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Route 66 is more than just a highway — it’s a journey through time, filled with nostalgia, adventure, and the spirit of the open road. Lovingly known as “The Mother Road,” this legendary highway welcomed weary travelers searching for a better life and fueled the dreams of explorers for decades. The businesses that popped up across it created an atmosphere that can only be described as “Classic Americana.” 

If you’re craving the irresistible, lawless nature of the open road, a Route 66 Road Trip is calling your name. And if you get hungry along the way, our 2026 Road Atlas features a Route 66 Roadside Eats itinerary, so you’ll know the best places to fill up. We provide our top, must-see attractions along the Main Street of America, from kitschy roadside stops to historic landmarks and hidden gems. So buckle up — it’s time to get your kicks on Route 66!

A Brief History of Route 66

In 1926, the Bureau of Public Roads established the Federal highway system, and Route 66 became one of its first highways. Stretching from Chicago, IL, in the East to Santa Monica, CA, in the West, it’s only appropriate that folks call it the “Main Street of America.” And for nearly 60 years, that main street served as an important avenue for tourism, business and migration. During the Great Depression, more than 200,000 people traveled west on Route 66, in search of something more. Route 66 also provided a vital path for Black travelers seeking refuge from segregation during the Great Migration.

 

The businesses that emerged to serve travelers across the USA on Route 66 ranged from neon-lit drive-thrus and diners to mom-and-pop motels and quirky roadside attractions. For nearly 60 years, Route 66 was the robust artery of America, representing freedom, entrepreneurialism and adventure. However, the expansion of the interstate led to Route 66’s decommission in 1985.

 

• 1926: Route 66 was established
• 1938: Route 66 became the first fully paved U.S. highway
• 1929 thru 1941: The Great Depression attracted families migrating west on the route
• 1929 thru 1970: The route served as a path to freedom during the Great Migration
• 1950s thru 1960s: The height of the route’s popularity
• 1985: Route 66 was decommissioned following the expansion of the interstate

 

Thanks to several preservation programs, some historic sites remain on Route 66. Today, curious travelers can visit remnants of the Mother Road and indulge in a bit of nostalgia.

100th Anniversary of Route 66

With Route 66’s 100th birthday approaching, now is the perfect time to pay homage to America’s Main Street — and what better way than with a road trip? Passing through eight states, each boasting unique natural landscapes and historic landmarks, Route 66 is the ideal way to take a reflective glimpse into the yesteryears of the U.S. Both major cities and small towns across the route are buzzing with plans to celebrate the centennial. Follow the Route 66 Centennial Commission for event updates.

 

The 8 States You’ll Explore on Your RT 66 Road Trip

Route 66 spans eight states, each serving a unique slice of American culture. From the pastoral charm of Missouri to the architectural allure of Chicago and the sunny shores of California, the Mother Road will take you through busy cities and serene small towns, leaving you in awe of this great country’s diversity. Our Route 66 travel guide covers points of interest across all eight states.

Illinois

Kick things off in Chicago, the official starting point of Route 66 (you can find a sign honoring the landmark at 122 S. Michigan Avenue). Take in the breathtaking architecture in the city deemed “The birthplace of Skyscrapers.” Enjoy a stroll on the Chicago Riverwalk or catch a baseball game at Wrigley Field. 

Missouri

Missouri will mesmerize you with its scenic prairies, bluffs, mountains and rivers. Stop by the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, a monument commemorating the city’s role in westward expansion. 

Also, be sure to visit Springfield to trace the origin of Route 66’s name — a telegram out of the city in 1926 solidified the road’s title.

 

Kansas

Enjoy rural appeal in Kansas, with its uplifting sunflower fields and impressive Monument Rocks — limestone formations that can reach high into the sky. Drive through Galena, the oldest mining town in Southeast Kansas. Shop at Nelson’s Old Riverton Store in Riverton, one of the longest-standing Route 66 vendors still in business.

Oklahoma

As the epicenter of migration during the Dust Bowl era, Oklahoma still houses relics from a devastating time in American history. Clinton is where you can experience strong cowboy culture and visit the Route 66 Museum, home to authentic artifacts and videos from the busiest days on the Mother Road. If you explore our Oklahoma road atlas, you’ll see that Route 66 closely follows I-40 in Oklahoma, so you can trace the highway that replaced the iconic Mother Road.

