Ultimate Route 66 Road Trip

Day 1:

Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Chicago, the official starting point of Route 66. This bustling metropolis combines rich history with modern flair.

A full day to explore the Windy City. 

• Highlights: Take in the sights of Millennium Park, admire the views from the Willis Tower Skydeck, and explore Chicago’s Art Institute, one of the best museums in the world. Don’t miss the chance to try Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza at one of the city’s legendary pizzerias.

Drive 200 miles south to Springfield, the state capital and a town steeped in history as the home of Abraham Lincoln.

• Highlights: Visit the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to learn about America’s 16th president, stroll the historic streets, and enjoy a bite at a classic Route 66 diner. Be sure to check out the Illinois State Capitol and Lincoln’s Tomb.

Travel 100 miles to St. Louis, a vibrant city on the Mississippi River known for its music, history, and iconic landmarks.

A free day to explore St. Louis. 

• Highlights: Ride the tram to the top of the Gateway Arch for sweeping views, take a riverboat cruise, and explore Forest Park, which is larger than Central Park and home to fantastic museums. Don’t forget to enjoy some St. Louis-style barbecue at a local restaurant.

Continue 215 miles to Springfield, Missouri, known as the “Birthplace of Route 66.” This city celebrates its connection to the historic highway with plenty of attractions.

• Highlights: Visit the Route 66 Car Museum, take a tour of Fantastic Caverns, and snap photos of the neon signs and nostalgic roadside stops.

Drive 110 miles to Tulsa, then another 105 miles to Oklahoma City. These cities highlight Oklahoma’s role in Route 66 history while offering modern attractions and small-town charm.

• Highlights in Tulsa: Explore the Blue Dome District, a vibrant area filled with shops and restaurants, and admire the city’s impressive Art Deco architecture.

Free day to explore Oklahoma City. 

• Highlights in Oklahoma City: Stroll along the Bricktown Canal, visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, and pay respects at the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Travel 260 miles into Texas to Amarillo, a quintessential Route 66 stop known for its quirky roadside attractions and hearty hospitality.

• Highlights: Marvel at Cadillac Ranch, a public art installation featuring brightly painted vintage cars half-buried in the ground. Visit The Big Texan Steak Ranch, famous for its enormous steaks and larger-than-life atmosphere.

Drive 275 miles to Santa Fe, a cultural haven known for its Pueblo-style architecture and thriving arts scene.

Free day to explore Santa Fe.

• Highlights: Explore the historic Plaza, visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and take a leisurely stroll along Canyon Road to browse art galleries. Santa Fe’s unique blend of Indigenous, Spanish, and Mexican influences makes it a fascinating destination.

Head 65 miles to Albuquerque, another key stop along Route 66. This vibrant city combines historic charm with a contemporary vibe.

• Highlights: Wander through the historic Old Town, ride the Sandia Peak Tramway for panoramic views, and indulge in a green chile cheeseburger at a local diner.

Travel 320 miles to Flagstaff, your gateway to the Grand Canyon.

• Highlights: Spend a full day exploring the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, taking in its awe-inspiring views and hiking along its trails. Back in Flagstaff, enjoy the city’s vibrant downtown and clear, star-filled skies.

Take a detour off Route 66 and drive 250 miles to Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world. This city dazzles with its lights, attractions, and endless energy.

Free day to explore Las Vegas.

• Highlights: Wander the famous Strip, take in a world-class show, and enjoy a luxurious dinner at one of Vegas’s renowned restaurants. For a break from the glitz, visit the stunning Red Rock Canyon.

Travel 150 miles to Barstow, a classic Route 66 stop steeped in nostalgia.

• Highlights: Visit the Route 66 Mother Road Museum and explore the Mojave Desert’s unique beauty.

Complete the final 130 miles to Los Angeles, the official end of Route 66. This iconic city offers a mix of glamour, beaches, and culture.

Free day to explore LA and its fabulous attractions.

• Highlights: Walk along Santa Monica Pier, explore Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, and relax on the sandy shores of Venice Beach. For sweeping views of the city, head to Griffith Observatory.

Free day to explore LA. 

Here are some additional attractions to include during your Los Angeles stay:

Cultural and Historical Attractions

1. Getty Center: Explore stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and an impressive art collection, all perched atop a hill with breathtaking city views.
2. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): Home to the famous “Urban Light” installation and a vast collection of global art.
3. The Broad: A contemporary art museum with free entry and iconic pieces, including Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirror Rooms.

Entertainment and Hollywood Highlights

4. Universal Studios Hollywood: A thrilling theme park and working film studio, featuring world-famous attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
5. Warner Bros. Studio Tour: Go behind the scenes of your favourite TV shows and movies, from Friends to Harry Potter.
6. Hollywood Bowl: If there’s a show during your visit, don’t miss this iconic outdoor concert venue.

Outdoor and Scenic Spots

7. Griffith Park: Besides Griffith Observatory, hike trails with stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and the city skyline.
8. Runyon Canyon: Popular with locals and celebrities, this trail offers Instagram-worthy views of the city.
9. The Venice Canals: A peaceful stroll through this charming neighbourhood with quaint bridges and beautiful homes.

Shopping and Dining Hotspots

10. The Grove: A stylish outdoor shopping and dining destination, often featuring live music and events.
11. Rodeo Drive: Experience Beverly Hills luxury and window-shop the high-end boutiques.
12. Grand Central Market: A foodie paradise featuring an array of global cuisine in the heart of downtown LA.

Family-Friendly Fun

13. Santa Monica Pier Aquarium: Great for families, this small aquarium showcases local marine life and offers interactive exhibits.
14. California Science Center: Perfect for kids and adults, it houses the Space Shuttle Endeavour and many hands-on exhibits.

Quirky and Unique Spots

15. La Brea Tar Pits and Museum: See preserved fossils from Ice Age creatures and learn about prehistoric Los Angeles.
16. The Last Bookstore: A whimsical spot for book lovers, featuring tunnels and sculptures made from books.
17. OUE Skyspace LA: Experience panoramic views from the observation deck of the US Bank Tower, complete with a glass slide over the city.

Los Angeles has something for everyone, making it the perfect finale to your epic Route 66 journey!

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Los Angeles before heading to the airport to conclude your incredible Route 66 journey.