Grapevine, Texas, is the International Gateway before you get your kicks on Route 66

As Route 66 prepares to celebrate its centennial year in 2026, Historic Grapevine, Texas, stands out as the ultimate gateway for international travellers to experience the heart of America. Home to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), the second largest passenger airport in the world, Grapevine offers a seamless starting point to explore the legendary “Mother Road” and the diverse landscapes of the United States.

After travelers clear customs in a near-record average 15 minutes, they can be checked into their hotel in ten minutes, then relax and stretch their legs for a couple of days while enjoying Vintage Texas. With 21 hotels to choose from including luxury resorts, family-friendly experiences and select service hotels, this will be a great way to kick off your iconic road trip. While in Grapevine, visitors can use Trinity Metro TEXRail’s commuter train or the complimentary Grapevine Visitors Shuttle to get around with ease.

From Grapevine, travelers can rent their cars (saving on airport fees by renting in Grapevine,) and then head north to Oklahoma to experience the quintessential American road trip, heading northeast to Chicago or west to Los Angeles. Along the way, enjoy the nostalgia, history and unique roadside attractions that make Route 66 a beloved journey through the heart of the U.S.

Stroll down picturesque streets lined with boutique shops, artisan cafés, art galleries and award-winning winery tasting rooms. Discover unique finds, indulge in quirky Texas cuisine and sample local wines that reflect the region’s flavours.

Dine at iconic Grapevine establishments: Visit Esparza’s Restaurante Mexicano, the Margarita Capital of Texas; savor the famous Bowl of Red (chili) at Tolbert’s Restaurant and Chili Parlor; and enjoy brunch under a 1928 Model T Ford at Willhoite’s Restaurant, housed in Grapevine’s first service station next to the historic Calaboose jail. Embark on an excursion onboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, where vintage 1920s coaches provide a charming step back in time. Be entertained by live performances at the Texas Star Dinner Theatre, the Historic Palace Theatre and Third Rail at Harvest Hall.

Experience lovely boutiques with unique items on Historic Main Street and national brands at Grapevine Mills. Stop into art galleries and step into Meow Wolf Grapevine’s The Real Unreal. Visit the Urban Wine trail and savor wines from nine winery tasting rooms and enjoy live music along the way. Easily visit Target, CVS or Walgreens if you have any last-minute needs before the road trip. Visit GrapevineTexasUSA.com today to get planning today!

ABOUT GRAPEVINE, TEXAS:

Grapevine, Texas, is a charming destination located on the shores of Lake Grapevine and host city to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. The Vintage Texas city offers a blend of history and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant hospitality, Grapevine is home to a range of world-class hotels, from luxe resorts, including Gaylord Texan, to the boutique Hotel Vin and family-friendly Great Wolf Lodge, visitors will find accommodations that suit their needs and preferences. Grapevine is home to the Urban Wine Trail, Historic Main Street, Historic Nash Farm, Grapevine Vintage Railroad and hosts many annual festivals and events including GrapeFest® - A Texas Wine Experience, Main Street Fest – A Timeless Texas Tradition and the Christmas Capital of Texas®, featuring more than 1,400 Christmas events over 40 days. Newsweek Readers voted Grapevine Best Christmas Town in the U.S. in 2024.