ez66 guide for travelers
The EZ66 Guide for Travelers stands as the definitive resource for experiencing the historic Route 66, meticulously crafted by Jerry McClanahan and the National Historic Route 66 Federation.
This invaluable tool assists thousands of global adventurers in navigating the diverse alignments of the “Mother Road,” whether embarking on an eastward or westward journey.
Its comprehensive nature and user-friendly design make it the ultimate guide for discovering the charm and history embedded within Route 66’s iconic landscapes.
What is the EZ66 Guide?
The EZ66 Guide for Travelers is widely recognized as the ultimate resource for anyone planning a journey along the legendary Route 66. Developed with meticulous detail by Route 66 historian Jerry McClanahan and the National Historic Route 66 Federation, it’s designed to simplify the often-complex task of navigating the various alignments of this iconic highway.
More than just a map, the EZ66 Guide provides a thorough description of the route, catering to travelers heading both east towards Chicago and west towards Santa Monica, California. It’s packed with suggested stops, ensuring explorers don’t miss key attractions and hidden gems along the way.
The guide’s strength lies in its ability to make Route 66 accessible, offering comprehensive yet easy-to-follow maps and directions. It’s a tool used and trusted by thousands of travelers worldwide, seeking to experience the authentic spirit of the “Mother Road;”
History and Development of the Guide
The EZ66 Guide’s origins are deeply rooted in the dedication of Route 66 historian Jerry McClanahan and the collaborative efforts of The National Historic Route 66 Federation. Recognizing the challenges travelers faced in navigating the fragmented alignments of the historic highway, they embarked on a mission to create a definitive, user-friendly guide.
The initial development focused on meticulously researching and documenting the various Route 66 alignments, ensuring the guide’s accuracy and comprehensiveness. Subsequent editions, including the 4th and 5th, have undergone extensive updates, incorporating new discoveries and changes along the route.
Through years of refinement and feedback from thousands of travelers globally, the EZ66 Guide has evolved into the trusted companion it is today – a testament to McClanahan’s passion and the Federation’s commitment to preserving Route 66’s legacy.
Jerry McClanahan and the National Historic Route 66 Federation
Jerry McClanahan, a renowned Route 66 historian, is the driving force behind the EZ66 Guide. His extensive knowledge and passion for the “Mother Road” were instrumental in compiling the guide’s detailed information and accurate maps. McClanahan’s dedication ensures travelers experience the authentic Route 66.
The National Historic Route 66 Federation played a crucial role in the guide’s development and ongoing maintenance. This organization, dedicated to preserving and promoting Route 66, provided vital support and resources. Their collaboration with McClanahan guarantees the guide reflects the most current and reliable information.
Together, McClanahan and the Federation have created a legacy – a resource used by countless travelers worldwide, fostering a deeper appreciation for Route 66’s history and cultural significance.
Understanding the Route 66 Alignments
The EZ66 Guide expertly navigates Route 66’s complex alignments, offering clarity for travelers heading east towards Chicago or west to Santa Monica, California.
Multiple Alignments and the Guide’s Coverage
The EZ66 Guide distinguishes itself by addressing the inherent complexity of Route 66 – its numerous alignments accumulated over decades of changes and realignments. Unlike simpler maps, this guide doesn’t present a single “Route 66,” but rather acknowledges and details the various paths the road has taken throughout its history.
Jerry McClanahan and the National Historic Route 66 Federation meticulously documented these shifts, and the guide reflects this comprehensive approach. It aims to make it “as easy as possible for travellers to find and follow the various alignments.” This means the guide doesn’t just show *a* Route 66; it helps you experience *all* of Route 66, offering choices and insights into the road’s evolution.
This detailed coverage is crucial, as sections of the original road have been bypassed, repurposed, or even disappeared. The EZ66 Guide empowers travelers to discover these remnants and understand the full story of the Mother Road, regardless of which alignment they choose to follow.
Traveling Eastbound on Route 66
The EZ66 Guide provides a thorough description for those embarking on an eastbound journey towards Chicago, Illinois. It’s designed to be equally effective for travelers starting in Santa Monica, California, and heading east, offering detailed guidance every step of the way.
The guide doesn’t simply list destinations; it offers a comprehensive route description, ensuring travelers can confidently navigate the often-fragmented sections of the historic road. Suggested stops are integrated into the directions, highlighting key attractions and points of interest along the eastern stretch of Route 66.
Whether you’re seeking classic diners, quirky roadside attractions, or historical landmarks, the EZ66 Guide equips you with the information needed to fully experience the eastbound Route 66 adventure. It’s truly the ultimate guide for a memorable cross-country trip.
