Close-up of a vintage car's headlight and chrome grille, bathed in vibrant neon pink and orange lights.

1ST PLACE

Neon Lights, Blue Swallow Motel, Reece Parker

“The Blue Swallow Motel, located in Tucumcari, has an amazing array of brightly colored neon lights. In this shot, I was drawn to the reflection of the iconic Blue Swallow Motel sign as seen in the chrome of a classic 1950s Hudson Hornet.”—Reece Parker

A vintage car parked beside a wall with Route 66 and Texaco logos. A person in retro clothing stands near an old car.

2ND PLACE

Tucumcari Memories, Cristian Constantinescu

“I took this picture in Tucumcari, New Mexico, on a journey along the Mother Road. This trip was part of a long-term project aimed at discovering the beauty and traditions of my adoptive country.”—Cristian Constantinescu

A small, remote village with simple houses sits under a cloudy, overcast sky. Mountains loom in the background.

3RD PLACE

Pueblo Rainsong, Steve Yabek

“Laguna Pueblo, formally established in 1699 following the Pueblo Revolt, is located several hundred yards south of the original Route 66 alignment, also currently designated as NM 124 and Old Route 66. While traveling west on I-40 through Laguna on a dreary summer day in 2025, I pulled over to the shoulder and captured this handheld image of the original pueblo village.”—Steve Yabek

Black and white image of the vintage Palomino Motel at night, with neon signs.

HONORABLE MENTION

Yesterday’s Neon, Erin Brubaker

“As part of my journey along historic Route 66, Tucumcari became my final stop before reaching Albuquerque. Wandering past old motels and weathered storefronts, I was struck by the vintage architecture and the glow of the Palomino Hotel’s lights.”—Erin Brubaker