Glenrio, a once vibrant town that sits along the border between Texas and New Mexico, now stands as a ghost town, telling stories of a bygone era. Established in 1901, Glenrio was a bustling community with wheat fields, cattle, and a thriving main street. However, over time, the town gradually declined and became abandoned, leaving behind remnants of its past glory.
Glenrio’s location on the historic Route 66 adds to its historical significance. Its Main Street is a Historic District along U.S. Highway Route 66 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The townsite still retains noticeable traces of Route 66, such as old motels and restaurants, which serve as a testament to the town’s vibrant past as a stop along the iconic highway.
Getting to Glenrio is relatively easy, as it can be accessed right off of Interstate 40. By taking Exit 0 and following the frontage road (which is old Route 66), visitors can reach Glenrio within a few minutes. The town is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes from Amarillo, Texas, and 40 minutes from Tucamcari, New Mexico.
Despite its present state as a ghost town, Glenrio still attracts visitors who are interested in the remnants of its history. The town’s Historic District includes several points of interest, such as the Texaco Gasoline Station and the Little Juarez Diner. These sites offer a glimpse into the past and allow visitors to imagine what life was like during Glenrio’s heyday.
Although there are mixed opinions about visiting Glenrio as a ghost town, it remains a unique destination for those exploring the historic Route 66. While some travelers may rank it lower on their list of ghost towns to visit٫ others appreciate the town’s solitude and the opportunity it provides to reflect on the past.
Efforts have been made to revitalize Glenrio, with new owners expressing their intentions to refurbish and reopen the historic midcentury Motel and Cafe. This indicates that there is hope for the town’s future and that it may once again become a thriving destination along the historic Route 66.
Overall, Glenrio Ghost Town offers a glimpse into the past and serves as a reminder of the changing landscapes and the passage of time. Whether you’re interested in exploring the remnants of Route 66 or simply appreciating the solitude and stories that ghost towns hold٫ a visit to Glenrio can be a compelling and thought-provoking experience.