Route 66 nears centenary as it attracts travelers and evolves culturally
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Apr 27
Route 66 nears centenary as it attracts travelers and evolves culturally
12 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Apr 27
Route 66, commissioned in 1926, now approaches its 100th anniversary, with restored landmarks from Chicago to Santa Monica drawing visitors to classic diners, neon signs, and historic attractions across eight states.
Sites like the Cozy Dog Drive In in Illinois, the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and the Chain of Rocks Bridge in Missouri highlight the route’s enduring appeal, while Native American communities and Black-owned businesses reclaim and share their histories.
Though many stretches have decayed, Route 66 remains a symbol of American road culture, inspiring music, film, and art, while towns along the highway continue to adapt and celebrate its legacy for new generations of travelers.
As 10 million tourists descend, can Route 66's small towns survive the centennial celebration?
Beyond nostalgia, how is Route 66 confronting its complex history with minority communities?
Is reviving a 100-year-old highway a wise investment or a costly trip down memory lane?
Is the centennial truly honoring Indigenous history or just creating a new tourist attraction?
With millions of cars expected, what is the environmental cost of this massive road trip?
Celebrating 100 Years of Route 66: Major Events, Multi-State Economic Revitalization, and Indigenous Histories
Overview
The 2026 centennial of Route 66 kicks off in Springfield, Missouri, the official Birthplace of the highway, with a series of national events including live broadcasts and themed celebrations. Oklahoma City follows with family-friendly festivities, while the American Indigenous Tourism Association leads efforts to honor the Indigenous heritage along the route. Significant state investments, especially in Oklahoma and Missouri, fund restoration projects and support local businesses to create a sustainable tourism economy. The centennial also broadens the highway’s story by recognizing diverse histories, including Indigenous cultures and the challenges faced by Black travelers. These initiatives, combined with ongoing preservation programs, aim to ensure Route 66 remains a vibrant cultural corridor for future generations.