#United States #Choice Hotels #Illinois #Tripadvisor #Route 66

Celebrate 100 Years of Route 66 with the Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Route 66, often referred to as the 'Main Street of America', has been a hallmark of American culture for a century. This legendary highway has borne witness to countless stories and adventures over its 2,500-mile stretch from Chicago to Santa Monica. As this iconic route approaches its 100th anniversary, Wanderlab, the creative arm of Tripadvisor, in collaboration with Choice Hotels International, has launched an interactive guide to celebrate this milestone. This innovative travel tool not only highlights the attractions along Route 66 but also encourages travelers to explore the heart and soul of America through this storied highway.

A Home for Travelers

The new guide is a testament to the dynamic spirit of Route 66, featuring an interactive map that guides adventurers through its eight states. It offers a perfect blend of accommodations available from Choice Hotels, ensuring travelers have comfort during their historical journey. With over 7,400 properties worldwide, including familiar names like Comfort Suites and Country Inn & Suites, visitors can rest assured that a cozy stop is within reach at almost every turn.

Curated Itineraries for Unique Experiences

The guide showcases a curated list of iconic attractions and less-known roadside gems that reflect the uniqueness of each state's contribution to the Route 66 legacy.

• - Illinois: Starting in Illinois, discover vibrant neon diners and retro-styled motels. Key attractions include the Illinois State Fairgrounds and Polk-a-Dot Drive-In for a quintessential roadside dining experience.
• - Missouri: Sample Missouri's vintage Americana as you cross the dramatic Chain of Rocks Bridge, and enjoy film screenings at historic drive-in theaters.
• - Kansas: Although a mere 13 miles long, Kansas' stretch of Route 66 houses the charming Old Riverton Store, drawing fans of nostalgic treasures.
• - Oklahoma: Home to the most extended section of Route 66, Oklahoma features iconic landmarks like the Round Barn, blending history with local culture.
• - Texas: Experience the larger-than-life offerings in Texas, including the stunning Cadillac Ranch or the famous 72-ounce steak challenge at the Big Texan Steak Ranch.
• - New Mexico: Here, the Route 66 Auto Museum promises enthusiasts an impressive collection of classic cars, alongside unique local accommodations.
• - Arizona: Offers breathtaking desert views as well as heart-pounding experiences at attractions like the Meteor Crater.
• - California: The journey culminates at Santa Monica Pier, where Route 66 meets the Pacific, and after a nostalgic meal at Peggy Sue’s 50's Diner, you can reminisce about the memories made.

The Spirit of Road Tripping

This collaboration comes at a time when road trips are making a significant comeback. Data from Tripadvisor reveals that interest in Route 66 has surged by 20% year-over-year, with 56% of U.S. travelers choosing to drive to their vacation spots this year. The guide serves as both a practical travel tool and a platform for sharing experiences, offering tips and stories about this iconic highway. Moreover, it paves the way for families to recount the legacy of Route 66 as a lifeline during the Great Depression, making it a staple of American life.

Empowering Adventurers

Steve Paganelli, VP of Global Media Partnerships at Tripadvisor, eloquently captures the essence of this partnership: ``Route 66 isn't just a road but a century's worth of stories and experiences.`` He emphasizes the need for resources that empower travelers to confidently navigate this iconic route, and the combined efforts of Tripadvisor and Choice Hotels aim to provide just that.

Noha Abdalla, CMO at Choice Hotels, echoes this sentiment, noting how the collaboration's goal is to celebrate and preserve the experiences that Route 66 offers, linking people to their shared history and local culture.

Your Journey Awaits

As you prepare to join this historic journey, don’t forget to make the most of the innovative interactive guide. Whether you are venturing to uncover culinary delights in small towns or immerse yourself in rich American history, Route 66 remains open and ready to welcome you to a world of adventure.

So grab your map, pack your bags, and get ready to traverse one of the most legendary highways in America. With the centennial celebration of Route 66 just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to experience the freedom of the open road and create lasting memories that will be shared for generations.