The EZ66 Guide for Travelers, authored by Jerry McClanahan, is a spiral-bound guidebook designed for easy navigation along Route 66. It provides comprehensive maps, directions, and tips for both eastbound and westbound journeys, ensuring travelers stay on course. Regular updates keep the guide current, making it an indispensable resource for a seamless and enjoyable adventure.
1.1 What is the EZ66 Guide?
The EZ66 Guide is a comprehensive, spiral-bound guidebook designed for Route 66 travelers. It features detailed maps, easy-to-follow directions, and tips for navigating the iconic highway. The guide covers both eastbound and westbound routes, ensuring travelers avoid dead-ends and stay on course. It also includes attractions, games, and essential information for an enjoyable journey.
1.2 The Importance of Route 66
Route 66, known as the “Mother Road,” holds significant historical and cultural value as a symbol of American adventure and freedom. Spanning over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, it represents a journey through diverse landscapes and communities. Its enduring appeal lies in its rich history, nostalgic charm, and the unique experiences it offers travelers.
1.3 A Brief History of the EZ66 Guide
Created by Jerry McClanahan, the EZ66 Guide was first published in 2005, quickly becoming an indispensable tool for Route 66 travelers. It has evolved through editions, with the 5th edition released in 2024, offering updated content and improved maps. This guide aims to simplify navigation, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey along the iconic Mother Road.
Features of the EZ66 Guide
The EZ66 Guide features spiral-bound design, comprehensive maps, clear directions, and tips for eastbound and westbound travels. It includes attractions, games, and updates for seamless Route 66 navigation.
2.1 Spiral-Bound Design for Easy Use
The EZ66 Guide features a spiral-bound design, allowing it to stay open effortlessly while driving. This practical format ensures easy navigation, keeping pages visible without constant adjustment, enhancing the driving experience.
2.2 Comprehensive Maps and Directions
The EZ66 Guide includes detailed, easy-to-follow maps and turn-by-turn directions for both eastbound and westbound travels. It covers over 80% of the original Route 66, which isn’t always visible on standard maps. Regular updates ensure the guide remains current, helping travelers avoid dead-ends and navigate seamlessly along the Mother Road.
2.3 Attractions, Tips, and Games Included
Beyond navigation, the EZ66 Guide highlights must-see attractions, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems along Route 66. It includes practical tips for a smoother journey and fun games to keep travelers entertained. These features enhance the adventure, making the guide a valuable companion for both first-time explorers and seasoned travelers of the Mother Road.
Why the EZ66 Guide is the Best for Route 66 Travelers
The EZ66 Guide offers unparalleled ease of use, comprehensive maps, and reliable directions, ensuring travelers stay on track. Its regular updates and stress-free navigation make it indispensable for Route 66 adventures, providing a seamless and enjoyable journey from start to finish.
3.1 Ease of Use and Clear Directions
The EZ66 Guide is designed for simplicity, with spiral-bound pages that stay open while driving. Its clear, easy-to-follow maps and directions ensure a stress-free journey, whether traveling eastbound or westbound. The guide’s straightforward layout and comprehensive instructions make it ideal for both experienced travelers and first-time explorers of Route 66.
3.2 Time-Saving and Stress-Reducing Features
The EZ66 Guide minimizes time spent navigating by avoiding dead-ends and hard-to-reach areas. Its detailed directions and maps ensure a smooth journey, reducing stress. Highlighted attractions and tips further enhance efficiency, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying their adventure. Regular online updates keep the guide current, ensuring a seamless and worry-free Route 66 experience.
3.3 Avoiding Dead-Ends and Hard-to-Reach Areas
The EZ66 Guide expertly prevents detours into dead-ends or hard-to-reach areas, ensuring travelers stay on Route 66. Its clear directions and detailed maps guide users seamlessly, avoiding unnecessary delays. This feature is particularly helpful for first-time travelers, saving time and reducing stress while exploring the Mother Road.
How to Effectively Use the EZ66 Guide
The EZ66 Guide’s spiral-bound design keeps it open while driving, featuring comprehensive maps and clear directions. Its user-friendly layout ensures easy navigation, minimizing distractions and maximizing the Route 66 experience.
4.1 Step-by-Step Directions for Navigation
The EZ66 Guide provides detailed, turn-by-turn directions for both eastbound and westbound travelers, ensuring easy navigation. Its clear instructions help avoid dead-ends and hard-to-reach areas, keeping users on the main Route 66 path. The guide’s practical design allows for seamless travel, making it an essential tool for a smooth and stress-free journey.
