Route 66 Auto Museum Santa Rosa New Mexico
A vibrant collection of classic cars and Route 66 memorabilia, celebrating automotive history and the iconic Mother Road.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Route 66 Auto Museum Santa Rosa New Mexico
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant collection of classic cars and Route 66 memorabilia, celebrating automotive history and the iconic Mother Road.
"A hidden gem for car enthusiasts, packed with passion and automotive history."
🚗 Easy Roadside Access
Conveniently located right off the highway with ample parking for cars and campers. :car:
🎁 Great Souvenir Shop
Find good Route 66 merch and unique souvenirs to remember your visit. :gift:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Classic Cars Galore
Main exhibition hall
Marvel at over 30 beautifully restored classics, hot rods, muscle cars, and vintage trucks.
Route 66 Memorabilia
Throughout the museum
Discover vintage signs, Route 66 paraphernalia, and items that evoke the golden age of the Mother Road.
Bozo Cordova's Passion Projects
Various displays
See vehicles reflecting the hands-on craftsmanship and deep love of local legend James 'Bozo' Cordova.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Route 66 Adventure
Embrace the Americana Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Roadside Access
Conveniently located right off the highway with ample parking for cars and campers. :car:
🎁 Great Souvenir Shop
Find good Route 66 merch and unique souvenirs to remember your visit. :gift:
🍔 Food Truck Potential
Keep an eye out for food trucks; they can be a delicious bonus if on-site! :hamburger:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Plenty of cool cars and vintage signs make for great photo ops. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Roadside Access
Conveniently located right off the highway with ample parking for cars and campers. :car:
🎁 Great Souvenir Shop
Find good Route 66 merch and unique souvenirs to remember your visit. :gift:
🍔 Food Truck Potential
Keep an eye out for food trucks; they can be a delicious bonus if on-site! :hamburger:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Plenty of cool cars and vintage signs make for great photo ops. :camerawithflash:
✨ Hidden Gem Status
A must-stop for car enthusiasts and Route 66 fans, often cited as a top stop. :star:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Route 66 Auto Museum as a fantastic roadside attraction, highlighting its impressive collection of classic cars and Route 66 memorabilia. The friendly staff and convenient location make it a highly recommended stop for any road trip, though some may wish for more extensive historical context beyond the vehicles themselves.
"7-17-25
I don’t know why, but I didn’t ask the ladies name that was working there today, shame on me, she was pleasant and should be acknowledged. Here’s to you, thank you.
This was a bonus stop that you can only do when you are doing a road trip. I just never know where you’re gonna be. I love the history of Route 66 back in the day my family had a Hugh connection with that road. We’ve been on most of it, but not all of it and it’s always fun to hit another part. I’m not sure why I had to buy another hat, but I did. The museum was fabulous. Not just the cars, but all the paraphernalia, and the old signs were great..
I WOULD RECOMMEND"
Cindy L
"If you are planning a road trip down Route 66, you absolutely must add this stop. Probably in my top 10 of all stops along Route 66. We drove Route 66 from Illinois to New Mexico during Sick 66 Drag and Drive.
This location is easy to stop at being right along side the highway. It has plenty of parking for cars or campers. Everyone inside is super friendly. When we stopped here there was a food truck outside. Not sure if that's a regular occurrence but definitely worth trying if they are on site when you visit."
Thomas Llewellyn
"Loved this Route 66 Auto museum.
Good Route 66 Merch.
Clean bathrooms and nice people visiting and running the museum.
It’s just off of Hwy 40 so quick visit."
Ted Shikuma
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located right off the highway, making it an easy stop for travelers on Route 66 or I-40. It boasts plenty of parking, suitable for cars, RVs, and campers. Its accessibility is a major plus for road trippers.
Yes, it's a straightforward stop right alongside the main routes, often mentioned as a quick and easy visit for those driving through.
It's an ideal stop for a break during a longer Route 66 journey, offering a chance to stretch your legs and admire classic vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Operating hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or call ahead before your visit to confirm current opening and closing times.
Admission fees are generally reasonable, and many visitors find it 'worth every penny' for the experience.
Typically, advance booking isn't required for this type of roadside attraction. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter if you qualify for any special rates.
Yes, the museum has a gift shop offering good Route 66 merchandise and souvenirs, which visitors often enjoy.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, allowing you to capture the impressive collection of classic cars and memorabilia.
Visitors often highlight the variety, from classic Edsels and vintage trucks
For commercial photography or professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the museum in advance to inquire about their policies and any potential fees.
The lighting can vary, but many visitors appreciate the natural light and well-displayed exhibits that make for good shots.
Absolutely! The vintage signs and Route 66 paraphernalia are a significant draw and make for excellent photographic subjects.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
The museum features over 30 vehicles, including beautifully restored classics, hot rods, muscle cars, and vintage trucks. to Camaros
Absolutely! It's described as a 'hidden gem' for hardcore car enthusiasts, packed with passion and automotive history.
Founded by local car enthusiast James 'Bozo' Cordova, the museum is a testament to his hands-on craftsmanship and love for automotive history and Route 66 heritage.
Yes, the museum also functions as a place where some of the vehicles are available for purchase.
Visitors often describe it as having an authentic 50s-era vibe, with gleaming chrome and rich backstories behind each vehicle, creating a strong sense of Americana.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to spark an interest in automotive history and the iconic Route 66.Keep an eye out for any interactive elements or particularly eye-catching vehicles that can capture a child's imagination. The museum's manageable size makes it easy to navigate with younger visitors, and the gift shop can provide a fun souvenir to remember the visit. Plus, the easy roadside access means less fuss getting in and out.
🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Road Trippers
+1 The collection reflects a deep passion for automotive history and craftsmanship, making it a highlight for many travelers.Don't miss the chance to explore the Route 66 memorabilia that adds to the nostalgic atmosphere. Many visitors consider it a top stop on their Route 66 journey, appreciating the friendly staff and the chance to see vehicles with interesting backstories, some even for sale.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Bozo Cordova
Cordova's vision transformed the museum into a space that celebrates not only the beauty of classic cars but also their stories. Many of the vehicles have rich backstories, reflecting the dedication and care that went into their restoration and preservation. This dedication has earned the museum a reputation as a 'hidden gem' among car enthusiasts, offering an authentic glimpse into the soul of American car culture.
Beyond being a display space, the museum also serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Route 66. It’s a place where visitors can connect with the history of the Mother Road through the vehicles that once traversed it. For those who appreciate the artistry and engineering of vintage automobiles, the museum offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing a collection that truly embodies the spirit of American car culture.
Route 66: More Than Just a Road
Visitors often rave about the 'paraphernalia' and 'old signs' that complement the automotive displays, highlighting the museum's commitment to showcasing the complete Route 66 experience.
For anyone undertaking a Route 66 road trip, a stop at this museum is highly recommended. It’s frequently cited as a top stop along the entire route, offering a unique blend of automotive history and Americana.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit