As I set out on my journey along Route 66, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was traveling through time. This iconic highway, once the main artery of American travel, is steeped in historical significance.
Starting in Chicago, I passed by landmarks like the Art Institute, where the famous “American Gothic” painting resides, and the site of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.
Driving through small towns like Amarillo, Texas, and Gallup, New Mexico, I soaked in the sights of vintage motels, neon signs, and classic cars. Each stop along the way had its own charm, like the famous Cadillac Ranch, where old cars are half-buried in the ground, or the Blue Swallow Motel with its retro vibes.
As I drove through the heartland in Springfield, Illinois, I visited the home of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. Walking through the rooms where he lived and worked, I gained a deeper appreciation for his impact on our nation.
In Missouri, I stopped at the Gateway Arch, a symbol of westward expansion and the spirit of Manifest Destiny. From there, I crossed into Oklahoma, where I learned about the struggles of the Cherokee people on the Trail of Tears.
But it was when I reached New Mexico that I encountered one of the most awe-inspiring sights of my journey – the Grand Canyon. As I stood on the rim, I couldn’t help but think about the countless generations of Native Americans who have called this place home. Their stories are woven into the fabric of the canyon, reminding me of the rich American history.
As I continued my journey, passing through Arizona and California, I reflected on the pioneers, explorers, and immigrants who traveled this route before me. Their courage and resilience are the reason behind the America we know today.
Route 66 and the Grand Canyon – they’re not just destinations, but windows into the past. They remind us of where we’ve been and inspire us to keep moving forward. As I traveled these historic roads, I felt a deeper connection to the story of America.
