We've got some explainin' to do:

The different alignments of Route 66, such as the 1926 alignment and the post-1930 alignment, came about as the result of changes in highway technology, the need to bypass or intersect certain cities, towns, or landmarks, or to improve the flow of traffic and the safety of the road. To make it even more complicated for you, the various states have different periods of alignment.

For example, the original 1926 Route 66 alignment in Missouri ran from St. Louis to Joplin, passing through such cities as Springfield, Rolla, and Lebanon. However, improvements in highway construction techniques, increased traffic, and the desire to streamline the route resulted in a realignment of the highway in 1930. This post-1930 alignment bypassed some towns and curved to more directly connect others, in an effort to make the route more efficient for travelers.

In some cases, changes were made to serve growing towns or areas of interest. As time passed and automobiles became more common, the needs of the drivers and their vehicles changed, so the highway had to be adjusted.

There is an unofficial further alignment of Route 66 which we like to call “the Post-1985 interstate alignment.”

As time passed and the U.S. interstate system developed, much of the original "Mother Road" was replaced by modern interstates, in particular Interstate 44 (I-44) and Interstate 40 (I-40). These two interstates now carry the majority of the east-west traffic through the areas once served by Route 66. Quite a few sections were paved directly on top of the old Route 66. So, if you find our itinerary routing you onto the interstate freeway, you’ll still find yourself riding were the historic Route 66 once was.

Interstate 44: After Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985, much of its path through Missouri and Oklahoma was replaced by I-44. Beginning in St. Louis, Missouri, I-44 runs southwest, passing through cities such as Rolla, Springfield, and Joplin in Missouri, continuing into Oklahoma, passing through Tulsa and Oklahoma City. These were all key towns on the original Route 66. I-44 ends in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Interstate 40: I-40 replaced most of the Route 66 path from Oklahoma City westward, going through Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and ending in Barstow, California. Key cities along this route include Amarillo, Texas; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Flagstaff, Arizona. From Barstow, traffic would continue to Los Angeles along I-15 and I-10.

These changes were part of the larger evolution of the U.S. highway system in the mid to late 20th century. The Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956, signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, created the Interstate Highway System we know today. The goal was to create a network of limited-access highways that could efficiently move goods and people across the country. The interstates were designed for high-speed travel with a minimum of interruptions, which contrasted sharply with Route 66, which meandered through small towns and had many intersections and stoplights.

While these modern interstates may have made travel more efficient, the shift away from Route 66 also had the effect of bypassing many of the small towns along the original route. This led to significant economic changes for those towns and a sense of nostalgia for the classic era of American highway travel represented by Route 66.

Today, while I-44 and I-40 may carry the traffic, most sections of the old Route 66 still exist and can be driven, and are treasured by enthusiasts (like you and us…) and historians for the glimpse they offer into a bygone era. Some of these segments have been listed in the National Register of Historic Places to preserve their historical significance.

Many Route 66 enthusiasts and historians enjoy exploring the different alignments of the route, as each offers a unique glimpse into the history and evolution of American highway travel. The changes in Route 66 over time can serve as a metaphor for the broader changes in American society during the 20th century.

Thinking of the post-1930 alignment? Well, you'll be treated to the Sugar Creek Covered Bridge (not made of sugar, sorry), the eerie "Old Lady of the Highways" shrine, a still-operating Drive-in Theatre (bring your own popcorn) in Litchfield, and an old-school Soulsby Shell Station that screams retro louder than your dad's mustache.

Did you think we'd forget about the Henry’s Rabbit Ranch & Route 66 Emporium in Staunton? If you love furry critters or anything vintage, this place named "Illinois's strangest attraction", will be your paradise - chock full of old signs, historical vehicles, and bunnies that are cuter than a button. Grab a souvenir and support the place, after all, who doesn't need another fridge magnet?

We currently don't know what's in the future for the Rabbit Ranch and if the place will continue to operate. We encourage you to stop by and if they're open, pay tribute and buy something. It's the only way the ranch has a chance to survive.

Also in Staunton, you can find the Country Classic Cars LLC. In an unassuming warehouse shed, you can gaze at a fine collection of classics and curiosities, and if you're very lucky you get to take a ride in a 1929 Ford Model A.

And there's more! In Hamel, you'll spot a giant neon cross on top of the St. Paul Lutheran Church - a glowing reminder of a local war hero. In Livingston, expect to be ambushed by an army of Route 66-era statues, signs, a giant pink elephant, and even a UFO at the Pink Elephant Antiques Mall which presents you with the largest amassment of knick-knack you’ve ever seen. Don't forget to fuel up on ice cream and sandwiches at the Twistee Treat diner - because shopping is hungry work, right?

Now, in Edwardsville, make sure to pop into the 1836 Weir House, home to the Madison County Historical Museum. It's like time travel, only cheaper.

Fancy a bit of a stroll? Walk across the iconic Chain of Rocks Bridge before crossing over the Mississippi River. Park on the Illinois side of the bridge as the Missouri side is currently under construction for the build of a new visitor center. Once you've crossed the majestic Mississippi, welcome to Missouri!

In St. Louis, you're spoiled for choice. Highlights include the renowned Jefferson National Expansion Memorial with its awe-inspiring Gateway Arch, the Museum of Westward Expansion, the Old Courthouse, and last but not least, the delightful Ted Drewes Frozen Custard stand. This custard's so good, it's criminal!

You can easily spend 4 hours at the newly renovated visitor center of the Gateway Arch and that’s not taking a ride to the top of the Arch into consideration (we highly recommend it!). 

Learn about the Gateway Arch in more detail by reading the interesting article “The Gateway Arch: A Triumph of Design, Engineering, and Vision

A complete link list to Route 66

DAY 1  |  Chicago - Springfield

DAY 2  |  Springfield - St. Louis

DAY 3  |  St Louis - Springfield

DAY 4  |  Springfield - Tulsa

DAY 5  |  Tulsa - Weatherford

DAY 6  |  Weatherford - Amarillo

DAY 7  |  Amarillo - Santa Fe

DAY 8  |  Santa Fe - Gallup

DAY 9  |  Gallup - Winslow

DAY 10  |  Winslow - Williams

DAY 11  |  Williams - Needles

DAY 12  |  Needles - Victorville

DAY 13  |  Victorville - Santa Monica