The Most Photographed Sign on Route 66

Howdy folks, Big Mike here, with Route 66 Road Relics and I’m ready to take you on a virtual journey to one of the most iconic spots along Route 66: Roy’s Motel and Cafe in Amboy, California!

Now, Roy’s is more than just a roadside stop; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the Mother Road and a must-see for any Route 66 enthusiast.

STEP BACK IN TIME TO THE 1950’S

Imagine this: It’s the 1950s, the golden age of Route 66. You’re cruising down the blacktop in your gleaming Chevy Bel Air, windows down, the wind in your hair, and the radio playing Chuck Berry. The sun is beating down on the Mojave Desert, and you’re starting to get a little thirsty. Then, like a mirage shimmering in the heat, you see it: the iconic Roy’s sign, a beacon of hope and hospitality, beckoning you towards the motel and cafe.

A Route 66 Shield on the Road

You pull in, the gravel crunching under your tires, and park next to a line of other classic cars – a Ford Thunderbird, a Cadillac Coupe de Ville, maybe even a Hudson Hornet. The neon sign buzzes a welcome, and you step inside, feeling the cool air conditioning wash over you like a wave of relief.

The cafe is bustling with activity. Families are gathered around tables, sharing milkshakes and fries. Truckers are leaning against the counter, sipping coffee and swapping stories. A jukebox croons in the corner, and the smell of burgers and fries fills the air. You slide into a booth, order a cheeseburger and a Coke, and soak in the atmosphere. This is Route 66 at its finest, a place where people from all walks of life come together to share a moment on the open road.

After lunch, you check into your room at the motel. It’s simple but comfortable, with a clean bed, a vintage radio, and a window overlooking the desert landscape. You take a nap, dreaming of the adventures that lie ahead. When you wake up, you feel refreshed and ready to hit the road again. You say goodbye to Roy’s, knowing that you’ll always remember this special place.

Now, fast forward to today. Roy’s still stands as a testament to the golden age of Route 66. It’s been lovingly restored on the outside, and it’s a popular stop for travelers from all over the world. That iconic sign still beckons road trippers, promising a taste of nostalgia and a glimpse into the past. While the motel rooms aren’t open yet, you can still grab a cold drink, a snack, and some Route 66 souvenirs. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, soak in the atmosphere, and imagine what it must have been like to experience Roy’s in its heyday.

A Classic Car at Roy Motel Cafe

The story of Roy’s is a reminder that Route 66 is more than just a road; it’s a journey through time, a connection to the past, and a celebration of the American spirit. It’s a place where memories are made, friendships are forged, and dreams are chased.

So, if you’re ever cruising down Route 66, make sure to make Roy’s Motel and Cafe in Amboy a must-stop destination. It’s a reminder that the spirit of the Mother Road is alive and well, and that there’s always adventure to be found on the open road. And hey, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for those hidden gems along the way – the quirky roadside attractions, the mom-and-pop diners, and the friendly faces that make Route 66 so special.

Big Mike with Route 66 Road Relics

And who knows, maybe we’ll cross paths somewhere along the Mother Road. We can swap stories about Roy’s, reminisce about Winona, and maybe even sing a verse or two of Bobby Troup’s “Get Your Kicks on Route 66.” Until then, safe travels, partners!

1. Roy’s Motel and Cafe
2. Amboy Crater at Mojave Trails National Monument