Route 66: The Complete Travel Guide

Route 66 — the “Mother Road” — runs roughly 2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, crossing eight states and encapsulating classic Americana, desert landscapes, neon diners, roadside oddities, and vast open skies.

It is possibly the most famous road trip in America and up there as one of the worlds best drives.

This guide provides a comprehensive, state-by-state guide including must-see stops, hidden gems, driving strategy, food, lodging styles, timing, and practical advice.

Overview of the Route

Route 66 was once the primary highway for Americans migrating west, especially during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. Thousands travelled its length in search of work and opportunity in California, and towns, motels, diners, and service stations sprang up along the way to serve the steady flow of traffic.

Over time, the route became deeply embedded in American popular culture. It was immortalised by the 1946 hit song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” and later inspired the Cars franchise from Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Pictures. It also featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novel The Grapes of Wrath, where it came to symbolise both escape and the hope of a new beginning. Steinbeck famously nicknamed it “The Mother Road.” Other designations include the Will Rogers Highway (after Will Rogers) and the Main Street of America.

Although Route 66 underwent numerous improvements and realignments throughout its lifetime, it was officially removed from the United States Highway System in 1985, replaced by faster interstate highways such as Interstate 40. Many stretches were bypassed, leaving behind a landscape of faded neon signs, abandoned motels, and near-forgotten towns — contributing to the road’s enduring atmosphere of nostalgia and faded grandeur.

You can drive Route 66 in either direction.

East → West mirrors the historic migration toward California.

West → East often feels quieter at the outset and can simplify logistics depending on flight routes and costs.

There is no wrong direction — only different atmospheres. But doing it thoughtfully makes the difference between driving it and experiencing it.

The States Along Route 66

Route 66 crosses eight states, which from east to west are:

Illinois
Missouri
Kansas
Oklahoma
Texas
New Mexico
Arizona
California

If expanded into wider itinerary it can quite easily encompass a few more states meaning a wider holiday will have seen you step foot in over 20% of US states.

A short detour west from Arizona brings you into Nevada, most famously for Las Vegas, which offers a dramatic contrast to the nostalgic roadside towns of the Mother Road.

Equally a diversion toward the Four Corners Monument — where Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico adds a couple of extra states into the mix even if you are just visiting the literal corner of them.

Ideal Trip Length

One of the many great things about a road trip is that you set the pace. You can savour it slowly, expand the itinerary with detours, or keep things moving at your own tempo.

2 Weeks – Comfortable and Immersive

The sweet spot for most travellers. You’ll have time to explore small towns, classic diners, roadside attractions, and a few natural highlights without feeling constantly on the move. Distances feel manageable, and there’s space for spontaneity.

10 Days – Fast but Doable

You’ll cover the full route, but stops will need to be selective. Expect longer driving days and fewer spontaneous detours. It becomes more about completing the journey than lingering in each place — though it’s still entirely achievable.

3+ Weeks – Slow Travel with Detours

Ideal if you want to expand beyond the core eight states — perhaps adding Las Vegas, national parks, or a diversion to Four Corners. This pace allows you to properly experience the nostalgia, meet locals, and enjoy the quieter stretches that define the “Mother Road.”

When to Go

Late spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal. Summer heat in the Mojave and Arizona deserts can exceed 40°C. Winter brings snow to higher elevations like Flagstaff.

How to Organise a Route 66 Road Trip

Whilst there are many companies that will organise a road trip for you, it is actually very easy to plan yourself.

We go into more detail on planning a holiday in a separate guide, but the key first step is understanding your constraints. For example:

You can only take two weeks off work
You can only travel on certain dates
You have a maximum budget
You have no time or budget constraints and want to explore everything the route has to offer

Identifying your main constraint will shape the order in which you book things.

For example, if cost is your main constraint, start by searching for the cheapest flights as this is likely to be the largest part of the overall cost.

When searching, check the price of flying in each direction (i.e. starting in Los Angeles or Chicago) and also compare the cost of car hire depending on the pick-up and drop-off locations. All of this can be done using sites such as Skyscanner or Google Flights.

It is also worth comparing package deals from airlines like British Airways, where flights and car hire can sometimes be booked together at a lower overall price. If you book through British Airways and are a member of the Executive Club you also get a second driver free which can be useful given the long distances involved.

Once flights and car hire are sorted, you can then begin planning your stops along the route. We provide some example itineraries below, but these can easily be adjusted depending on how quickly you want to travel and whether you want to add additional stops or detours along the way.

The Character of the Route

The first thing to flag is Route 66 is not a single continuous highway anymore. Large sections were replaced by interstates like I-40, I-44, and I-55. What remains are fragments — some perfectly preserved, some cracked and fading, some running parallel to modern freeways.

Because of this it can be difficult at points to navigate as navigation apps and sat nav will constantly try to reroute you to the fastest interstate option. Resist the temptation. The slower frontage roads, historic alignments, and small-town main streets are where the experience lives.

