Historic Route 66 Road Trip

A Route 66 road trip is a journey through history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Spanning over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, it offers countless attractions along the way. U.S. Highway 66 - popularly known as Route 66 or the Mother Road -- holds an elevated place in American consciousness and tells diverse stories of a mobile nation on the road. Discover shared heritage through historic places you can still experience today, which are reminders of our past and the influence the automobile has had on our lives and nation today.  

There are more than 250 buildings, bridges, road alignments and other sites along Route 66 that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This travel itinerary highlights over 100 of those sites, and is part of the National Park Service's Share Our Heritage Travel Itinerary series. Enjoy your trip and visit these special places along historic Route 66. 

Historic Route 66: The Mother Road

Route 66, often called the "Mother Road" or "America's Main Street," is a historic highway that played a significant role in American culture and transportation. Established on November 11, 1926, it originally stretched 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. "The Mother Road" was established on November 11, 1926, and ultimately stretched 2,448 miles (3,940 kilometers) from Chicago to Los Angeles. It became the shortest, year-round route between the Midwest and the Pacific Coast, and was also known as "The Main Street of America" and the "Will Rogers Highway". 

On that date, only 800 miles of Route 66 were paved, the rest being graded dirt, gravel, bricks, or planks of wood. It took 11 more years before the entire road would be paved. In the Early Days, Route 66 was part of the first federal highway system, connecting rural and urban areas across eight states. It became a vital route for westward migration, especially during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. The highway gained fame through popular culture, including the song "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66" and John Steinbeck's novel The Grapes of Wrath, where it symbolized hope and escape. Due to the efforts of the U.S. Highway 66 Association, Route 66 became the first highway to be completely paved, in 1938.

 In the 1950s, Route 66 became the main highway for vacationers heading to Los Angeles. The traffic along Route 66 led to the opening of many "mom and pop" restaurants, motels, and service stations along the route  to satisfy the needs of traveling motorists. Alignments of the road changed often over the years, as improved sections of highway were constructed. In the early years many sections connected only one small town to the next, and had no official federal route number. Over time the route was formalized as Federal Highway numbered as "U.S. 66". Portions of the road have been preserved as "Historic Route 66," celebrating its legacy as a symbol of freedom and adventure.

Lore of Route 66

Route 66 became one of the most famous roads in the United States, outdistancing others such as the Lincoln Highway. It is popular lore in movies, songs, books like "The Grapes of Wrath", and TV shows. The legendary highway was known far and wide for its variety of "mom and pop" motels, neon lights, drive-ins, quirky roadside attractions, flat tires, cars with no air conditioning, dangerous curves, steep hills, and narrow lanes. Today, there are more than 250 buildings, bridges, road alignments and other sites along Route 66 that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The movie "Easy Rider" was filmed at several locations along Route 66. The move "Thelma and Louise" also featured Route 66 references and scenes. The popularity stuck, and continues to grow today.

                             

Demise of Route 66

With the advent of the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s, Route 66 was gradually replaced by faster, more direct routes. It was officially decommissioned in 1985. The passage of the Federal Highway Act of 1956 sounded the death knell for the old road, and gradually segments were replaced with new, safer and faster superhighways. Its final demise was the completion of the Interstate Highway System. The last town by-passed by the Interstate system was Williams, Arizona, on October 13, 1984. Subsequently, U.S. Route 66 was officially removed from the United States Highway System on June 27, 1985. Route 66 was replaced by five Interstates: I-55 southbound from Chicago, I-44 across Missouri and Oklahoma, I-40 in Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona, I-15 and finally I-10 into Los Angeles.

Route 66 Today

Today, in 2025, several states recognize the historical significance of the road, and have it marked with "66" in the state highway number. "Historic Route 66 Associations" are active in several states. The road is also a major tourist attraction, so many states openly market attractions and lodging along the old route. The old road still traverses dozens of small towns with vintage gas stations, quirky tourist attractions, diners, "Mop & Pop" motels, historic sites & museums, stunning vistas, and gift shops.

