Overview
U.S. Route 66 was one of the original highways of the U.S. numbered highway system, running from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. Amarillo was one of the largest cities on its route across the Texas Panhandle.
History
Route 66 was established in 1926 and became a major path west during the Dust Bowl migration and the postwar travel boom, lined with motels, diners and gas stations. As Interstate 40 replaced it across Texas, the highway lost its role and was removed from the U.S. highway system in 1985.
Today
In Amarillo, a stretch of Sixth Avenue keeps the Route 66 spirit alive with antique shops, restaurants and music venues in a historic district. Visitors following the old route still stop in the city.
Compiled October 2026. History is summarized for general interest; check primary sources for research. This landmark is local context, not an employer or job listing.