If you’ve seen the Disney movie Cars, you’ll recall it takes place on historic Route 66, part of which runs through the Lone Star State. Regarded as the Mother Road, the iconic highway is known for its quirky charm and abundant tourist attractions. It winds through the Southern part of the country, passing through many small towns along the way. One such place is Shamrock, a middle-of-nowhere Texas community that inspired several aspects of the film, including the gas station in Cars. Take a look at all the fun things to do in Shamrock, Texas.
"Ramone's House of Body Art" is based on Shamrock's famous U-Drop Inn, a former gas station and restaurant dating back to 1936. Its iconic tower is meant to look like a nail stuck in the soil as if to mark its territory.
Today, the building houses Shamrock's visitor center, chamber of commerce, and gift shop. One area is solely dedicated to memorabilia from the film, drawing tourists in off the highway left and right.
Another Route 66 town, Adrian, also had its 15 minutes of fame. Fran Houser, the owner of Midpoint Cafe, is the basis for Flo from "Flo's V-8 Cafe."
While you won't find any "Cars" paraphernalia here, just stepping inside transports you into the cinematic world. The cafe's undeniable vintage charm is exactly what you'd expect on the Mother Road.
Another character, Tex Dinoco, is also based on a business here in the Lone Star State. His inspiration came from the horns of this iconic steed commanding his parking lot post.
In the movie's epilogue, a mountainous region known as "Cadillac Range" features many jagged peaks running north to south. This scene pays homage to our very own Cadillac Ranch.
Although the film's "Cozy Cone Motel" bears a more direct resemblance to Arizona's Wigwam Village, the Tepee Motel in Wharton deserves an honorable mention. Who knows? Maybe it crossed the directors' minds at some point during production.
Clearly, the best way to experience all of historic Route 66 in Texas is to take a road trip, and we have some suggestions for your packing list. Check out some of the wonderful sights you'll see in Shamrock, including the Cars movie gas station:
Did you know Shamrock, Texas, inspired the movie Cars? Are there any other places in Texas that inspired films? We’d love to hear about them! For more small towns worth a spot on your bucket list, check out these lovely and mysterious small towns in Texas.
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