Route 66 is the most legendary road trip in America. Known as the Main Street of America, this historic highway stretches nearly 2,500 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles. If you want a classic American adventure filled with vintage motels, roadside diners, old-fashioned gas stations, and iconic national landmarks, this Route 66 guide will give you everything you need.
This article includes the best Route 66 stops, key attractions, driving tips, and a detailed city-by-city overview to help you plan an unforgettable journey.
Table of Contents
Why Take a Route 66 Road Trip?
Driving Route 66 offers a nostalgic look at America’s past. It’s the perfect mix of history, culture, landscapes, and Americana charm.
Highlights of Route 66
- Historic towns and roadside attractions
- Classic diners and vintage motels
- National parks and natural wonders
- Unique museums and landmarks
- A chance to experience small-town America
Route 66 Road Trip Overview
| State | Major Route 66 Stops | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | Chicago, Pontiac | Route 66 Start Point, Museums |
| Missouri | St. Louis, Springfield | Gateway Arch, Historic Gas Stations |
| Kansas | Galena | Shortest Route 66 section |
| Oklahoma | Tulsa, Oklahoma City | Route 66 Museum, Classic Diners |
| Texas | Amarillo | Cadillac Ranch |
| New Mexico | Santa Fe, Albuquerque | Old Town, Neon Signs |
| Arizona | Flagstaff, Kingman, Seligman | Petrified Forest, Grand Canyon Access |
| California | Barstow, Santa Monica | Santa Monica Pier, End of Route 66 |
Best Route 66 Stops from Chicago to Los Angeles
Chicago, Illinois
Your Route 66 road trip begins in downtown Chicago. Before hitting the road, explore a few iconic attractions.
Top Things to Do
- Route 66 Begin Sign
- Millennium Park
- Navy Pier
- Willis Tower Skydeck
Pontiac, Illinois
A classic Route 66 town filled with murals, museums, and nostalgia.
Must-See Stops
- Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum
- Pontiac Oakland Automobile Museum
- Historic Murals Walking Tour
St. Louis, Missouri
As you continue southwest, you’ll reach St. Louis.
Best Attractions
- Gateway Arch
- Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
- Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
Springfield, Missouri
A central stop along Route 66 with historic charm.
Highlights
- Route 66 Car Museum
- Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park
Galena, Kansas
Kansas has the shortest section of Route 66, but it’s full of character.
Don’t Miss
- Cars on the Route
- Galena Historic District
Tulsa & Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma has more Route 66 miles than any other state.
Top Stops
- Blue Whale of Catoosa
- Oklahoma Route 66 Museum
- Milk Bottle Grocery
Amarillo, Texas
A popular Route 66 destination famous for quirky roadside attractions.
Must-See Places
- Cadillac Ranch
- Big Texan Steak Ranch
- Route 66 Historic District
Santa Fe & Albuquerque, New Mexico
A mix of history, art, and desert landscapes.
Santa Fe Highlights
- Santa Fe Plaza
- Historic Route Alignment
Albuquerque Highlights
- Old Town Albuquerque
- Neon signs along Central Avenue
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
One of the only national parks directly along Route 66.
Best Spots
- Painted Desert
- Route 66 Old Car Exhibit
Flagstaff, Arizona
A lively mountain town perfect for outdoor lovers.
Places to See
- Lowell Observatory
- Historic Downtown
Seligman & Kingman, Arizona
These towns helped revive Route 66 tourism.
Don’t Miss
- Historic Seligman Sundries
- Kingman Route 66 Museum
Barstow, California
Your final major stop before reaching Los Angeles.
Highlights
- Route 66 Mother Road Museum
- Calico Ghost Town
Los Angeles, California
Your journey ends at the Pacific Ocean.
Final Route 66 Stops
- Santa Monica Pier
- End of Route 66 Sign
- Venice Beach Boardwalk
Best Time to Drive Route 66
The ideal months are May through October. Weather is warm, attractions are open, and days are longer.
Seasonal Tips
- Summer offers the most activities but higher prices
- Spring and fall have mild weather
- Winter can bring snow in the Midwest and Southwest
Route 66 Road Trip Planning Tips
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing for multiple climates
- Water and snacks
- Power bank and chargers
- Printed maps or offline GPS
- Car emergency kit
Driving Tips
- Expect slower travel due to historic roads
- Stop frequently to explore small towns
- Book hotels in advance during peak season
- Keep cash for small businesses
Final Thoughts
A Route 66 road trip is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure across the heart of America. With historic landmarks, quirky roadside attractions, and stunning landscapes, this guide gives you everything you need to plan a smooth and memorable drive from Chicago to Los Angeles.
