America's Legendary Highway
Spanning nearly 178 miles across the Texas Panhandle, Route 66 has been welcoming travelers since 1926. Nicknamed the Mother Road by John Steinbeck in The Grapes of Wrath, it became a symbol of freedom and hope for those chasing new beginnings out West. While much of the highway was later bypassed by I-40, its legacy lives on in Texas through classic small-town main streets, neon-lit diners, vintage gas stations, and quirky roadside landmarks. Visitors can step inside the art-deco Tower Station & U-Drop Inn in Shamrock, marvel at the Leaning Tower of Texas near Groom, explore the Devil’s Rope Museum in McLean, or leave their mark at Amarillo’s iconic Cadillac Ranch. Each stop along the way offers a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of the American road trip.
In 2026, Route 66 will celebrate its 100th anniversary. It’s the perfect time to explore the open skies and wide-open roads of the Panhandle, tracing a path that has inspired generations of travelers. Whether you’re chasing vintage Americana, roadside art, or just the joy of the drive, the Texas stretch of Route 66 is ready to welcome you.
