Route 66 is undeniably one of the most celebrated highways in America. From some of the most picturesque views in the United States to its distinct diagonal angle that runs between Chicago and Los Angeles, Route 66 has all the elements that continues to captivate USA Road Trip lovers. Take the journey through and discover why the road trip spells out legendary proportions!
How it all began:
Route 66 is a highway constructed in the mid-1920’s to answer the demands of the fast evolving United States economy at that time. Route 66 differs from other roads of that era, such as the Lincoln and the Dixie, because it did not follow the conventional linear path. Instead, it sprawled diagonally to connect the rural communities in Illinois, Missouri and Kansas to the towns of Chicago. There is so much to see in these towns that they should be part of any road trip. Check out the town of Galena, which is in the north-western tip of Illinois. There are several museums and historical homes there for a truly “walk down history lane” experience.
Route 66 was originally built to enable the transport of farming goods along the way. This was very difficult to accomplish before the creation. Farmers were not the only ones to benefit from the highway, it also served well thousands of truck drivers. Offering considerably milder weather compared to the harsher climate found along the northern roads, Route 66 proved to be a better option for many truck drivers.
The evolution:
During the years before and after WWII, it thrived with the establishments built along the highway. There were inns and motels, gas stations and just about every kind of café you can think of. Tourists flocked to the road just for the thrill of being there, and to experience what was then considered the “Main Street of America.”
During the Great Depression, Route 66 bore witness to thousands of pe