Route 66 Road Trip Planner
What You Need to Know to Plan a Trip on Route 66
Navigate the adventure of a lifetime along America’s most iconic highway with the ultimate Route 66 road trip planner. Often nicknamed the ”Mother Road” and ”Main Street of America,“ Route 66 stretches from Chicago in Illinois to Santa Monica in California, offering a plethora of historic stops and breathtaking scenery, from classic diners and vintage motels to beautiful natural landscapes.
Starting from the planning stages for your trip, a treasure trove of history and culture awaits. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic journey down memory lane or you’d like some thrilling new experiences, Route 66 will deliver a blend of freedom, discoveries, and old-time charm. Embrace the joy and excitement of the open road on Route 66.
1. Where does Route 66 start and end?
From Illinois to California in retro style
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Route 66 officially begins in Chicago, Illinois and ends in Santa Monica, California, traversing several states on the way. You can drive the route in either direction. If you begin in Chicago, look for the ”Begin Route 66” sign on East Adams Street near Michigan Avenue, which is a great spot for a photo opportunity.
When you reach Santa Monica, the ”End of the Trail” sign awaits on the Santa Monica Pier, together with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you drive westward or eastward, take a moment to celebrate your arrival at either end of this iconic road.
Where does Route 66 start and end?
2. How long does it take to drive from start to finish?
Detours and exploration along the way
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Driving Route 66 from start to finish can typically take around two weeks, depending on how many stops you make and your exploration time. If you’d like to make the most of the experience with strolls through historic towns and overnight stops at retro motels, then you might prefer to spend a month or more discovering the iconic route.
U.S. Highway 66 was officially decertified in 1985, but its spirit lives on in sections like the Kansas Route 66 Historic Byway. While you can’t technically drive the entirety of the original Route 66, since parts have been overlaid by freeways, about 85% of the old roadway is still accessible. Follow the historic route almost the whole way from Chicago to Santa Monica.
How long does it take to drive from start to finish?
3. Which mode of transportation should I choose?
All the ways to tour
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You can choose your own adventure when travelling Route 66. For those who like a structured, hassle-free experience, guided bus tours are a great option with expert guides sharing historical facts and fascinating stories. If you’re seeking more comfort and convenience, try an RV or motor home. A home on wheels makes it easier to extend your trip or stay overnight whenever the mood takes you.
A truly classic way to experience Route 66 is by driving your own car or motorcycle. You’ll have the freedom to explore at the pace you want, stopping at attractions whenever you like. Pull into one of the many vintage motels when you need a rest on your journey through the heart of America.
Which mode of transportation should I choose?
4. What’s the best time of year to travel on Route 66?
Seasonal beauty on the road
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The best time of year to travel on Route 66 depends on the places you plan to visit. Winter can be a good time to take to the open road, with fewer crowds and cooler days in the desert areas of the Southwest—be prepared for the chance of snow in more northern regions. The summer months are also a great time to go, with late sunsets allowing for more daylight driving time. It goes without saying refreshment breaks are key in the summer heat.
Spring and fall are always fabulous seasons for a road trip. You’ll encounter fewer crowds and milder weather in most states. Experience the full charm of Route 66 landscapes with spring blooms in April and May, and see the beautiful orange and yellow-leaved trees in autumnal September and October.
What's the best time of year to travel on Route 66?
5. Where to find the most scenic views?
Beautiful scenery and unusual spots
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Route 66 offers plenty of scenic spots for Instagram-worthy photos and unforgettable experiences. In Arizona, the stunning red rocks of Sedona and the towering cliffs of the Grand Canyon provide some of the most breathtaking scenes along the route. The Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, with its brightly painted, half-buried cars, is an iconic stop for colourful snaps.
If you’d like to take a selfie at a quirky roadside attraction, don’t miss the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma. In New Mexico, the scenic landscapes around Albuquerque and Santa Fe offer beautiful desert views. Snap a picture with the coastal backdrop of California’s Santa Monica Pier at the official end of Route 66.
Where to find the most scenic views?
6. Where to stop for a meal?
Roadside diners and hidden gems
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On your journey along Route 66, you’ll find a wide range of places to eat, from classic diners and roadside cafes to local barbecue joints and retro-themed restaurants. Many of these eateries embrace the nostalgia of the highway, offering traditional American fare like burgers, fries and milkshakes.
Food lovers should keep an eye out for specialties as they traverse the landscape. You might want to sample the Tex-Mex in the Southwest, barbecue in the Midwest, and fresh seafood near the California coast. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations, they’ll often have advice about the best regional delicacies and hidden dining spots.
Where to stop for a meal?
7. Are there any interesting attractions on the Route 66?
An abundance of sculptures, scenery and history
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Route 66 is filled with fascinating attractions that capture its nostalgic charm. As you travel the old roadway, you’ll pass through dozens of small towns featuring vintage gas stations, retro diners and quirky roadside gems. From classic neon signs to unusual landmarks like colourful sculptures or themed art deco motels, Route 66 offers a unique look at mid-20th-century Americana.
You’ll also find local museums, old theatres and historic buildings that tell the story of the road’s past. If you’re a nature lover or you’d like to view rocky badlands, iconic arches and petrified woods, you won’t be disappointed by the marvels you encounter along Route 66. Be sure to capture some amazing photos as you make great memories on the road.
Are there any interesting attractions on the Route 66?
8. Where to stay the night?
Accommodation with luxury comforts and vintage charm
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On your journey along Route 66, you’ll find a wide choice of places to stay. From luxury chain hotels to tiny restored ”mom and pop” inns, you can choose lodgings that best suit your needs and budget.
If you’re looking for retro charm, watch out for the classic neon signs that direct you to traditional motels. These offer vintage décor, cozy vibes and nostalgic experiences that recreate the road’s history, with added modern comforts. Be sure to book your accommodation early, especially if you plan to stay at some of the most popular motels along the route.
Where to stay the night?
9. What to pack?
Essentials and extras for a great road trip
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When you pack for a road trip, consider the climate differences in the states you’ll traverse. Choose comfortable clothes for driving as well as warmer layers and rainwear in case of sudden changes in weather. Take sturdy shoes for exploring rougher terrain. You may also want to add sunscreen to your toiletries.
In case you’re a long way from a diner when you get hungry, keep some snacks and refreshments within reach as you drive, as well as entertainment like playlists, audiobooks or podcasts. It’s also a good idea to add a flashlight, first-aid kit and basic car repair kit to your supplies. Lastly, be sure to take your phone or camera to record your road trip memories.
What to pack?
10. Other things to know about Route 66
America’s historic highway
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Route 66 stretches approximately 4,000 km from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, taking in 8 states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. The iconic route was established in 1926 and became one of the first major highways in the U.S., gaining status for its role in travel, tourism and commerce.
You’ll find Route 66 referenced and celebrated in literature, music and pop culture, often as a symbol of freedom and epic travel on the open road. If you’d like to make a Route 66 playlist, you could add tracks by Chuck Berry, The Eagles, Nat King Cole and John Mayer. Then turn up the volume and enjoy your iconic drive on the Mother Road.
Other things to know about Route 66
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