Route 66 Texas Attractions: Your Ultimate Guide

Embark on a journey with these Route 66 Texas attractions. The historic highway stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, connecting some of the most iconic sites and tourist attractions in the United States. This article will guide you through the must-see spots along the Texas portion of the Mother Road, so buckle in and let’s explore!

Route 66 Texas Attractions: Cadillac Ranch: An Artistic Oasis

Outside Amarillo, you’ll find the Cadillac Ranch, an art installation synonymous with the Lone Star State. Created by the Ant Farm collective in 1974, this surreal display features 10 vintage Cadillacs buried nose-down in the ground. Grab a can of spray paint and leave your mark on these iconic cars.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch: A Feast for the Eyes and Stomach

A visit to the Big Texan Steak Ranch is a must in Amarillo. This legendary eatery is home to the famous 72-ounce steak challenge, but even if you’re not up for that, the quirky decor and delicious food make it a great place to stop.

U-Drop Inn Cafe: A Blast from the Past

Located in Shamrock, the U-Drop Inn Café is a beautifully restored Art Deco building that once served as a service station and diner. Nowadays, it houses a visitor center and gift shop where you can find unique souvenirs and learn about the history of Mother Road.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park: Nature’s Beauty at Its Finest

Take a detour from Route 66 to visit the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second-largest canyon in the United States. Explore its rugged beauty through hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding.

Devil’s Rope Museum: A Twisted Tale

Uncover the fascinating history of barbed wire at the Devil’s Rope Museum in McLean. You’ll find a vast collection of historical documents, artifacts, and displays that tell the story of this humble yet significant invention.

Midpoint Café: Halfway There

Celebrate reaching the halfway point of Route 66 at the Midpoint Café in Adrian. With great food and a nostalgic atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to refuel and relax.

Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum: A Home on Wheels

Don’t miss the Jack Sisemore RV Museum in Amarillo, where you can marvel at the evolution of recreational vehicles through the years. It’s free admission and a must-see for RV enthusiasts.

VW Slug Bug Ranch: A Quirky Sibling

A quirky alternative to Cadillac Ranch, the VW Slug Bug Ranch in Conway features five Volkswagen Beetles buried in the ground. It’s another great photo op and a fun stop along your Route 66 journey.

Route 66 Hotels

Check out some of the best deals along Route 66 in Amarillo:

Exploring Route 66 in Texas

Route 66 in Texas offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers. Covering approximately 186 miles of the original Route 66, visitors can expect charming small towns, historic buildings, and quirky roadside attractions.

Historic Gas Stations and Truck Stops

As you travel the old route through Texas, you’ll find historic gas stations and truck stops in various small towns. Some have been preserved and converted into gift shops or visitor centers, while others remain functional, adding charm to the Route 66 experience.

U-Drop Inn Café

Located in Shamrock, Texas, the U-Drop Inn Café is a beautifully restored Art Deco building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Serving as a visitor center and gift shop, it offers a nostalgic atmosphere for travelers on Route 66.

Famous Roadside Attractions

Some of the best attractions along Route 66 include the Cadillac Ranch, the Giant Cross in Groom, the Conoco Tower Station in Shamrock, and the leaning water tower in Groom. Each stop offers a unique photo op and a glimpse into the history of the Mother Road.

Interpretive Centers and Trading Posts

Many towns along Route 66 in Texas have interpretive centers where you can learn about the history and significance of the Mother Road. Trading posts are also common, allowing travelers to buy souvenirs and local goods.

Planning Your Next Road Trip

When planning your next road trip along Route 66, consider visiting during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller. Be sure to include popular spots like the Mississippi River, St. Louis Arch, and Petrified Forest National Park. Watch for old road signs and remnants of the original route as you explore this amazing stretch of blacktop.

Beyond Texas

Route 66 boasts an impressive array of attractions outside of Texas, from the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles to the Meramec Caverns near St. Louis. Other highlights include the Grand Canyon in Arizona, the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, and the Wigwam Village Motel in Holbrook, Arizona.

Comparing Route 66 to Other Famous Routes

While Route 66 is an amazing route with a rich history, it’s important to remember that each famous destination offers a unique experience. For instance, San Francisco’s Lombard Street showcases stunning views and winding turns, while the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt represents ancient architectural wonders.

Embark on a Route 66 road trip to experience the beauty, history, and charm of the great state of Texas. Start planning your adventure and add these amazing attractions to your itinerary!

Exploring Route 66 through Texas and Beyond

Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America, is a famous and historic route that covers approximately 2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. In Texas, the route stretches across 186 miles in the Texas Panhandle, connecting various small towns and attractions.

FAQs

Q: What can I expect to see while traveling Route 66 in Texas?

A: You can expect to see charming small towns, ghost towns, historic districts, antique shops, art galleries, and unique roadside attractions such as the U-Drop Inn Cafe and the leaning water tower in Groom. The Cadillac Ranch and Midpoint Cafe are popular stops along the route.

Q: What is the largest city along Route 66?

A: Los Angeles is the largest city along Route 66, home to the famous Santa Monica Pier and many other iconic attractions.

Q: How does Route 66 in Texas connect with New Mexico?

A: Route 66 in Texas connects with New Mexico at the state line, allowing travelers to continue their journey along this historic route through the Southwest.

Q: Are there any interpretive centers in Texas along Route 66?

A: Yes, many towns along Route 66 in Texas have interpretive centers where you can learn about the history and significance of this national route.

Q: What are some popular stops along Route 66 outside of Texas?

A: Some popular stops outside of Texas include the Mojave Desert in California, the Grand Canyon in Arizona, the Meramec Caverns near St. Louis, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum in Oklahoma City.

Q: What is the significance of Route 66?

A: Established in 1926, Route 66 quickly gained popularity as a symbol of freedom and the American dream. Author John Steinbeck called it the “Mother Road” in his novel The Grapes of Wrath.

Q: Are there any famous art installations along Route 66 in Texas?

A: The Stanley Marsh 3 art installations along Route 66 in Texas add a unique artistic touch to the journey.

Q: Are there any functioning water towers or gas stations along Route 66 in Texas?

A: While many old gas stations and water towers have been repurposed or abandoned, you can still find some functioning gas stations and a leaning water tower along Route 66 in Texas.

Embark on a Route 66 road trip to experience the beauty, history, and charm of the great state of Texas and beyond. Start planning your adventure and add these amazing attractions to your itinerary!

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