Shamrock, Texas and I go way back. I grew up not far from the iconic stop on Route 66, have attended several events and celebrations, and have even been on stage there once or twice. Recently, I decided to stroll through and see what all had changed since my last trip through.

I got a good look at the high-tech side of an iconic Route 66 landmark recently. It was quite a surprise.

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The U Drop Inn Drops Into The Future

If you've ever made a stop in Shamrock, and ventured away from I-40, you've had to have noticed the iconic U Drop Inn. It's impossible to miss.

Charlie Hardin
Charlie Hardin
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The building itself looks like it was ripped off the pages of a history book. For those who are fortunate enough to have some memories of the Mother Road in all her glory, it is nostalgia manifest.

Except for the row of Tesla chargers in the back.

Need A Tesla Charger On Route 66? I Found A Spot.

That's right. If you're a Tesla owning type, you'll be happy to know that one of Route 66's most iconic landmarks has a space set aside just for you. Need to stop for a bit and recharge the wheels? Take a break at U Drop Inn.

Charlie Hardin
Charlie Hardin
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When I drove up, I waited patiently for a nice man to finish charging his vehicle before I snapped any photos. Didn't want him thinking I was some kind of bumpkin sending photos home to mama about the fancy chargers for the future cars at the U Drop.

Charlie Hardin
Charlie Hardin
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The Marriage Of Old And New In Shamrock, Texas

It was a bit jarring at first when I turned the corner into the parking lot. Here I am looking at architecture that makes my mind swirl with thoughts of early rock n' roll and Marilyn Monroe, just for those thoughts to be disrupted by the reminder that I'm in 2022.

Charlie Hardin
Charlie Hardin
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It's an interesting contrast. You have Route 66, which drums up memories of what are now considered classic cars and long road trips. None of which required an outlet.

Adjacent to it is possibly the most modern take on automobiles that you can have; electronic cars equipped with consoles in the dash that would make Spock and Captain Kirk do a double take.

The simplicity of the open road, combined with the bells and whistles of the modern age.

Charlie Hardin
Charlie Hardin
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Shamrock, Texas; Well Worth A Quick Stop To Look Around

Next time you're near Shamrock, take a few minutes to get off the interstate and check out the U Drop Inn. Go ahead and check out the Blarney Stone too, while you're at it.

It won't take long, and it'll give you a story for when you get where you're going.

Look at How Amarillo's Old Route 66 Motels Looked Then & Now

The heyday of the Mother Road may be long gone, but would you believe that there's still plenty of the old motels where many a weary American family rested their heads during their interstate travels?

You won't believe some of these are still standing, much less still alive and (wait for it..) kickin'!

Look: 25 Must See Landmarks On Route 66 From Tulsa To Glenrio

Route 66 is an iconic part of our culture. Here are 25 must see landmarks to check out from Tulsa, to Glrenrio.

The Drive-In: Amarillo's Classic Drive-In Theaters, Past and Present

Any resident of Amarillo worth their salt knows about the Tascosa Drive-In movie theater.

But did you know about the other drive-in theaters?

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