How to Drive Route 66 from Fort Worth to Amarillo

Driving Route 66 from Fort Worth to Amarillo is more than a road trip—it’s a journey through the heart of American automotive history, cultural heritage, and iconic roadside Americana. Stretching approximately 275 miles across the Texas Panhandle, this segment of the Mother Road offers travelers a rare blend of nostalgia, natural beauty, and small-town charm. While modern interstates like I-40 now serve as the primary thoroughfare, the original alignment of U.S. Highway 66 remains accessible, preserved in fragments, and rich with stories waiting to be discovered.

For history buffs, vintage car enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking an authentic American experience, this stretch of Route 66 delivers an unforgettable adventure. Unlike the high-speed, anonymous corridors of today’s highways, driving this route demands presence—slowing down to admire faded neon signs, century-old diners, and the quiet vastness of the High Plains. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to navigating this legendary corridor with confidence, safety, and depth.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a cross-country pilgrimage, understanding the nuances of this segment—from historical landmarks to fuel stops, road conditions, and seasonal considerations—is essential. This tutorial will equip you with everything you need to know to drive Route 66 from Fort Worth to Amarillo with precision, enjoyment, and a deep appreciation for its legacy.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Begin at the Fort Worth Route 66 Starting Point

The traditional starting point for Route 66 in Fort Worth lies at the intersection of Camp Bowie Boulevard and North Main Street, where the highway originally exited the city heading west. Today, this area is marked by historical signage and a preserved section of original pavement near the Fort Worth Cultural District. Begin your journey by parking near the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, where Route 66 signage is prominently displayed, and take a moment to absorb the atmosphere of early 20th-century travel.

Before departing, ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition. Check tire pressure, fluid levels, and brakes. Even though this stretch is mostly paved, older sections of Route 66 may have uneven surfaces, gravel shoulders, or temporary detours. Carry a spare tire, basic tools, and a portable phone charger. Cell service can be spotty in rural areas, so download offline maps in advance.

Step 2: Follow the Original Alignment Through Arlington and Grand Prairie

From Fort Worth, Route 66 historically followed what is now U.S. Highway 287 westward through Arlington and Grand Prairie. While much of the original pavement has been replaced, you can still trace the path by following the Route 66 markers placed by state preservation groups. In Arlington, look for the iconic “Mother Road” mural near the intersection of Division Street and Lamar Boulevard.

As you pass through Grand Prairie, keep an eye out for the former Texaco Station at 1101 West Main Street, now repurposed as a local business but still bearing the classic Route 66 signage. This is an ideal photo stop and a reminder of the highway’s commercial heyday. Continue west on Main Street until you reach the Tarrant County line, where the road transitions into a more rural character.

Step 3: Enter the Texas Panhandle via Wichita Falls

Approximately 70 miles from Fort Worth, you’ll reach Wichita Falls. This city was a major service stop on Route 66 during its peak years. The original alignment runs along 7th Street and then merges with the current U.S. 287 corridor. In downtown Wichita Falls, visit the Route 66 Museum located in the historic Santa Fe Depot, which features vintage gas pumps, photographs, and artifacts from the highway’s golden age.

From here, continue west on U.S. 287. You’ll begin to notice the landscape shifting—from tree-lined suburbs to open plains. This is the transition into the High Plains, where the horizon stretches endlessly. Take note of the temperature changes; the Panhandle is significantly cooler and windier than North Texas. Pack layers, even in summer.

Step 4: Navigate the Historic Route Through Vernon and Elk City

Leaving Wichita Falls, you’ll pass through the town of Vernon, Texas, where Route 66 originally followed Main Street. Today, a preserved stretch of original concrete pavement runs parallel to the modern highway. Look for the Route 66 Welcome Sign and the historic Elks Lodge, which once hosted traveling musicians and truckers.

Continue west into Oklahoma. Though your destination is Amarillo, Texas, the original Route 66 alignment crosses state lines, and the most authentic experience includes tracing the full historic path. In Oklahoma, you’ll pass through the town of Elk City, home to the Route 66 Museum of the Great Plains. This is an excellent place to refuel, stretch your legs, and learn about the role this region played in the migration of Dust Bowl families during the 1930s.

