U.S. Route 56 is a highway that stretches across the central United States, primarily running through the states of Kansas and New Mexico. It begins in the west at U.S. Route 64 in New Mexico and travels eastward, ending at U.S. Route 50 in Kansas. The route covers approximately 300 miles and serves as a vital connector for various towns and communities along its path. Established in 1926, U.S. Route 56 is part of the larger network of U.S. highways. It passes through several notable cities, including Liberal and Hutchinson in Kansas. The highway is significant for local travel and commerce, providing access to rural areas and facilitating transportation across the region.