Native American Travel App–Route 66 Map Initiative Designated Official Route 66 Centennial Project10/22/2025
The Road Ahead Partnership is excited to announce that the American Indigenous Tourism Association Native American Travel App–Route 66 Map Project has been officially designated as an Official Route 66 Centennial Project by the Route 66 Centennial Commission. In partnership with the Route 66 Centennial, the association is developing a digital Route 66 Map to be featured on its consumer-facing website, DestinationNativeAmerica.com. The project will highlight Native Nations, destinations, and attractions along the iconic highway—offering travelers authentic cultural experiences that reflect the deep and enduring presence of Indigenous peoples along the historic route. Route 66 stretches more than 2,400 miles across eight states—from its starting point at Grant Park in Chicago, Illinois, to its western terminus near the Santa Monica Pier in California. While many travelers begin their journey heading west, the American Indigenous Tourism Association’s interactive map aims to guide all Route 66 enthusiasts, regardless of direction, toward discovering Native American communities and tourism opportunities along the way. This initiative builds upon the association’s earlier publication, American Indians & Route 66, also available at DestinationNativeAmerica.com, which explored Indigenous histories and stories tied to the route. "Route 66 is more than just a road—it's a journey through America's cultural heartland. Recognizing and uplifting Indigenous voices along Route 66 ensures we honor the full story of this iconic highway," said Bill Thomas, Chairman of the Road Ahead Partnership and Commissioner - U.S. Route 66 Centennial Commission. "This project from the American Indigenous Tourism Association is vital to preserving the cultural integrity and rich traditions of the Native Nations that have long called this corridor home." “This designation as an Official Route 66 Centennial Project is a powerful recognition of the enduring and vital role Native Nations play in the story of this historic highway," said Sherry L. Rupert, CEO of the American Indigenous Tourism Association. "Our new digital map isn't just a guide; it's an invitation for travelers to connect authentically with the rich history, vibrant cultures, and unique destinations of Indigenous communities. By bringing these stories to the forefront, we are not only enriching the Route 66 experience but also driving economic opportunity that honors the traditions and values of our people."  The New Mexico Route 66 Centennial Coordination Group is hosting its next Route 66 Centennial Coordination Group meeting on Monday, October 20, at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque. Join us to share your ideas and perspective for how New Mexico can celebrate the Route 66 Centennial in 2026! Date: Monday, October 20, 2025 Time: 1-4 p.m. Venue: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center Location: 2401 12th Street NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104 The New Mexico Tourism Department has provided an agenda, and you can RSVP here.  In 2023, the association received a grant from the National Trust for Historic
Preservation to help repair neon signs in Tucumcari damaged by a hailstorm. The grant also covered the expense of producing two videos documenting the repair of the signs. Due to the length of the project and the opportunity to provide even more valuable content, the project is now a four-video series. Recently completed, these videos will be available to everyone at no cost. Fast TV Network will be releasing the four-video series on Fast TV Network on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, online at FastTVNetwork.com and on the New Mexico Route 66 Association YouTube channel free of charge in late 2025. About the project Restoration updates |
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