Texas

Stretching across 178 miles through the Texas Panhandle, Route 66 takes you through fascinating and historic towns in the Lone Star State. Don’t miss a photo opp in front of the Leaning Water Tower in Groom. Visit Amarillo, where you can dine on a 72-ounce steak at the Big Texan Steak Ranch before admiring the sand-planted cars at Cadillac Ranch. 

New Mexico

With vast desert plains set against the backdrop of dramatic mountain ranges, New Mexico’s landscapes are nothing short of entrancing. Experience authentic 1950s style at the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, which has been welcoming tired travelers since 1940. Take a dip at Blue Hole in Santa Rosa, a natural swimming pool once frequented by Route 66 nomads and be sure to explore the remains of Route 66 businesses in the Historic Old Town of Albuquerque.

Arizona

With high- and low-elevation deserts and the iconic Grand Canyon, Arizona’s landscapes will demand your attention. Get lost in the Petrified Forest, where colorful badlands and prehistoric fossils will transport you to another world. Stand in wonder of Meteor Crater, a pristinely preserved meteorite impact site in Winslow. Enjoy a root beer float at Mr. D’s Route 66 Diner in Kingman. 

California

Complete your trip in sunny California. Wind your way through the picturesque, grass-lined streets of suburban Pasadena before gazing at the glitz and glamour of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Make your way to the bustling Santa Monica Pier, where you’ll find street vendors, rides and the official end point of Route 66. A glimpse at our California atlas will show you that the Golden State also has an interstate that closely parallels what once was Route 66 in its I-10. 

 

Best Time to Travel Route 66

Because Route 66 covers eight states and various climates, there is no one-size-fits-all time to take the trip. Each stretch is magical for different reasons during different seasons. However, here are some things to consider when planning your trip.

 

• Spring (March to May): Spring will bring weather just warm enough for outdoor excursions without oppressive heat. Plus, you’ll capture wildflower blooms in full swing while avoiding summer crowds. 
• Fall (September to November): Fall is when you can expect few tourists across Route 66, giving you a little more room to stretch out and explore major landmarks. Several of our must-see stops also come to life with fall foliage.
• Summer (June to August): You can catch county fairs and bustling street markets in the summer. However, you’ll also face high temperatures, making it important to stay hydrated and in the shade — especially in desert landscapes like Arizona and New Mexico.
• Winter (December to February): If you want to experience the solitude that many Route 66 travelers felt during its heyday, visit in the winter. You’ll enjoy low crowds at major sites and lower prices at hotels and motels. Just keep in mind that the roads can get icy on some stretches, including in Illinois and Missouri.

 

Whether you experience snow-capped or sun-scorched structures, Route 66 will steal your heart year-round.

Choosing Your Route 66 Direction: East to West vs. West to East

Which way will you head on Route 66: east to west or west to east? Each route offers a different perspective.

• East to West: Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica will allow you to experience Route 66 the way hundreds of thousands of travelers did during the Great Depression. You’ll leave the Windy City in the rearview mirror in pursuit of the warm California Coast and visions of a brighter future. 

• West to East: Kicking things off at the end of Route 66, on the Santa Monica pier, lets you experience the iconic American road in reverse. You’ll watch sandy shores and desert landscapes turn into dramatic mountain ranges and bustling cityscapes. 

No matter which direction you choose, you’ll hear the echoes of travelers who came before you, feeling the same glimmers of promise and adventure that drew drifters and dreamers to the famous road for decades.

How Long Does it Take to Drive Route 66?

Consider setting aside at least two weeks for this legendary American road trip. Route 66 is just over 2,400 miles long, so giving yourself 14 days allows you to cover roughly 170 miles per day. Of course, certain parts — especially in the desert landscapes — see longer stretches without turn-offs than others. Still, 14 days gives you a chance to stop at a handful of towns in each state and explore Route 66 at a leisurely pace. 

10 Essential Stops on Your Highway 66 Road Trip

From historic landmarks and offbeat attractions to natural wonders and cultural monuments, Route 66 is packed with spots you’ll want to pull over for. Our list offers a blend of places that are educational, inspiring and sentimental. So get ready to flip through the storybook of America’s Main Street. When you need a bite, we’ve also got you covered with the best food destinations on Route 66. 

1. The Gateway Arch (St. Louis, Missouri)

Visit America’s tallest monument — the Gateway Arch. This 630-foot arch made of stainless steel was built in 1935 to honor Thomas Jefferson’s dream of connecting the U.S. coast to coast — a fitting monument for a highway that did just that. See the surrounding city from the arch’s point of view by taking the tram to the top and enjoy interactive exhibits before you board. You can even be transported to 1850s St. Louis via a 3D headset at the Virtual Reality Theater.