The beauty of the road is the varied scenery as well as its faded grandeur and sometime eccentric attractions.

Illinois

Your Route 66 journey begins in Chicago, at the official Begin Route 66 Sign located near Adams Street. This sign marks the eastern starting point of the legendary highway and is where many travellers take the obligatory first photograph before beginning their journey west.

Before leaving the city, it is worth spending some time exploring what Chicago has to offer. If you haven’t visited before, this is a great opportunity to tick off the Windy City with a couple of days of sightseeing. Many visitors head up Willis Tower for panoramic views over the skyline before beginning the road trip.

No Route 66 journey would feel complete without breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s, an iconic diner that has welcomed Route 66 travellers since 1923. Known for its hearty breakfasts and old-school hospitality, it has become a traditional starting point for many road trips along the Mother Road.

Leaving Chicago, the urban landscape quickly fades into Midwestern farmland and classic roadside Americana. One of the first retro stops is Polk-A-Dot Drive In, a colourful Route 66 diner famous for its giant statues of pop-culture characters and nostalgic décor.

A short drive further brings you to Wilmington, where one of Route 66’s most recognisable roadside figures stands tall. The Gemini Giant, a classic “Muffler Man” statue holding a rocket, has become one of the most photographed landmarks along the entire highway. This is the first main Muffler Man you will encounter on your journey.

Continuing west, the town of Pontiac is packed with Route 66 attractions and murals. The highlight is the Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame & Museum, which celebrates the history of the highway through memorabilia, vintage cars and exhibits. Nearby stands the Lincoln Covered Wagon, a large sculpture showing a pioneer wagon pulled by oxen.

As you approach Springfield, Route 66 begins to intertwine with the story of Abraham Lincoln, who lived here for many years before becoming U.S. president.

Before diving into the city’s historic landmarks, many travellers stop at Cozy Dog Drive In, which claims to have invented the corn dog (known locally as the “Cozy Dog”). The restaurant is filled with Route 66 memorabilia and is one of the most famous roadside eateries on the route.

Springfield is also home to several classic roadside statues including two more Muffler Men. The Lauterbach Man stands outside the historic Lauterbach Tire & Auto Service, while the towering Spartan Statue stands proudly at Southeast High School.

Springfield itself is packed with Lincoln history. Visitors can explore the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, walk through the preserved Lincoln Home National Historic Site, and visit the Lincoln Tomb where Lincoln is buried. The city also features both the historic Old State Capitol State Historic Site and the current Illinois State Capitol, where Lincoln once delivered his famous “House Divided” speech.

Just outside the city sits the Illinois State Fairgrounds, which celebrates Illinois heritage and has Route 66 themed display in its grounds.

Continuing west along the Mother Road brings you to Staunton, home to the quirky Henry’s Rabbit Ranch. This unique roadside attraction celebrates the Volkswagen Rabbit car and real rabbits, along with a collection of Route 66 memorabilia and vintage vehicles.

Nearby you’ll find the colourful Pink Elephant Antique Mall, one of the most unusual stops along Illinois Route 66. Inside it is filled floor to ceiling with bric-à-brac. Outside the antique mall are several giant roadside statues, including a huge pink elephant and other playful sculptures that have made it a popular photo stop.

Before leaving Illinois, Route 66 passes through Collinsville, where one of the most famous roadside attractions on the entire highway stands tall — the World’s Largest Catsup (Ketchup) Bottle. Built in 1949 as a water tower for a ketchup bottling plant, the enormous bottle has become a beloved Route 66 icon.

The final Illinois landmark before entering Missouri is the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge, which crosses the Mississippi River. Famous for its unusual 22-degree bend halfway across, the bridge once carried Route 66 traffic into St. Louis and marks the end of the Illinois section of the Mother Road.

Key attractions along Illinois Route 66 include:

Begin Route 66 Sign
Skyline views from Willis Tower
Breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s
Polk-A-Dot Drive In
Gemini Giant in Wilmington
Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac
Lincoln Covered Wagon
Cozy Dog Drive In
Lauterbach Man
Spartan Statue
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Lincoln Tomb
Illinois State Capitol
Old State Capitol State Historic Site
Illinois State Fairgrounds
Henry’s Rabbit Ranch
Pink Elephant Antique Mall
World’s Largest Catsup Bottle in Collinsville
Chain of Rocks Bridge

Missouri

After crossing the Chain of Rocks Bridge over the Mississippi River, Route 66 enters Missouri and the city of St. Louis, one of the largest and most historically significant stops along the entire route.

St. Louis is a great place to stop for a night and explore what the city has to offer. The city is also home to the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery, where the famous Budweiser beer has been brewed for generations. Brewery tours are popular with visitors and offer a look into the history of one of America’s best-known beers.

