Texas

Texas Route 66: From Shamrock to Glenrio

Shamrock Texas Start your Texas Route 66 journey in Shamrock, known for the beautifully restored Conoco Tower Station and U-Drop Inn Café, an iconic art deco gas station featured in the movie “Cars.” Visit the Pioneer West Museum for local history and Route 66 artifacts. Don’t forget to check out the restored Magnolia Gas Station and take photos of the colorful murals around town.

McLean Texas Explore McLean, home of the Devil’s Rope Museum, dedicated to barbed wire history, and the Route 66 Museum showcasing vintage vehicles, signage, and memorabilia from the golden age of the highway. Stop by the Red River Steakhouse for a hearty Texas meal and admire the town’s preserved storefronts.

Groom Don’t miss Groom’s famous leaning water tower and the striking 190-foot Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ, visible from miles away. You can also visit the gift shop at the cross site and explore the surrounding statuary garden.

Conway Stop in Conway to see the quirky VW Slug Bug Ranch, a playful parody of Amarillo’s Cadillac Ranch, where vintage Volkswagen Beetles are buried nose-first into the ground and painted in vibrant colors. Nearby, you’ll find the old Conway Inn ruins and original roadbed remnants.

Amarillo Texas Amarillo is a must-stop on your Route 66 adventure. Visit Cadillac Ranch, an iconic roadside art installation where you can leave your mark with spray paint. Dine at the legendary Big Texan Steak Ranch, home of the 72-ounce steak challenge. Don’t miss the Historic 6th Street District, full of antique shops, neon signs, local restaurants, and live music venues. You can also visit the Amarillo Railroad Museum or take a side trip to Palo Duro Canyon for scenic views.

Vega Texas Explore Vega’s Route 66 heritage at Dot’s Mini Museum and the restored Magnolia Gas Station. The town also features a classic courthouse square and old motels that harken back to the road’s heyday. Stop by the Hickory Inn Café for a bite and meet some friendly locals.

Adrian Texas Visit Adrian, famously known as the midpoint of Route 66, exactly 1,139 miles from both Chicago and Los Angeles. Stop at the Midpoint Café for their renowned homemade pies, burgers, and nostalgic gift shop. Snap a photo at the Midpoint marker and explore local relics from the road’s golden era.

Glenrio Texas End your Texas Route 66 journey in Glenrio, a fascinating ghost town on the Texas-New Mexico border. While much of Glenrio sits quietly in time, please respect private property and view the historic buildings from the roadside. Notable sights include the ruins of the Little Juarez Café, the Glenrio Motel, and the old post office.