2. The Blue Whale (Catoosa, Oklahoma)

This is one of those whimsical icons for which Route 66 is so famous. Zoologist Hugh S. Davis originally built the whale in the early 1970s, intending for his family to enjoy it with the neighboring pond. However, as time passed, the whale became a popular place where Route 66 travelers would pull over to take a plunge. Davis leaned into its public use, adding picnic tables and even sand for a soft beach area. Following Davis’ death, the whale faded into neglect. However, thanks to a Catoosa-funded restoration project, the Blue Whale has been revived to its former glory.

3. Route 66 Museum (Clinton, Oklahoma)

Take a walk through Route 66’s history, from its inception to its decommissioning, at the Route 66 Museum. Thoughtfully organized by the decade, the galleries provide an intimate look at what life was like on the highway during its peak years. Each room welcomes you in with a soundtrack featuring songs reminiscent of the time, like Bobby Troup’s “(Get Your Kicks) On Route 66” and Johnny Cash’s “I’ve Been Everywhere.” Encounter artifacts from the forgotten eras, like polaroid cameras, a hippie van, an old-time filling station and even a 1950s diner replica. 

4. Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas)

Anarchy, art and automobile culture collide at this peculiar art installation consisting of 10 Cadillacs, buried nose down in a pasture. Texas panhandle oil heir Stanley Marsh commissioned the installation from San Francisco-based artist group “Ant Farm” in 1974. Endearingly nicknamed “The Hood Ornament of Route 66,” Cadillac Ranch is one of America’s most photographed highway attractions — Bruce Springsteen even named a song after the site.

5. Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)

Explore a real-life “land before time” at the Petrified Forest National Park, the only national park that houses a portion of Route 66. The destination gets its name from its petrified wood, a type of fossil that forms when minerals overtake the organic material inside of a tree. Stop by the Rainbow Forest Museum and Visitor Center where you can learn about the park’s history and explore paleontological exhibits. Then, get up close to fossils on the Crystal Forest Trail, a 0.75-mile paved trail containing ancient fossils and petrified logs. Have extra time to hike? Our National Park Guide lists all the best trails in America’s 63 national parks.

6. The Painted Desert (Arizona)

Once you’re in the Petrified National Forest, you can visit the Painted Desert within it. The desert is known for its colorful badlands — distinct geological formations eroded by wind and water over time to expose vibrant clay-rich soil. The breathtaking palette is mesmerizing, consisting of reds, oranges, purples and yellows, reminding us of ancient volcanic activity in the area. Stop by the Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark to discover recent human history in the region. Snap a picture at the Route 66 Alignment, where a 1932 Studebaker is permanently parked to signal where Route 66 once cut through the park.

7. The Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, Arizona)

The Wigwam Motel (aka Wigwam Village #6) was built in 1950 and served as a much-needed refuge for travelers during The Mother Road’s golden era. Those familiar with Native American dwellings will note that the motel is inaccurately named, as the rooms are inside teepees, not wigwams. Titling issues aside, travelers can still book a stay at this historic property. The rooms contain the original hand-made hickory furniture and each one is 21 feet wide by 28 feet tall. Vintage vehicles permanently placed around the property add to the nostalgic charm — as does an on-site museum containing Route 66 memorabilia.

8. Meteor Crater (Winslow, Arizona)

An estimated 50,000 years ago, a meteor hit what we now call Winslow, AZ, leaving a massive impact site that’s been miraculously preserved. Today, you can visit the site, i.e. Meteor Crater, taking in its sweeping views from the 360-degree observation decks. Pop into the Interactive Discovery Center to learn more about meteor science and history through interactive exhibits. Or, check out a real Apollo 11 space capsule, left over from NASA astronaut training that once took place at the site.

9. The Mother Road (Various Locations)

Part of the fun of traveling Route 66 is that it is what you make of it. And while the Mother Road as we once knew it might be gone, a diverse collection of remnants is still there, reminding us of the highway’s prime time. 

• Ambler’s Texaco Gas Station. Situated at the intersection of the defunct Route 66 and Illinois Route 17, this is the longest-operating gas station on the road. First opening in 1933, the station was a hotspot for travelers looking to fuel up and has since been restored to its vintage glory, now doubling as a Route 66 Visitor’s center.

