The Magic of Route 66

The Magic of Route 66: A Journey Through Time and the movie Cars

Driving along the iconic Route 66, we couldn't help but think of the beloved Disney Pixar movie Cars. As we rolled through small towns, stretching desert landscapes, and towering rock formations, it became clear just how much the movie draws inspiration from this historic highway—both visually and thematically. The adventure of Cars feels like a mirror of the adventure we followed the "Mother Road," a highway rich in history, culture, and nostalgia.

The Fading Towns and Vibrant Landscapes:

As we cruised down Route 66, the comparison to Cars was almost impossible to miss. In the movie, Radiator Springs is a once-thriving town that’s seen better days, much like many small towns along the real Route 66. As the new highways bypassed these communities, they began to fade into the background, just like Radiator Springs did before Lightning McQueen rolled in.

Along the route, We saw firsthand how towns like Tucumcari, New Mexico, and Seligman, Arizona, embody that same charm. They might not be bustling hubs of activity anymore, but their unique history and old-school Americana are preserved in every building, mural, and roadside attraction. These towns are actively trying to keep the spirit of the past alive, much like Radiator Springs, and it was heartwarming to see the effort people are putting into maintaining the vintage charm of these locations.

The scenery also reminded me so much of Cars—the desert stretches, dusty roads, and those towering rock formations that seem to pop up out of nowhere. The landscapes along Route 66 are as breathtaking as anything you'd see in the movie, with vast skies and wide-open spaces that make you feel like you're part of something much bigger.

Meeting People from All Over the World:

One of the most delightful surprises on this journey was the diversity of travelers we encountered. Just like in Cars, where Lightning McQueen and Mater meet people (or cars!) from all over, I met folks from different countries and states. A couple from Ohio, families from Japan, and even solo travelers from Europe were all sharing the same love for this historic route.

It was fascinating hearing their stories, sharing travel tips, and discussing our mutual admiration for this piece of Americana. The kindness and openness of the people along the route were a reflection of the warmth that Cars captures so well through its characters. From small-town mechanics to fellow travelers, there was always a sense of community, no matter where we went.

Small Towns with Big Hearts:

Tucumcari and Seligman weren’t the only towns that felt like they had stepped out of Cars. As we passed through Barstow, California, I couldn’t help but smile at the town’s iconic car monuments. Classic cars perched on top of structures or painted into murals are just a few of the artistic ways this town embraces its Route 66 legacy. It's as if Cars took a real-life road trip through these places, soaking up their quirks and personalities and bringing them to the big screen.

Preserving the Past:

Route 66’s history is one of preservation and perseverance, and Cars taps into that beautifully. In both the real world and the movie, towns along the route are fighting to preserve their past while adapting to modern needs. The towns may not be as bustling as they once were, but there’s a certain resilience and beauty in the way they’re holding on to what makes them special.

As we traveled, we noticed that a lot of these towns are undergoing renovations in anticipation of Route 66’s 100th centennial in 2026. Roads are being repaved, hotels are being remodeled, and new signs and exhibits are popping up to educate and excite future visitors. It's clear that these communities are ready to welcome people from all over the world to celebrate the history and culture of this iconic route.

The Future of Route 66:

If you haven’t made plans yet for 2026, I highly recommend considering a trip down the Mother Road. As it celebrates its centennial, there’s no better time to experience the beauty, history, and quirky charm that Route 66 offers. The communities along the route are putting in the work to ensure this slice of Americana remains alive and well for future generations.

From the classic cars to the murals, the friendly faces to the timeless landscapes, Route 66 is much more than a road—it's a journey into the heart of America. Just like Cars reminded us, sometimes it's not the destination that matters, but the journey and the people you meet along the way.

So, next time you're planning a trip, consider hopping on the Mother Road. Trust me, the adventure is just as amazing as the destination.