Important note: While this guide focuses on the Fort Worth-to-Amarillo segment, the most immersive Route 66 experience includes the Oklahoma portion. If you’re short on time, you can rejoin Texas at the state line via U.S. 287, but for authenticity, follow the original 1926 alignment through Oklahoma.

Step 5: Re-enter Texas and Approach the Amarillo Corridor

After crossing back into Texas near the town of Miami, Oklahoma, you’ll re-enter the state just south of the Texas Panhandle. The road becomes U.S. 287 again, heading toward Amarillo. As you approach the city, the landscape becomes flatter, the wind stronger, and the sky wider. This is the classic High Plains aesthetic that defines Route 66 in Texas.

Look for the historic Amarillo Route 66 markers near the intersection of Amarillo Boulevard and Taylor Street. These signs indicate the original alignment before the construction of the Amarillo bypass. The city of Amarillo was one of the most important stops on the entire Route 66 corridor, known for its auto repair shops, motels, and neon-lit restaurants.

Step 6: Arrive at the Amarillo Route 66 End Point

Your final destination is the iconic Cadillac Ranch, located just west of Amarillo off I-40. Though technically not on the original 1926 alignment, Cadillac Ranch is the most famous Route 66 landmark in the region and a must-see. The installation of ten buried Cadillacs, spray-painted by visitors since the 1970s, is a living piece of roadside art and a symbol of the highway’s enduring cultural impact.

To complete your journey authentically, drive through downtown Amarillo along historic Route 66 (Amarillo Boulevard). Stop at the Big Texan Steak Ranch, where the famous 72-ounce steak challenge began, and visit the Route 66 Historic District, featuring restored motels like the Malachi Hotel and the historic Greyhound Bus Station.

End your trip at the Amarillo Route 66 Museum, located in the former Santa Fe Depot. Here, you can view original maps, vintage gas station equipment, and personal accounts from travelers who drove the route during its peak. The museum offers a fitting conclusion to your journey, tying together the history, emotion, and legacy of this iconic highway.

Best Practices

Prioritize Safety Over Speed

Driving Route 66 is not a race. Unlike interstate highways, the original alignment includes narrow lanes, sharp curves, gravel shoulders, and occasional unpaved sections. Drive at or below the posted speed limit, especially in rural towns where children, livestock, or wildlife may be present. Always scan the roadside for historical markers and unexpected turns.

Plan for Limited Services

Many towns along this stretch have fewer services than they did in the 1950s. Fuel stations, restaurants, and restrooms may be sparse. Fill your tank whenever possible—even if your gauge reads half full. Carry bottled water, non-perishable snacks, and a first-aid kit. Cell service is unreliable between towns; download offline maps using Google Maps or Gaia GPS before departure.

Respect Historic Sites

Many landmarks along Route 66 are privately owned or maintained by volunteers. Do not trespass on private property, even if a building looks abandoned. Do not remove souvenirs from historic sites. Spray paint on Cadillac Ranch is encouraged—but only with the provided cans and in designated areas. Leave everything as you found it.

Travel During Optimal Seasons

The best times to drive this route are spring (March–May) and fall (September–October). Summers can be brutally hot, with temperatures exceeding 100°F, and winter storms can bring sudden snow and ice to the Panhandle. Avoid driving during severe weather. Check local forecasts daily and be prepared for rapid changes in conditions.

Document Your Journey

Bring a camera, journal, or voice recorder. The emotional resonance of Route 66 comes not just from the sights, but from the stories. Interview local residents, photograph faded murals, and note the time of day when light hits a historic sign. These details will make your experience richer and more memorable.

Use a Physical Map as Backup

While GPS is helpful, it often reroutes you onto modern highways. Carry a printed copy of the 1940s or 1950s Route 66 map from the American Automobile Association or the National Park Service. These maps show the original alignment, including now-defunct towns like Groom, Texas, and the ghost town of Mobeetie, which you may want to explore.

Engage with Local Communities

Many towns along this route rely on tourism to sustain their economies. Support local businesses: buy a pie at a roadside diner, tip your server generously, and leave a positive review online. These small acts help preserve the infrastructure that keeps Route 66 alive.

