Just What Route Did Route 66 Take On Its Way Through Amarillo

We all love Route 66. It's a big part of our identity. Still, most of us are unsure of just what route Route 66 took on its way through Amarillo.

That's why I decided to check a map.

Amarillo Blvd

Yes, Amarillo Blvd was once part of Route 66. The old Mother Road would travel the same route as Amarillo Blvd. Another name for it would be NE 8th. You had a couple of options at one time. You could take the bypass, or take the "business route"  At Fillmore there was a turn that took Route 66 south until it came to 6th.

6th and Route 66

Heading west from the intersection of Fillmore and 6th, you'd be traveling on Route 66. Arguably, one of the parts of town most proud of it's Route 66 heritage is 6th. You can't ignore the references to Route 66 when you're out looking for antiques and coffee on a Saturday afternoon.

Westward from 6th

From 6th, Route 66 would follow Bushland Blvd to SW 9th, and then out from Amarillo Blvd West. From there it was on to California, with more than a few stops along the way.

At least, that's what I can make out from the map.

Ghosts of Route 66

There are many remnants left over from the bygone era of traveling the Mother Road. Ranchotel immediately comes to mind. The now mostly abandoned motor court was once a hub for travelers making their way west.

You can still see traces of it on the Boulevard. Several buildings have "the look" of a place that went up during the heyday of old Route 66.