America’s most legendary highway is getting a first-class tribute.
The U.S. Postal Service has released a new set of commemorative stamps celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66, the iconic roadway that has inspired generations of travelers, adventurers, and dreamers. Unveiled during a first-day-of-issue ceremony in Phoenix, the collection honors the historic highway’s enduring role in shaping American culture and travel.
The new stamp set features eight striking images of landmarks and scenes from the eight states Route 66 passes through: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. The stamp pane also includes a dramatic photograph of the highway stretching into the Arizona horizon, capturing the spirit of freedom and possibility that has defined the “Mother Road” for a century.
Originally designated on November 11, 1926, Route 66 connected Chicago and Los Angeles across nearly 2,500 miles of road. More than just a transportation route, it became a symbol of hope during the Great Depression, helping families head west in search of new opportunities. During World War II, it carried workers to defense plants and military bases, while the postwar era transformed it into the ultimate road-trip destination.
“The Main Street of America” became famous for its quirky roadside attractions, family-owned diners, motels, and endless stretches of open road. Its legacy was further cemented through popular culture, from Nat King Cole’s recording of “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” to the television series Route 66 and, more recently, Pixar’s Cars.
Although the highway was officially decommissioned in 1985 as interstate highways replaced much of the route, Route 66 never disappeared from the American imagination. Today, approximately 85 percent of the original roadway remains drivable, attracting millions of visitors from around the world who seek a taste of classic Americana.
The stamp release also highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve Route 66’s historic landmarks and small towns. Attractions such as the Blue Whale in Oklahoma and Cadillac Ranch in Texas continue to draw tourists decades after they were created.
Designed by USPS art director Greg Breeding using photographs by David Schwartz, the Forever stamps serve as miniature reminders of one of America’s greatest adventures.
For collectors, travelers, and history buffs alike, the Route 66 stamps offer more than postage—they celebrate a century of freedom, exploration, and the enduring allure of the open road.