Jump Into the Fast Lane: A New Mural and Exhibition Celebrates Route 66 Centennial

As the Route 66 Centennial approaches in 2026, New Mexico is marking the milestone with new ways to explore the legacy of the Mother Road—its history, cultural influence and lasting imprint on the state. A newly commissioned mural and companion exhibition at the New Mexico History Museum offer visitors an engaging and visually rich entry point into this once-in-a-century moment.

Together, these projects invite reflection on how Route 66 helped shape communities across New Mexico while continuing to inspire creativity and connection today.

A Mural That Brings the Mother Road to Life

Installed in the New Mexico History Museum’s lobby, Mother Road Coming into Color is a large-scale mural by Los Lunas–based artist Molly Mendenhall. The mural was unveiled in early 2026 as part of the museum’s centennial programming and serves as a centerpiece for the broader commemoration.

Selected from nearly 200 submissions, Mendenhall’s design approaches Route 66 as a living narrative rather than a static artifact. The mural transitions from a sepia-toned 1930s roadway into a vibrant contemporary scene inspired by Albuquerque, reflecting how the road and the communities along it have evolved over time. At 26 feet wide and 11 feet tall, the mural immerses visitors in a visual journey that bridges past and present, history and imagination.

A Companion Exhibition at the Roundhouse

The centennial celebration extends beyond the museum lobby with Mother Road: Route 66 in New Mexico, an exhibition presented in the Governor’s Gallery at the New Mexico State Capitol (the Roundhouse). On view through April 4, 2026, the exhibition features design concepts from the five finalist artists considered for the mural commission.

By showcasing multiple artistic interpretations, the exhibition deepens the conversation around Route 66’s cultural impact and highlights the many ways the road continues to resonate across generations.

Why the Centennial Matters

Established in 1926, Route 66 became a powerful symbol of mobility, reinvention and possibility. In New Mexico, its influence can be seen in architecture, tourism, commerce and creative expression. The centennial offers an opportunity not only to reflect on that legacy, but to consider how shared heritage continues to shape identity and place. Through art and interpretation, the New Mexico History Museum’s centennial projects position Route 66 as more than a historic highway—it’s a connective thread that links memory, movement and meaning.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re a lifelong New Mexican, a history enthusiast, or a traveler drawn to the enduring pull of the open road, the Route 66 centennial mural and exhibition offer meaningful ways to experience this milestone year.

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About the New Mexico History Museum

New Mexico History Museum (NMHM), a division of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, offers a welcoming place for exploration of multifaceted views on history, dialog that bridges social and cultural divides, and reflection on the conditions needed for a more resilient, just, and sustainable future. The NMHM campus is located on the north side of the historic Santa Fe Plaza. Learn more at nmhistorymuseum.org.

Photo: Los Lunas artist Molly Mendenhall paints a mural in the lobby of the New Mexico History Museum commemorating the centennial of Route 66. © 2025 Credit: NMDCA/NMHM.