St. Louis is best known for the towering Gateway Arch, the 630-foot monument symbolising America’s westward expansion. Many travellers begin their Missouri section with a visit to the arch grounds or a tram ride to the top for sweeping views across the Mississippi River and the city skyline.

Leaving St. Louis, the landscape begins to change as Route 66 enters the rolling hills and forested scenery of the Ozark Mountains. The drive becomes less linear and more atmospheric, with winding roads and small historic towns.

One of the most charming places to stay along this stretch is the historic Rockwood Motor Court, a beautifully restored 1930s motor court that gives travellers a taste of classic Route 66 accommodation.

Continuing southwest brings you to the small town of Fanning, home to one of the most famous roadside photo stops along the entire highway. Outside Fanning 66 Outpost sits the enormous World’s Largest Rocking Chair. Although it once held the official record, it is now technically the second-largest after a larger chair was built in Casey. Regardless, it remains a popular stop for photos and Route 66 souvenirs.

Further along the route you reach Cuba, often referred to as “Route 66 Mural City.” The town features a large collection of murals celebrating local history and the Mother Road, making it a pleasant place for a short walk and photo stop.

Continuing west brings you to Lebanon, home to one of the most famous vintage motels on Route 66 — the neon-lit Munger Moss Motel. Operating since the 1940s, the motel is beloved by Route 66 travellers and still retains much of its original charm.

A short drive further is one of the most unusual attractions on the Missouri stretch of Route 66 — Uranus Fudge Factory. Known for its tongue-in-cheek humour and over-the-top roadside signage, it has become a memorable and slightly bizarre stop along the route. Nearby you’ll also find the Uranus Sideshow Museum, which houses a collection of oddities and classic sideshow exhibits.

Not far from here lies Devil’s Elbow, a small historic settlement named after the sharp bend in the Big Piney River. The narrow Devil’s Elbow Bridge, built in 1923, is one of the most scenic and atmospheric crossings along the Missouri section of the route.

Continuing toward the southwest corner of the state you eventually reach Springfield (yes, another Springfield — one of the most common place names in America). The city is widely recognised as the birthplace of Route 66, as it was here in 1926 that officials first proposed the name for the highway connecting Chicago to Los Angeles.

Springfield features several Route 66 attractions, including the Route 66 Car Museum, which houses a large collection of classic vehicles and memorabilia celebrating American motoring history.

A short drive west brings you to Marshfield, home to a quirky roadside landmark — a large Hubble Space Telescope Replica that celebrates local connections to the scientist Edwin Hubble.

Just outside Springfield sits one of the most beloved roadside stops on the entire route — Gary’s Gay Parita. This lovingly restored vintage gas station and garage has become a favourite gathering place for Route 66 travellers thanks to its friendly atmosphere and collection of classic memorabilia.

As Route 66 approaches the Kansas border, the final Missouri stop is the historic mining town of Joplin. Joplin has several Route 66 murals and historic buildings, and it is also home to the nostalgic 66 Drive-In Theatre, one of the few remaining original Route 66 drive-in cinemas where visitors can still watch films under the stars.

Joplin marks the last major Missouri stop before entering Kansas, which contains the shortest stretch of Route 66 in the entire journey.

Key attractions along the Missouri stretch of Route 66 include:

Chain of Rocks Bridge
Gateway Arch – St. Louis
Anheuser-Busch Brewery
Rockwood Motor Court
Fanning 66 Outpost
World’s Largest Rocking Chair
Route 66 murals in Cuba
Munger Moss Motel
Uranus Fudge Factory
Uranus Sideshow Museum
Devil’s Elbow Bridge
Route 66 Car Museum
Hubble Space Telescope Replica
Gary’s Gay Parita
66 Drive-In Theatre
Route 66 murals in Joplin

Kansas

After leaving Joplin, Route 66 quickly crosses into Kansas. Kansas contains the shortest stretch of Route 66 in the entire journey, covering just 13 miles, but despite its small size it is packed with classic roadside attractions and historic stops.

The route immediately enters the small mining town of Galena, which played an important role in the region’s lead and zinc mining boom in the early 20th century. Today the town has embraced its Route 66 heritage with several quirky roadside attractions.

One of the most famous stops is Cars on the Route, a restored vintage Kan-O-Tex service station that now operates as a Route 66 gift shop and café. Outside you’ll find a rusty old tow truck that inspired the character Mater from the Pixar film Cars. The truck has become one of the most photographed stops along the Kansas stretch of Route 66.

Continuing west, Route 66 passes through Riverton, home to the historic Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store. Established in 1925, the store is one of the oldest continuously operating businesses along the entire Route 66 corridor and still sells groceries, souvenirs, and the famous “Route 66 sandwich.”

Just beyond Riverton lies one of the most scenic crossings in Kansas — the historic Rainbow Bridge. Built in 1923, it is the only remaining Marsh arch bridge on the entire Route 66 route and remains a favourite stop for photographers and history enthusiasts.

