Native American Travel App–Route 66 Map Initiative Designated Official Route 66 Centennial Project
ALBUQUERQUE, NM — The Road Ahead Partnership is excited to announce that the American Indigenous Tourism Association Native American Travel App–Route 66 Map Project has been 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."
About The Road Ahead Partnership
Established in 2016, with the support of the National Park Service and the World Monuments Fund, The Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership's mission is to revitalize and sustain Route 66 as a national and international icon through partnerships focused on promotion, preservation, research, education, and economic development. Only In Your State is the official Publishing Partner to the Route 66 Centennial.
About American Indigenous Tourism Association
For more than 27 years, the American Indigenous Tourism Association has served as the only national organization dedicated to advancing a mission to define, introduce, grow, and sustain American Indigenous tourism that honors traditions and values across the United States and its territories. Established by tribes for tribes to address inequities in the tourism system, the American Indigenous Tourism Association is a 501(c)(3) national nonprofit governed by an all-Indigenous board of directors and serves as a united voice for the $11.6 billion Indigenous hospitality sector. Its successful legislative work led to the industry-changing Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act (NATIVE Act) funding in 2018, as Indian Country Tourism was recognized through federal appropriations via NATIVE Act implementation. Native Nations and communities who are looking to start or expand their cultural tourism footprint can find resources at www.AmericanIndigenousTourism.org and visitors interested in learning more about Indigenous culture can visit www.DestinationNativeAmerica.com.
Media Contact – The Route 66 Centennial
Gem PR & Media
Email: gemma@gemprmedia.com
Media Contact – American Indigenous Tourism Association
Liz Slobodian Email: Liz@shipwrightcommunications.com