Frequently Asked Questions

Through the years, we have been asked many questions about Route 66. Here are answers to a few of the most common:

"How long is Route 66?"

The figure used most often is 2,400 miles. But this is really a rough approximation because the road has had many different alignments through the years.

"How many states does the route go through?"

Eight. Traveling from east to west, they are Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.

"Is the original road still driveable?"

85% is still easily driveable in an ordinary car.

"Why isn't 66 on ordinary maps?"

It was de-commissioned as a federal highway over a period of years with the last stretch disappearing from the records in 1984.

"Why was it de-commissioned?"

Through the years, the federal government built a collection of high speed, interstate highways to bypass and replace old 66.

"Is the route well marked with road signs?"

Although some organizations have posted signs here and there, they are not prevalent enough to be able to count on.

"I would like to explore the route, but how can I find it?"

If you intend to travel it, you will need to purchase the "EZ66 GUIDE For Travelers". It includes maps and directions of each of the states the route goes through. The guide is inexpensive and available online on this website in the "66SuperStore".

"Are there still places to eat and stay on the route?"

Yes, there are plenty of places. We suggest you get the Route 66 Dining and Lodging Guide which features over 300 objective reviews. The guide is inexpensive and available online on this website in the "66SuperStore".

"What is legendary Route 66 like today?

When it was bypassed, many businesses and even entire towns closed down. The number of vehicles dwindled from thousands a day to less than 10 in some of the outlying communities. Yet, it created a microcosm of roadside America that became pickled in time. Although many of these properties have deteriorated and even been removed, others have been restored and are doing very well thanks to renewed interest in 66. Tourists from all over the world come to experience this unique treasure.

"What is the National Historic Route 66 Federation?"

We are a nonprofit organization that was founded to save Route 66. You can read more about us on our website by clicking, "About the Federation."

How to Join the Federation
US residents
Non US residents

Email: National Historic Route 66 Federation

National Historic Route 66 Federation
P.O. Box 1848, Dept. WS,
Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352-1848
Phone: (909) 336-6131
FAX: (909) 336-1039

Copyright 1995 National Historic Route 66 Federation. All Rights Reserved