100 Years of Route 66
Make Prescott Your Base for the Mother Road Centennial
In 2026, the legendary U.S. Highway 66, America’s most iconic road trip route, turns 100 years old. Originally commissioned on November 11, 1926, Route 66 became known as “The Main Street of America,” guiding generations of adventurers across nearly 2,500 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica.
Arizona’s stretch of this historic highway remains one of the longest preserved segments in the nation, dotted with neon signs, vintage motels, quirky roadside attractions, and unforgettable scenery.
Prescott, the heart of Arizona’s High Country, is the perfect home base for celebrating this milestone and exploring the Mother Road. Nestled amid scenic pine forests and just a scenic drive from key Route 66 stops, Prescott offers world-class lodging, dining, and historic charm before you hit the open road.
From Main Street to Myth: Route 66 Fun Facts
[Yavapai Classic Cruisers Car Show]
- Born in 1926
Route 66 was officially commissioned in 1926, making 2026 its 100th birthday and a milestone worth celebrating.
- Nearly 2,500 Miles Long
The Mother Road once stretched almost 2,500 miles, connecting Chicago to Santa Monica across 8 states.
- Built Piece by Piece
Route 66 wasn’t built from scratch, it stitched together wagon roads, rail routes, and early highways.
- Arizona Keeps It Alive
Arizona is home to one of the longest preserved stretches of historic Route 66 still drivable today.
- No Longer a U.S. Highway
Decommissioned in 1985, Route 66 is now maintained by states, towns, and preservation groups.
- The “Mother Road” Nickname
Author John Steinbeck gave Route 66 its famous nickname in The Grapes of Wrath.
- Neon with a Purpose
Those glowing signs were designed to grab attention at highway speeds, and many still shine.
- A Pop Culture Icon
Route 66 inspired songs, movies, and TV shows, cementing its place in global road-trip culture.
- Slow Was the Point
Route 66 was never about speed, it was about the journey, the towns, and the stories along the way.
- Explore It Your Way
You don’t have to stay on the route, make Prescott your home base and enjoy scenic drives to Route 66 towns and events.
Don’t Miss These Centennial Celebrations Along Route 66
Route 66 celebrations will take place throughout 2026, with events that highlight classic cars, small-town festivals, historic reenactments, and community gatherings. Highlights include:
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Route 66 Fun Run (May 1st - 3rd, 2026): A classic caravan from Seligman through Kingman and beyond.
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Seligman Centennial Celebration (April 30th, 2026): New monuments and party vibes in one of the route’s most beloved towns.
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Williams Historic Route 66 Car Show (June 5th - 6th, 2026): Classic vehicles and live entertainment under Arizona skies.
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Winslow’s Standin’ on the Corner Festival (Sept 25th - 26th, 2026): Music, food, and small-town charm.
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Kingman Route 66 Fest (Oct 16th - 17th, 2026): Vendors, pinup contests, and community spirit.
Whether you’re chasing vintage neon, classic cars, or celebratory festivals, Prescott is your gateway to all things Route 66 in Arizona, and the perfect place to start and end each day.
Suggested Day Trips from Prescott
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Prescott → Flagstaff → Williams (historic downtown & Route 66 museums)
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Prescott → Seligman (Snow Cap Drive-In & Route 66 nostalgia)
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Prescott → Holbrook (dinosaurs & Native American heritage by Petrified Forest)
