40 | GO WEST... SPOTLIGHT ON THE USA!


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April/May 2025 open


essence road.


Beyond mere h i gh w ay s , here lies the of


the Often


regarded as the quintessential road trip, Route 66 winds through the heart of the USA - crossing the vast fields of the Midwest, spanning the Mississippi River, and meandering through the captivating deserts of the Southwest until it meets the Pacific Ocean


ESTABLISHED in 1926 as U.S. Highway 66, this iconic route stretches over 3,800 kilometres through states including Illinois, Texas,


Missouri,


California. Today, much of


Oklahoma,


New Mexico, this


Arizona, legendary


route


remains accessible, inviting travellers to embark on their own adventure. Dive into the spirit of Americana and join the cherished tradition of American road trips. There’s no finer way to explore the USA than by journeying along one of its most legendary highways. Connecting Chicago,


Illinois, to Los


Angeles, California, U.S. Route 66 stretches for 3,940 kilometres, offering travellers the opportunity to visit numerous significant landmarks and monuments while exploring various national parks. There’s no better way to experience American tradition and the spirit of road trips than on this beloved highway. Don’t forget to pack your camera, sunscreen, and sunglasses to fully appreciate the scenic vistas along the journey.


Begin: Art and Architecture in Chicago, Illinois


Arrive at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD) or Midway International Airport (MDW), then drive your rental car to the official “Begin” sign for Route 66, located on East Adams Street, just west of the South Michigan Avenue intersection. For memorable photos, be sure to visit the more artistic sign featuring a vibrant map, situated in a small fenced park at the corner of Adams and Wabash streets. Before hitting the road, take advantage of your time in Chicago by exploring the “Cloud Gate” sculpture, affectionately known as “The Bean,” which is the highlight of Millennium Park. Consider taking a boat tour to see the stunning architecture and iconic skyline of the city. As you make your way to St. Louis, Missouri,


take a break at the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, Illinois, approximately 161 kilometres southwest of Chicago. While there, don’t miss the Route 66 Mural and other fascinating memorabilia.


Louis, Missouri: A Blend of Midwestern Hospitality,


Americana, Entertainment


On your journey to St. Louis, you’ll encounter a variety of notable motels, museums,


drive-in diners, and popular


breakfast spots. The iconic 192-metre-tall Gateway Arch is impossible to overlook; make sure to visit the top of this stainless steel monument, famously known as the “Gateway to the West,” for stunning city views.


Immerse yourself in the local sports culture by visiting Busch Stadium, the home of the St. Louis Cardinals Major League Baseball team. Don’t miss the chance to tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery as well.


and


Kansas, and


Route 66 and Beyond


On the city’s northern edge, you can explore the Chain of Rocks Bridge, which spans the Mississippi River. This historic bridge, a part of Route 66 for many


years, has been transformed into a landmark and features a bikeway and trail system on both sides of the river.


Oklahoma City,


Route 66 Dining and Beyond


Oklahoma City is all about food. Make your first stop the Pops 66 Soda Ranch, a landmark diner and gas station in Arcadia. The diner serves 700 hundred different kinds of sodas,


burgers,


sandwiches, meatloaf and other comfort foods. You can’t miss it - just look for the 21-metre-tall soda bottle out front. Or try one of the many barbecue spots in the area, including Jack’s Bar-B-Q and Jigg’s Smokehouse. Take a quiet moment to digest your meal at Lake Hefner with a few hours of birdwatching and fishing. For a little local culture, take a trip to The Womb art centre, founded by Flaming Lips frontman Wayne Coyne. This mural-splashed gallery features all kinds of psychedelic artwork and should provide plenty of conversation for the miles


Oklahoma: Timeless


ahead. Architectural Tour in Amarillo, Texas


Amarillo is proud to have a historic district recognised on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. The U.S. Route 66-Sixth Street Historic District spans 13 blocks and features numerous commercial buildings crafted in Spanish Revival, Art Deco, and Art Moderne styles, making it a vibrant centre for socialising and entertainment. Connect with the locals at the historic Natatorium building, which is said to be haunted and has now been transformed into an antiques emporium.


While in Amarillo,


don’t


miss the iconic Cadillac Ranch, an art installation showcasing several Cadillac


sculptures with their noses buried in the ground. Nearby, in Conway, Texas, you can also explore the VW Slug Bug Ranch, which features five Volkswagen Beetles.


Albuquerque: A Journey Through Route 66 Nostalgia


Before arriving in Albuquerque, make sure


to visit the Blue Hole, a bell-shaped blue pool located east of Santa Rosa, New Mexico — a beloved destination for scuba diving


and unwinding. Once you enter the city, the historic neon signs illuminating Old Route 66 will catch your eye. Albuquerque boasts a charming Old Town district filled with delightful restaurants, shops, and boutiques. As you stroll down Central Avenue, you’ll be captivated by the retro signs decorating the storefronts. Treat yourself to classic diner fare at the quirky 66 Diner on Central Avenue Northeast. Come hungry; they offer Fiesta Fries generously topped with Texas chili and rich whole-milk milkshakes.


Hidden Treasure: Holbrook, Arizona


Adorned with Route 66 signs, Holbrook, Arizona, boasts iconic motels and classic diners that serve delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. As you drive along the town’s main strip,


it’s easy to feel as though you’ve


stepped back in time. Be sure to visit the Wigwam Village Motel, featuring 15 unique


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