October 2026

Monthly Archives

Latest stories

  • 66 in Chrome and Clay

    A newer addition to the Mother Road is the Route 66 Monument, known as “Roadside Attraction,” located in historic Tucumcari, New Mexico. Commissioned by the New Mexico Arts Commission and the New Mexico Highway Department, the monument was designed by artist Thomas Coffin and completed in 1997. The sculpture features a larger-than-life chrome tail fin […] More

  • 100% Refrigerated Air: Blue Swallow Motel

    The Blue Swallow Motel is not your average motor lodge. Located in Tucumcari, New Mexico, the 12 unit motel has preserved almost all of its original features including pink stucco walls, a manager’s residence, and parking garages connected to each room. Details like these have landed The Blue Swallow on the National Register of Historic […] More

  • Hues of Red, Bands of Blue: The Painted Desert

    Route 66 is usually associated with unique motels, odd roadside attractions, old fashioned gas stations, and one of a kind eateries, but East of Holbrook, Arizona you’ll find a completely different view. Exit 311 (when traveling west) off Interstate 40 leads travelers directly into the north end of the Petrified Forest National Park. Currently, Route […] More

  • Still Glowing Brightly

    The U-Drop Inn lights up the night on historic route 66. However, instead of neons, it’s LEDs that have brought this landmark brightly into the modern age. Constructed in 1936 in Shamrock, Texas, the unique design for the U-Drop came from a sketch in the dirt. It was John Nunn who etched his architectural idea […] More

  • Tepee or Tee Pee Curios?

    Route 66 is lined with trading posts and souvenir shops selling trinkets from the road, authentic tribal wear, and vintage merchandise. Stores compete to stand out through roadside advertising, neon lights, or unique frontage. One of the most popular stops is Tee Pee Curios located in Tucumcari, New Mexico. By night, a large neon sign […] More