Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, is one of the most iconic road trip routes in the United States. Established in 1926, the route served as a major road for people migrating west. In honor of this famous road turning 100 this year, visit these abandoned Route 66 ghost towns on your next road trip.
These ghost towns and Route 66 roadside attractions are definitely worth a visit.
Glenrio, Texas
If you want to learn about the Texas of long ago, a visit to the forgotten town of Glenrio is a must. In addition to the old ruins of the Endee Motor Court, you will discover old gas stations, bars, western-themed motels, and much more. You may not find many tourist facilities in this town, but you can surely stop here for a couple of hours to get the feel of this old town in Texas.
Newkirk, New Mexico
Very few people reside in the tiny town of Newkirk. However, it is one of the best ghost towns along Route 66. Here you will find abandoned houses, motels, gas stations, and stores. This former railroad town is an interesting, if somewhat spooky, place to check out.
Dilia, New Mexico
The town of Dilia has about 600 current residents. Find some locals and ask them about the town’s history. With plenty of deserted buildings and old adobes, you will surely get a spooky feeling when out exploring. While you are there, don’t miss out on the Sacred Heart Church, where you can see the lovely altar screen.
Afton, Oklahoma
Afton has many empty streets and old buildings worth exploring. You can even stay in town for a night in one of the local motels to really immerse yourself in the area.
Spencer, Missouri
The village of Spencer is located to the west of Paris Springs along Route 66. Here you can dive into the culture of Route 66. As soon as you cross the truss bridge, you will see numerous buildings and vintage gas stations that will transport you back to another era.
Erick, Oklahoma
After Route 66 was established, the old saloons and cattle yards were converted into truck stops and coffee shops. When you are there, make sure to visit the Curiosity Shop, as this is one of the most distinctive roadside establishments on Route 66.
Oatman, Arizona
To experience the toughness of the Arizona desert, take a visit to Oatman, where you will discover a wildlife refuge along the Colorado River on the outskirts of town. This now desolate town once had over 10,000 residents. Now it is a true ghost town with derelict hotels, houses, and saloons lining the main drag.
More Route 66 Ghost Town Inspiration
Why Was Route 66 Abandoned?
Many parts of Route 66 were abandoned as the U.S. Interstate Highway System expanded beginning in the 1950s. New interstates were designed to move traffic faster and more efficiently, often bypassing the small towns that Route 66 once ran directly through. When drivers no longer needed to stop for gas, food, or lodging in these communities, local businesses closed and tourism declined. Over time, entire towns lost their economic lifeline, leading to population loss and, in some cases, becoming ghost towns. Today, these abandoned stretches and towns serve as powerful reminders of how changing transportation priorities reshaped travel and rural America.
