Overview
Route 70, often referred to as the "Road to the West," is a major eastwest highway that stretches across the United States, connecting the Atlantic coast of New Jersey to the Pacific coast of California. In the U.S. highway system it is officially designated as U.S. Route 70 (US70), though many states have given it a local name, such as the Ocean Highway in North Carolina or the Walt Whitman Memorial Highway in Pennsylvania.
The highway covers roughly 2,400 miles (3,860km), traversing a wide variety of landscapesincluding coastal plains, the Appalachian Mountains, the Great Plains, and the desert regions of the Southwest. Its length and the diversity of regions it links make Route 70 an important corridor for commerce, tourism, and regional connectivity.
History
US70 was first commissioned in 1926 as part of the original United States Numbered Highway System. The original alignment ran from Atlantic City, NewJersey, to Holbrook, Arizona, and over the following decades the route was extended westward to its present terminus in the Los Angeles area.
Key milestones in its development include:
- 1926: Initial designation covering the midAtlantic and Southern states.
- 1930s1940s: Realignments in Texas and NewMexico to improve road quality and bypass small towns.
- 1950s: Paving projects brought the entire route to hardsurface standards.
- 1970s1990s: Sections in California were upgraded to freeway standards, especially around the Los Angeles basin.
- 2000s: Designation of scenic byway segments in North Carolina and Tennessee, promoting tourism.
Although Interstate highways have taken over much of the longdistance freight traffic, Route 70 remains a vital alternate route for regional travel and for those seeking a more scenic, slowerpaced journey.
Major Cities and Regions Along Route 70
Traveling the full length of Route 70 passes through dozens of towns and several large metropolitan areas. Below are some of the most notable stops, listed west to east.
- Los Angeles, CA: The western terminus lies near the historic Santa Monica Boulevard segment, offering connections to the broader Southern California freeway network.
- Phoenix, AZ (via a short spur): While Route 70 itself does not cross Phoenix, the nearby Interstate10 provides easy access for travelers heading north or south.
- Albuquerque, NM: The highway joins historic U.S. Route66 for a brief stretch, giving a nostalgic feel to the desert drive.
- Amarillo, TX: A key junction with Interstate40 and the famous Cadillac Ranch art installation.
- Oklahoma City, OK: Route70 runs parallel to the Will Rogers Turnpike, offering alternate routes into the city.
- Little Rock, AR: The highway crosses the Arkansas River and provides access to the Riverfront Park.
- Memphis, TN: Near the iconic Beale Street district, Route70 meets Interstate40 and Interstate55.
- Knoxville, TN: Known locally as the Andrew Johnson Highway, it provides a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Greenville, SC: The route passes through historic downtown, with a vibrant arts scene.
- Atlantic City, NJ: The eastern terminus is near the famous boardwalk, though the official endpoint is now at U.S. Route30 in the vicinity.
Travel Tips for the Route 70 Journey
Whether youre planning a crosscountry road trip or just a segment of the highway, these tips can help you make the most of the experience.
1. Plan for Weather Variations
The climate changes dramatically along the route. Expect hot desert conditions in Arizona, possible spring snow in the Appalachian region, and humid summers on the Atlantic coast. Check forecasts frequently and keep an emergency kit.
2. Know the Road Types
Route70 is a mix of twolane rural highways, fourlane divided sections, and freewaystandard stretches (especially in California). Adjust your speed and driving style accordingly.
3. Take Advantage of Scenic Byways
Several states have designated sections as scenic bywaysparticularly the Blue Ridge Parkwayadjacent portions in North Carolina and the Route70 Scenic Byway in NewMexico. These sections offer pullouts, informational markers, and breathtaking views.
4. Fuel and Rest Stops
Remote stretches, especially across the NewMexico desert and the Texas Panhandle, have long distances between services. Fill up whenever you can and carry extra water.
5. Cultural Highlights
Dont miss cultural sites such as the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (if traveling in October), and the historic Atlantic City Boardwalk.
Further Resources
For more detailed information, maps, and uptodate road conditions, consider the following sources:
- Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Official highway data and project updates.
- AARoads Route descriptions, photos, and traveler tips.
- State Tourism Websites Local attractions and events along Route70.
- Google Maps Realtime traffic and satellite views.
- AllTrails Hiking and outdoor activities near the highway.
