Tucumcari, NM

Tucumcari once was a crossroads of commerce and one of the busiest towns on Route 66. It was founded in 1901 when the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad built a construction camp there called Ragtown. It later was called Six Gun Siding because of the frequent gunfights. Still later it was called Douglas. Finally in 1908 it was renamed Tucumcari after nearby Tucumcari Mountain. Legend has it that the mountain got its name from two lovers: Tucom and Kari, who died tragic deaths during a dispute between their parents over leadership of a band of Apaches.

Tucumcari is at the eastern end of the Route 66 New Mexico Motor Tour , in which classic cars are driven over the old alignment of Route 66 from Tucumcari to Gallup each June. It is sponsored by the New Mexico Route 66 Association.

Tucumcari also hosts Wheels on 66, which is a car show held in conjunction with the Motor Tour.

Tucumcari has many motels with vintage neon signs. Some are lit up at night even though the motels have long been closed.

The 1941 Blue Swallow has a bright blue neon sign (added in 1960) that announces its 100% Refrigerated Air. This is perhaps the most photographed motel sign on Route 66 (the Munger Moss in Lebanon, Missouri, is up there too). All of the rooms have been restored to the original motor court style, including working rotary telephones. The rooms are well appointed with new mattresses, high thread count sheets and plush towels. Be sure to make reservations.

The Safari Motel is another nicely restored motel.

The Pow Wow Motor Hotel is worn, but it is a good place to stay, mainly because the Lizard Lounge (the best bar in town)is attached to the Motel. It dates from the 1930's. There are some photos showing what Tucumcari was like when it was booming.

Tee Pee Curios at the corner of Route 66 and Park St is shaped like a Tee Pee.

Don't miss the Route 66 Historical Museum at 416 Adams St. The Route 66 Monument at 1500 Route 66 is a sculpture by Tom Coffin dedicated in 1997 and is the newest Route 66 attraction in Tucumcari. It is in front of the Tucumcari Convention Center on the west end of town.

The ride to Montoya will take you into the Frontage Rd and through a narrow tunnel under I-40. This tunnel gets muddy in wet weather, so if it's raining, stay on I-40.