U.S. Route 66 is one of the most legendary road trips in the world, stretching over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. Known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 captures the spirit of classic Americana with neon-lit diners, quirky roadside attractions, desert landscapes, vintage motels, national parks, and unforgettable small towns.
This travel guide covers the ultimate Route 66 itinerary, including the best stops, scenic attractions, where to stay, what to eat, and travel tips for the perfect cross-country road trip.
Route 66 Overview
- Starting Point: Chicago, Illinois
- Ending Point: Santa Monica, California
- Distance: Approximately 2,400 miles
- Recommended Trip Length: 2–3 weeks
- States Covered: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California
Why Drive Route 66?
A Route 66 road trip offers:
- Classic American roadside culture
- Historic diners and vintage motels
- Incredible desert and mountain scenery
- National parks and scenic drives
- Small-town Americana
- One of the world’s most iconic driving adventures
Days 1–2: Chicago, Illinois
Start your Route 66 adventure in Chicago, Illinois. This is the starting point of the historic route 66.
Best Things to Do
- Visit Millennium Park
- Take photos at The Bean
- Walk the Chicago Riverwalk
- Visit Navy Pier
Route 66 Starting Point
The famous Route 66 “Begin” sign is located on Adams Street in downtown Chicago.
Days 3–4: St. Louis & Missouri
Visit:
- St. Louis
- Meramec Caverns
What to Expect
Missouri is filled with vintage Route 66 charm, roadside diners, caves, and historic motels.
Must-See Attractions
- Gateway Arch
- Route 66 State Park
- Historic neon signs and diners
Day 5: Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City is one of the highlights of Route 66, and has a lot of local town charm to experience and explore.
Best Things to Do
- Visit Pops 66 Soda Ranch
- Explore the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum
- Walk around Bricktown
Days 6–7: Amarillo & Texas Panhandle
Visit:
- Amarillo
- Cadillac Ranch
What to Expect
Texas delivers cowboy culture, wide-open roads, and iconic roadside attractions.
Popular Stops
- Cadillac Ranch
- Big Texan Steak Ranch
- Historic Route 66 motels
Days 8–10: New Mexico
Explore:
- Santa Fe
- Albuquerque
What to Expect
New Mexico combines Southwestern culture, adobe architecture, desert scenery, and colorful art communities.
Top Attractions
- Old Town Albuquerque
- Santa Fe Plaza
- Historic neon motel signs
- Southwestern food and art galleries
Days 11–13: Arizona
Visit:
- Seligman
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Petrified Forest National Park
What to Expect
Arizona is one of the most scenic sections of Route 66, filled with red rock deserts, classic roadside attractions, and national parks.
Must-See Stops
- Seligman vintage shops
- Winslow “Standing on the Corner” Park
- Painted Desert
- Grand Canyon detour
Days 14–15: California & Santa Monica
End your Route 66 journey in:
- Los Angeles
- Santa Monica Pier
What to Expect
Celebrate the end of the Mother Road at the Pacific Ocean.
Final Highlights
- Santa Monica Pier Route 66 End Sign
- Venice Beach
- Hollywood and Los Angeles sightseeing
Best National Parks Along Route 66
Top national parks include:
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Petrified Forest National Park
Best Foods to Try on Route 66
Classic Route 66 foods include:
- Burgers and fries
- BBQ
- Tex-Mex
- Milkshakes
- Pie and diner breakfasts
Best Time to Drive Route 66
- Spring (April–May): Mild temperatures and wildflowers
- Fall (September–October): Cooler weather and fewer crowds
- Summer: Popular but very hot in desert areas
Route 66 Travel Tips
- Rent a reliable vehicle for long-distance driving
- Plan extra time for roadside attractions
- Download offline maps in remote desert areas
- Carry snacks and water
- Book accommodations early during peak travel season
Best Places to Stay on Route 66
Blue Swallow Motel
Historic neon-lit Route 66 motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico.
Wigwam Motel
Famous teepee-shaped motel on Route 66 in California and Arizona.
Driving Route 66 is one of the greatest road trips in the world. From Chicago skyscrapers and Midwest diners to desert landscapes and California beaches, it is the ultimate American adventure! I have the best memories doing it with my family one summer during college and I hope you enjoy it just as much too!