Hello, fellow travelers! Dorothy Rich here, ready to take you on a nostalgic road trip along Route 66, one of America’s most iconic highways. Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this legendary route—often called the Mother Road—has been a symbol of adventure, freedom, and classic Americana since its establishment in 1926.
I recently embarked on this cross-country journey, stopping at quirky roadside attractions, historic landmarks, and hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of vintage roadside charm, or just someone looking for an unforgettable trip, Route 66 offers something for everyone. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!
Illinois: Where the Journey Begins
Historic Route 66 Begin Sign (Chicago, IL)
Before setting off, be sure to snap a photo at the official Route 66 Begin Sign in Chicago. Located near Adams Street and Michigan Avenue, this is the perfect place to mark the start of your adventure.
The Gemini Giant (Wilmington, IL)
One of Route 66’s most recognizable muffler men, the Gemini Giant is a towering 30-foot statue of an astronaut holding a rocket ship. It stands proudly outside the Launching Pad Drive-In, making it a great stop for a photo-op and a classic diner meal.
Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum (Pontiac, IL)
If you love history, you can’t miss the Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum in Pontiac. This free museum houses an impressive collection of memorabilia, including Bob Waldmire’s famous Volkswagen bus, which inspired the character of Fillmore in Cars.
Visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum
World’s Largest Catsup Bottle (Collinsville, IL)
Yes, you read that right! The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle is a 170-foot-tall water tower shaped like a bottle of ketchup. It’s a fun, quirky piece of roadside Americana.
Missouri: The Gateway to the West
Gateway Arch (St. Louis, MO)
Crossing into Missouri, St. Louis welcomes you with its iconic Gateway Arch. Standing at 630 feet, this monument symbolizes America’s westward expansion. If you have time, take the tram ride to the top for stunning views of the Mississippi River.
Learn more about the Gateway Arch
Oklahoma to New Mexico: The Open Road Calls
As you drive through Oklahoma, you’ll find plenty of classic diners, vintage gas stations, and even the Blue Whale of Catoosa, a quirky roadside attraction built in the 1970s.
In New Mexico, be sure to stop in Albuquerque to see neon-lit motels, historic pueblos, and the stunning Sandia Mountains. One must-visit spot is Santa Fe, where Route 66 once passed through before being rerouted.
Arizona: Desert Wonders and Roadside Oddities
Meteor Crater (Winslow, AZ)
If you love science and natural wonders, take a detour to visit Meteor Crater, the best-preserved impact crater on Earth. Standing on the rim, you can see where a meteor crashed into Arizona about 50,000 years ago.
London Bridge (Lake Havasu, AZ)
Yes, that London Bridge! Transported from England stone by stone in the 1960s, this bridge now spans the Colorado River in Lake Havasu and is a must-see for history lovers.
Plan your visit to London Bridge
California: The Final Stretch
Once you cross into California, you’ll find yourself in the Mojave Desert, surrounded by endless stretches of open road, ghost towns, and vintage roadside stops.
El Garces Hotel (Needles, CA)
Once a luxurious Harvey House hotel, El Garces in Needles is a beautifully restored landmark that offers a glimpse into early train travel history.
Bottle Tree Ranch (Oro Grande, CA)
This offbeat roadside attraction is a forest of metal trees adorned with colorful glass bottles. It’s an artist’s vision turned into a one-of-a-kind outdoor gallery.
Original McDonald’s Museum (San Bernardino, CA)
Fast-food fans will appreciate a stop at the Original McDonald’s Museum, located on the site of the very first McDonald’s restaurant. It’s packed with memorabilia from decades of burger history.
Visit the Original McDonald’s Museum
Santa Monica Pier: The End of the Road
After nearly 2,500 miles, you’ll reach the official end of Route 66 at Santa Monica Pier. This famous landmark features an “End of the Trail” sign, an amusement park, and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.
Plan your visit to Santa Monica Pier
Tips for an Amazing Route 66 Road Trip
- Plan Your Stops: Route 66 is filled with hidden gems, so plan ahead to make the most of your journey.
- Stay in Vintage Motels: Skip the chain hotels and stay in classic Route 66 motels like the Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino.
- Try Local Diners: Enjoy a taste of nostalgia at classic diners like Lou Mitchell’s in Chicago and Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman, AZ.
- Embrace the Slow Pace: This isn’t a highway—it’s a journey. Take your time and soak in the Americana charm!
Final Thoughts: Why Route 66 is a Must-Do Road Trip
Driving Route 66 is more than just a road trip—it’s a journey through America’s past, filled with small-town charm, nostalgic roadside attractions, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re traveling the full route from Chicago to Santa Monica or just exploring a portion of it, this legendary highway offers an unforgettable experience.
If you’ve ever dreamed of hitting the Mother Road, start planning today—you never know what quirky roadside attraction, historic landmark, or unexpected adventure might be waiting for you.
Until next time, happy travels!
