Buzz
America's legendary highway is packed with quirky landmarks, unique photo spots, and delightfully tacky tourist attractions. Here are 10 additional destinations to experience the charm of Route 66, listed in no specific order:
10. Round Barn Arcadia, Oklahoma
Constructed in 1898 by William Odor and his family, this architectural marvel was crafted using green lumber soaked in water and bent to form the barn's distinctive circular roof. The ground floor housed livestock, while the upper level hosted lively dances and community gatherings. Donated to the historical society in 1988, the barn underwent restoration and now serves as a visitor center.
9. U-Drop Inn Shamrock, Texas
One of the most iconic landmarks along Route 66, the U-Drop Inn originated in the 1930s when the landowner sketched his vision in the dirt with a stick. Investors built this unique structure to cater to the growing number of travelers. Serving as both a gas station and a café, it remains a symbol of the era and is currently undergoing restoration.
8. Cozy Dog Drive In Springfield, Illinois
The Cozy Dog Drive In is where the iconic corndog—a hot dog on a stick—was born. Founded by Ed Wildmire, father of the renowned eccentric artist Bob Wildmire, famous for his Route 66 map murals, this spot is a must-visit. If you can't make it in person, their website offers a $20 package including 5 pounds of Cozy Dog flour, instructions, and sticks to recreate the experience at home.
7. Big Texan Steak Ranch Amarillo, Texas
Since 1960, the towering cowboy statue has lured travelers off Route 66. The Big Texan Steak Ranch challenges visitors to devour a 72-ounce top-sirloin steak, along with a baked potato, salad, roll, and shrimp cocktail, all within an hour—for free! Over 60,000 have tried, with around 8,500 succeeding, including an 11-year-old boy and a 69-year-old grandmother.
6. Wigwam Villages Holbrook, Arizona and Rialto, San Bernardino, California
Originally, there were seven Wigwam Villages, but only three remain today. The Rialto, San Bernardino location was once dilapidated and rented by the hour, even featuring a cheeky sign that read, 'Do it in a Tepee.' After a thorough restoration, it’s now family-friendly again. Another surviving village is in Cave City, Kentucky, where I’ve stayed—it’s a nostalgic trip back in time!
5. Meteor Crater Meteor City, Arizona
Just beyond Winslow, Arizona, lies Meteor City, with a population of two. This isn’t a city but a souvenir shop near a massive meteor crater formed roughly 50,000 years ago. The crater spans 4,000 feet wide and 570 feet deep. The tourist stop boasts the world’s largest dream catcher and a giant Route 66 map created by the famous Bob Wildmire.
4. El Rancho Hotel Gallup, New Mexico
Constructed in 1937 by the brother of film mogul D.W. Griffith, the El Rancho Hotel served as a temporary residence for Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe, Ronald Reagan, Errol Flynn, and Kirk Douglas while they filmed movies in the surrounding area.
3. The Leaning Tower of Groom Texas
Ralph Britten designed this leaning water tower to attract curious tourists, encouraging them to stop and spend money at the adjacent truck stop and restaurant. Though the restaurant burned down years ago, the tower still stands as a quirky photo spot. The name 'Britten' on the tower reflects the family's long-standing presence in the area, rather than the town's name, Groom.
2. Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant Chicago, Illinois
During my chilly February visit to Chicago, the line outside Lou Mitchell’s stretched around the block. To ease the wait, staff handed out donut holes and coffee. The effort paid off—the massive, flavorful omelets and warm service made it unforgettable. As a bonus, women received a box of Milk Duds at the end of their meal.
1. Jack Rabbit Joseph City, Arizona
This is the world’s most renowned Stop-n-Go convenience store! For miles leading up to Joseph City, the highway is lined with distinctive billboards featuring nothing but the outline of a jackrabbit. At the store’s entrance, a billboard boldly declares 'HERE IT IS,' accompanied by a giant fiberglass jackrabbit.
