The town of Seligman, Arizona, located on the historic Route 66. Route 66 is an iconic highway in the United States that connected Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. It played a significant role in the development of road travel and tourism in the mid-20th century.
In the Pixar animated film "Cars" released in 2006, Seligman served as an inspiration for the fictional town of Radiator Springs. The movie portrays Radiator Springs as a once-thriving town on Route 66 that fell into decline after the construction of the nearby Interstate Highway. The town's inhabitants are anthropomorphic vehicles, and the film follows the story of Lightning McQueen, a race car who gets stranded in Radiator Springs and learns important life lessons there.
The town of Seligman itself embraces its connection to "Cars" and Route 66. It has become a popular tourist destination for fans of the movie and those interested in Route 66 history. Visitors can find various references to the film, such as the "Tow Mater" tow truck character, which is depicted in the form of a statue or as a theme in local businesses. Seligman also hosts annual events and festivals celebrating Route 66 and the movie "Cars."
Furthermore, Seligman is known for its collection of historic cars that are often parked along the main street, making it reminiscent of the film's setting. These vintage vehicles, including classic cars and motorcycles, contribute to the town's nostalgic atmosphere and its celebration of Route 66's heyday.