit to the Oklahoma City Zoo, where you can see over 1,900 animals from around the world.
Explore the Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences on the Original Route 66
If you’re looking for a more unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, the Original Route 66 has plenty to offer. Some of the best hidden gems and quirky attractions include the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, and the World’s Largest Rocking Chair in Fanning, Missouri.
For a truly unique experience, consider a visit to the Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California, where you can see a whimsical collection of over 200 bottle trees decorated with colorful glass bottles.
Witness the Natural Wonders on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 also offers plenty of opportunities to witness the natural wonders of America, from majestic mountains to scenic beaches. Some of the best natural destinations include the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, the Grand Canyon in Arizona, and the Pacific Coast Highway in California.
For a unique natural wonder, consider visiting the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, where you can see the spectacular display of colorful petrified wood.
Experience the Vibrant Nightlife on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to explore. Some of the best nightlife destinations include the legendary Blue Note in Columbia, Missouri, the historic Tower Theatre in Oklahoma City, and the iconic Whiskey a Go Go in Los Angeles.
For a more laid-back nightlife experience, consider a visit to the historic Rainbow Bar and Grill in Hollywood, where you can enjoy a drink and catch a glimpse of the rock and roll history.
Discover the Local Markets and Festivals on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 is also a great destination for local markets and festivals, with plenty of opportunities to experience the unique culture of each state. Some of the best local markets include the Santa Fe Farmers Market in New Mexico, the Tulsa Farmers Market in Oklahoma, and the Hollywood Farmers Market in California.
For a unique festival experience, don’t miss the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico, the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, or the California Strawberry Festival in Oxnard.
Experience the Art and Music Scene on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 is also known for its vibrant art and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and live music venues to explore. Some of the best art destinations include the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles.
For a unique music experience, consider a visit to the iconic Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, where you can enjoy live music by up-and-coming artists.
Explore the Architectural Marvels on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 also offers plenty of architectural marvels, from historic buildings to unique landmarks. Some of the best architectural destinations include the Art Deco buildings in Tulsa, the Frank Lloyd Wright’s Price Tower in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, Illinois.
For a unique architectural wonder, consider a visit to the Wigwam Village Motel in Arizona, where you can stay in a cozy teepee-shaped room.
Discover the Biking Routes and Adventure Sports on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 is also a great destination for biking and adventure sports, with plenty of scenic routes and adrenaline-pumping activities. Some of the best biking routes include the Katy Trail State Park in Missouri, the Santa Fe Rail Trail in New Mexico, and the Pacific Coast Highway in California.
For a unique adventure sport, consider a visit to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in Colorado, where you can enjoy ziplining, skydiving, and bungee jumping.
Relax and Rejuvenate at the Wellness Retreats on the Original Route 66
The Original Route 66 is also a great destination for wellness retreats, with many spas, yoga studios, and meditation centers to choose from. Some of the best wellness retreats include the Ten Thousand Waves Spa in Santa Fe, the Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa in Tucson, and the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa in California.
For a unique wellness experience, consider a visit to the Manitou Springs Spa in Colorado, where you can soak in the natural mineral springs and enjoy the healing properties of the water.
With so many attractions, hidden gems, and unique experiences, the Original Route 66 is truly a road trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an adventurer, or a nature lover, there’s something for everyone on this iconic highway.