Howdy folks, Big Mike here, and today we’re takin’ a trip back in time to Needles, California, a town that’s got Route 66 written all over it!

Now, Needles wasn’t always a Route 66 town. It actually got its start way back in 1883, when the railroad came chuggin’ through the Mojave Desert. That railroad was a lifeline for this little town, connectin’ it to the rest of the world and bringin’ in folks from all walks of life.

And hey, if you’re lookin’ for a blast from the past, check out the 66 Motel. This little gem has been around since the 1940s, and it’s seen its fair share of Route 66 travelers. While it’s not a motel anymore, it’s still a cool piece of Route 66 history.

But it wasn’t until Route 66 came along in the 1926 that Needles really started to shine. The Mother Road brought a whole new wave of travelers – folks lookin’ for adventure, opportunity, and a chance to escape the dust bowl and the Great Depression. Needles became a welcome sight for weary travelers, a place to rest, refuel, and get ready for the next leg of their journey.

And let me tell you, Needles had a lot to offer those road-trippers. There were gas stations and garages, motels and diners, and even a few dance halls where folks could kick up their heels and have a good time. Needles was a place where you could experience the true spirit of Route 66, a place where the open road met the wonders of California.

Now, let’s talk about another Needles landmark that’s got a story to tell: Carty’s Camp. This place isn’t just any old roadside stop, folks. It’s a piece of Route 66 history that’s been around since the early days.

Back in 1923, two fellas named Bill Carty and Dick Mansker had a vision. They’d seen these newfangled “auto courts” popping up along the roads, and they thought, “Why not bring that idea to Needles?” And that’s just what they did. They built Carty’s Camp, a cozy little spot where travelers could rest their weary bones and get ready for the next leg of their journey.

Carty’s Camp grew over the years, adding cabins and even a motel called the Havasu Court. It became a popular spot for folks cruising down Route 66, and it even had a cameo in the movie “The Grapes of Wrath.” Can you imagine, folks, seeing those Joad folks pulling into Carty’s Camp in their beat-up old truck? It’s a reminder that Route 66 has seen it all, from the good times to the tough times.

Now, Carty’s Camp isn’t what it used to be. It’s been closed for a while now, and the buildings are showing their age. But even in its faded glory, it’s still a fascinating piece of Route 66 history. You can wander around the grounds, imagine the travelers who once stayed there, and picture those vintage cars pulling up to the gas pumps.

So, if you’re ever in Needles, be sure to pay a visit to Carty’s Camp. It’s a reminder that Route 66 is more than just a road; it’s a collection of stories, memories, and dreams.

Now, after a long day of exploring Needles, you’re bound to work up an appetite. And when that happens, there’s only one place to go. The Wagon Wheel Restaurant! I had the pleasure of fillin’ my belly there just last month, and let me tell you, it’s the real deal. Good ol’ fashioned home cookin’, the kind that sticks to your ribs and warms your soul. It’s a Route 66 institution, and a must-try for anyone who wants a taste of classic Americana. So pull up a chair, order a plate of their famous chicken fried steak, and get ready to experience a taste of Route 66 history.

So, if you’re ever cruisin’ down the Mother Road, make sure to put Needles on your itinerary. It’s a town that’ll take you back in time and show you the heart and soul of Route 66.

THE MURALS OF NEEDLES CALIFORNIA

And hey, while you’re admirin’ those murals, keep your eyes peeled for a familiar face: Spike, the cousin of that famous beagle, Snoopy! He’s right there in the artwork, representin’ the spirit of Route 66 and the fun-lovin’ pups that travel along it. It’s a reminder that Route 66 is for everyone, even our four-legged friends!

Needles Regional Museum

Now, while you’re in Needles, be sure to swing by the Needles Regional Museum. I had the pleasure of visiting this fine establishment just last month, and let me tell you, it’s a treasure trove of Route 66 history and local lore.

Located right across from the El Garces Harvey House, this museum is packed with fascinating artifacts. You’ll find everything from vintage photographs and old road signs to Native American crafts and relics from the town’s railroading days. And here’s a fun fact: you’ll even find an exhibit dedicated to Spike, the giant dog who’s the brother of that famous beagle, Snoopy, from the Peanuts comic strip!

Needles Regional Museum website: www.needlesregionalmuseum.org

And the best part about the museum? The friendly folks who run the place are a wealth of knowledge. They’ll share stories about Needles’ past, answer all your Route 66 questions, and maybe even give you some insider information about the town’s colorful characters.

It was at this very museum that I learned about the steamboat that used to cruise the Colorado River out of Topock. Can you imagine, folks, steaming down the river in those days, with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face? It’s a reminder that Route 66 wasn’t the only way to get your kicks in the good ol’ days.

So, if you’re looking to dive deep into the history of Needles and Route 66, the Needles Regional Museum is the place to be. And hey, don’t forget to swing by the thrift shop next door and see if you can find a hidden treasure or two. You never know what gems you might uncover!

So, if you’re ever cruisin’ down the Mother Road, make sure to put Needles on your itinerary. It’s a town that’ll take you back in time and show you the heart and soul of Route 66.

Route 66 Attractions in Needles, California

1. El Garces Hotel and Depot (former Harvey House)
2. Needles Regional Museum
3. Wagon Wheel Restaurant