(Washington, DC – December 11, 2025) The Great American Road Trip has been officially designated as an Official Route 66 Centennial Project by the U.S. Route 66 Centennial Commission, marking a significant milestone as the nation prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of one of America’s most iconic highways.
This designation strengthens a shared commitment to bring the spirit of Route 66 to life for new generations. Through coordinated storytelling, national visibility, and shared platforms, The Great American Road Trip will help spotlight the communities and experiences that give the Mother Road its magic, inviting travelers everywhere to rediscover the sense of freedom and wonder that has defined Route 66 for a century.
Launched in September 2025, The Great American Road Trip showcases the people, places, transportation, and traditions that have shaped America over the past 250 years. Through curated itineraries, major event stops, and digital storytelling, the initiative encourages travelers to connect with the country’s history, rediscover timeless destinations, and celebrate the diversity of experiences that make America unique.
“As we look ahead to America’s 250th birthday, The Great American Road Trip is committed to shining a light on the infrastructure, communities, and shared histories that have defined our nation,” said Tori Barnes, Executive Director of The Great American Road Trip. “Route 66 is more than a highway, it is a symbol of history, freedom, and exploration. Being recognized as an Official Route 66 Centennial Project is an extraordinary honor, and we are proud to help carry its legacy forward for new generations of travelers.”
The designation provides several key opportunities, including inclusion on the official Centennial website, promotion through Centennial partner channels, and the ability to display the official trademarked Route 66 Centennial mark. Together, these efforts support the shared mission to preserve the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future of America’s most legendary highway.
“Our goal is to rekindle the spirit of Route 66 — the sense of wonder, discovery, and connection that has defined this road for a century,” said Bill Thomas, Chair of the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership and Commissioner of the U.S. Route 66 Centennial Commission. “With The Great American Road Trip officially designated, we’re inviting Americans and global travelers alike to rediscover the heart of America’s open road.”
As the centennial year approaches, the Route 66 milestone will join the broader America250 observance, offering a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday and the road that has shaped generations of American travel.
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About The Great American Road Trip
The Great American Road Trip is a multi-platform storytelling journey that celebrates America’s 250th birthday by uniting people, places and purpose through the lens of travel. It honors the past, embraces the present, and inspires exploration of what lies ahead. Through cinematic storytelling and live events, The Great American Road Trip inspires Americans to hit the road, explore the nation’s destinations, and rediscover the people, places, and innovations that make the United States extraordinary.
For more information about The Great American Road Trip and sponsorship opportunities, contact Tori Barnes at [email protected].