U-Drop Inn
Shamrock, Texas
By far, one of the most recognizable structures on the route. In the 1930′s, the owners of the lot were approached by some investors and offered a custom designed building in order to cash in on the coming flood of travelers. The owner of the land grabbed a stick and drew in the dirt his idea for the building, and the U-Drop Inn was born! The U-Drop Inn functioned as a gas station and cafe and is currently being restored.
Cozy Dog Drive In
Springfield, Illinois
The birthplace of the corndog- the original hot dog on a stick. The Cozy Dog Drive In was founded by Ed Wildmire, father of eccentric artist Bob Wildmire, who is best known for his map murals depicting Route 66. According to their website, if you can’t make it to the Cozy Dog, for $20 they will ship you 5 pounds of Cozy Dog flour, instructions, and sticks to make delicious Cozy Dogs at home!
Big Texan Steak Ranch
Amarillo, Texas
The long-legged cowboy has beckoned travelers off Route 66 since 1960. If you can eat all 72 ounces of a top-sirloin steak, as well as a baked potato, salad, roll, and shrimp cocktail in one hour- it’s free! According to the Big Texan’s website, 60,000 people have attempted the feat and about 8,500 have succeeded. The youngest to do it was an 11 year old boy, and the oldest was a 69 year old grandmother!
Wigwam Villages
Holbrook Arizona and Rialto, San Bernardino California
At one time, there were seven Wigwam Villages, but only three survive. For a while, the one in Rialto, San Bernardino was very run down and rented by the hour. They even had a sign that read “Do it in a Tepee”. After an extensive restoration, it is family-friendly once again. The other Wigwam Village is in Cave City, Kentucky. I have stayed there, and it was a blast from the past!
Round Barn
Arcadia, Oklahoma
In 1898, William Odor and his family built an architectural wonder. To achieve the barn’s unique round shape, green lumber was soaked in water and molded to fit the exact curve of the roof. The lower level was used for animals, and the loft was host to dances and social events. In 1988, the barn was donated to the local historical society, who restored it. Today it is a visitor’s center.
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