Traveling Westbound on Route 66
The EZ66 Guide excels in supporting travelers heading westbound, beginning in Chicago and culminating in the sunny shores of Santa Monica, California; It’s meticulously designed to be the ultimate guide, regardless of your starting point, offering a seamless experience for those charting a westward course.
The guide’s strength lies in its ability to clearly delineate the route, even where original alignments have been altered or bypassed. Comprehensive maps and directions are provided, coupled with thoughtfully curated suggestions for stops along the way. Discover iconic diners, vintage motels, and captivating roadside attractions as you traverse the heartland of America.
For those dreaming of a classic Route 66 road trip, the EZ66 Guide ensures a well-planned and unforgettable westbound adventure, making navigation straightforward and enjoyable.
Key Features of the EZ66 Guide
The EZ66 Guide boasts a practical spiral binding, allowing it to lay flat for easy review, alongside detailed maps and a state-by-state breakdown for travelers.
Spiral Binding for Easy Use
The EZ66 Guide’s most appreciated physical feature is undoubtedly its spiral binding. This design choice isn’t merely aesthetic; it’s fundamentally practical for road travel and on-the-go reference. Unlike traditionally bound books, the spiral binding allows the guide to lay completely flat, regardless of the page you’re viewing.
This seemingly small detail dramatically enhances usability. Drivers or passengers can easily consult maps and directions without struggling to hold the book open, a crucial benefit when space is limited within a vehicle. It also simplifies note-taking or marking points of interest directly within the guide.
Reviewers consistently highlight the convenience of the spiral binding, noting how it streamlines the planning process and makes referencing information during a Route 66 adventure significantly easier. It’s a testament to the thoughtful design prioritizing the traveler’s experience.
Comprehensive Maps and Directions
The EZ66 Guide for Travelers excels in providing exceptionally detailed and easy-to-follow maps and directions. Recognizing the complexities of Route 66’s multiple alignments, the guide doesn’t shy away from thoroughness. It meticulously charts the various paths the “Mother Road” has taken over the years, ensuring travelers can confidently navigate their chosen route.
These aren’t simply generalized overviews; they are comprehensive enough to pinpoint specific landmarks, attractions, and even historical points of interest along the way. Whether journeying east towards Chicago or west to Santa Monica, the guide offers clear, step-by-step instructions.
The directions are designed for practicality, catering to both experienced road trippers and those new to Route 66. This commitment to clarity makes the guide an invaluable companion for a successful and enjoyable journey.
State-by-State Breakdown
The EZ66 Guide for Travelers distinguishes itself through its meticulously organized state-by-state breakdown of Route 66. This structure allows travelers to focus on the specific segment of their journey, providing relevant information without overwhelming detail. Each state receives dedicated coverage, highlighting key attractions, lodging options, and historical sites.
From the starting point in Illinois to the final destination in California, the guide systematically presents the unique character of each state along the route. This granular approach ensures that no hidden gem or local favorite is overlooked.
This detailed organization is particularly helpful for planning multi-day trips, allowing users to efficiently identify points of interest and create a customized itinerary. It’s a cornerstone of the guide’s usability.
Planning Your Route 66 Trip with the EZ66 Guide
The EZ66 Guide simplifies trip planning with suggested stops, comprehensive maps, and directions for both eastbound and westbound travelers, including vital RV considerations.
Suggested Stops Along the Way
The EZ66 Guide doesn’t just provide a route; it unlocks a treasure trove of experiences. Throughout its state-by-state breakdown, the guide highlights must-see attractions and hidden gems, ensuring a memorable journey along the Mother Road.
Whether you’re captivated by classic diners, quirky roadside attractions, or historical landmarks, the guide offers detailed descriptions and practical information for each stop. It helps travelers prioritize based on their interests, maximizing their time and enjoyment.
From the iconic Chain of Rocks Bridge in Illinois to the Santa Monica Pier in California, the guide illuminates the unique character of each location; It’s more than just a list; it’s a curated collection of experiences designed to immerse you in the spirit of Route 66, offering a truly authentic adventure.
RV Travel Considerations
The EZ66 Guide recognizes the growing popularity of Route 66 travel by Recreational Vehicle (RV). It thoughtfully addresses the unique needs of RV travelers, providing crucial information often overlooked in standard guides.
The guide details potential challenges such as low clearances, tight turns, and weight restrictions along various alignments. It highlights RV-friendly campgrounds and service stations, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Furthermore, it offers practical advice on navigating historic towns with larger vehicles and suggests alternative routes when necessary. The EZ66 Guide empowers RV enthusiasts to confidently explore Route 66, minimizing stress and maximizing the freedom of the open road, making it a truly accessible adventure for all.