Route 66: The TV Show

A popular television show during the early 1960s bore the road's name: "Route 66". Starring George Maharis as Buz, and Martin Milner as Tod, the two young adventurers drove the road in their Chevrolet Corvette for 116 episodes. Despite the name of the series, most episodes did NOT take place on the historic road, but in 25 different U.S. states. The show was filmed mostly on location, and became known for its cinematography. A long list of well-known actors and actresses appeared on the series. The show ran from October 1960, through March 1964 and created a huge following. The interest in the show continues today by "Baby Boomers" who remember the original showings, and new generations of viewers fascinated by the show who watch it on DVD.

Chicago: The Route Begins

The beginning point for a Route 66 road trip could be either Chicago or Los Angeles, depending on the direction of the trip. Most travelers seem to start their journey on Route 66 in Chicago, and head westbound, the direction taken by those leaving the Dust Bowl and those seeking a new life in the West. That is the direction we take on this website. Illinois was the first of the eight states through which Route 66 passed to have its segment of U.S. 66 paved, at a time when much of the route across the country was still a gravel or dirt road. Illinois Route 66 took over Illinois State Highway 4, a pre-existing, fully paved two-lane road between Chicago and St. Louis. 

The beginning point of Route 66 in Chicago has changed over the years. Today, the starting point is at East Adams Street at South Michigan Avenue, and the end point is at East Jackson at South Michigan. One way streets in the area can be difficult to navigate for first-time Route 66 visitors. While in Chicago, many Route 66 travelers seek out Grant Park, the Willis Tower, Chicago Architecture River Cruise, Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Science & Industry, the Magnificent Mile, Lincoln Park Zoo and the lakeshore shopping areas.

Missouri

Missouri's stretch of Route 66 is rich with history, quirky attractions, and scenic beauty. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a towering symbol of westward expansion, offering stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. The Chain of Rocks Bridge is a historic bridge with a unique 22-degree bend, now open for walking and biking.  Unique Stops include Ted Drewes Frozen Custard (St. Louis) and Gary’s Gay Parita (Ash Grove). Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a Route 66 classic serving delicious frozen treats since 1941. Gary's Gay Parita is a lovingly recreated 1930s Sinclair gas station filled with memorabilia. Route 66 Drive-In Theatre (Carthage) is one of the last remaining drive-ins, perfect for a retro movie night. Route 66 Mural City (Cuba) is a vibrant murals depicting the history and culture of Route 66. 

If you have extra time, explore natural wonders like the Meramec Caverns in Stanton, a stunning cave system once rumored to be a hideout for Jesse James. Route 66 State Park in Euraka is a peaceful spot to enjoy nature and learn about the history of the Mother Road. 

Kansas

Kansas may have the shortest stretch of Route 66—just 13 miles—but it’s packed with charm and history. Cars on the Route in Galena is a restored Kan-O-Tex service station featuring "Tow Tater," the inspiration for Tow Mater from Pixar's Cars. Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store (Riverton) has been operating since 1925, this historic store offers Route 66 memorabilia and a deli. Brush Creek Bridge (Baxter Springs) is the last remaining Marsh Arch bridge on Route 66, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

Learn about the area's rich mining history in this former railroad depot at the Galena Mining & Historical Museum. Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station is a beautifully restored 1930s gas station. This short stretch is perfect for a leisurely drive with plenty of photo opportunities. 

Oklahoma

Oklahoma boasts the longest stretch of Route 66, offering over 400 miles of history, culture, and quirky attractions. 

Blue Whale of Catoosa is a giant blue whale sculpture, perfect for photos and nostalgia. Totem Pole Park (Chelsea) is home to the world's largest concrete totem pole, a tribute to Native American art. Oklahoma Route 66 Museum (Clinton): Dive into the history of the Mother Road with interactive exhibits. Arcadia Round Barn (Arcadia) is a unique round barn built in 1898, now a Route 66 icon. Lucille's Service Station (Hydro) is a beautifully preserved 1920s gas station. Pops (Arcadia) is a modern diner with a giant soda bottle sculpture and hundreds of soda flavors. Route 66 Historical Village (Tulsa) is a museum showcasing vintage cars, trains, and memorabilia. Elk City National Route 66 Museum: A comprehensive look at the road's impact on American life. 

Ribbon Road (Miami) is a nine-foot-wide original stretch of Route 66, also known as the "Sidewalk Highway." Waylan's Ku-Ku Burger (Miami): A retro diner serving classic American fare.

