Even though American pop culture wasn't really part of my world as a kid, like pretty much every child of the 60's and 70's, I knew what the Route 66 was. And like most kids of my era, I thought it would be pretty cool to one day cruise along the Route in a red Mustang.Well, it wasn't a red Mustang, but it was red. And true, not much exists of that wonderful old iconic highway, but the little stretches here and there allow a glimpse not only into the old US but also the joy of cruising the 'Mother Road'.
Route 66 was originally established in 1926 running from Chicago, through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona, before ending at Los Angeles. It was a major path for those migrating west during the 1930s. The Route essentially acted as the main street of many communities which it passed through or which sprung up on its curbs. Sadly, much of it has now disappeared under the 6 lanes of tarmac that is the Interstate Highway. But you can still take a detour here and there and not only see some amazing country but also pass through some quirky, weird and wonderful little towns. There are some cafes I would probably give a miss, and I can't guarantee the fuel supply, but it is a fun way to travel through the west and far more interesting than the endless white line of the Interstate!
