Radiator Springs in Pixar’s Cars is located along historic U.S. Route 66.
The fictional town reflects the real communities that grew along Route 66 before the construction of faster interstate highways diverted much of the traffic. In the film, Radiator Springs loses visitors after Interstate 40 bypasses the town, leaving its businesses and landmarks struggling. Lightning McQueen’s detour brings him into contact with the residents and changes the town’s fortunes.
Pixar’s artists and filmmakers researched Route 66 communities during development. The film draws on roadside architecture, desert landscapes, neon signs, classic motels, and automobile culture associated with the highway. Several Radiator Springs locations echo real Route 66 attractions and towns in the American Southwest.
Route 66 originally connected Chicago and Santa Monica and was established in 1926. It was removed from the U.S. Highway System in 1985, but historic sections remain popular with tourists. The film’s setting is fictional, so Radiator Springs is not an actual town on a map.