Using the Guide for Both East and West Trips
The EZ66 Guide is ingeniously designed to cater to travelers embarking on Route 66 from either direction – West to East, or East to West. It provides a thorough description of the route regardless of your starting point, ensuring a comprehensive experience for all adventurers.
Whether you begin in Chicago and head towards Santa Monica, or vice versa, the guide offers detailed maps, directions, and suggested stops tailored to your journey. Its state-by-state breakdown allows for easy navigation and planning, regardless of travel orientation.
This dual functionality makes the EZ66 Guide exceptionally versatile, solidifying its position as the ultimate guide for exploring the “Mother Road” from any vantage point, maximizing the enjoyment of this iconic American highway;
Detailed Guide Content by Region
The EZ66 Guide meticulously breaks down Route 66 state-by-state, highlighting Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California’s unique attractions.
Each region’s landmarks and points of interest are thoroughly documented for an immersive travel experience.
Illinois Route 66 Highlights
The EZ66 Guide expertly navigates Illinois’ significant stretch of Route 66, beginning in Chicago and extending southwestward. It details iconic stops like the Gemini Giant in Wilmington, a towering fiberglass statue, and the Launching Pad Drive-In, offering a nostalgic dining experience.
The guide highlights Pontiac’s Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum, showcasing the highway’s rich history through exhibits and memorabilia. Travelers will find detailed directions to the Chain of Rocks Bridge, a historic crossing over the Mississippi River, and numerous classic diners and motor courts.
Furthermore, the EZ66 Guide provides insights into local events and festivals along the Illinois portion, ensuring a well-rounded and authentic Route 66 adventure. It emphasizes the preservation efforts and community spirit that keep the Mother Road alive in the Prairie State.
Missouri Route 66 Attractions
The EZ66 Guide meticulously charts Missouri’s captivating Route 66 segment, famed for its rolling hills and nostalgic attractions; It spotlights St. Louis landmarks like the Gateway Arch (visible from the route) and Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a beloved local institution.
The guide details stops in Cuba, known as the “Route 66 Mural City,” showcasing vibrant artwork depicting the highway’s history. Travelers will discover the quirky Fanning Outpost, a Route 66 museum and trading post, and the Meramec Caverns, a stunning natural wonder.
Detailed directions lead to restored diners, vintage motels, and scenic overlooks, enhancing the Missouri experience. The EZ66 Guide also notes RV-friendly locations and local events, ensuring a smooth and memorable journey along the Show-Me State’s portion of the Mother Road.
Kansas Route 66 Points of Interest
The EZ66 Guide acknowledges Kansas’ relatively short, yet historically significant, stretch of Route 66. While only 13 miles long, it’s packed with charm and offers a glimpse into the highway’s early days. The guide highlights Galena, a town remarkably preserved with restored buildings and a vibrant Route 66 scene.
A key attraction detailed within the guide is the Cars on the Route, inspired by the Disney Pixar film “Cars,” featuring a lovingly restored tow truck resembling Mater. Travelers will find detailed directions to the historic 66 Drive-In Theatre, a classic American experience.
The EZ66 Guide provides essential information on local eateries and lodging, ensuring a comfortable stopover. It emphasizes the importance of appreciating this brief but impactful segment of the Mother Road, offering a unique perspective on Route 66’s evolution.
Oklahoma Route 66 Landmarks
The EZ66 Guide meticulously details Oklahoma’s extensive 394 miles of Route 66, recognizing it as a cornerstone of the “Mother Road” experience. The guide spotlights Tulsa, showcasing its Art Deco architecture and the iconic Blue Whale of Catoosa, a beloved roadside attraction featured prominently within its pages.
Detailed directions lead travelers to the Route 66 Museum in Clinton, offering a comprehensive history of the highway. The EZ66 Guide also emphasizes the importance of stopping at the Milk Bottle Grocery in Oklahoma City, a quirky and photogenic landmark.
Furthermore, the guide provides insights into numerous diners and motels, preserving the authentic Route 66 atmosphere. It highlights the state’s commitment to preserving its Route 66 heritage, making it an essential destination for any enthusiast.
Texas Route 66 Stops
The EZ66 Guide acknowledges Texas’ relatively short, yet significant, 178-mile stretch of Route 66, focusing on its historical importance and unique attractions. The guide directs travelers to the iconic Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo, a public art installation and must-see photo opportunity.
It details stops in McLean, highlighting the Devil’s Rope Museum, showcasing barbed wire history, and emphasizes the importance of experiencing the Big Texan Steak Ranch, famous for its 72oz steak challenge. The EZ66 Guide provides precise directions to these landmarks.
The guide also points out lesser-known gems, preserving the authentic Route 66 spirit. It notes the challenges of navigating the fragmented sections, offering clear guidance for a fulfilling Texas Route 66 experience.
