Route 66 marks its 100th anniversary this year, drawing renewed attention from travelers worldwide, especially Europeans eager to experience the highway's blend of history, nostalgia, and Americana.

The route received its official designation on November 11, 1926, as part of the nation's first federal highway system. Spanning about 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, California, it crosses eight states and became known as the Main Street of America.

Centennial events have taken place across the route since spring. A major caravan departed Santa Monica Pier on June 6 and arrived in Chicago on June 25, stopping in dozens of communities. Towns have hosted car shows, festivals, and exhibitions, including ongoing activities in September such as balloon festivals in Oklahoma and car shows in California and Illinois.

European tourists represent a significant share of visitors. Groups from Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Switzerland frequently appear on motorcycles or in classic cars. One recent gathering in Missouri included a dozen German and Swiss riders on Harley-Davidsons led by a German tour guide. Shop owners report that international visitors often spend more and stay longer than domestic travelers.

French tourists have become particularly noticeable at remote stops like Bagdad Cafe in California, where they account for a large portion of souvenir sales. Dutch enthusiasts helped organize aspects of the June caravan. European Route 66 associations promote the journey, and some fans even attend dedicated festivals in Europe before making the trip.

Merchants along the route note increased business this summer, with sales of Route 66 memorabilia rising sharply. Preservation efforts continue in many towns, supported by the official U.S. Route 66 Centennial Commission.

The highway's appeal persists despite its decommissioning decades ago, as travelers seek the freedom and small-town character it represents. Events are scheduled through the fall, culminating near the November anniversary date.