As Route 66 continues west, travellers soon reach the small town of Baxter Springs, which marks the final stop in the state before entering Oklahoma. Baxter Springs has several Route 66 landmarks, including the Route 66 Visitor Center, located in a restored Phillips 66 gas station. The centre provides information about the history of Route 66 and the local area.

Nearby stands the historic Phillips 66 Service Station, one of the most photographed vintage gas stations along the Kansas section of the highway.

Just outside town, Route 66 passes Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station, another preserved example of the classic roadside architecture that once lined the Mother Road.

From here the highway continues west toward Oklahoma, where the next and much longer stretch of Route 66 begins.

Key attractions along the Kansas stretch of Route 66 include:

Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station
Cars on the Route
Tow truck that inspired Mater from Cars
Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store
Rainbow Bridge
Route 66 Visitor Center
Phillips 66 Service Station

Oklahoma

Crossing into Oklahoma and making the inevitable joke “We’re not in Kansas anymore” (a reference to The Wizard of Oz for the uninitiated), travellers enter one of the most historically rich sections of Route 66. Oklahoma preserves some of the longest continuous stretches of original Route 66, and the character of the road begins to change. The landscape widens, towns grow farther apart, and the journey begins to feel more reflective.

One of the first major stops is Miami, where visitors can explore the beautifully restored Coleman Theatre. Opened in 1929, this Spanish Colonial-style theatre once hosted vaudeville performances and remains one of the most ornate historic venues along the route.

Continuing west brings you to Tulsa. Just outside the city lies one of the most famous roadside attractions on the entire highway — the cheerful Blue Whale of Catoosa. Originally built in the 1970s as a swimming spot and a gift from a husband to his wife, the giant blue whale has since become one of the most recognisable landmarks along Route 66.

A short distance away is Totem Pole Park, home to the world’s largest concrete totem pole and a collection of colourful folk-art structures created by artist Ed Galloway.

Entering Tulsa you pass the beautifully restored Route 66 Fire Station No. 1, an Art Deco building that once served the city’s fire department and remains one of the most distinctive historic structures along Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66. Tulsa was one of the most important cities on Route 66 during its golden age and is often referred to as the “second capital of Route 66.”

Downtown Tulsa is home to the restored Meadow Gold Sign, a classic neon landmark that has become one of the most photographed Route 66 icons in Oklahoma. Nearby is Buck’s on 66, a modern Route 66 themed restaurant and bar celebrating the heritage of the Mother Road.

Continuing west along the highway brings you to Sapulpa, a town that proudly calls itself the “Crossroads of America” due to its historic position where Route 66 intersects with U.S. Route 75. Sapulpa has embraced its Route 66 heritage with several historic buildings and roadside landmarks.

Further west the route approaches Oklahoma City, the state capital and another excellent place to stop overnight. One quirky Route 66 landmark here is the Milk Bottle Grocery, famous for the oversized milk bottle perched on top of the small brick building.

Not far away is one of the most popular modern Route 66 attractions — Pops 66 Soda Ranch, instantly recognisable thanks to its enormous 66-foot soda bottle sculpture outside. Inside, visitors can browse hundreds of soda flavours from around the world.

Just nearby stands the historic Round Barn, an unusual circular wooden barn built in 1898 that has become a well-known Route 66 landmark.

Continuing west across the plains brings you to El Reno, a classic Route 66 town known for its historic downtown and annual Route 66 festival.

Further along the highway lies Hydro, home to Lucille’s Service Station. Lucille Hamons, known as the “Mother of the Mother Road,” ran this station for decades and became famous for helping stranded Route 66 travellers.

The route then continues to Clinton, home to one of the best museums dedicated to the Mother Road — the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum. The museum offers an immersive look at the history of Route 66, from the Dust Bowl years through the golden era of American road trips.

From here the landscape opens into wide plains as the highway continues west before eventually crossing into Texas, marking the end of the Oklahoma section of Route 66.

Key attractions along the Oklahoma stretch of Route 66 include:

Oklahoma Route 66 Museum
Coleman Theatre
Blue Whale of Catoosa
Totem Pole Park
Route 66 Fire Station No. 1
Meadow Gold Sign
Buck’s on 66
Sapulpa – “Crossroads of America” (Route 66 & U.S. Route 75)
Milk Bottle Grocery
Pops 66 Soda Ranch
Round Barn
El Reno
Lucille’s Service Station

Texas

Crossing the state line into Texas, the character of Route 66 changes once again. Oklahoma’s greener hills give way to the vast, open landscapes of the Texas Panhandle, where the road stretches across wide plains beneath enormous skies. The Texas section of Route 66 is surprisingly short — only about 180 miles — but it contains some of the most memorable and quirky landmarks along the entire Mother Road.

