How Many States Are on Route 66?
Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, is one of the most iconic highways in the United States. Spanning over 2,400 miles, this historic route stretches from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. But how many states does Route 66 pass through? Let’s take a closer look at the journey.
Route 66 passes through a total of 8 states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Each state offers unique landscapes, cultures, and attractions that make the journey along Route 66 a truly memorable experience.
In Illinois, travelers can explore the bustling city of Chicago and its famous landmarks such as the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the Willis Tower. As the route heads west, Missouri offers the historic town of St. Louis, home to the iconic Gateway Arch and the famous St. Louis Cardinals baseball team.
As Route 66 crosses into Kansas, the landscape becomes more rural, with vast plains and rolling hills. Kansas is known for its rich agricultural history and the famous Kansas State Capitol building in Topeka. Oklahoma, another state on the route, boasts a diverse culture influenced by Native American, European, and African American heritage. The state’s capital, Oklahoma City, is home to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and the Oklahoma City National Memorial.
Traveling through Texas, Route 66 takes drivers through the Lone Star State’s diverse terrain, from the rolling hills of East Texas to the arid deserts of West Texas. Texas is famous for its vibrant music scene, with cities like Dallas and Austin offering a wealth of live music venues and cultural attractions.
New Mexico, known as the Land of Enchantment, is home to stunning landscapes, including the Rio Grande River, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the Chihuahuan Desert. The state’s capital, Santa Fe, is a hub for art and culture, with numerous galleries, museums, and historical sites.
As Route 66 enters Arizona, the desert landscape continues, with the Grand Canyon and the historic town of Flagstaff offering breathtaking views. The route then winds through the Sonoran Desert, with its unique flora and fauna, before reaching California.
In California, Route 66 ends at Santa Monica Pier, where visitors can enjoy the beach, the Santa Monica Pier Carousel, and the historic Pacific Electric Railway right-of-way. The final stretch of the Mother Road offers a taste of California’s laid-back lifestyle and sunny weather.
Here are some comments from netizens about this article:
1. “What a great article! I love the history of Route 66.”
2. “I’ve always wanted to take a road trip along Route 66. It sounds amazing!”
3. “This article gave me so much inspiration to plan my next road trip.”
4. “I didn’t know Route 66 passed through so many states. I’ll have to check it out!”
5. “I’ve driven parts of Route 66 before, and it’s such a unique experience.”
6. “I love how this article highlights the diverse cultures along the route.”
7. “I’m planning a road trip to Route 66 this summer. Thanks for the info!”
8. “I’ve always been fascinated by the history of Route 66. This article was a great read.”
9. “I can’t wait to visit Santa Monica Pier. It sounds like the perfect end to a road trip.”
10. “I didn’t realize how many attractions there are along Route 66. It’s amazing!”
11. “I’ve driven parts of Route 66 in Illinois and Missouri. It’s such a unique road.”
12. “I love the photos in this article. They make me want to take a road trip.”
13. “I’ve always wanted to see the Grand Canyon. Route 66 sounds like the perfect way to get there.”
14. “This article made me realize how much I’ve missed road trips. I can’t wait to go again!”
15. “I love the way this article combines history and travel tips.”
16. “I’ve driven Route 66 with my family, and it’s such a great bonding experience.”
17. “I’m planning a road trip with my friends along Route 66. This article has been a big help.”
18. “I’ve always admired the history of Route 66. It’s a true American classic.”
19. “I’m so glad I found this article. It’s given me so much inspiration.”
20. “I can’t wait to take a road trip along Route 66. It’s on my bucket list!
