Road Trip Along Route 66 (The Main Street Of America)

Welcome to an invaluable guide to the quintessentially American adventure – a road trip along the historic and iconic Route 66. Often referred to as the Main Street of America or the Mother Road, it was one of the original highways within the U.S. Highway System.

Built in 1926, Route 66 stretched over 2,400 miles across eight states, connecting Chicago, Illinois, and Santa Monica, California. Although officially decommissioned in 1985, much of the route and its spirit remains, attracting travelers from across the globe with its unique Americana charm, unparalleled landscapes, and historic landmarks.

Whether you’re looking for the quickest path, the prettiest sights, or a journey filled with unexpected turns, Route 66 has a road for you. In this guide, you’ll discover the best Route 66 road trips for various travel styles, each offering a unique perspective on this classic American journey.

But before we dive into the various routes, let’s take a step back to appreciate what makes Route 66 such an enduring symbol of America’s past and how its allure continues to draw both national and international explorers on an unforgettable trip.

Route 66, with its enthralling mix of urban centers, thriving small towns, quiet countryside landscapes, and unique roadside attractions encapsulates the full range of American life. It’s a vivid snapshot of 20th-century America, providing an insightful journey into the nation’s cultural and historical evolution.

Are you ready to strap in and explore Route 66? Keep reading to discover the best routes tailored to various traveler needs and preferences.

Fun Facts about Route 66

Route 66 is approximately 2,448 miles long.

Route 66 was established on November 11, 1926.

Route 66 spans across eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.

Route 66 was officially decommissioned on June 27, 1985.

Route 66 is often referred to as the ‘Main Street of America’ or the ‘Mother Road’.

Route 66 was a major route for those migrating west during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s.

Route 66 has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with efforts to preserve its history and landmarks.

Fastest Route: Beating the Clock Along Route 66

If time is of the essence, and you’re seeking the quickest possible trip along Route 66, then this route is specially crafted for you. Primarily focused on efficient driving, you’re going to traverse the iconic journey from Chicago to the Pacific in record time. However, that doesn’t mean this trip won’t be filled with quintessential Route 66 highlights.

Route Directions & Driving Time

Set off from Chicago, IL and take the I-55 South towards Springfield, IL.
From Springfield, hop onto I-44 West to Oklahoma City, OK.
Follow US-283 S and I-40 West towards Amarillo, TX.
Ride along the US-60 West and I-25 South heading to Albuquerque, NM.
Reach Flagstaff, AZ goes via I-40 West from Albuquerque.
From Flagstaff, pick I-40 West reaching Kingman, AZ.
Wrap up your trip by following US-93 S and I-10 West to your final destination, Santa Monica, CA.

This fastest route covers approximately 2,278 miles, and you can complete it in a whopping 33 hours if you’re driving without any extended breaks. Including stops for meals and rest, the journey could stretch upto 4 to 5 days.

Must-See Attractions

The Art Institute of Chicago: Kick-off your journey with a quick tour of this renowned museum in Chicago, known for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works.
The Gateway Arch: As you pass through St. Louis, you cannot miss this iconic 630-foot monument, the tallest man-made monument in the US.
Big Texan Steak Ranch: A gastronomic icon located in Amarillo, TX, famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge.
Route 66 Auto Museum: Stop to appreciate the classic cars at this museum in Santa Rosa, NM.
Petrified Forest National Park: An awe-inspiring sight in Arizona, it boasts a vast expanse of petrified trees aged millions of years.
Route 66 Mother Road Museum: An institution housed in Kingman, AZ, dedicated entirely to preserving the history of Route 66.
Santa Monica Pier: Finally, celebrate the end of your journey at this legendary Californian pier that marks the western end of Route 66, offering stunning views of Pacific Ocean.

Rest-Stops and Coffee Shops

Despite being a sprint across Route 66, you’ll definitely need your coffee stops and rest breaks. Start your travel days with coffee from Star Lounge Coffee Bar in Chicago, and Goshen Coffee Company in Edwardsville, IL. For sustenance, The Donut Mill in Rolla, MO and Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe in Amarillo, TX serve delicious quick bites. For overnight halts, consider Motel 6 Rolla, MO, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, in Amarillo, TX, or the Quality Inn Flagstaff, AZ.

Scenic Route: Savoring the Breathtaking Views of Route 66

Introductions and Highlights

A journey through the heart of America, embarking on the scenic Route 66 rewards the traveler with an unparalleled experience filled with panoramic views and inspiring natural beauty. Discover towering sandstone mesas, enchanting wildflowers, and quaint places marked by rich history. This route is for those with an appetite for adventure and a romance for the road less traveled.