The first attraction in the Texas section is Texola. Here stands the tiny Texola Jail, a simple one-room structure that once served as the town’s entire law enforcement facility.

Nearby is the town of Shamrock, home to one of the most photographed buildings on Route 66: the beautifully restored U-Drop Inn. Built in 1936 in striking Art Deco style, the building originally served as a service station, café, and bus terminal for Phillips 66. Today it functions as a visitor centre and museum and stands as one of the best preserved Art Deco gas stations anywhere on Route 66.

Continuing west brings you to McLean, a small town packed with Route 66 history. One of the highlights here is the restored Phillips 66 Service Station, an original 1929 cottage-style station that once fuelled travellers during the golden age of American road trips. McLean is also home to the fascinating Devil’s Rope Museum, which tells the story of barbed wire — once called “the devil’s rope” by ranchers — and also houses an impressive collection of Route 66 memorabilia.

Further along the road lies Groom, a tiny Panhandle town famous for a number of highly visible roadside attractions. One of the most unusual is the Leaning Tower of Texas, a deliberately tilted water tower originally built as a playful marketing stunt for a truck stop.

Nearby stands the towering Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ Ministries, a 190-foot steel cross that dominates the flat prairie landscape and can be seen from miles away along Interstate 40.

Soon the road reaches Amarillo, the largest city along the Texas stretch of Route 66 and a major stopping point for travellers. One of the city’s most distinctive landmarks is the Helium Monument, a large stainless-steel structure commemorating the region’s historic role as the centre of the American helium industry. The monument also functions as a time capsule, scheduled to be opened in 2968.

Many travellers stop at the legendary Big Texan Steak Ranch, famous for its infamous 72-ounce steak challenge. Anyone who can finish the enormous steak — along with shrimp cocktail, baked potato, salad and bread roll — within one hour gets the meal for free.

Another memorable roadside stop near Amarillo is the striking Second Amendment Cowboy, a giant statue of a cowboy holding a rifle — a bold and unmistakable landmark that reflects the region’s frontier identity.

Just west of Amarillo lies perhaps the most famous roadside attraction on Route 66 — the colourful Cadillac Ranch. Installed in 1974 by the avant-garde art collective Ant Farm, the installation features ten classic Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground at the same angle as the tailfins of a Cadillac Eldorado. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their own mark on the ever-changing artwork.

Leaving Amarillo behind, Route 66 continues west across some of the emptiest stretches of highway on the entire route. Eventually the road reaches Adrian, which proudly marks the midpoint of Route 66 — exactly 1,139 miles from both Chicago and Los Angeles. Here you’ll find the classic roadside diner MidPoint Cafe, where travellers stop for pie and photos beneath the famous midpoint sign.

The final stop on the Texas stretch leg is Glenrio, a fascinating ghost town that straddles the Texas–New Mexico border. Empty motels, gas stations and diners stand as reminders of the bustling traffic that once passed through before the interstate bypassed the town.

Key attractions along the Texas stretch of Route 66 include:

Texola Jail
U-Drop Inn (Art Deco gas station)
Phillips 66 Service Station
Devil’s Rope Museum
Leaning Tower of Texas
Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ Ministries
Big Texan Steak Ranch
Helium Monument
Cadillac Ranch
Second Amendment Cowboy
MidPoint Cafe
Glenrio ghost town

New Mexico

Crossing the border from Texas into New Mexico, Route 66 enters one of its most culturally distinctive stretches. The landscape shifts dramatically from the flat plains of the Texas Panhandle to the red deserts, mesas, and wide-open skies of the American Southwest. Here the Mother Road begins to reflect the strong influences of Native American, Hispanic, and frontier history that define the region.

Continuing west across the desert brings you to Tucumcari, one of the most iconic Route 66 towns in the entire state. The town is famous for its collection of vintage neon motel signs and beautifully preserved roadside architecture. Perhaps the most beloved stop is the historic Blue Swallow Motel, a 1940s motor court that still welcomes travellers today. Its glowing neon sign and classic garages beside each room make it one of the most photographed stops along the entire highway.

A short drive west brings travellers to Santa Rosa, where one of the region’s most surprising natural attractions lies just off Route 66: the Blue Hole. This deep, crystal-clear natural pool is popular with swimmers and scuba divers thanks to its remarkably clear water and constant temperature.

Further west the route approaches Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico and one of the most important urban centres along Route 66. The city preserves an impressive amount of historic Route 66 architecture along Central Avenue, which once carried the highway directly through town. One of the most famous buildings here is the beautifully restored KiMo Theatre, an extraordinary example of Pueblo Deco architecture that blends Art Deco design with Native American motifs.

Just outside the city lies Petroglyph National Monument, one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America. Thousands of ancient rock carvings created by Native American and Spanish settlers are etched into volcanic rock along the escarpment, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s early cultural history.