• Hotel El Rancho. This historic hotel in Gallup, NM was used as a basecamp for major movie productions in the 1940s through 1960s. The likes of Rita Hayworth, Kirk Douglas and John Wayne have stayed at the property.

• Elmery’s Bottle Tree Ranch. Explore a forest of tree-shaped sculptures crafted from glass bottles and vintage items at this funky attraction. Even though it was built after the decommissioning of Route 66, the ranch emanates the free-spirited nature of America’s Main Street and is a popular stopping point for road trippers. 

• Red’s Giant Hamburger. Your gas tank isn’t the only thing that needs fuel. Fill up your stomachs at Red’s Giant Hamburger, America’s first drive-thru restaurant. Located in Springfield, MO, the welcoming establishment has been nourishing hungry travelers since 1947 with its (you guessed it) giant hamburgers. 

• Rock Cafe on Route 66. Visit this vintage diner in Stroud, OK, constructed from rocks excavated during the paving of Route 66. Fun film fact: the owner inspired the character Sally Carerra in the Pixar movie “Cars.”.

We only covered a handful of the hundreds of noteworthy Route 66 road trip stops. We encourage you to see what draws you in just off the highway — similarly to what its original explorers would’ve done.

10. Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, California)

With dramatic mountain ranges and mystical deserts in the rearview, you finish your journey at the Santa Monica Pier, the official end of your drive on Route 66. Enjoy classic carnival rides and deep-fried food on the pier. Or, walk just up the hill to the Third Street Promenade, a world-class pedestrian-only shopping plaza that comes to life with street performers and vendors. Cross the bridge down to the beach, dip your toes in the ocean and reflect on all you saw on the Mother Road

 

Amazing Side Trips to Enhance Your Route 66 Driving Tour 

The adventure doesn’t have to end with Route 66. Just off the Mother Road, you’ll find exciting side trips that are well worth the detour. From additional majestic national parks to bustling cities and serene desert hideaways, there’s much to explore around Route 66. Below are popular excursions. However, if you want to discover more, open up our up-to-date Road Atlas & National Park Guide — the mileage chart shows distances between major American cities so you can decide which destinations align with your travel timeline.

Grand Canyon National Park 

The Grand Canyon can be easily accessed from two Arizona cities. It’s 59 miles from Williams and 79 miles from Flagstaff and undeniably a bucket list destination. Spanning 277 miles long and 18 miles wide, the Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic American natural landscapes. If you only spend a day or two here, don’t skip Mather Point, the perfect place for panoramic views of the canyon, or Yavapai Point, which offers views of the canyon and the Colorado River. Pop into the Yavapai Geology Museum to learn about the Grand Canyon’s history and geology. Hike to the Desert View Watchtower for even more expansive canyon views, accompanied by a look into local Native American History. 

Joshua Tree National Park 

Just 90 miles from Barstow, CA is Joshua Tree National Park, a place filled with mysticism and wonder. Its namesake trees twisting towards the pink and orange desert night sky make for a stunning photograph. Weave your way through the hundreds of miles of hiking trails, visiting unique formations like the Arch Rock, or Hidden Valley where you can watch rock climbers scale huge boulders. Set up camp at one of the nine campgrounds and look up at the famously dark skies for world-class stargazing. Don’t leave the area without a visit to Pioneertown, a funky nearby town with old-west vibes.

Las Vegas

As a long-time sanctuary for misfits, dreamers and anyone looking for a fresh start, Las Vegas and Route 66 are a natural pairing for a road trip. And with the City of Sin just 110 miles from Needles, CA and 107 miles from Kingman, AZ, there’s no reason not to swing by. Go people-watching on Las Vegas Blvd. Catch the Fountains of Bellagio show. Try your luck at a Craps table. See the city from up above at the STRAT, with observation decks on the 108th and 109th floors. Catch a comedy, magic, music or circus show at the MGM Grand. Feed your curiosity about organized crime at the Mob Museum, complete with a password-required speakeasy bar.

Monument Valley

A mere 171 miles from Flagstaff, AZ and 179 miles from Gallup, NM is Monument Valley, a mecca for mesmerizing rock formations, including sandstone mesas and towering buttes. The Navajo Nation considers the area sacred, and when you stand beneath a 1,000-foot sandstone butte, you might feel that you’re in the presence of something ethereal. To see several of the most popular monuments in a short time, take the 17-mile scenic loop drive — it boasts several pull-off points for taking pictures. Don’t leave without a visit to Forest Gump Point, the setting for the iconic scene in the film of the same name when Forest decides to stop running. 