4.2 Reading and Interpreting the Maps
The EZ66 Guide features clear, comprehensive maps with easy-to-follow symbols and markings. Designed for both eastbound and westbound travelers, the maps highlight key landmarks, attractions, and turns. Users can quickly identify routes, bypass dead-ends, and stay on course. The guide’s intuitive layout ensures travelers can interpret the maps effortlessly, enhancing their Route 66 experience.
4.3 Utilizing Online Updates and Additional Resources
The EZ66 Guide offers free online updates to keep travelers informed about Route 66 changes. These updates include new attractions, road closures, and business openings. Accessible through the guide’s official resources, they ensure travelers have the most current information, enhancing their journey and keeping the guide reliable year after year.
Planning Your Route 66 Trip with the EZ66 Guide
The EZ66 Guide simplifies trip planning by offering clear directions, maps, and tips for eastbound or westbound journeys, helping travelers organize their adventure efficiently.
5.1 Choosing Your Direction: Eastbound or Westbound
The EZ66 Guide simplifies choosing your Route 66 direction with clear, detailed maps and directions for both eastbound and westbound journeys. Whether starting in Chicago or Santa Monica, the guide ensures a smooth adventure, eliminating confusion and providing essential tips for a memorable trip in either direction.
5.2 Budgeting for Your Journey
Planning your budget is crucial for a stress-free Route 66 adventure. The EZ66 Guide helps travelers allocate funds wisely by highlighting cost-effective attractions, dining, and lodging. It also reduces unnecessary expenses by avoiding dead-ends and hard-to-reach areas, ensuring your money is spent on memorable experiences rather than detours.
5.3 Packing Essentials for a Smooth Adventure
Packing smart is key for a seamless Route 66 journey. Bring weather-appropriate clothing, a reusable water bottle, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget a portable charger, camera, and the EZ66 Guide itself. Include a small toolkit and emergency supplies like flashlights and jumper cables to handle unexpected situations and keep your adventure uninterrupted.
EZ66 Guide Updates and Additions
The EZ66 Guide undergoes regular updates, with the 5th Edition featuring expanded content and improved maps, ensuring travelers have the most current information for their journey.
6.1 The Importance of Regular Updates
Regular updates ensure the EZ66 Guide remains current, reflecting changes in Route 66’s landscape, businesses, and road conditions. This helps travelers avoid outdated information, navigate smoothly, and enjoy a seamless journey. Updates are crucial for maintaining accuracy and relevance, keeping the guide indispensable for adventurers exploring the Mother Road.
6.2 How to Access Online Updates
Accessing online updates for the EZ66 Guide is straightforward. Visit the official website or designated online platform to download the latest revisions. These updates are free and ensure travelers have the most current information, helping them navigate Route 66 effortlessly. Regular checks for updates are recommended to stay informed about any changes or additions.
6.3 Evolution of the Guide Through Editions
The EZ66 Guide has evolved significantly through its editions, with the 5th edition featuring extensive updates and expanded content. Each edition refines maps, directions, and attractions, ensuring the most current and reliable information. These improvements reflect a commitment to enhancing the traveler’s experience, making the guide an essential tool for navigating Route 66’s historic path.
Background of the Author and Publisher
Jerry McClanahan, a renowned Route 66 historian and artist, authored the EZ66 Guide. Published by the National Historic Route 66 Foundation, it supports the preservation of America’s iconic Mother Road.
7.1 About Jerry McClanahan
Jerry McClanahan is a renowned Route 66 historian, artist, and author of the EZ66 Guide for Travelers. His expertise in the history and geography of Route 66 has made the guide indispensable for travelers. McClanahan’s detailed maps and directions ensure travelers stay on course, exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems. His work supports the preservation of America’s Mother Road, making him a key figure in its enduring legacy.
7.2 The Role of the National Historic Route 66 Foundation
The National Historic Route 66 Foundation is a worldwide organization dedicated to preserving Route 66’s history and culture. They support local communities and businesses along the route, fostering its legacy. As publisher of the EZ66 Guide, they ensure travelers have accurate, up-to-date information, helping to maintain the Mother Road’s iconic status for future generations.
