A ROUTE 66 TRAVEL GUIDE TO GLENRIO TEXAS
Glenrio: Echoes of the Mother Road on the Texas-New Mexico Line
Howdy from Big Mike, here’s the scoop on a truly unique stop along the Mother Road: Glenrio Texas.This ghost town, straddling the border of Texas and New Mexico, provides a captivating glimpse into the past and a stark reminder of the rise and fall of towns along America’s most Historic highway.
Glenrio Texas was once a bustling railroad town, and later, a favored stop for travelers on Route 66. Established in 1903 as a railroad siding, the town provided a place for trains to take on water and change tracks. But, as with many towns along the Mother Road, the arrival of the interstate highway system in 1975 led to its gradual decline. Today, Glenrio stands as a ghost town, a monument to the ever-shifting tides of American transportation.
A Town Split by a State Line, Yet United by Route 66 Glenrio Texas
One of Glenrio Texas most peculiar features is its location precisely on the Texas-New Mexico border. This placement resulted in some intriguing business arrangements back in its heyday. Due to differing tax rates, all the gas stations were situated on the Texas side. And when Texas’s Deaf Smith County was “dry,” the local bar, aptly named the State Line Bar, was established in New Mexico. It was a unique setup, a perfect illustration of how Glenrio adapted to its unusual border location.
Discovering Glenrio’s Relics
Today, Glenrio Texas is an enthralling destination for photographers and history enthusiasts. You can explore the remnants of the original Route 66 roadbed, where countless vehicles once rumbled westward. You’ll encounter the weathered remains of the Longhorn Motel and Cafe, its sign still defiantly as if awaiting the return of guests. It was once referred to as the “First Motel in Texas” or the “Last Motel in Texas,” depending on your direction of travel.
The post office endures, a silent testament to a time when mail served as a vital connection for small communities. You’ll also discover the remnants of old gas stations, including a Phillips 66, their pumps long since idle, standing as rusty sentinels of a bygone era. A 1950 Texaco station and the Little Juarez Cafe, formerly the Brownlee Diner, showcase the art moderne style that once flourished along the Mother Road.
The Wooden Bridges of Route 66: Historic Spans Near Glenrio
As you venture through the area around Glenrio Texas specifically between Endee, New Mexico, and Glenrio, you’ll come across several old wooden bridges along the original Route 66 alignment. These structures are a direct connection to the early days of the Mother Road. Remarkably, as recently as a year or two ago, these historic bridges were reportedly still driveable, offering an incredibly authentic Route 66 experience. It’s crucial to verify their current condition before attempting to drive across them, as their status may have changed. Nonetheless, whether driveable or not, they remain a must-see and a testament to the road’s enduring legacy. They offer a great opportunity for memorable photos.
Glenrio’s Cinematic Legacy
Glenrio Texas distinctive atmosphere has attracted Hollywood’s attention. Portions of the classic film “The Grapes of Wrath” were shot here back in 1940, immortalizing the town’s stark beauty on film. Fans of the animated movie “Cars” might recognize the architecture of Glenrio’s Little Juarez Cafe. It served as inspiration for a deserted building in Radiator Springs that ultimately transforms into the Racing Museum. More recently, Glenrio was featured in the 2018 movie “Daylight’s End.”
A Glimpse of a Bygone Era
Glenrio is not about vibrant nightlife or modern attractions. It’s about the serene beauty of a place frozen in time. It’s about the echoes of the past and the enduring spirit of Route 66. It’s a place to contemplate the Mother Road’s history, to envision the lives of those who journeyed along it, and to appreciate the tenacity of the human spirit. Its name is derived from Scots glen ‘valley’ and from Spanish rio ‘river’.
Tips for Your Glenrio Visit:
- Honor the Past: Glenrio is a delicate relic of history. Be respectful of the structures and the environment during your visit.
- Hydrate: This is the desert. Carry ample water, especially during the warmer months.
- Seize the Photo Op: Glenrio is a photographer’s paradise. Bring your camera to capture the unique allure of this ghost town.
- Imagine: Let the stillness and the scenery transport you to a different era. Picture the vehicles, the people, and the stories that once unfolded here.
Glenrio may be a ghost town, but its spirit endures. It serves as a poignant reminder that even as the world evolves, the Mother Road remains an emblem of adventure, freedom, and the irresistible call of the open road. So, when you’re traveling down Route 66, make sure to plan a stop in Glenrio. You won’t be disappointed.
It is a great place to explore. Have a safe journey, and enjoy this remarkable piece of Route 66 history!
It is a great place to visit. Safe travels and enjoy exploring this fascinating piece of Route 66 history!
Route 66 Attractions in Glenrio, Texas / New Mexico
- Ghost Town of Glenrio Texas / New Mexico
- Russell’s Travel Center has a Route 66 Diner, a Classic Car and Memorabilia Museum, and a chapel
- Ghost Town of Endee, New Mexico
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