Route 66 Celebrates 100 Years of Iconic American Road Trips

The legendary highway stretches across eight states and three time zones, offering travelers a glimpse into the country's history and culture.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:42am

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A highly stylized, geometric illustration depicting the sweeping vistas and towering landmarks of Route 66, capturing the road trip's sense of adventure and scale without any literal depictions of people or text.Route 66's centennial celebration invites travelers to experience the grandeur and nostalgia of America's most iconic highway.Springfield Today

Route 66, also known as the 'Mother Road,' is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. The iconic highway stretches across eight states and three time zones, offering travelers a unique opportunity to experience the country's rich history and diverse culture. From the bustling city of Chicago to the serene Mojave Desert, Route 66 has evolved over the years, serving as an escape for farmers during the Dust Bowl, a symbol of the American car culture, and a quintessential road trip destination.

Why it matters

Route 66 has played a significant role in shaping the American landscape and culture. As the highway turns 100, it serves as a reminder of the country's resilience, ingenuity, and the enduring spirit of the open road. The celebration of this milestone encourages travelers to explore the highway's rich history, discover its hidden gems, and connect with the communities that have thrived along its path.

The details

Along the route, travelers can visit a variety of iconic landmarks and roadside attractions, from the Cozy Dog Drive In in Springfield, Illinois, to the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. The highway also offers a glimpse into the country's past, with stops at historic bridges, such as the Chain of Rocks Bridge in Missouri, and the Brush Creek Bridge in Kansas. Additionally, the highway's journey through Native American lands provides an opportunity to learn about the diverse cultures and traditions that have shaped the region.

  • Route 66 was commissioned in 1926.
  • The highway celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026.

The players

Cyrus Avery

An Oklahoma businessman known as the 'Father of Route 66,' who was instrumental in mapping the U.S. highway system and choosing the number 66 for the iconic road.

Victor Hugo Green

The publisher of the 'Green Book,' a guide that listed hotels, restaurants, and gas stations that would serve Black customers during the Jim Crow era.

Ed Waldmire

The third-generation owner of the Cozy Dog Drive In in Springfield, Illinois, who developed a system for frying hot dogs vertically, creating a popular road food option.

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What they’re saying

“If you've ever planned to motor west and take the highway that's the best, this might be time: Route 66 turns 100 this year.”

— Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press Writer

“The Mother Road, as author John Steinbeck dubbed it, has evolved over the years from an escape for poor farmers fleeing the devastating dust storms of the 1930s to perhaps the quintessential American road trip that's still delivering kicks.”

— Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press Writer

What’s next

As Route 66 celebrates its centennial, communities along the highway are planning a variety of events and activities to commemorate the milestone. Travelers can expect to see increased tourism, restoration efforts, and celebrations throughout 2026 as the country pays tribute to this iconic American road.

The takeaway

Route 66's enduring legacy as a symbol of the American road trip and the country's resilience is a testament to the highway's ability to adapt and evolve over the past century. As the highway turns 100, it continues to captivate travelers and inspire them to explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories that have shaped this iconic route.