Route Directions & Driving Time

From Chicago, head west on I-55 towards St. Louis, witness the charm of the landscapes as prairies intersect with forests.
From St. Louis, proceed south towards Meramec Caverns located on 1135 Hwy W Sullivan, MO. Allow time for a tour beneath the ground.
Leaving the caverns, head west on Route 66 to Branson, MO for a delightful Ozarks sunset.
From Branson, drift southwest to Tulsa, Oklahoma, passing by historical stops along the way.
Continue west towards Amarillo, Texas, passing through Oklahoma City on I-40 W.
From Amarillo, follow Route 66 to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Take in the sights of the vast desert landscapes and charming Southwestern architecture.
Finally, from Santa Fe, continue westbound to reach the ultimate destination – Los Angeles, CA. Appreciate the changing scenery as you approach the coast.

Driving time is approximately 30 hours but prepare for a longer trip to allocate enough time to fully appreciate the diverse landscapes, extraordinary wildlife, and captivating landmarks.

Must-See Attractions

Meramec Caverns: An underground wonder filled with impressive formations. This was known as a hideout spot for Jesse James and his gang.
Chain of Rocks Bridge: As you pass through St. Louis, this historic cantilevered bridge that spans the Mississippi River is worth stopping for, offering amazing views.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum: En route in Oklahoma City, this delivers a rich history of the classic Western life.
Cadillac Ranch: Located near Amarillo, Texas, a unique art installation of half-buried Cadillacs that’s a famous stop for photo ops!
Petit Jean State Park: Take in the stunning scenery and vistas of Arkansas’ first state park.
Grand Canyon: A detour to this magnificent natural wonder is highly recommended when you reach Flagstaff, Arizona.
Santa Monica Pier: As you conclude your trip in LA, visit Santa Monica Pier. The end of Route 66 needs to be marked with a stop by the iconic Ferris wheel and a walk on the beach.

Rest-Stops and Coffee Shops

Take a break from your road journey at charming pit stops scattered along the way. Try the all-American comfort food at Midpoint Cafe in Adrian, Texas, halfway point of Route 66. In Albuquerque, be sure to check out Route 66 Diner for a hearty morning meal. Indulge in a cup of coffee at Espresso Fino in Santa Fe for the caffeine fix you need to continue your journey. When you reach California, Route 66 Classic Grill is a diner that offers a taste of classic American fair while being surrounded by vintage automotive memorabilia. These pit stops are not just points of rest, but add to the overall experience of your scenic adventure on Route 66.

Unusual and Fun Route: Discovering Quirky Stops on Route 66

If you consider yourself an offbeat traveler looking to experience Route 66 in a unique and memorable way, this route is for you. The quirky charm of America’s “Main Street” is undeniable, and taking the path less traveled will unveil a plethora of intriguing sights and oddball attractions you won’t find anywhere else. Get ready to discover the unusual and fun side of Route 66!

Highlights and Introductions

From the world’s largest ketchup bottle to unusual museums, this route is nothing short of exciting. Travelers with a keen taste for oddity will find the journey all the more charming with interesting roadside attractions that add to the character of the historic Route 66.

Route Directions & Driving Time

Start off your journey from Chicago, moving Southwest to Springfield via Route 66. (3hrs)
Take a detour to Collinsville to witness the world’s largest catsup bottle. (1hr 30min)
Continue to Cuba and visit the Wagon Wheel Motel for an overnight stay. (2hrs 30min)
Head to Tulsa, stopping by Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store for some light-hearted fun. (5hrs)
Drive down to Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, painted cars embedded nose-down in the ground. (4hrs 30min)
Travel to the Blue Hole in Santa Rosa, a stunning geological feature. (3hrs)
Finally, drive to Los Angeles, stopping over at Calico Ghost Town in Yermo. (6hrs 30min)

Must-See Attractions

The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle, Collinsville: This whimsical 170-foot tall water tower is a sight to behold and one of the must-visit quirky stops along Route 66.
Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store, St. Robert: Uranus Fudge Factory promises a good laugh and a wide selection of sweets. It’s a great place for both humor and treat lovers.
Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo: An iconic Route 66 roadside attraction, the Cadillac Ranch teems with spray-painted Cadillacs that are half-buried nose-first in the ground. It’s an open invitation for visitors to leave their spray paint mark.
Blue Hole, Santa Rosa: Nature has a quirky side too! The Blue Hole is an incredibly clear, deep-blue swimming hole that’s a perfect refreshing stop.
Calico Ghost Town, Yermo: Delve into the past at this must-visit ghost town. It makes for an interesting and unusual stop along Route 66.

Rest-Stops and Coffee Shops

No road trip is complete without regular breaks in quaint locales. Route 66 is home to some of the country’s best coffee shops and relaxing rest stops that add to the adventure.

