Route 66 Turns 100: A Journey Through America's Iconic Highway The Mother Road, as it's affectionately known, has been a symbol of American adventure and freedom since its inception. To celebrate its centennial, we embarked on a road trip along the iconic Route 66, exploring its kitsch and glory. Our journey began in Chicago, Illinois, where the highway's western terminus is marked by a vintage sign. We cruised through the rolling hills of Illinois, passing by quaint roadside diners and vintage motels that have been restored to their former glory. As we entered Missouri, the landscape shifted to the Ozark Mountains, where we discovered hidden gems like the Blue Whale, a giant blue whale statue that has become a beloved roadside attraction. In Oklahoma, we encountered the iconic Cadillac Ranch, where ten vintage Cadillacs are buried nose-first in a field, a testament to the state's quirky sense of humor. We also stopped in Amarillo, Texas, where the iconic Big Texan Steak Ranch serves up massive steaks and a side of nostalgia. As we entered New Mexico, the landscape shifted to the high desert, where we marveled at the stunning natural beauty of the Petrified Forest National Park. In Arizona, we visited the Wigwam Motels, a series of vintage motels shaped like giant wigwams, and the iconic Route 66 Museum in Kingman, which showcases the history of the highway. Finally, we ended our journey in California, where the highway's western terminus is marked by a sign in Santa Monica. Along the way, we encountered a mix of nostalgia, kitsch, and natural beauty that made our journey an unforgettable experience. As Route 66 celebrates its centennial, it remains an iconic symbol of American adventure and freedom, a reminder of the country's rich history and the open road.