From Albuquerque, travellers can make a worthwhile detour north to Santa Fe, the oldest state capital in the United States. Founded in 1610, the city is home to historic landmarks such as San Miguel Chapel, widely regarded as the oldest church in the United States, and De Vargas Street House, often referred to as the oldest house in the country. Visitors can also explore the distinctive circular New Mexico State Capitol, the only round state capitol building in the United States, which houses a remarkable collection of New Mexican art.

A little further north from Santa Fe lies another fascinating detour: Los Alamos, the secretive town created during the Manhattan Project. It was here that scientists developed the world’s first atomic bombs during World War II. Today visitors can learn about this pivotal moment in history at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and the nearby Bradbury Science Museum, which explains the science and history behind the project.

Leaving Albuquerque, the route continues west through rugged high-desert landscapes toward Grants, a town that once thrived on uranium mining. Nearby lies the dramatic volcanic terrain of El Malpais National Monument, where lava fields, sandstone cliffs, and ancient caves create one of the most unusual landscapes along the route.

Further west, Route 66 climbs toward the Continental Divide, the point where rivers begin flowing either toward the Pacific Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico — a subtle but significant geographic milestone along the journey.

The final major stop in New Mexico is Gallup, often referred to as the “Indian Capital of the World” because of its proximity to numerous Native American reservations. The town has long been a centre for Native American art, jewellery, and culture. One of its most famous historic buildings is the El Rancho Hotel, a grand 1930s hotel that once hosted Hollywood stars filming westerns in the surrounding desert. Photographs of actors such as John Wayne and Humphrey Bogart still line the hotel’s lobby walls.

From Gallup, travellers can also take a memorable detour north to the Four Corners Monument, the only place in the United States where four states meet at a single point. Visitors can stand in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado simultaneously, making it a popular and unusual photo opportunity.

Continuing west from Gallup, Route 66 soon crosses into Arizona, leaving behind the deserts, pueblos, and rich cultural heritage of New Mexico.

Key attractions along the New Mexico stretch of Route 66 include:

Blue Swallow Motel
Tucumcari historic neon motel district
Blue Hole
KiMo Theatre
Petroglyph National Monument
Santa Fe detour – oldest U.S. state capital
San Miguel Chapel
De Vargas Street House
New Mexico State Capitol
Los Alamos and Bradbury Science Museum
El Malpais National Monument
Continental Divide crossing
El Rancho Hotel
Four Corners Monument detour

Arizona

Crossing from New Mexico into Arizona, Route 66 enters one of its most visually dramatic stretches. The landscape becomes unmistakably Southwestern — vast desert plains, red rock formations, and distant mountain ranges under enormous open skies. This section of the Mother Road preserves some of the best surviving fragments of the original highway and many of the classic roadside towns that defined the golden age of American road travel.

One of the first highlights is the extraordinary landscape of Painted Desert, where layers of colourful sediment create rolling hills of red, purple, and ochre. Nearby lies Petrified Forest National Park, the only national park that contains a section of the original Route 66 alignment. Here enormous fossilised trees dating back more than 200 million years lie scattered across the desert floor.

Further along the road is Holbrook, a town that feels like a living time capsule of mid-century Route 66 culture. Its most famous landmark is the quirky Wigwam Motel, where guests sleep inside concrete teepee-shaped rooms surrounded by vintage cars. The motel is one of the best-preserved examples of the themed roadside architecture that once flourished along the highway.

Continuing west brings travellers to Winslow, a small town that became famous through music. The corner of Standin’ on the Corner Park commemorates the lyric from the Eagles song Take It Easy, drawing visitors who stop to take photos beside the bronze statue of a musician and the muralled backdrop. A couple of minutes walk from Standin’ on the Corner Park is The World Smallest Church, a pint-sized place of worship measuring just 7 feet by 4.5 feet next to 2 tiny benches and an altar

Not far from Winslow sits the beautifully preserved La Posada Hotel, one of the last great railway hotels built during the golden age of American train travel. Designed by architect Mary Colter in 1930, it has been carefully restored and now offers visitors a glimpse of the elegance once associated with travel across the Southwest.

Further west, Route 66 climbs into the cool pine forests surrounding Flagstaff, one of the highest cities along the entire route. Historic buildings, classic diners, and vintage neon signs still line parts of the old highway through town. Nearby lies the dramatic landscape of Meteor Crater, one of the best-preserved meteorite impact sites on Earth.

From Flagstaff, travellers can make one of the most worthwhile detours of the entire journey to the Grand Canyon. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the canyon stretches for hundreds of miles and remains one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world. Visiting by car allows travellers to explore different viewpoints along the South Rim at their own pace.

Returning to Route 66, the road continues west through the rugged mountains toward Kingman, a historic transportation hub where the highway once intersected with major rail and road routes across the region. Just before entering Kingsman sits one of the most beloved roadside stops along the entire route: the Hackberry General Store. Packed with vintage signs, classic cars, and Route 66 memorabilia, the store feels like a living museum of the road’s golden age.