Be Prepared for Detours

Some segments of the original highway have been abandoned or incorporated into private land. Always have a backup route planned. For example, between Vernon and Elk City, a section of the original pavement was removed for road widening. Use the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) website or the Route 66 Alliance app to check for current detours.

Tools and Resources

Essential Apps and Websites

While the spirit of Route 66 is analog, modern tools can enhance your journey without compromising authenticity. The following digital resources are curated for Route 66 travelers:

• Route 66 Alliance App – Offers GPS-enabled waypoints, historical photos, and real-time updates on road closures.
• Google Earth (Offline Mode) – Download the entire Fort Worth-to-Amarillo route in advance. Use the historical imagery slider to compare 1940s vs. 2020s road alignments.
• RoadsideAmerica.com – A comprehensive database of quirky attractions, including hidden gems like the “World’s Largest Pecan” in Groom, Texas.
• TxDOT Travel Information – Official state site for road conditions, construction alerts, and rest area locations.
• Route 66 Historical Maps Archive (Library of Congress) – Free access to digitized original maps from the 1920s–1960s.

Recommended Books and Media

Deepen your understanding of the road with these essential reads:

• “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck – The literary masterpiece that immortalized Route 66 as the “Mother Road” during the Dust Bowl migration.
• “Route 66: The Mother Road” by Michael Wallis – The definitive history of the highway, rich with interviews and archival photographs.
• “Driving the Mother Road” by Dan O’Donnell – A practical guide with turn-by-turn directions and tips from over 50 years of Route 66 travel.
• Documentary: “Route 66: The Road Ahead” (PBS) – A visually stunning exploration of preservation efforts and cultural impact.

Physical Gear Checklist

Ensure you pack the following to maximize comfort and safety:

• High-quality sunscreen and lip balm (UV exposure is extreme on the plains)
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
• Reusable water bottles (at least 2 liters per person)
• Comfortable walking shoes (for exploring historic downtowns)
• Portable power bank (20,000 mAh or higher)
• Physical map of Route 66 (1946–1955 alignment)
• Small notebook and pen (for journaling)
• Camera with extra memory cards
• Emergency blanket and flashlight
• Non-perishable snacks (trail mix, granola bars, jerky)

Local Preservation Groups to Support

These organizations maintain the integrity of the road and welcome volunteers and donations:

• Route 66 Association of Texas – Manages signage, restoration projects, and educational programs.
• National Trust for Historic Preservation – Route 66 Chapter – Advocates for the protection of endangered landmarks.
• Route 66 Museum Foundation (Amarillo) – Funds exhibits and youth outreach programs.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Smith Family Road Trip (2023)

In the spring of 2023, the Smith family from Dallas drove Route 66 from Fort Worth to Amarillo over a three-day weekend. They began at the Fort Worth Stockyards, stopping at every historical marker they could find. In Wichita Falls, they visited the Route 66 Museum and learned about the role of African American travelers during segregation, when many motels refused service. They stayed overnight in Elk City at the restored Bluebird Motel, a 1940s property now run by a local historian.

On Day Two, they drove through the Oklahoma panhandle, photographing the original concrete pavement near the town of Erick. They ate lunch at the historic 1936 Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari (just across the border) before re-entering Texas. In Amarillo, they participated in the annual Route 66 Car Show, where they displayed their 1967 Ford Mustang. Their journey ended at Cadillac Ranch, where they left their own spray-painted message on one of the Cadillacs.

Their blog post, “Driving the Dust Bowl Highway,” received over 150,000 views and inspired a local school to create a Route 66 curriculum. Their experience demonstrates how a simple road trip can become a catalyst for education and community engagement.

Example 2: The Solo Photographer’s Journey (2022)

In November 2022, freelance photographer Elena Ruiz drove the entire Fort Worth-to-Amarillo stretch alone, documenting the fading signs and empty buildings of Route 66. She used a medium-format film camera to capture the textures of rusted neon, cracked asphalt, and weathered brick. Her project, “Ghost Signs of the Mother Road,” featured 42 images of abandoned gas stations, motels, and diners.

One of her most striking photos—of a lone, illuminated “Motel 6” sign in Groom, Texas—went viral on Instagram and was later exhibited at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Ruiz’s work highlights how Route 66 is not just a road, but a canvas of American memory, slowly being reclaimed by nature and time.