Cozy Dog Drive-In: Located in Springfield, the originator of the hot dog on a stick is a great place for a quick bite.
Marty’s Route 66 Cafe: When driving through Rosenberg, a visit to Marty’s cafe, famous for their coffee and sandwiches, is a must.
The Midpoint Cafe: Situated halfway along Route 66, the cafe in Adrian offers a welcome break with its amazing ‘ugly crust pies’.
Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner: In Kingman, refresh with a meal at this nostalgic, 1950s-themed diner.

Best Route with Children & Kids: Family-Friendly Adventures on Route 66

Travelling along Route 66 with kids in tow can be a wonderful bonding experience. The route is filled with plenty of family-friendly stops that will keep the young ones interested and educated. Here you will find places where history and fun collide—museums, zoos, vintage diners, and amusement parks. Let’s plan the trip your kids will be telling their own kids about someday!

Route Directions & Driving Time

Begin in Chicago with a visit to Lincoln Zoo and Brookfield Zoo. Don’t miss Sue, the largest T-Rex ever discovered, at The Field Museum, then get on Route 66.
Head to Springfield for a history lesson at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
Bring the kids to the renowned City Museum in St. Louis. Buckle up for the trip to Oklahoma City, making sure to stop by the Route 66 Museum in Clinton.
In Amarillo, drop by Wonderland Amusement Park for some thrill and fun.
Continue to Albuquerque, and let the kids experience a hot air balloon ride in the world ballooning capital. Don’t leave without visiting the quirky Tinkertown Museum.
Move on to Grand Canyon National Park for a memorable camping night.
Finally, reach Los Angeles where a visit to Disneyland is a must.

Fix ample time for each stop so kids don’t feel rushed. Total driving time, excluding stops, is roughly 30 hours.

Must-See Attractions

The Field Museum, Chicago: Home to Sue, the largest T-Rex ever discovered, The Field Museum is also filled with artifacts from around the world. A wonderful educational stop.
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Springfield: A museum dedicated to the life and legacy of the 16th President that both adults and children will find interesting.
City Museum, St. Louis: The kids will be awed by this wonderful mix of playground, funhouse, and architectural marvel made out of unique found objects.
Route 66 Museum, Clinton: Trace the history of the iconic highway through interactive exhibits in this fascinating museum.
Wonderland Amusement Park, Amarillo: The Wonderland Park has thrilled generations of youths with its rides and games. It’s the perfect stop for letting the kids burn off some energy.
Tinkertown Museum, Albuquerque: A quirky museum filled with miniature animated scenes and all sorts of novelty items like antique toys and carriages.
Grand Canyon National Park: The breathtaking natural wonder is something the kids will remember forever. Go camping and explore the park’s beautiful trails together. The nighttime sky is a bonus.
Disneyland, Los Angeles: No trip to Los Angeles with kids would be complete without a visit to the happiest place on earth—Disneyland.

Rest-Stops and Coffee Shops

Plan several stops along the way to rest and enjoy delicious meals or quick bites. Fuel up with excellent coffee at The Doughnut Vault in Chicago and Four Corners Cafe in St. Louis. For great food that suits the kiddos’ palate, try Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Arcadia Round Barn in Oklahoma City, and make a point to visit The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo which is known for their juicy steaks and cowboy vibes that the kids will love.

Best Route with Dogs: Pet-Friendly Stops Along Route 66

Pooch Pleasing Pathways: A Tail-Wagging Trek

What better road trip partner than your trusty four-legged companions? This version of Route 66 is designed with your furry friends in mind, choosing stops that are dog-friendly and comfortable for your pet. Filled with parks to stretch their legs, pet-friendly attractions, and accommodation spots that welcome dogs this route ensures you and your fur baby will have a rollicking good time aboard Route 66.

Route Directions & Driving Time

Begin in downtown Chicago, the “start” of Route 66 and head towards Springfield, a drive that will take you approximately 3.5 hours.
From Springfield, point your compass towards St. Louis, this leg of the journey will be around 2 hours.
Next up is Tulsa, Oklahoma: expect this to take around 9 hours with stops and rest.
From Tulsa, trek towards Amarillo in Texas which will take roughly 6 hours with stops.
Head west to Tucumcari, New Mexico; this should take around 2 hours.
Your final leg of the journey takes you from Tucumcari to Santa Monica, California which is approximately 16 hours drive broken down into three days for the comfort of your pet.

Must-See Attractions

The Dog District in Chicago: This area has an array of dog-friendly attractions, from parks to cafes. Don’t forget to visit the Montrose Dog Beach where your pup can frolic in the surf.
St. Louis’ City Museum: Dogs are welcome in the outdoor area of this attraction, they’ll love the MonstroCity playground.
Meteor Crater near Winslow, Arizona: With leash in hand, you and your furry friend could explore the outer grounds of this world-famous natural attraction.
Santa Monica Pier, California: Your pet will enjoy the beach as much as you enjoy the iconic End of the Trail sign. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach and pier.