Kingman is also the point many drivers chose to take a detour north to Las Vegas and the remarkable Hoover Dam, one of the greatest engineering achievements of the 20th century. Alternatively, travellers can continue along the historic Route 66 alignment toward the small town of Oatman, where wild burros wander the wooden sidewalks of a former gold-mining settlement.

Beyond the mountains, Route 66 approaches the Colorado River and soon crosses into California, marking the beginning of the final stage of the legendary journey.

Key attractions along the Arizona stretch of Route 66 include:

Wigwam Motel
Petrified Forest National Park
Standin’ on the Corner Park
La Posada Hotel
Meteor Crater
Grand Canyon detour
Historic Route 66 through Flagstaff
Hackberry General Store
Hoover Dam detour
Oatman mining town

California

Crossing the Colorado River into California marks the final stretch of Route 66 and one of the most evocative parts of the entire journey. The road enters the vast emptiness of the Mojave Desert, where long straight highways stretch toward distant mountains and the sense of isolation feels almost cinematic.

The first major stop after entering the state is Needles, a desert town that once served as an important railway and highway stop for travellers heading west. Temperatures here can be among the hottest in the United States during summer, making early morning drives across the desert especially appealing.

Continuing west brings travellers deep into the Mojave Desert, where long abandoned stretches of the original highway still survive. One of the most memorable stops along this section is Amboy, home to the beautifully restored Roy’s Motel and Cafe. Its towering retro neon sign has become one of the most photographed landmarks on Route 66 and a symbol of the road’s mid-century heyday.

Nearby lies the striking volcanic cone of Amboy Crater, a dormant cinder cone that rises dramatically from the desert floor and offers a short hiking trail to the rim.

Further west the route approaches Barstow, a historic railroad town that now hosts the Route 66 Mother Road Museum, where visitors can explore the story of the highway and the communities that grew up along it.

Beyond Barstow, Route 66 gradually leaves the open desert behind and begins its descent toward the sprawling urban landscape of Southern California. At this point the road brings travellers to the eccentric outdoor sculpture garden of Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch. Hundreds of metal “trees” decorated with colourful glass bottles line the desert landscape, creating one of the most unusual and photogenic art installations anywhere along the route.

The road then passes through a series of towns including San Bernardino, where one of the earliest McDonald’s restaurants once stood, marking the birthplace of a brand that would eventually spread around the world.

From here the highway continues west through the vast metropolitan area of Los Angeles. While modern roads now dominate the city, fragments of the historic route still survive along boulevards that once carried generations of travellers toward the Pacific Ocean.

Finally, Route 66 reaches its traditional endpoint at the Santa Monica Pier. Standing beneath the famous “End of the Trail” sign, with the Pacific Ocean stretching out beyond the pier, travellers reach the symbolic conclusion of a journey that has crossed eight states and nearly the entire width of the United States.

For many, dipping a hand in the ocean or watching the sunset over the water becomes the perfect closing moment to one of the world’s most legendary road trips.

Key attractions along the California stretch of Route 66 include:

Needles desert gateway
Mojave Desert historic highway
Roy’s Motel and Cafe
Amboy Crater
Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch
Route 66 Mother Road Museum
Historic McDonald’s site in San Bernardino
Los Angeles Route 66 boulevards
Santa Monica Pier – official Route 66 end point

Suggested Detours Worth Adding

Route 66 rewards travellers who are willing to venture slightly off the main road. A few well-chosen detours allow you to see places that many other road trips simply don’t reach. If you have the time, adding one or two of these stops can make the journey even more memorable.

Some of these locations are mentioned elsewhere in this guide, but they are grouped here to make planning easier.

Santa Fe and Los Alamos

A rewarding diversion from Route 66 leads to Santa Fe, a city that feels very different from much of the American Southwest. Established in 1610, it holds the distinction of being the oldest state capital in the United States. The city is known for its distinctive adobe architecture, thriving arts scene, and centuries-old heritage shaped by Spanish and Native American cultures.

Several historic sites highlight this long history. San Miguel Chapel is widely considered the oldest church in the United States, while the nearby De Vargas Street House is often described as the country’s oldest surviving home. Another notable landmark is the New Mexico State Capitol, unusual for its circular design and home to an extensive collection of New Mexican artwork displayed throughout the building.

Continuing north brings you to Los Alamos, a town with a very different kind of historical significance. Established in secrecy during World War II as part of the Manhattan Project, it was here that scientists worked to develop the first atomic weapons. Today, museums and historical exhibits provide insight into the scientific breakthroughs and the profound global consequences of the work carried out there.