Example 3: The Retired Truck Driver’s Return (2021)

At age 78, retired trucker Harold Jenkins returned to Route 66 for the first time since 1972. He had driven the same stretch as a young man hauling cattle feed from Fort Worth to Amarillo. He brought his old 1968 Peterbilt and followed the original alignment, stopping at every place he remembered: the diner in Vernon where he ate his first chili dog, the service station in Elk City where he changed his own tires, the motel in Amarillo where he proposed to his wife.

He recorded his journey on a handheld audio recorder, telling stories of the people he met—“a waitress who gave me extra pie because I looked tired,” “a mechanic who fixed my radiator for free.” His audio diary, shared with the Amarillo Museum, became part of a permanent exhibit titled “Voices of the Mother Road.”

Harold’s story reminds us that Route 66 is not just asphalt and neon—it’s the sum of countless human moments, stitched together by a road that once connected a nation.

FAQs

How long does it take to drive Route 66 from Fort Worth to Amarillo?

Driving the original alignment without stops takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. However, to fully experience the historic landmarks, museums, and photo opportunities, plan for a minimum of two to three days. Many travelers spend an entire week exploring side roads and small towns.

Is the entire Route 66 paved between Fort Worth and Amarillo?

No. While most of the route follows modern U.S. 287, approximately 15–20 miles of original 1920s concrete pavement remain intact, primarily between Wichita Falls and Vernon, and near the Texas-Oklahoma border. These sections are marked and accessible to vehicles, but drive slowly and avoid them in wet weather.

Can I drive Route 66 in a rental car?

Yes, but check your rental agreement. Some companies prohibit driving on unpaved or historic roads. If you plan to explore original pavement segments, consider renting a vehicle with higher ground clearance and all-terrain tires.

Are there gas stations along the way?

Yes, but they are infrequent. Major towns like Wichita Falls, Vernon, and Amarillo have multiple stations. Smaller towns may have only one. Always fill up when you can, especially before entering remote areas.

What’s the best time of year to drive this route?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and the clearest skies. Summer is extremely hot, and winter can bring sudden snowstorms, particularly in the Panhandle.

Are pets allowed at Route 66 landmarks?

Most outdoor sites, including Cadillac Ranch and historic motels, welcome leashed pets. Always check signage or call ahead for indoor museums or private businesses.

Do I need a permit to visit Route 66 sites?

No. All public Route 66 landmarks along this stretch are open to the public free of charge. Some museums may request a small donation, but none require tickets or permits.

Can I camp along Route 66?

Yes. There are several public and private campgrounds near the route, including the Route 66 RV Park in Amarillo and the state park near Elk City, Oklahoma. Backcountry camping is not permitted on the original highway alignment due to private land ownership.

What should I do if my car breaks down?

Call a local towing service. Many towns have independent mechanics who specialize in vintage vehicles. Keep the number for the Texas Department of Transportation roadside assistance (1-800-555-ROAD) programmed into your phone. Avoid attempting repairs on the shoulder—move to a safe location if possible.

Is Route 66 still an official highway?

No. Route 66 was officially decommissioned in 1985 and replaced by I-40 and U.S. 287. However, it remains a National Historic Trail, and many segments are preserved and signed as “Historic Route 66.”

Conclusion

Driving Route 66 from Fort Worth to Amarillo is not merely a navigation exercise—it is a pilgrimage through the soul of America. This journey connects you to a time when the open road was a symbol of freedom, possibility, and resilience. Each mile you cover traces the footsteps of migrants, truckers, families, and dreamers who once believed that the next town held a better life.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’re not just driving a road—you’re honoring its legacy. You’re pausing to read a faded sign, listening to the wind whistle through the Panhandle, and recognizing that the true value of Route 66 lies not in its distance, but in its depth.

As you leave Amarillo behind, look back one last time at the Cadillac Ranch. The cars are buried, yes—but their spirit is not. They stand as monuments to individuality, creativity, and the enduring belief that even in a world of highways and algorithms, there’s still magic in the open road.

So go. Drive slowly. Look closely. Listen. And carry the spirit of Route 66 with you—not just as a memory, but as a promise to keep exploring, to keep preserving, and to keep believing that the journey matters more than the destination.