Rest-Stops and Coffee Shops

An integral part of a road trip with your dog are the rest stops. They provide your furry friend with a chance to stretch their legs, hydrate, and take care of their bathroom needs. When you’re on Route 66, try to stop at least every 2-3 hours for your pet’s comfort. Some of the best rest stops are:

Chain of Rocks Canal Rest Area, IL: A breezy stopover with green spaces for your pup to run around and quaint picnic spots for you to rest.
Rest Area at MM 313 on I-44, MO: A quiet spot with plenty of walking paths and grass areas for your dog.
Elmer Thomas Park, Lawton, OK: A large city park with trails and a dog park section where your pup can socialize.
John Nichols Scout Ranch, OK: A generous area with gorgeous nature to explore on your rest stop.
Route 66 Dog Haus, Flagstaff, AZ: Not your traditional rest stop, but a dog-friendly eatery where you can grab a cup of coffee while your pooch enjoys some doggy-friendly treats!

Route 66 Overview

Route 1: Chicago to St. Louis

Embark on a cultural journey from Chicago to St. Louis. This route graces travelers with attractions like The Art Institute of Chicago, the robust and historic Wrigley Field, and the picturesque Chain of Rocks Bridge near St. Louis.

The Art Institute of Chicago: A Must-See for art lovers, housing an extensive collection of works from all over the world.
Wrigley Field: Take a tour of this iconic baseball stadium and feel the echoes of the great games of the past.
Chain of Rocks Bridge: Offering a scenic view of the Mississippi River, an iconic part of the Route 66 journey.

Route 2: St. Louis to Tulsa

From the Gateway to the West to the bustle of Tulsa, experience the charm of the Midwest. This portion of Route 66 teems with must-see spots such as Meramec Caverns, and the Blue Whale of Catoosa.

Meramec Caverns: Explore natural limestone caves that served as hideouts for outlaws in the past.
Blue Whale of Catoosa: A classic roadside attraction, this cheerful blue whale brings delight to all passing travelers.

Route 3: Tulsa to Amarillo

Your journey from Tulsa to Amarillo introduces a change of scenery, taking you through the expansive Southern Plains. Must-see attractions include The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum and the Cadillac Ranch outside Amarillo.

The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum: Take a journey through six decades of the history that shaped America’s Main Street.
The Cadillac Ranch: This eccentric roadside attraction and art installation breathes fun and quirkiness into the journey.

Route 4: Amarillo to Santa Fe

Travel through the heart of the American Southwest from Amarillo to Santa Fe, soaking up the arid landscapes and unique attractions like The Midpoint Cafe and Santa Fe’s historic Pueblo style architecture.

The Midpoint Cafe: Savor a meal at this historic diner, marking the midpoint of Route 66.
Santa Fe’s historic Pueblo style architecture: Enjoy the city’s distinctive adobe buildings, a symbol of its rich cultural heritage.

Route 5: Santa Fe to Los Angeles

Fulfill your Route 66 road trip by journeying from Santa Fe to Los Angeles, indulging in the scenic beauty of the American West. Don’t miss out on The Petrified Forest National Park and the end-of-trail attraction, the iconic Santa Monica Pier.

The Petrified Forest National Park: Be amazed by these fascinating and ancient tree fossils, scattered across a stunning desert backdrop.
Santa Monica Pier: Celebrate the end of your journey on Route 66 at this iconic Californian landmark, with the Pacific Ocean as your final backdrop.

Final Thoughts

Taking a road trip along Route 66, regardless of your preferred style or companions, is an unforgettable experience filled with sites that are intrinsically American. Whether you’re speeding down the highway on the fastest route, soaking in the scenic route’s panoramic vistas, exploring unique and quirky sights, sharing the joy with young family members, or even bonding with your furry friends, this iconic journey is bound to leave a vivid impression.

No matter which route you choose, remember that the heart of this voyage lies not merely in reaching the destination, but in immersing yourself in the journey. The rich tapestry of natural and human history along this highway encourages us to contemplate the interconnectedness of the individual, the community, and the natural world. It’s a potent reminder of our shared history and our enduring spirit of exploration and discovery.

Route 66 is not just a road – it’s a slice of Americana, filled with hope, dreams, and the freedom of the open road. The stories and memories you’ll gather along the way will become part of your narrative, filled with adventure, curiosity, discovery, and connection. Whether you’re driven by the exhilarating rush of the open road, the soothing beauty of our country’s landscape, the allure of weird and wonderful sights, family bonding, or the companionship of your faithful pet, Route 66 welcomes you with open arms.

The Main Street of America is waiting for you. So, pack your bags, tune up your engine, roll down the windows, and let the wind guide you on an adventure of a lifetime.