Celebrate 100 Years of History on Historic Route 66

Dubbed the Mother Road by John Steinbeck in The Grapes of Wrath, this highway became a symbol of freedom, migration, and opportunity. Even after it was removed from the US Highway System in 1985, Route 66 remained culturally significant and is now preserved as a Historic Route on many maps and recognized as a national scenic byway. Few places embody its legacy quite like Route 66 Albuquerque, home to the longest continuous urban stretch of the highway. What makes Albuquerque an especially great destination is its layers of cultural identity. Along Central Avenue, you’ll encounter glowing neon signs, retro diners, and architectural gems that reflect decades of road trip history. Native American and Spanish influences are apparent in everything from food to art, adding depth that sets Albuquerque apart from other Route 66 stops. This stretch of road feels alive, not frozen in time, making it one of the most rewarding attractions on the Mother Road. The Route 66 Centennial in Albuquerque is shaping up to be a bucket-list-worthy journey. This is not a single weekend event but a year filled with cultural moments, festivals, and limited-time experiences. As one of the most significant Route 66 cities and home to the longest urban stretch of the highway, Albuquerque plays a central role in nationwide centennial celebrations. Between large-scale events like the Route 66 Centennial Caravan Cavalcade and the 2026 Hemmings Great Race, which will trace the historic route from Illinois to California, Albuquerque stands out as a place where history, creativity, and community come together.

Things to do in Albuquerque to Celebrate the Route 66 Centennial

1. Drive the longest urban stretch of Historic Route 66 along Central Avenue. This is the main drag in Albuquerque and one of the most immersive Route 66 stops in the country. Driving or walking this stretch reveals vintage motels, murals, and diners that still define the historic route’s character.
2. Neon once guided travelers along Route 66, and Albuquerque preserves this tradition beautifully. Must-see signs include the animated Dog House Drive-In sign, famously featured in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul; the glowing KiMo Theatre marquee; 66 Diner; TeWa Lodge; and Loyola’s. An evening stroll or drive is the best way to experience their nostalgic glow.
3. Eat at classic Route 66 diners. The 66 Diner is a favorite roadside attraction, originally built as a Phillips 66 Gas Station and now filled with memorabilia that celebrates the golden age of road trips. The Dog House Drive-In is another essential stop, especially for fans of pop culture and animated neon signage.
4. Visit essential Albuquerque attractions near Route 66. Old Town is a must-see, offering historic adobe buildings, local shops, and museums just minutes away. Other nearby highlights include the Route 66 Crossing Sign, where New Mexico becomes the only state where Route 66 crosses itself at Central Avenue and 4th Street, and the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History.
5. Take an art-fueled experience with Route 66 Remixed. This public art project, created in partnership with Meow Wolf and Refract Studio, transforms Route 66 attractions into murals, sculptures, and augmented reality experiences. It is one of the most innovative offerings of the Route 66 Centennial celebration.
6. Plan your Route 66 Centennial visit around seasonal events in Albuquerque. Spring brings the Southwest Chocolate and Coffee Fest in early April and the Gathering of Nations PowWow in late April, both of which are standout cultural experiences. From April through October, the Downtown Growers Market adds local flavor every Saturday. Summer highlights include the Route 66 Summerfest in mid-July with live music and food trucks. Fall features the New Mexico State Fair and rodeo in early September, the New Mexico Lowrider Fest in October, and Día de Muertos celebrations in Old Town, with community ofrendas and candlelit parades.
7. New Mexico offers its own Main Street Centennial Passport, inviting travelers to explore communities along the scenic byway within the state. For those following the entire Mother Road, a separate national Route 66 Passport highlights destinations across all eight states.