Four Corners Monument and Monument Valley

From Gallup, a longer detour takes you to the Four Corners Monument, the only point in the United States where four states meet: Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado. It’s admittedly a little gimmicky — many people visit mainly for the photo opportunity — but it remains a unique geographical landmark.

Pairing this stop with Monument Valley makes the detour far more rewarding. The vast desert landscape, with its towering sandstone buttes, is instantly recognisable from countless Western films and photographs. It can get busy, especially at the main viewpoints, but the scenery is among the most iconic in the American Southwest.

Las Vegas and Grand Canyon

A short diversion from Kingman leads to Las Vegas, offering a dramatic contrast to the quiet stretches of Route 66. The neon lights, enormous resorts, and constant energy of the Las Vegas Strip create a spectacle unlike anywhere else. Many travellers visit Las Vegas as a standalone destination, but adding one or two nights during a Route 66 trip can be a great way to experience it without dedicating an entire holiday. Walking the Strip during both the day and night, visiting a few of the famous casinos, seeing a show, or simply people-watching can be enough to capture the atmosphere.

Not far away lies the Grand Canyon, one of the great natural wonders of the world. Visiting as part of a road trip allows you to explore at your own pace and stop at different viewpoints along the rim. Accommodation inside the national park is available but often expensive and relatively simple; many travellers choose to stay just outside the park boundaries where options are more plentiful.

Nearby is the Hoover Dam, an extraordinary engineering achievement built during the Great Depression. Visitors can take guided tours inside the dam, explore the visitor centre and museum, or simply stop to walk across and admire the immense scale of the structure and the views over the Colorado River and Lake Mead.

Lake Havasu

Another unusual stop is Lake Havasu City, home to the original London Bridge. The historic bridge was purchased from London in the 1960s, carefully dismantled, shipped to Arizona, and reconstructed stone by stone. Today it spans a channel on Lake Havasu and has become one of the more curious landmarks along the broader Route 66 region.

Practical Advice That Makes the Difference

Navigation

Navigation apps will constantly suggest faster interstate routes. Avoid them unless necessary. To stay on the historic alignment of Route 66, manually set small-town waypoints along the way. This keeps you on the original road rather than being pulled onto modern highways.

Fuel

Fuel prices vary significantly by state. Texas and Oklahoma are often among the cheapest, while California tends to be far more expensive. In the deserts of Arizona and California, refill before your tank drops below half. Petrol itself isn’t particularly expensive in the U.S., but the long distances, larger cars and frequent use of air conditioning can add up if you’re travelling on a budget. Google Maps is useful for checking nearby fuel prices — simply search “fuel” or tap the fuel icon to see stations and their current prices.

Food and Drink

Always carry water, particularly during the summer months. Rural diners and cafés often close earlier than you might expect, so plan lunch stops with a little foresight. In smaller towns, late-night food options can be limited, so don’t assume you’ll easily find somewhere open.

Stock up on road-trip snacks. One of the advantages of travelling by car is that you can load up on supplies early in the journey. Buying a multipack case of soft drinks, for example, and keeping it in the boot means you’ll always have something cold to grab during long stretches of driving — particularly useful when you need a caffeine boost on the road.

Phone Signal and Music

Radio and mobile signal can be unreliable in remote areas. If you use Spotify, Apple Music, or similar apps, download playlists in advance rather than relying on streaming. Most American rental cars now support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, so you can easily connect your phone via Bluetooth or USB.

Distances and Drivers

Aim for around 150–250 miles of driving per day. This allows plenty of time for the spontaneous moments that make Route 66 so memorable — abandoned motels, roadside diners, quirky attractions, and unexpected viewpoints that you might otherwise rush past if trying to cover too much ground.

It can also be worth adding an additional driver to your rental agreement so you can share the driving on longer stretches. Swapping drivers helps reduce fatigue and allows each person to relax and enjoy more of the journey.

Always compare rental costs carefully, as fees for extra drivers can vary between companies. One useful tip is that if you are renting through Avis, instead of booking via Avis directly book through British Airways (double check there isn’t a pricing difference however there usually isn’t) as this will get you a second driver at no additional cost, which can make a noticeable difference to the overall price.

Why Route 66 Endures

Few journeys capture the spirit of America quite like Route 66. Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, the historic highway reflects the optimism of post-war America, the hardship of Dust Bowl migration, and the golden age of the American road trip.

Its appeal lies not only in its famous landmarks, but in the atmosphere of the road itself: long desert highways, vintage motels glowing with neon at dusk, and the steady hum of tyres rolling over old concrete. Travelling Route 66 isn’t just about the destinations — it’s about experiencing the vastness of the country at ground level.

Part nostalgic time capsule, part living slice of Americana, Route 66 remains the ultimate iconic road trip. Despite its legendary status, it’s surprisingly easy to organise, even for travellers who aren’t used to road-trip holidays.

For anyone with a sense of adventure, driving Route 66 is a journey that deserves a place on every travel bucket list.