Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, was once the main thoroughfare that connected the East Coast to the West Coast of the United States. Stretching over 2,400 miles, it became an iconic symbol of American travel and adventure. The road officially opened in 1926, and its impact on American culture, history, and commerce cannot be overstated.
Route 66 became known as the Mother of All Roads due to its role in connecting the country from Chicago to Los Angeles. It was one of the first highways to connect the Midwest and the West Coast, which allowed people to move freely across the country. It became an essential part of the country's infrastructure and helped to spur economic growth and development in the areas it passed through which was caught in the video of our road trip on Route 66.
Route 66 also played a significant role in the history of the United States. It was the road that many migrants took during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, as they fled the harsh conditions of the Midwest and headed west in search of better opportunities. The road also became a popular route for soldiers during World War II, as they traveled to and from military bases across the country.
As we mentioned in the video, one of the most iconic landmarks on Route 66 is the first McDonald's restaurant. The restaurant was opened in San Bernardino, California, in 1940 by brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald. The original restaurant was a small drive-in that sold hamburgers, fries, and milkshakes. The success of the first McDonald's led to the franchise's expansion across the country and eventually worldwide.
Route 66 ends in Santa Monica, California, where it meets the Pacific Ocean. This endpoint became a popular destination for travelers who had completed their journey across the country. Santa Monica's pier, beaches, and attractions made it a perfect place to relax and unwind after a long road trip.
Route 66 also has a connection to smugglers of tobacco, alcohol, and weapons. During Prohibition, the highway became a popular route for bootleggers who transported illegal goods across state lines. The remote nature of the road and the lack of law enforcement made it an ideal location for smuggling. Even after Prohibition ended, Route 66 continued to be used by smugglers due to its desolate stretches and lack of regulation.
One of the most unusual attractions along Route 66 was Bottles Farm, located in Missouri. The farm featured hundreds of glass bottles that had been used to build various structures on the property, including a chapel, a wishing well, and a chicken coop. The farm was a popular stop for travelers who were amazed by the creativity and ingenuity of the owners.
One of the most popular road trips along Route 66 is from Los Angeles to Arizona. This journey takes travelers through some of the most iconic and historic parts of the Mother Road. Starting in Santa Monica, travelers can visit the first McDonald's restaurant, Bottles Farm, and the numerous motels that dot the route.
The journey also takes travelers through the Mojave Desert, where they can see the iconic Wigwam Motel, which features teepee-shaped rooms. As travelers continue east, they can visit the Petrified Forest National Park and the Meteor Crater, both located in Arizona.
Route 66 has played an essential role in American history, culture, and commerce. It became known as the Mother of All Roads because of its role in connecting the country and the significant impact it had on the lives of millions of Americans. Today, it remains an iconic symbol of American travel and adventure, and the road trip from Los Angeles to Arizona is a journey that every traveler should experience at least once in their lifetime.
Watch our road trip that we did on Route 66 by clicking on the main image above or on the link below.
Wael is an automotive content writer specializes in creating written content for Motor 283. Producing a wide range of content, including blog posts, articles, product descriptions, reviews, and technical guides related to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles, with an unprecedented passion for cars, and motorcycles.
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