Where to Purchase the EZ66 Guide
The EZ66 Guide is available for purchase online through various retailers and in select stores along Route 66. International shipping options are also available upon request.
8.1 Online Purchasing Options
The EZ66 Guide can be conveniently purchased online through its official website and major online retailers like Amazon. Digital versions are not available; only physical copies are sold. International customers can request direct quotes for shipping due to market instability. This ensures global accessibility for travelers planning their Route 66 adventure.
8.2 Availability in Stores Along Route 66
The EZ66 Guide is available at select stores, museums, and gift shops along Route 66. Travelers can find it at popular stops, especially those designated as Route 66 museums or historical sites. This convenience allows travelers to purchase the guide during their journey, ensuring they have up-to-date information as they explore the Mother Road.
8.3 International Shipping and Availability
The EZ66 Guide is available internationally, with shipping options tailored for global travelers. While direct international shipping may be limited due to market conditions, interested buyers can request a direct quote via email. Additionally, the guide is sold through a UK-based shop, ensuring accessibility for travelers worldwide planning their Route 66 adventure.
Reader Reviews and Testimonials
Travelers praise the EZ66 Guide for its clear directions and comprehensive maps, calling it an essential companion for navigating Route 66 effortlessly and enjoyably.
9.1 Positive Feedback from Travelers
Travelers consistently praise the EZ66 Guide for its comprehensive, easy-to-follow directions and spiral-bound design. Many highlight its ability to keep them on track, avoiding dead-ends and hard-to-reach areas. The inclusion of attractions, tips, and games adds to its appeal, making it a must-have for both first-time and seasoned Route 66 adventurers.
9.2 Success Stories and Experiences
Travelers have shared numerous success stories about the EZ66 Guide, highlighting how it prevented arguments and stress by keeping them on track. Many credited the guide for helping them discover hidden gems and avoid dead-ends, making their Route 66 journey memorable. Its clear directions and user-friendly design have solidified its reputation as a trusted companion for adventurers.
9.3 Criticisms and Areas for Improvement
Some travelers suggest the EZ66 Guide could benefit from more detailed attraction descriptions and improved map readability; A few users noted occasional challenges with update accessibility. While the guide excels in navigation, minor improvements in these areas could further enhance its usability and traveler satisfaction.
Preserving Route 66 Through the EZ66 Guide
The EZ66 Guide supports Route 66 preservation by promoting its historical significance and encouraging travelers to explore and protect the Mother Road’s iconic landmarks and communities.
10.1 The Guide’s Role in Route 66 Preservation
The EZ66 Guide plays a crucial role in preserving Route 66 by providing detailed navigation and promoting its historical significance. It helps travelers discover iconic landmarks, supporting local businesses and fostering appreciation for the Mother Road’s legacy. By keeping the route accessible and engaging, the guide contributes to the conservation of America’s iconic highway for future generations.
10.2 Supporting Local Communities and Businesses
The EZ66 Guide directs travelers to local attractions, diners, and shops, boosting small businesses along Route 66. By highlighting unique stops, it encourages visitors to explore and support local economies, helping preserve the charm of roadside communities. This focus fosters growth and sustainability for businesses that rely on tourism, keeping the Mother Road vibrant and alive.
10.3 The Historical Significance of Route 66
Route 66, established in 1926, symbolizes America’s golden age of road travel, connecting the Midwest to the West Coast. Known as the “Mother Road,” it represented freedom, opportunity, and adventure. The EZ66 Guide preserves this legacy by guiding travelers through historic landmarks, ensuring the route’s cultural and historical heritage remains accessible and alive for future generations to cherish.
Tips for First-Time Travelers Using the EZ66 Guide
First-time travelers should thoroughly review the guide’s spiral-bound design, ensuring easy navigation. Keep the guide handy for quick reference, and enjoy the detailed maps and tips for a smooth journey.
11.1 Navigating Route 66 with Confidence
The EZ66 Guide ensures confident navigation with its spiral-bound design and clear directions. Comprehensive maps highlight the route, avoiding dead-ends. Tips and hidden treasures are included, making it easy to explore Route 66 seamlessly, whether traveling eastbound or westbound.
11.2 Staying Organized on the Road
The EZ66 Guide helps travelers stay organized with its spiral-bound design, keeping pages open for easy reference. Comprehensive maps and step-by-step directions ensure you never miss a turn. Additional resources like tips, attractions, and games keep the journey engaging and stress-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying the adventure.