Is This the End of Route 66?

Is This the End of Route 66?

Saturday, September 20 | 4:00 pm

Offsite Location at Arroyo del Rey | Address: 60 El Circulo Drive, Pasadena, California 91105

This fall, PMH will launch its celebration of the centennial of Route 66 and the 150th anniversary of Colorado Boulevard, with a presentation on the legacy of Route 66. Established in 1926, the fabled highway connected the Great Lakes to the Pacific Ocean, spanning 2,448 miles across eight states, becoming one of the most famous highways in the United States. Although officially decertified in 1985, its fame continues to attract a national and international audience, but what makes Route 66 so famous, and how long can that attraction last? Join Scott Piotrowski, the President of the California Historic Route 66 Association, as he explores the highway’s remarkable history and the enduring legacy as “The Main Street of America.”

An Exceptional Venue: Arroyo del Rey

Carol Soucek King will host the event at her Arroyo del Rey residence, located in Pasadena’s scenic arroyo and framed by two of the city’s architectural icons: the historic Colorado Street Bridge and the Pioneers Bridge (the 134 Freeway arched overcrossing). The King residence is a striking example of Mid-Century Modern design. Built in 1979 by renowned architects Conrad Buff III, FAIA, and Donald C. Hensman, FAIA, the home reflects the international post-and-beam style that defined an era.

In addition to viewing the elegant minimalist residential interior, guests are encouraged to explore the surrounding landscape, designed by the architects and carried forth with Oshiyama Landscape Contractors. The garden features river rock pathways, and the diverse collection of trees and plants creates the feeling of a hidden retreat nestled in a natural setting

The lecture will take place outdoors. Refreshments will be served beginning at 4:00 pm, followed by the presentation at 5:30 pm. Address | 60 El Circulo Drive, Pasadena, California 91105.

Space is limited; advance reservations required.

2026: A landmark Year for Pasadena and the Nation

The year 2026 marks three major local and national milestones: The centennial of Route 66, the 150th anniversary of Colorado Boulevard, and the 250th anniversary of the United States. To commemorate these historic events, PMH has partnered with an Anniversary Planning Council made up of more than thirty community groups. Together, they are creating a year-long calendar filled with special programs, festivals, and city-wide events celebrating the Crown City. Visit Pasadena is a key partner in this effort, and their website visitpasadena.com will feature event listings throughout the year.

Images: De Luxe Gasoline at 1010 East Colorado Blvd. at Catalina Ave. and Louis L. Bard’s landmark Egyptian-themed Colorado Theater at 1003 East Colorado Blvd., 1927; PMH Main Photo Collection B6-N6; Arroyo del Rey; Photograph by Curtis McElhinney; Courtesy of Carol Soucek King.

Host or Publisher Pasadena Museum of History