New Mexico Route 66 Destinations
The EZ66 Guide expertly navigates New Mexico’s extensive Route 66 segment, emphasizing its rich Native American culture and dramatic landscapes. It highlights Tucumcari, a town brimming with vintage motels and neon signs, offering a classic Route 66 experience.
The guide directs travelers to Santa Fe, though a slight detour, showcasing its art scene and historic plaza. It details stops in Gallup, known for its trading posts and Native American jewelry, and emphasizes the importance of respecting local traditions.
The EZ66 Guide provides detailed directions to the Blue Hole in Santa Rosa, a popular swimming and diving spot, and outlines the quirky attractions along the way. It ensures travelers experience the unique charm of New Mexico’s Mother Road.
Arizona Route 66 Experiences
The EZ66 Guide unlocks the captivating experiences awaiting travelers along Arizona’s lengthy stretch of Route 66. It spotlights iconic destinations like Seligman, a town instrumental in the Route’s revival, and Williams, the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon.”
The guide meticulously details the quirky roadside attractions, including Hackberry General Store and the whimsical shops of Oatman, a former gold mining town populated by wild burros. It provides essential information for navigating the challenging terrain and maximizing enjoyment.
The EZ66 Guide emphasizes the importance of exploring the Petrified Forest National Park, a short detour offering stunning geological formations. It ensures travelers fully immerse themselves in Arizona’s unique blend of history, natural beauty, and Route 66 nostalgia.
California Route 66 Finale
The EZ66 Guide expertly navigates travelers through California’s poignant Route 66 finale, culminating at the iconic Santa Monica Pier. It details the route’s evolution within the state, highlighting preserved sections and notable landmarks.
The guide emphasizes key stops like the Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, a whimsical art installation, and the historic Wigwam Motel in Rialto, offering a nostalgic overnight experience. It provides crucial directions for navigating the urban sprawl of Los Angeles and locating the official end of the Mother Road.
The EZ66 Guide ensures a memorable conclusion to any Route 66 journey, offering insights into the cultural significance of the California segment and celebrating the spirit of adventure that defines the highway.
Updates and Editions of the EZ66 Guide
The EZ66 Guide has seen multiple editions, with the 5th Edition boasting nearly all pages updated, ensuring travelers have the most current Route 66 information.
These revisions reflect ongoing changes and discoveries along the historic highway, maintaining its status as the premier travel companion.
Comparing the 4th and 5th Editions
Both the 4th and 5th Editions of the EZ66 Guide for Travelers are lauded as the ultimate resource for exploring Route 66, offering comprehensive maps and directions for both eastbound and westbound journeys. However, the 5th Edition represents a significant upgrade, with nearly all pages updated to reflect the latest changes along the historic route.
While the 4th Edition provided a thorough overview, the 5th Edition incorporates recent discoveries, business updates, and alignment adjustments. This ensures travelers have access to the most accurate and current information available. The updates address evolving conditions, ensuring a smoother and more rewarding experience.
Essentially, the 5th Edition builds upon the solid foundation of the 4th, refining and expanding its content to provide an even more detailed and reliable guide for adventurers seeking to uncover the magic of Route 66. It’s a worthwhile investment for those planning a trip.
What’s New in the Latest Edition?
The latest (5th) Edition of the EZ66 Guide for Travelers boasts extensive updates, with nearly all pages revised to reflect the ever-changing landscape of Route 66. This edition doesn’t just offer incremental improvements; it represents a substantial overhaul of information, ensuring travelers have the most accurate and up-to-date resource available.
Key enhancements include detailed corrections to alignments, reflecting recent road changes and discoveries. Business listings have been meticulously verified, removing outdated entries and adding new establishments along the route. The guide also incorporates feedback from fellow Route 66 enthusiasts, enhancing its practicality and usefulness;
Essentially, the 5th Edition provides a more reliable and comprehensive experience, minimizing the chances of encountering outdated information and maximizing the enjoyment of your Route 66 adventure. It truly is the definitive guide!
Staying Up-to-Date with Route 66 Changes
Route 66 is a living, breathing entity, constantly evolving with new businesses, road realignments, and restorations of historic landmarks. While the EZ66 Guide strives for accuracy, staying current requires ongoing effort from both the publishers and travelers.
The National Historic Route 66 Federation actively monitors changes along the route and incorporates them into future editions. However, travelers can contribute by submitting updates and corrections through the Federation’s website or directly to the guide’s publishers.
Online forums and Route 66 enthusiast groups also serve as valuable resources for real-time information. Checking these platforms before and during your trip can help you avoid surprises and discover hidden gems. Remember, the spirit of Route 66 is about exploration and adaptation!