Route 66 Motorcycle Road Trip | Arizona Cowboys, Hot Rods & Diners

Summary

Join the Vagabrothers on a thrilling road trip along the iconic Route 66, exploring Arizona’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. From the vintage car rally in Kingman to the cowboy spirit of Williams, the journey showcases the rich history of the Mother Road. The adventure culminates in the spiritual energy of Sedona, known for its stunning red rock formations and mystical properties. Along the way, they highlight the significance of Route 66, local traditions, and the beauty of the Southwest, all while enjoying the freedom of the open road. Stay tuned for the next episode as they head to New Mexico!

Takeaways

• 😀 The Vagabrothers embark on a road trip along Route 66, covering iconic American landmarks and exploring the Southwest on two wheels.
• 😀 Route 66 is referred to as the 'Mother Road,' spanning 2,200 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, and has become a symbol of adventure and nostalgia.
• 😀 The journey begins in Kingman, Arizona, during the Fun Run, a vintage car rally featuring over 800 classic vehicles that celebrate Route 66's history.
• 😀 Route 66 diners, like Mr. D'z 66 Diner, are integral to the road trip experience, with a rich history tied to the Great Depression and the rise of American car culture.
• 😀 The Vagabrothers explore the evolving history of Route 66, noting how the advent of the interstate system led to its decline but also made it the ideal scenic route for modern road trips.
• 😀 The town of Williams, Arizona, known for its Wild West heritage, was the last to be bypassed by the Interstate system in 1984, but has since revived as a popular tourist destination.
• 😀 Williams is home to cowboy culture, with locals still riding horses in town, and is also known for its association with the famous Route 66 movie, *Easy Rider*.
• 😀 Sedona, Arizona, is renowned for its stunning red rock landscapes and unique energy, where the earth's ley lines create powerful electromagnetic fields.
• 😀 Sedona's natural energy is believed to affect mental and emotional well-being, with visitors often experiencing deep emotional healing or spiritual connection.
• 😀 The trip concludes with the Vagabrothers reflecting on the contrast between the bustling atmosphere of Kingman’s car rally and the peaceful, healing energy of Sedona.
• 😀 The episode ends with the Vagabrothers teasing their next adventure to New Mexico and thanking Super 8 for supporting the journey, encouraging viewers to stay curious and keep exploring.

Q & A

What is the significance of Route 66 in the United States?

Route 66 is known as the 'Mother Road' and holds a historic place in American culture. It spans 2200 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles and has attracted adventurers for decades, offering a scenic and nostalgic journey through the heartland of America.

Why did the Vagabrothers choose to explore the Southwest on two wheels?

The Vagabrothers chose to explore the Southwest on motorcycles to embrace the classic road trip experience and to connect with the region's landscapes, history, and culture in a more personal and adventurous way.

What role do Super 8 by Wyndham Hotels play in the Vagabrothers' road trip?

Super 8 by Wyndham Hotels provide the Vagabrothers with value accommodation along their journey, helping them save money so they can focus more on exploring the diverse landscapes and experiences the Southwest has to offer.

What is the Fun Run in Kingman, Arizona, and why is it important?

The Fun Run is an annual classic car rally held in Kingman, Arizona, where over 800 vintage vehicles gather. It adds to the nostalgic atmosphere of Route 66 and celebrates the connection between the road and vintage Americana.

Why are diners significant in the history of Route 66?

Diners grew around Route 66 to attract tourists traveling on the newly paved highway. These diners became a part of the Route 66 experience, offering unique food, retro aesthetics, and quirky roadside attractions that embodied the American spirit of road travel.

What changes did Williams, Arizona, experience with the construction of Interstate 40?

When Interstate 40 was built, it bypassed Route 66, leading to a decline in traffic and the economic activity of towns along the route, including Williams. However, the town has since revitalized itself, largely due to its proximity to the Grand Canyon and the appeal of Route 66 nostalgia.

How did Route 66 influence the town of Williams, Arizona, historically?

Route 66 brought significant economic and cultural activity to Williams, Arizona, as it was part of the Mother Road. The town was one of the last to be bypassed by the interstate, and its historical connection to the highway has helped shape its identity as a nostalgic destination.

What is the significance of Sedona, Arizona, in the context of this road trip?

Sedona is known for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the Red Rock Country, and its unique energy fields. It offers a contrast to the bustling, vintage Americana found along Route 66, providing a peaceful and spiritual experience for visitors.

What is the concept of 'energy' in Sedona, as explained by Allyn MacLeod?

Sedona is believed to be a place where electromagnetic energy, created by lava flows interacting with the earth's ley lines, affects the brain's frontal lobe. This energy is thought to contribute to emotional and spiritual healing, with both masculine and feminine energies pulling in different directions.

Why do people from around the world visit Route 66, according to Mayor John Moore?

People from around the world visit Route 66 due to its historical significance, nostalgia, and cultural impact. The road represents an iconic journey through American history, and its role in movies like *Easy Rider* has further cemented its status as a must-see destination.