Route 66 Texas – Road Trip
Daily Travel Log – Day 6
Spanky’s Driver Log: Day 6 Route 66
Starting Point: Amarillo, Texas
Finish Point: Santa Rosa, New Mexico
Travel Distance: 298 KM – 185 Mi
Drive Start Time: 8:00 AM MST
Done Travelling for the Day: 3:00 PM MST
Day Six on Route 66: From Texas to New Mexico
Good morning! Today marks the sixth day of my adventure on the historic Route 66. Each day has been filled with unique experiences and memorable stops, and today was no exception. As I embarked on this next leg of the journey, I felt a mix of excitement and nostalgia, knowing that I was continuing to follow in the footsteps of countless travelers who have traversed this iconic highway before me.
A Texan Morning
Before hitting the road, I took a moment to snap a photo of the Big Texan Steakhouse, a landmark just west of Amarillo. See yesterday’s post for details on the steak dinner I had.
After taking the final picture, I jumped onto Route 66, which soon merges onto I-40. Cruising along the interstate, I enjoyed a leisurely drive with the ever-changing scenery and some great tunes.
Midpoint Café in Adrian, Texas
My first notable stop of the day was at the famous Midpoint Café in Adrian, Texas. This charming roadside diner has become a beloved landmark for travellers along Route 66, known far and wide for its delicious homemade pies. As soon as I walked in, the aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air, and the nostalgic decor transported me back to the golden era of American road trips.
Naturally, I couldn’t resist indulging in a piece of their renowned apple pie, which was perfectly flaky and filled with sweet, spiced apples. Paired with a steaming cup of rich, aromatic coffee, it was the perfect treat to recharge my spirits. The café’s friendly staff and cozy atmosphere made me feel right at home, and I spent a few moments chatting with fellow travelers who shared stories of their own Route 66 adventures.
The Midpoint Café is aptly named, as it sits precisely at the midpoint of Route 66—1,139 miles from both Chicago and the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles. This unique location adds a special significance to the stop, marking the halfway point of the journey for many who traverse this legendary highway. Standing outside the café, looking at the iconic midpoint sign, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the adventures still to come on the road ahead.
Crossing into New Mexico
After savoring my pie, I continued my journey into the enchanting state of New Mexico. The landscape began to change dramatically as I crossed the border, with the flat plains giving way to rolling hills and mesas, painted in hues of red and orange. The vast, open skies and the distant mountains created a breathtaking backdrop for my drive.
My first stop in New Mexico was in the historic town of Tucumcari, a place that has long been a favorite among Route 66 travelers. Here, I visited the iconic Blue Swallow Motel, a true gem that embodies the spirit of the Mother Road. This motel, with its vintage charm and neon-lit exterior, has been welcoming weary travelers since the 1930s.
The Blue Swallow Motel is known for its unique features, such as individual garages for each room and its beautifully preserved retro decor. Walking around the property, I felt like I had stepped back in time to a simpler era. The owners have meticulously maintained the motel’s original character, making it a living museum of mid-20th-century Americana.
I was warmly greeted by the friendly staff, who shared fascinating stories about the motel’s history and its significance to Route 66 enthusiasts. Each room was a cozy time capsule, filled with period-appropriate furnishings and thoughtful touches that paid homage to the heyday of the American road trip. As I took in the vibrant neon lights and the nostalgic atmosphere, I couldn’t help but appreciate the dedication to preserving such an important piece of Route 66 heritage.
Visiting the Blue Swallow Motel was more than just a stopover; it was a delightful journey into the past, where the spirit of adventure and the open road still thrive.
Resting in Santa Rosa
A short drive later, I arrived in Santa Rosa, New Mexico. I checked in early at the Best Western Santa Rosa Inn, which turned out to be a very clean hotel with friendly and polite staff. If you ever find yourself in Santa Rosa, this is definitely the place to stay.
Having driven 298 kilometers today, I decided to unwind and enjoy the hockey game tonight. Go Edmonton go!
That wraps up Day Six of my Route 66 adventure. I’ll be departing bright and early tomorrow for Day Seven, ready for the next leg of this incredible journey. See you then!
