Preserve Route 66

Preserve Route 66

Celebrate the Mother Road and help preserve Route 66 as a vital, iconic, and evolving piece of Americana for generations to come.

The most enduring highway in our public consciousness, Route 66 represents a unique moment in history that continues to define the nation’s identity: the rise of the automobile and its implications of freedom, mobility, and a quintessential American story. To celebrate the legacy of the Mother Road, the National Trust and our talented road team took to the streets—literally.

From July 2 to August 3, 2018, we traveled from Chicago to Los Angeles, uncovering new stories and meeting the diverse people who live along the historic route. By the trip’s end, we had shared the spirit of Route 66 with tens of thousands of travelers old and new, real and virtual—anyone who dreams of the open road.

Our work continues. Stay tuned for more opportunities to celebrate and preserve the stories and places along Historic Route 66.

Find Funding: Preserve Route 66 Legacy Business Grant Fund

The Preserve Route 66 Legacy Business Grant Fund provides support to businesses to preserve historic places and spur economic development along the Route 66 corridor. Grants projects can range from $5,000 to $10,000 in the following three categories: capital improvements, planning, and marketing and outreach. Applications are due January 12, 2024.

Our Stories: Explore the Stories of Route 66

Stretching more than 2,000 miles from Lake Michigan to the Santa Monica Pier and passing through the states of Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California, Route 66 reflects the 20th century evolution of transportation and tourism in the United States.