October 31, 2018

Route 66: Economic Benefits

More: Preserve Route 66
By: National Trust for Historic Preservation

A cultural icon and staple of the American road trip, Route 66 is also a prime example of the economic success cultural heritage tourism can bring to our historic communities. Learn more about the economic benefits The Mother Road gives to the towns and cities along its 2,451 miles.

Infographic of Route 66 Economic Benefits: What Is Cultural Heritage Tourism? Traveling to experience the places, artifacts, and activities that represent stories and people of the past. Cultural Heritage Tourists spent $171 billion on travel in 2013. Travel supports one in eight American jobs nationwide. Annual Route 66 Spending: $67 million at businesses on Main Streets, $38 million in cultural heritage tourism, $27 million at museums. Tourists usually spend between $1,500 and $2,000 when they travel Route 66.

Route 66 Gas Station

Join the National Trust in supporting a National Historic Trail designation for Route 66. Together, we can help revitalize it as an iconic and evolving piece of Americana for generations to come.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a privately funded nonprofit organization, works to save America’s historic places. Savingplaces.org

Like this story? Then you’ll love our emails. Sign up today.

Related Stories

Preserve Route 66 A Conversation with “America’s Photographer” Carol Highsmith on the Alluring and Enduring Route 66
Preserve Route 66 Route 66 Drives Through Classrooms
Preserve Route 66 Supporting Legacy Businesses Along Route 66