Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 in 2026 with detailed road trip itineraries, centennial events, classic diners, neon sign parks, historic motels, and car shows. Whether you’re planning a full Route 66 drive or visiting a single state, this category is your ultimate guide to America’s most legendary highway.
A classic Route 66 road trip isn’t complete without stopping at iconic diners — places where you can refuel with hearty meals, local flavor, and that perfectly nostalgic roadside vibe. Whether you’re adventuring for history, pie, or milkshakes, these are the best Route 66 diners to visit in 2026. 1. Lou Mitchell’s — Chicago, Illinois … Read more
Collecting a Route 66 Centennial Passport — the iconic booklet where you gather stamps at historic Route 66 stops — is one of the most fun parts of exploring America’s Mother Road. While passports can be ordered online, you can also pick one up in person in Illinois at several official Route 66 stops and … Read more
The year 2026 marks 100 years of Route 66, and Arizona is one of the most important states in the entire Route 66 story. From mountain towns to desert highways, Arizona’s stretch of the Mother Road will host some of the biggest Route 66 centennial car shows and festivals in the country. This guide to … Read more
Driving Route 66 in an electric vehicle (EV) is easier than ever — especially with roadtrip planning tools and expanded infrastructure. In 2026, as Route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary, many towns and cities along the Mother Road have EV charging stations ready to keep your trip smooth and stress-free. This guide breaks down the … Read more
Here’s your 2026 Route 66 Centennial Car Shows Calendar — a clear, easy-to-read list of classic car events and shows linked to the Mother Road’s 100th anniversary. Because 2026 is the centennial year, many communities along Route 66 are planning special car shows, festivals, and cruising gatherings tied to the celebration. Route 66 News+3Route 66 … Read more
Driving Route 66 in 2026 isn’t just about the open road — it’s about the food you find along the way. Classic diners are the soul of the Mother Road, serving up burgers, shakes, pies, and unforgettable memories. Here are the best classic diners on Route 66 still open in 2026 — perfect stops on … Read more
Driving Route 66 usually takes 2–3 weeks, but not everyone has that much time. The good news? You can drive Route 66 in 10 days and still experience the most iconic stops — especially in 2026, the 100th anniversary of Route 66. This itinerary is realistic, not rushed, and focuses on the best highlights, not … Read more
When you think about Route 66 in Oklahoma, Tulsa instantly shines — literally. Tulsa is home to some of the most spectacular neon sign collections in the world, reflecting the history and spirit of the Mother Road. In 2026, as part of the Route 66 Centennial, these neon parks and sign displays will be spotlight … Read more
The year 2026 marks 100 years of Route 66, the most legendary road in America. Driving Route 66 during its centennial isn’t just a road trip — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey through American history, culture, diners, neon signs, and unforgettable landscapes. This Route 66 100th anniversary road trip itinerary is designed to be easy, flexible, … Read more
Illinois will be one of the statewide centers of celebration for the Route 66 Centennial (100th anniversary) in 2026. From family-friendly festivals to parades and historic gatherings, here are the most exciting events planned so far along the First 300 miles of the Mother Road in Illinois. dceo.illinois.gov+2cityofedwardsville.com+2 📍 Illinois Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor … Read more