Miracle Mindset

Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey  Many travelers who drive out of Los Angeles and Orange County through the Inland Empire and Cajon Pass to all points east, including Las Vegas, on Interstate 15 don't realize that there are several miles of the old Route 66 that still exist a mere hundred or so yards away.  The old highway that once served as the only road through the pass is now only taken by motorists who want to try and avoid traffic congestion due to accidents or weekend travelers trying to get to Sin City or other desert recreation areas. 

 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey In its heyday, Route 66 was a literal haven of roadside attractions and souvenir emporiums. Some of these landmarks were rather interesting, while the others truly deserved the title 'tourist trap'. Indeed, the 2,448-mile highway that spanned from Chicago to Los Angeles was a thing of wonder for anyone who pulled over from time to time as well as anyone who simply spent the hours staring out the window.

Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey It was a warm but comfortable summer night when the little lady and I pulled into the town of Williams, Arizona. Williams has always been one of my favorite destinations because it is the home of the Grand Canyon Railway, which is one of the best tourist railroads in America. I also have a soft spot for Williams because in the early 90s, my car broke down just outside of town, and I ended up being marooned there for almost a week. Despite not having any wheels, I spent my time walking around the town, eating in every single restaurant, watching the trains depart and arrive every day, and basically soaking in the atmosphere. Most people would have been very put out by the whole experience, but to tell the truth, it ended up being one of the best vacations of my life. I guess that in some way, I feel like I actually lived in Williams, if only for a week.

Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey  A great deal of my life has centered around traveling on or living near Route 66. In the early 70s, my family traveled the famed highway at least twice a year, traveling from California to Texas to visit family. For thirteen years, I lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where the old highway cuts the city down the middle, and then several years later, I would find myself in Victorville, California, where again Route 66 was once the lifeblood of the town. 

  Get Your Kicks on Route 66 and Dive into Santa Fe's Exciting June Events! This June, Santa Fe invites you to celebrate the Centennial of the original Route 66. As you take a nostalgic trip along this iconic highway, don’t forget to revel in its 10-mile journey through Santa Fe, where the old meets the new. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a curious newcomer, Route 66 offers a unique glimpse into the past and the evolution of this charming city. Be sure to grab a commemorative pin from participating hotels and Visitor Centers to commemorate your visit!

  Exploring Texas Route 66: A Journey Through History and Charm Get ready to hit the open road and experience the vibrant tapestry that is Texas Route 66, a vital stretch of America’s most iconic highway. With its quirky roadside attractions, historic diners, and small-town charm, the Texas section of Route 66 offers an unforgettable journey that combines stunning landscapes with rich history.

 Photos By Ken Hulsey / Story By Terri Hulsey Victorville is on the southwestern edge of the Mojave Desert. Established in 1895, the downtown area grew around historic Route 66 (now 7th Street). The town soon became known as a prime location for shooting westerns in the 40s and 50s but Victorville was also a memorable setting during the Hollywood heyday of space sagas. Infamous director Jack Arnold (“Creature from the Black Lagoon,” "This Island Earth,” “The Incredible Shrinking Man”) shot the opening scene of “It Came from Outer Space” (1953) here. The UFO flew over the rocks on the east side of the Narrows, near the Rainbow Bridge, and crashed in Old Town Victorville.  

Discovering Albuquerque’s Revitalized Route 66 Motels From: Visit Albuquerque If you’re looking for a nostalgic travel experience with a modern twist, consider booking a night at one of Albuquerque’s revitalized Route 66 motels. This iconic roadway has long been synonymous with American road trips, and its heart beats through the vibrant hospitality scene of Albuquerque . By the 1960s, Central Avenue, which traces the historic path of Route 66 , was lined with over 100 motels, many of which have been transformed into stylish hospitality options that pay homage to their storied past while providing modern amenities.

 Celebrate the Centenary of Route 66 in Williams, Arizona! As one of the most iconic highways in America, Route 66 has long symbolized the spirit of adventure and freedom. In 2026, it turns 100 years old, and what better way to celebrate than by attending the 11th Annual Williams Historic Route 66 Car Show ? Scheduled for June 5-6, this event promises a weekend filled with classic cars, custom builds, and the nostalgic charm of vintage Americana.

Celebrating 100 Years of Route 66 in Texas: The Amarillo Experience As we approach summer, excitement builds for a momentous occasion—the 100th anniversary of Route 66. This iconic highway, often referred to as the "Mother Road," has been a vital part of America's cultural and historical landscape for nearly a century. Amarillo, Texas, is gearing up to host the official Texas Route 66 Festival, June 4th - 13th, and a series of signature events that promise to make this centennial celebration unforgettable.

Discovering Santa Fe: May Events for Young Tourists Santa Fe , a gem of the Southwest, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a host of exciting events. As summer approaches, young tourists flock to this artistic haven to experience everything from literature to local cuisine. If you're planning a visit in May, brace yourself for a whirlwind of activities perfect for making unforgettable memories.

The Unseen Connections: How Railroads Shaped Albuquerque's Spirit Before Route 66 For railroad history buffs, the evolution of cities often reveals a story of interconnectedness, especially in the American Southwest, where the rise of the railroad preceded the fame of highways like Route 66 . Before it became a symbol of adventure and the freedom of the open road, Albuquerque was transformed by iron rails that forged the city’s economic and cultural identity.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reminiscing about my days in the Southwest over the past couple of months. In my previous posts, I've focused a lot on my experiences in California , New Mexico , and, to some extent, Texas . However, I feel bad for neglecting the great state of Arizona . I often referred to it as "the great land in between" the states I once called home. Although I never lived there, I spent a significant amount of time traveling down the famous Route 66 and later Interstate 40 through Arizona. I have wonderful memories of looking out the window, eating at roadside diners, and stopping at countless tourist traps during family summer vacations.