Route 66 is one of the most famous highways in the United States, stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. The route has been immortalized in movies, songs, and books, and is a must-see destination for road trip enthusiasts. New Mexico is home to some of the best attractions along Route 66, including historic towns, natural wonders, and unique roadside stops. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top attractions along the New Mexico portion of Route 66.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction
Route 66 is one of the most famous highways in the United States, stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. The route has been immortalized in movies, songs, and books, and is a must-see destination for road trip enthusiasts. New Mexico is home to some of the best attractions along Route 66, including historic towns, natural wonders, and unique roadside stops. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top attractions along the New Mexico portion of Route 66.
Historic Towns
Question: What are some of the historic towns along Route 66 in New Mexico?
New Mexico is home to several historic towns that are worth a stop on your Route 66 journey. One such town is Tucumcari, which has been a popular stop for travelers since the 1920s. The town is home to several classic Route 66 motels, diners, and gas stations, and has a distinct retro vibe. Another historic town worth visiting is Santa Rosa, which is known for its Blue Hole, a natural swimming hole that is popular with divers.
Natural Wonders
Question: What are some of the natural wonders along Route 66 in New Mexico?
New Mexico is home to several natural wonders that are worth a visit. One such wonder is the Rio Grande Gorge, which is located near the town of Taos. The gorge is a deep, narrow canyon that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Another natural wonder worth visiting is the White Sands National Monument, which features miles of gleaming white sand dunes.
Unique Roadside Stops
Question: What are some of the unique roadside stops along Route 66 in New Mexico?
One of the best things about traveling Route 66 is the opportunity to discover unique roadside stops that you won't find anywhere else. One such stop is the Tee Pee Curios store in Tucumcari, which features a giant teepee-shaped building that is filled with Route 66 memorabilia and souvenirs. Another unique stop is the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, which is a restored classic Route 66 motel that offers guests a glimpse into the past.
Route 66 Museums
Question: Are there any museums dedicated to Route 66 in New Mexico?
Yes, there are several museums in New Mexico that are dedicated to the history of Route 66. One such museum is the Route 66 Auto Museum in Santa Rosa, which features a collection of classic cars and Route 66 memorabilia. Another museum worth visiting is the Tucumcari Historical Museum, which has exhibits on the history of the town and the Route 66 era.
Conclusion
New Mexico is home to some of the best attractions along Route 66, including historic towns, natural wonders, unique roadside stops, and museums. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun road trip, the New Mexico portion of Route 66 has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and start exploring!
