Introduction
Route 66 is a famous historic highway in the United States that runs from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. Traveling along Route 66 offers a unique road trip experience filled with vintage diners, quirky roadside attractions, small towns, and scenic views. It’s a journey that captures the classic American spirit of adventure and freedom on the open road. Many travelers explore it to experience nostalgia, history, and the diverse culture of the communities along the route.
- Start in Chicago, Illinois – The Beginning of the Adventure
Route 66 officially begins in Chicago, known as the “Windy City.” Here, you can soak in the urban energy before hitting the open road. Visit landmarks like the historic Route 66 Start Sign on Adams Street, grab a classic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, and explore the city’s rich architecture. Chicago is the perfect place to stock up on essentials and get a feel for the diverse culture that you’ll experience throughout your journey. - Experience Small-Town Charm in Illinois
As you leave Chicago, Route 66 takes you through quaint Illinois towns like Joliet, Pontiac, and Springfield. These stops offer a peek into Americana with vintage diners, murals, and museums dedicated to the Mother Road. Don’t miss the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac and Abraham Lincoln’s home in Springfield, blending history with road trip fun. - Cross the Mighty Mississippi River into Missouri
One of the most scenic and symbolic parts of Route 66 is crossing the Mississippi River. The chain of towns in Missouri, especially St. Louis, offers iconic sights like the Gateway Arch and historic neighborhoods. Missouri’s section is peppered with old motels, neon signs, and classic diners — perfect spots for nostalgic photos and a taste of the past. - Discover the Roadside Attractions of Missouri and Oklahoma
Missouri and Oklahoma are famous for quirky roadside attractions. From the Meramec Caverns near Stanton, touted as a legendary Route 66 stop, to the giant Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, these landmarks add fun and personality to the trip. These unique stops offer memorable photo ops and a chance to stretch your legs. - Enjoy the Wide Open Spaces of Oklahoma
Driving through Oklahoma, you’ll experience vast plains and friendly small towns. Tulsa and Oklahoma City feature Route 66 museums and vintage neon signs. Take the time to explore local diners and classic gas stations, many of which have been lovingly preserved or restored, maintaining the historic spirit of the route. - Enter the Southwest: Texas and New Mexico
Route 66 briefly crosses the Texas Panhandle, where you can see the quirky “Midpoint Café” in Adrian, marking the halfway point of the route. Moving into New Mexico, the landscape changes dramatically with desert vistas and red rock formations. Albuquerque and Santa Fe offer rich Native American and Hispanic cultural influences, alongside classic Route 66 charm. - Explore Arizona’s Diverse Landscape and Iconic Stops
Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 is one of the most scenic and celebrated. Don’t miss the town of Flagstaff, a gateway to the Grand Canyon, and the historic town of Winslow, made famous by the Eagles’ song “Take it Easy.” The legendary Wigwam Motel near Holbrook is a must-see, with its unique teepee-shaped rooms. The Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park also offer stunning natural beauty along the way. - Enter California: The Final Leg Toward the Pacific
As you cross into California, the landscape shifts once again to coastal and urban environments. The route winds through towns like Needles and San Bernardino before reaching the sprawling city of Los Angeles. The famous sign on Santa Monica Pier mark the end of Route 66, where you can celebrate completing your journey by the Pacific Ocean. - Embrace the Spirit of the Open Road and Nostalgia
A Route 66 road trip is as much about the journey as the destination. The nostalgia of vintage motels, neon signs, classic diners, and historic landmarks transports travelers back to the mid-20th century. Each stop tells a story of American history, culture, and the love of freedom that defines the open road. Take your time to explore, photograph, and chat with locals who keep the Route 66 spirit alive. - Plan Ahead but Be Flexible
Though Route 66 is well-marked and many attractions are preserved, some parts of the original road are no longer drivable or have changed due to modern highways. Planning your route with current maps, travel guides, or apps dedicated to Route 66 helps avoid confusion. Still, allow yourself the flexibility to take detours, discover hidden gems, and enjoy spontaneous adventures along the way.
Where to stay in America
- Hotels
- Big cities & tourist hotspots: Chains like Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and boutique hotels are common in urban areas like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco.
- Luxury stays: Places like The Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, and Waldorf Astoria offer upscale accommodations.
- Motels
- Perfect for road trips (especially along Route 66 or highways). Motels are budget-friendly, easy to access, and usually have parking right outside your room.
- Examples: Best Western, Motel 6, Super 8.
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Great for a cozy, local experience.
- Popular in smaller towns and scenic areas like New England, the South, and wine country regions.
Things to do in America
- Explore National Parks
Visit iconic parks like Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Zion, and Great Smoky Mountains for hiking, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery.
- Visit Major Cities
Experience the culture, museums, nightlife, and landmarks of cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington D.C.
- Road Trip on Historic Highways
Drive famous routes like Route 66 or the Pacific Coast Highway for a classic American road trip filled with scenic views and quirky stops.
Day trip from America
Popular Day Trips Within the U.S.:
- From New York City:
- The Hamptons — Beautiful beaches, charming towns, great food.
- Hudson Valley — Scenic hikes, wineries, and quaint villages.
- Bear Mountain State Park — Hiking, picnics, and great views.
- From Los Angeles:
- Santa Barbara — Coastal town with beaches, wine tasting, and shopping.
- Joshua Tree National Park — Stunning desert landscapes and rock climbing.
- Malibu — Beach day, hiking, and ocean views.
- From Chicago:
- Starved Rock State Park — Waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife.
- Lake Geneva, Wisconsin — Lakeside charm, boat tours, and shopping.
Day Trips Just Outside the U.S.:
- From Miami:
- The Bahamas (Nassau or Paradise Island) — Quick ferry or flight for beaches and resorts.
- From Seattle:
- Victoria, Canada — Ferry ride to a charming Canadian city with gardens and historic sites.
- From San Diego:
- Tijuana, Mexico — Explore vibrant markets, food, and culture just across the border.
