The road to discovery in 2026 begins with the throw of a dart and a tank full of gas. Then cue the playlist and make memories with an epic road trip. With Route 66 turning 100 and the United States celebrating its 250th anniversary, there’s never been a better time to discover America.

What could be more quintessentially American than rolling down the “Main Street of America” in the year that celebrates both the most famous highway in the United States and the nation itself?

Two Milestones, One Unforgettable Journey

The American story is written in every mile of legendary Route 66. But you will also find chapters written in neon-lit motels, classic diners, big city neighborhoods, and in small towns on US 6, US 50 or US 12.

Still, with a Route 66 road trip in 2026 you are assured a once in a life time adventure. Think of iconic Route 66 as the road to discovery. There will be an infectious magic in the blending of the highways 100th Anniversary celebration with the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Communities large and small, and fans of this storied highway, will be making memories with once in a lifetime celebrations. Add a detour or two, or another highway for the return trip, and discover the real America in 2026.

Epic Events

If you are as passionate about the American story and road trips as we are, it’s time to get excited about 2026! Add some zest to the adventure with an event such as:

• Needles, California, will host a Route 66 Info Fair on February 14, 2026, at the historic El Garces Harvey House. There will be live music, programs about Route 66 and Needles. There will also be a Route 66 travel planning booth, and a car show. And I will be there signing copies of my latest book, Route 66: 100 Years, a Route 66 centennial anthology. On November 9, 2025, Mayor Janet Jernigan joined us on Coffee With Jim to talk about the info fair, the centennial, and histori district revitalization.
• The Newberry Springs (California) Route 66 Centennial Festival Big Birthday Bash is scheduled for May 2, 2026, at The Barn on Route 66. This celebration will feature live music, food trucks, a car show, vendors, and dancing. 
• The Texas Route 66 Festival Centennial Celebration, June 4, 2026 to June 13, 2026 will be a celebration of legendary Route 66 AND the American story. “Dive into ten thrilling days of classic car shows, exclusive bus tours, a cattle drive, parade, and live music. Don’t miss the spectacular grand finale on June 13 in Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District.”

These events aren’t just dates on a calendar. This is a way to add a healthy dose of magic to the Route 66 odyssey and inspire a road trip or two. And these are just a small sample of the events being planned!

Why 2026 Is The Year for an adventure on the road to discovery

This is a once in a liftetime opportunity! You will have to wait 100 years for another celebration of the great American road trip this epic.

• Instead of just reading about the history of Route 66 and America, live it in 2026!
• Towns and cities along the Main Street of America have pulled out all the stops. There will be a diverse array of festivals, parades, special exhibits, and festivities. Think of it as a 2,000 mile block party.
• Imagine classic neon signs under a desert sky, and restored theaters hosting programs such as John Paget’s centennial documentary. Now add some quirky roadside attractions. Imagine yourself enjoying all of this against the backdrop of national celebrations and tributes.
• Thousands of fellow travelers, enthusiasts, and locals alike will be out on the road sharing the adventure. They too will be forging memories and friendships that last long after the curtain closes on centennial celebrations.

Join Us — Be Part of the Story

At Jim Hinckley’s America, our passion has always been sharing America’s story and inspiring road trips by telling people where to go. There’s no better year than 2026 to answer that call.

Become part of our community, share your journey, and help keep America’s story alive one mile at a time. Jim HInckley’s America is a shared adventure.

Plan your trip with our blog posts, social media posts, and our weekly podcast, Coffee With Jim.
Share your photos, your adventure, and your discoveries, and inspire road trips with Jim Hinckley’s America.

This isn’t just travel. This is a celebration of history, community, and the freedom of the open road. Let’s discover America together in 2026.