Long before interstate highways crossed the Inland Empire, Route 66 carried millions of travelers through San Bernardino on journeys that helped define America's automotive culture. Today, portions of the historic highway continue attracting visitors from around the world who seek classic roadside attractions, vintage architecture, and the communities that helped shape one of the nation's most iconic roadways. As preparations continue for the Route 66 Centennial in 2026, San Bernardino is embracing its important place in this historic story.
Known as the "Main Street of America," Route 66 played a significant role in San Bernardino's development during the twentieth century. Restaurants, motels, service stations, and family-owned businesses flourished as travelers stopped to rest before continuing across the Mojave Desert or heading toward the Pacific Coast. Although interstate highways eventually bypassed many of these businesses, Route 66 remains an enduring symbol of American travel and entrepreneurship.
Today, preservation organizations, local businesses, and community leaders continue working to celebrate the city's Route 66 heritage through historical markers, public art, special events, and educational programs. Visitors exploring San Bernardino often seek out classic roadside landmarks while learning about the city's unique contributions to transportation history. These efforts not only preserve local heritage but also encourage tourism that benefits restaurants, hotels, retailers, and other small businesses.
The approaching centennial has renewed interest in restoring historic properties and promoting heritage tourism throughout communities located along the famous highway. Cities across California recognize that Route 66 remains one of the world's most recognizable travel destinations, attracting international visitors interested in authentic American history. San Bernardino's central location positions it to benefit from increased tourism during anniversary celebrations and beyond.
As new generations discover Route 66, they are reminded that the highway represents more than pavement stretching across the country. It tells the story of migration, innovation, perseverance, and the communities that welcomed travelers for nearly a century. For San Bernardino, preserving that legacy means honoring the past while creating new opportunities for economic growth and community pride as the next chapter of Route 66 history continues to unfold.