6 Surprising Facts About Historic Route 66

22 hours ago 2

With summer fast approaching, road trip season will be here before you know it.

And while Route 66 has been overtaken by more convenient interstate highways, this historic slice of Americana remains as appealing as ever.

Those looking to embrace the slow travel trend this spring and summer will want to consider making a few stops along historic Route 66, a road with immense historical and cultural significance.

Beyond the miles, visitors will uncover one-of-a-kind roadside attractions in addition to otherworldly hotels and restaurants.

To get you inspired, consider these surprising facts about the Main Street of America.

Route 66 Spans Nearly 2,500 Miles

Starting in Chicago, Illinois and ending in Santa Monica, California, Route 66 spans 2,448 miles, which is just 21 miles shorter than the flight distance between New York City and Los Angeles (2,469 miles).

Route 66 Includes Eight US States

The historic roadway traverses as many as eight states or 16 percent of the country (slightly more if you only consider the contiguous U.S.) with New Mexico boasting the most miles at 487 and Kansas having the least at a mere 13 miles.

Route 66 Dates Back to the Mid-19th Century

Route 66 has roots that predate the American Civil War.

The War Department ordered the construction of a government-funded wagon road along the 35th Parallel in 1857, which eventually became Route 66. The route wasn't officially designated until 1926, however.

Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico

Route 66 Has Many Nicknames

Legendary American writer and Nobel Prize winner John Steinbeck dubbed Route 66 the Mother Road but this famous roadway has other nicknames as well, including Will Rogers Highway and the Main Street of America.

It was even known as The Great Diagonal Way in the early part of the 20th century.

Route 66 Has a Capital

Situated in the heart of this famous road, Tulsa, Oklahoma, is the official capital of Route 66 and even hosts the AAA Route 66 Road Fest to celebrate the iconic highway.

This year's event runs June 21-22 and will feature live music, car shows, appearances by Route 66 legends, trick roping exhibitions and more.

"Route 66 holds a special place in the hearts of travelers," Ben Young, Director of Content & Brand at AAA Oklahoma, said in a statement. "Buckle up and get ready to immerse yourself in the nostalgia and rich heritage of Route 66."

"The AAA Route 66 Road Fest is an invitation to step back in time and relive the golden age of road trips, where every mile was an adventure and every stop held a story. We can't wait to welcome guests to this incredible celebration of America's most famous highway," said Young.

Route 66 Inspired a Hit Song

Once upon a time, driving used to be fun.

In fact, this beloved stretch of highway inspired multi-talented American musician Bobby Troup to pen the popular "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66" in 1946. Nat King Cole's King Cole Trio first recorded the song but the hit has been recorded by a slew of artists in the decades since.

Route 66 has inspired travelers for decades, even spurring museums and monuments across the nation.

If you're next road trip takes you anywhere, let it take you along the Mother Road.

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