Route 66 at 100: Ghost Towns and Abandoned Motels Along America's Mother Road

Route 66, the iconic American highway that once connected Chicago to Los Angeles, turns 100 this year. To mark the centennial, a road trip through Texas and New Mexico reveals the remnants of a bygone era: abandoned motels, forgotten gas stations, and ghost towns that once thrived on the steady stream of travelers. These silent landmarks are more than just decaying structures; they are tangible links to the road's heyday, when it was the main artery for westward migration and family vacations. The decline of these communities began with the interstate system, which bypassed Route 66 and diverted traffic away. Today, the empty buildings serve as a haunting reminder of economic shifts and the passage of time. Yet, there is a growing interest in preserving what remains, as enthusiasts and historians work to document and protect these sites. As Route 66 enters its second century, the ghost towns stand as a testament to the road's enduring legacy and the changing face of American travel.