Lake Havasu

Kick back and cool off in Lake Havasu, the official “Personal Watercraft Capital of the World.” Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on a pontoon boat or an exhilarating one on a speed boat, this youthful city, just 48 miles from Needles, CA, makes it easy to rent water vessels of your choosing along its friendly shores. Quench your thirst at one of the waterfront breweries and wineries, like Mudshark, a solar-powered brewery serving up unique rotating drafts. Grab a bite at one of the many boat-in dining restaurants. Don’t forget to take a photo on or in front of the real London Bridge, which was relocated from the UK to Lake Havasu in 1968.

Sedona

Enjoy the therapeutic atmosphere of Sedona, AZ, an eclectic arts community just 30 miles from Flagstaff. The area is known for its vibrant red rock formations, which you can see up close via the abundance of hiking trails. Visit Slide Rock State Park for the unique experience of going down a natural water slide on a river. Hike to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a chapel built directly into the red rock that’s a stunning exhibit of sleek modern architecture set amongst rugged desert terrain. Soak in the creative energy of Sedona at the Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village, filled with galleries and boutiques. Don’t forget to check out one of the vortex sites, believed to contain healing properties.

Branson

Stop by the “Live Music Show Capital of the World” in Branson, MO — just 45 miles from Springfield. With over 50 theaters, this Ozark town will never leave you struggling to find entertainment. The lively 76 Country Boulevard is where you’ll find a cluster of performance venues. Want to pick up vintage treasures? Head to Historic Downtown Branson for flea markets and resale shops. Enjoy panoramic views of Branson at Inspiration Tower, a 230-foot structure overlooking the bustling town.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Discover the “Grand Canyon of Texas” at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, just 30 miles from Amarillo. As the second largest canyon system in the U.S., Palo Duro boasts miles of hiking trails and breathtaking lookout points. For a charming way to experience the canyon, book a guided horse tour through Old West Stables. Their expert guides will take you past many of the park’s most popular geological formations. If you’re lucky enough to visit in the summer, don’t miss “Texas,” the outdoor musical dedicated to the history of the Lone Star state, performed in the canyon’s amphitheater. 

Turquoise Trail

Follow the Turquoise Trail from Albuquerque to Santa Fe for a mix of history, artistry and nature’s splendor. This roughly 50-mile drive across Highway 14 will take you through mining towns like Golden, a former gold rush town, and Cerrillos, a ghost town that’s appeared in many major films. Visit the Casa Grande Trading Post in Cerrillos to buy the blue-green mineral after which the trail is named. You’ll also encounter one of Georgia O’Keeffe’s former homes, Ghost Ranch, in the village of Abiquiu and can tour the dramatic surrounding landscapes that inspired her art. Be sure to ride the Sandia Peak Tramway for panoramic views of Albuquerque and the Rio Grande Valley.

 

Plan Your Road Trip on Route 66 with Rand McNally Maps

Now that you know of all the best stops on America’s Main Street, you’re ready to embrace the spirit of the open road. Whether it’s reflective moments in nature, inspiring historical monuments or offbeat landmarks you’re looking for, Route 66 has it all. To ensure you don’t miss a top site, pack our trusted road atlases and paper maps. Our paper maps contain clearly designated highways, enhanced topography and points of interest. And, in honor of the Mother Road’s 100th birthday, our updated 2026 road atlas boasts an exclusive itinerary covering some of the tastiest and most historic roadside eats on Route 66. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your tastebuds and love of American history. Get your fill of adventure and nostalgia.

US 66 Road Trip FAQs

Are there tolls on Route 66?

No, Route 66 does not have toll roads. Just make sure to stick to the actual route — hopping on nearby highways to save time could send you through tolls.

How many days do you need to see Route 66? 

We recommend allotting 14 days to thoroughly explore Route 66. Some travelers see it in as few as four days, however, that requires skipping most major attractions.

What is the most famous stop on Route 66?

The End of Trail sign for Route 66 on the Santa Monica Pier is arguably the most famous stop on Route 66. With the brightly lit Ferris wheel and the waves crashing behind it, it boasts an iconic setting.

Is Route 66 still a good road trip to take?

Absolutely. Route 66 is a powerful reminder of long-lost eras and historical events that shaped our country. It’s one of the most interesting drives through time you can take in the U.S.