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Address
1085 Blue Hole Rd.
Santa Rosa, NM 88435
Contact
Telephone: (575) 472-3663
info@visitsantarosanm.com
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Santa Rosa’s story is intertwined with the rich history of Route 66. For a century, the iconic highway has brought visitors from near and far to our vibrant town, leaving a legacy that’s as colorful as a southwestern sunset.
U.S. Route 66 is officially established, connecting Chicago to Los Angeles. Santa Rosa becomes one of the key stops in New Mexico, offering a central rest point between major cities and drawing attention for its easy access to water and motorist amenities.
During the Dust Bowl, Route 66 carries thousands of displaced families westward in search of new opportunity. Santa Rosa serves as a quiet yet vital stop for migrants, and later for wartime transportation and supply routes.
Santa Rosa flourishes with roadside motels, neon-lit cafes, and service stations. Local businesses thrive on tourism, as families make cross-country trips on the now-famous “Main Street of America.” This is when the iconic Blue Hole becomes a major draw.
With the completion of I-40, Route 66 is gradually bypassed. Many Route 66 towns begin to decline, but Santa Rosa fights to preserve its roadside culture and charm, keeping attractions like the Blue Hole and Park Lake alive.
Recognition of Route 66’s historical value increases. Santa Rosa becomes part of the preservation movement, with community efforts to maintain historic signage, motels, and cultural landmarks.
Santa Rosa proudly joins national efforts to honor the centennial of Route 66. Through community events, historic restoration, and Route 66-themed celebrations, the town reaffirms its place in the story of America’s most iconic highway.
1085 Blue Hole Rd.
Santa Rosa, NM 88435
Telephone: (575) 472-3663
info@visitsantarosanm.com