Texas

Texas offers a short but fascinating stretch of Route 66, spanning about 179 miles through the Panhandle region. 

Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo) is a quirky art installation featuring ten Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground. Visitors can spray-paint the cars to leave their mark. Big Texan Steak Ranch (Amarillo) is famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge and Western-themed atmosphere. U-Drop Inn (Shamrock) is a stunning Art Deco building that inspired Ramone's garage in Pixar's Cars. VW Slug Bug Ranch (Conway) is similar to Cadillac Ranch, but with Volkswagen Beetles instead. Devil's Rope Museum (McLean) is a dedicated to the history of barbed wire and its impact on the American West. Palo Duro Canyon State Park a short detour offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities. 

Route 66 Historic District (Amarillo) has vintage shops, diners, and murals celebrating the Mother Road.

New Mexico

New Mexico's stretch of Route 66 is a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Acoma Pueblo (Sky City) is a Native American pueblo atop a sandstone mesa, offering breathtaking views and cultural insights. Route 66 Neon Drive-Thru Sign (Grants) is perfect for memorable photos. The Blue Swallow Motel (Tucumcari) is a retro motel that embodies the charm of Route 66.  Route 66 Auto Museum (Santa Rosa) is a showcase of vintage cars and retro road trip icons. 

Discover historic buildings, ghost tours, and vibrant local culture in the Old Town Albuquerque. Explore Santa Fe, a historic city offers art galleries, adobe architecture, and rich history.

Arizona

Arizona's stretch of Route 66 is one of the most iconic and scenic parts of the Mother Road, offering a mix of natural wonders, quirky attractions, and historic sites. 

Explore ancient petrified wood and colorful badlands of Petrified Forest National Park near Holbrook. Stay in the retro motel, Wigwam Motel, shaped like teepees, a classic Route 66 experience in Holbrook. Visit one of the best-preserved meteor impact sites in the world, Meteor Crater in Winslow. Standin' on the Corner Park is a tribute to the Eagles' song "Take It Easy," complete with a statue and mural. Discover the ruins of Two Guns Ghost Town, a once-thriving tourist stop with a fascinating history. Williams is a charming town in Arizona known as the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon." This town is full of Route 66 nostalgia. 

                              

Seligman is the birthplace of the Route 66 revival, featuring Angel & Vilma's Original Route 66 Gift Shop and Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In. Hackberry General Store has a treasure trove of Route 66 memorabilia and photo ops. Oatman is a quirky Wild West town where burros roam the streets.

California

California's stretch of Route 66 is the grand finale of the Mother Road, offering a mix of quirky roadside attractions, historic landmarks, and scenic beauty. 

Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch (Helendale) is a whimsical forest of "trees" made from glass bottles and vintage items. Roy's Motel and Café (Amboy) is an iconic Route 66 stop with a retro vibe, set against the Mojave Desert. Amboy Crater is an extinct volcano offering hiking trails and stunning desert views. Calico Ghost Town is a well preserved mining town with tours, shops, and a taste of the Old West. Cucamonga Service Station is a beautifully restored gas station from the early days of Route 66. The original terminus of U.S. Route 66 was at 7th and Broadway in downtown Los Angeles. However, over the years, and decades, Route 66 has had several “official” and “unofficial" ending points. The route was later extended to the intersection of Lincoln and Olympic boulevards in Santa Monica Pier, about one mile from the Pacific Ocean. This is often referred to as the official ending point of Route 66, with ocean views and classic boardwalk attractions.

Why Drive on Route 66

Driving Route 66 is more than just a road trip—it's an adventure through history, culture, and the heart of America. Route 66, established in 1926, was one of the first highways in the U.S. It played a vital role in westward migration during the Dust Bowl and became a symbol of freedom and opportunity. The road is lined with classic diners, retro motels, and quirky roadside attractions that capture the essence of mid-20th-century Americana. From the deserts of Arizona to the rolling plains of Oklahoma and the beaches of California, Route 66 offers diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Driving the "Mother Road" is like stepping back in time, with vintage gas stations, neon signs, and small towns that preserve the charm of a bygone era. Route 66 embodies the spirit of the open road, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace and create their own unique experiences.