The Ultimate Adventure: Discovering the Lost and Found Gems of Route 66

Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America, is a legendary highway that spans from Chicago to Los Angeles. Throughout its history, this iconic road has witnessed the rise and fall of towns, businesses, and attractions. While some parts of the route have faded into obscurity, there are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. In this article, we will delve into the complete Route 66 lost found journey, exploring the forgotten gems that deserve to be brought back to life.

1. The Forgotten Motels

One of the most captivating aspects of Route 66 is the collection of motels that have fallen victim to time's relentless march. These architectural relics of the past harken back to the golden era of road travel, offering a glimpse into the nostalgia of bygone days. The faded neon signs and retro furnishings provide a fascinating backdrop for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. From the Blue Swallow Motel in New Mexico to the El Fidel Hotel in New Mexico, each abandoned motel has its unique story to tell.

2. Abandoned Service Stations

Along Route 66, abandoned service stations can be found scattered like forgotten relics. These once-bustling hubs of activity served as a lifeline for travelers, providing fuel, repairs, and respite. Today, while some have been repurposed as museums or tourist stops, many are left abandoned, slowly succumbing to decay. Exploring these deserted service stations allows us to appreciate the significance they held in facilitating the cross-country journeys of countless adventurers.

The Complete Route 66 Lost & Found

by Russell A. Olsen (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20763 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	320 pages

FREE

3. Curious Roadside Attractions

Route 66 is renowned for its quirky roadside attractions, many of which have fallen into disrepair over time. These whimsical stops were designed to captivate passersby and offer a refreshing break during long drives. From the towering statues of historical figures to the kitschy museums filled with oddities, each attraction tells a story and serves as a testament to the creativity and ambition of their creators. Discovering these forgotten gems can transport us back in time and reignite the spirit of adventure that once permeated this iconic route.

4. Lost Legends and Haunted Tales

With its long history, Route 66 has accumulated its fair share of legends and folklore. From haunted hotels to ghost towns, the road is said to be home to a plethora of paranormal activity. Exploring the eerie tales surrounding these locations adds an element of thrill to the Route 66 lost found adventure. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories and mysteries that surround these haunted spots inject an air of intrigue and excitement into the journey.

5. Revitalization Efforts and Preservation Projects

While some parts of Route 66 have fallen into disrepair, there is a growing movement to revive and preserve its historical significance. Organizations and individuals are dedicating their efforts to restoring the faded glory of motels, revitalizing abandoned service stations, and breathing new life into roadside attractions. These projects aim to honor the past while ensuring that future generations can experience the magic of the open road. By supporting these preservation efforts, we can contribute to the ongoing story of Route 66 and keep the spirit of adventure alive.

In Summary

The complete Route 66 lost found journey promises a thrilling adventure through time and nostalgia. From abandoned motels and service stations to quirky attractions and haunted tales, this iconic road holds countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. By exploring these forgotten wonders and supporting preservation efforts, we can keep the spirit of Route 66 alive for generations to come. So embark on the ultimate road trip and let the journey unfold, revealing the magic of the Main Street of America.

The Complete Route 66 Lost & Found

by Russell A. Olsen (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20763 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	320 pages

FREE

Now Russell Olsen’s best-selling collections featuring Route 66 filling stations, main streets, motor courts, cafés, campgrounds, honky-tonks, truck stops, and barbecue joints as they appeared both in their heyday and today is available in one package.

For more than 30 years, Route 66 was America’s main east-west artery, pointing the nation toward all the promise that California represented. To serve these travelers, Route 66 boasted bustling commercial hubs, many of which remain today, many more of which crumbled long ago. All of the sites included here—150 in all—are shown both during their mid-century heydays and as they appear today. Taken together, the marvelous visual and descriptive elements assembled here—period postcards and imagery, specially commissioned maps, and Olsen’s own photography and capsule histories of the sites featured—comprise a unique, state-by-state look back at America’s Main Street.