Glenrio
Abandoned town on the TX/NM border
Glenrio is a haunting ghost town straddling the Texas-New Mexico border. Once a thriving Route 66 stop with motels, gas stations, and cafes, it was bypassed by I-40 in 1975 and quickly abandoned. The famous 'Last Motel in Texas / First Motel in Texas' sign still stands as a poignant reminder of the Mother Road's golden era.
Walking through Glenrio's crumbling buildings is a sobering and photogenic experience. The town is on the National Register of Historic Places and represents the darker side of Route 66's decommissioning — what happens when the highway moves and a town can't follow.
exploreThings to See & Do
Glenrio Ghost Town
CAN'T MISSAn abandoned ghost town straddling the Texas-New Mexico border. Crumbling motels, gas stations, and the famous 'Last Motel in Texas / First Motel in Texas' sign remain.
State Line Bar (Ruins)
The ruins of the State Line Bar, which once straddled the TX/NM border so patrons could drink on the New Mexico side (Texas was dry). A fascinating piece of Route 66 ingenuity.
Tips for Visiting Glenrio
There are no services in Glenrio — bring water, snacks, and a full tank of gas.
Be careful exploring the ruins — buildings are unstable and on private property in some areas.
Best photographed in early morning or late afternoon light for dramatic shadows on the abandoned buildings.