The Chain of Rocks Bridge, constructed in 1929, is renowned for its distinctive 22-degree bend, a design necessitated by the presence of water intake structures and uneven bedrock beneath the Mississippi River. This unique feature distinguishes it from other river crossings. Originally part of Route 66, the bridge now serves as a pedestrian and cycling route, offering scenic views and a glimpse into its engineering significance. (nps.gov)
Meramec Caverns, a 4.6-mile limestone cave system near Stanton, Missouri, is renowned for its association with outlaw Jesse James, who reportedly used it as a hideout in the 1870s. Discovered in 1722 by French explorer Philipp Renault, the caverns have been a popular tourist attraction since 1935, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually. (americascave.com) The Stage Curtain, a 70-foot-wide limestone formation, is among its most notable features. While other show caves along Route 66, such as the Blue Whale in Catoosa, Oklahoma, offer unique attractions, Meramec Caverns’ rich history and geological formations make it a standout destination.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa, a 20-foot-tall, 80-foot-long concrete sculpture, was constructed in 1972 by local zoologist Hugh Davis as a surprise 34th wedding anniversary gift for his wife, Zelta, who collected whale figurines. Originally serving as a swimming hole for locals and travelers along Route 66, it has become a beloved roadside attraction. (cityofcatoosa.org) Similar folk art installations along the highway include Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park in Foyil, Oklahoma, featuring the world’s largest concrete totem pole, and Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California, showcasing over 200 “trees” made from steel pipes and colored glass bottles.
Cadillac Ranch, established in 1974 by the art collective Ant Farm and philanthropist Stanley Marsh 3, features ten vintage Cadillacs—ranging from 1949 to 1963—half-buried nose-first in a Texas field along Route 66. Positioned at a 60-degree angle, the installation symbolizes the evolution of the Cadillac tailfin. Visitors are encouraged to add their own graffiti, contributing to its ever-changing appearance. This interactive art piece has inspired similar installations, such as the Bug Ranch in Conway, Texas, where Volkswagen Beetles are similarly buried. (en.wikipedia.org.
The U-Drop Inn, constructed in 1936 in Shamrock, Texas, is a remarkable example of Art Deco architecture along Route 66. Designed by architect J.C. Berry, the building features two flared towers, geometric detailing, and neon light accents. Originally serving as a gas station and café, it fell into disrepair after Route 66’s decommissioning. In 1999, the city restored it into a visitor center and museum. The U-Drop Inn’s distinctive design inspired Ramone’s Body Shop in Pixar’s 2006 film “Cars.” (en.wikipedia.org)
The El Rancho Hotel, established in 1937 along Route 66 in Gallup, New Mexico, became a favored retreat for Hollywood stars during the golden age of Western cinema. Designed by R.E. “Griff” Griffith, brother of director D.W. Griffith, the hotel offered rustic elegance with its Pueblo Revival architecture, featuring a grand stone fireplace and Native American art. Notable guests included John Wayne, Katharine Hepburn, Ronald Reagan, and Humphrey Bogart, who stayed while filming in the area. Today, the hotel continues to operate, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into its storied past. (visitgallup.com)
The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, established in 1950, is a distinctive example of roadside architecture along historic Route 66. Designed by Chester E. Lewis, the motel features 15 concrete and steel teepee-shaped units, each standing 32 feet tall and 14 feet in diameter. This design was inspired by Frank A. Redford’s original Wigwam Village in Cave City, Kentucky, which opened in 1937. (en.wikipedia.org). As one of the few surviving examples of this unique motel chain, the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook offers visitors a nostalgic glimpse into mid-20th-century American roadside culture. Similar novelty stops along Route 66 include the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma and the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, each contributing to the rich tapestry of roadside attractions that define the historic route.
The Santa Monica Pier, established in 1909, marks the symbolic end of Route 66, offering a vibrant culmination to the historic journey. (nationalgeographic.com) Visitors are greeted by the iconic “End of the Trail” sign, a replica of the original that once stood at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard. The pier features a variety of attractions, including an amusement park, aquarium, and family-friendly restaurants, all set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. This lively destination encapsulates the spirit of American road trips, providing a fitting conclusion to the Mother Road’s storied path.
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