Exploring the Iconic Route 66 Through a Photographer’s Lens

Route 66, once a symbol of American expansion by car and truck, has officially ceased to exist. Decommissioned in 1985, the route lost its prominence to the Interstate Highway System. Despite this, a Historic Route 66 persists, cherished by local communities and holding a deep connection to America’s past.

Originally designated in 1926, Route 66 became entirely connected and paved over the next decade. It played a crucial role, transporting desperate Dust Bowl migrants and World War II military supplies and troops. Families and adventure seekers also embraced the route, stimulating the economies of rural towns along the way. Today, Route 66 serves as a nostalgic travel destination.

Route 66 is stuck in time, in a good way,” says photographer Matt McClain. “It held on to some of its atmosphere…they take real pride.”

Dotted with neon-clad motels, diners, trading posts, and vintage cars, the road attracts bikers and tourists with its stunning scenery and Americana.

Discovering American Culture

Route 66 is an avenue for experiencing the vast diversity of the American landscape. From the green fields of Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas to the copper rocky formations of New Mexico and Arizona, the route is a conduit for meeting diverse communities. McClain emphasizes, “It’s a great way to experience American culture…to see the rural fabric of America.”

McClain’s photographs invite us to discover the road’s surprises as its 100th anniversary approaches on November 11.

From Chicago to Tulsa

Chicago marks the easternmost point of Route 66. Visitors can admire the city’s skyline from Willis Tower. Further along, the American Giants Museum in Atlanta, Illinois, features oversized statues. In Springfield, Illinois, a bronze bust of Abraham Lincoln stands near his tomb.

I didn’t expect this old, regional brick route in the middle of nowhere…a true link to the past.”— Matt McClain

St. Louis’s Gateway Arch offers breathtaking views, while Tulsa showcases a Golden Driller statue outside the SageNet Center at Expo Square.

Exploring Route 66: Tulsa to Albuquerque

The Meadow Gold District in Tulsa displays a giant “muffler man,” an original ’60s advertising icon. The Tee Pee Drive-In Theater in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, reopened in 2023 after its original opening in 1950.

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, invites tourists to spray-paint its iconic buried cars. These deteriorated Cadillacs serve as attractions for a pilgrimage experience.

It’s a pilgrimage…it’s about feeling that sense of belonging.” — Matt McClain

The Route 66 Rides festival in Gallup, New Mexico, features events like the Tunnel of Fire and hot-air balloon ascensions in Red Rock Park. Albuquerque’s 66 Diner, a former Phillips 66 gas station, offers a nostalgic dining experience.

Albuquerque to Seligman

In Holbrook, Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park presents stunning views along Route 66. The former mining town of Oatman is famous for its wild donkeys roaming freely.

Tour buses often bring visitors to explore the town, creating brief flurries of activity and then silence.

…tour buses would pull up and pour out people…Then they would leave and it would be quiet again.” — Matt McClain

Seligman to Santa Monica

In Amboy, California, a classic highway sign near Roy’s Motel and Cafe provides a photo opportunity. Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner in Yermo and Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande showcase themed attractions along the route.

The Santa Monica Pier serves as the symbolic end of Route 66. Visitors gather to experience the unique ambiance.

The Santa Monica Pier is such a perfect fit for Route 66…there’s a classic kitschiness.” — Matt McClain

Chris Garcia and Kylie Castillo share an embrace, adding to the charm of Route 66’s legacy.