Driving on a Route 66 is an incredible road trip to do across the United States! It is the heart of America's cultural and historical landscape. Known as the "Mother Road," Route 66 offers travelers nostalgia, scenic beauty and iconic landmarks. These landmarks have defined the American road trip experience for nearly a century. When driving on Route 66 you will build memories, discover hidden diners and hear stories from locals or other travelers. Whether you’re retracing the steps of history or creating your own, Route 66 is an unbeatable classic. If you're preparing for long-distance driving or want to improve your skills, consider private driving lessons near me.
Sometimes the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn’t mean to take.
Angela N. Blount, Author
The History of Route 66 Start and End
Why is route 66 famous? Established on November 11, 1926, Route 66 became a symbol of opportunity and freedom, especially during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. Families migrated west in search of a better life... John Steinbeck famously dubbed it the "Mother Road" in his novel The Grapes of Wrath, highlighting its significance during that time.
Route 66 stretches approximately 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California.
In 1938, Route 66 became the first highway in the United States to be completely paved, therefore enhancing its accessibility and popularity. However, with the advent of the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s, Route 66 gradually declined in prominence, leading to its official decommissioning in 1985. Despite this, the route has experienced a resurgence, with preservation efforts and tourism breathing new life into this historic highway.
Route 66 officially starts in Chicago, Illinois, at the corner of Adams Street and Michigan Avenue, marking the beginning of the historic drive westward.
Have you ever heard of the Pacific Road?
Route 66 Mileage by State
Route 66 covers over 2,400 miles across eight U.S. states. The states include:
- Illinois: 301 miles
- Missouri: 317 miles
- Kansas: 13 miles
- Oklahoma: 432 miles
- Texas: 186 miles
- New Mexico: 487 miles
- Arizona: 401 miles
- California: 314 miles
Why Is Route 66 Famous?
Route 66 has made a place for itself into the nation’s history and pop culture for nearly 100 years. It's a road that conjures up images of neon signs, dusty highways and endless horizons. There's a good reason why it continues to captivate travelers around the globe!
- Historical Significance: It served as a major path for those migrating west, especially during the Dust Bowl.
- Cultural Impact: The route has been immortalized in literature, music and television, symbolizing freedom and the open road.
- Architectural Landmarks: From vintage gas stations to classic diners, Route 66 showcases mid-20th-century America.
- Tourist Attractions: The highway is filled with quirky roadside attractions, museums and natural wonders.
Whether you're looking to plan a road trip on Route 66 or on the Great River Road, you'll find many attractions along the way!
Key Attractions Along Route 66
No Route 66 road trip would be complete without stopping at the legendary landmarks along the highway. These attractions give Route 66 its charm, character and irresistible draw for travelers of all kinds.
Illinois
Lou Mitchell's Diner (Chicago): A classic eatery known for its hearty breakfasts.
Extra tip: Gemini Giant (Wilmington), A towering fiberglass statue representing the space age.
Missouri
Gateway Arch (St. Louis): The tallest arch in the world, symbolizing westward expansion.
Extra tip: Meramec Caverns, a vast cave system offering guided tours.
Kansas
Cars on the Route (Galena): A restored Kan-O-Tex service station featuring characters from the movie Cars.
Oklahoma
Blue Whale of Catoosa: A whimsical waterfront structure perfect for photo ops.
Extra tip: Totem Pole Park (Foyil), home to the world's largest concrete totem pole.
Texas
Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo): An art installation of half-buried, graffiti-covered Cadillacs.
Extra tip: The Big Texan Steak Ranch, famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge.
New Mexico
Blue Swallow Motel (Tucumcari): A well-preserved example of 1940s motor courts.
Extra tip: Petrified Forest National Park, a very special landscape of fossilized trees and painted deserts.
Arizona
Wigwam Motel (Holbrook): Stay in individual wigwam-shaped rooms.
Extra tip: Standin' on the Corner Park (Winslow), a tribute to the Eagles' song “Take It Easy.”
California
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch (Oro Grande): A forest of bottle-topped trees and found-object sculptures.
Extra tip: Santa Monica Pier, the official end of Route 66, offering ocean views and entertainment.
Build Your Own Route 66 Travel Plan
Planning your Route 66 road trip doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right structure and a clear itinerary, you can enjoy the road trip without feeling rushed or like you've forgotten something. Whether you’re taking two weeks or a full month, the key is to focus on a few stops in each state instead of trying to cover everything. A common itinerary covers the route in about 14 to 21 days depending on how many side trips or overnight stops you plan. Many travelers begin in Chicago and finish in Santa Monica with about 150 to 250 miles of driving per day. This pace gives you enough time to explore towns, take a detour through parks and enjoy diners without running out of time!
For example, you might spend your first two nights in Illinois exploring Chicago and small towns like Pontiac. Then continue through Missouri with stops in St. Louis and Springfield. Kansas may be short, but its charm lies in restored Route 66 landmarks. Oklahoma offers the longest intact stretch of the highway, which is perfect for museum visits and roadside attractions. In the Southwest, New Mexico and Arizona offer desert landscapes, quirky motels and natural sights like the Petrified Forest. Finally, California will be leading you to the ocean breeze of Santa Monica. To help you even more, here are some tips from two travelers, who've traveled on Route 66 together!
Is there a single perfect itinerary? Not really. That’s the nature of Route 66. Everyone’s path is a little different. Plan for flexibility, allow for detours and let the road guide you! A good plan balances structure with room to explore, leaving space for the kind of moments Route 66 is known for.
Route 66 in Music
Did you know that the cultural impact of Route 66 also extends into music? Several songs celebrate the highway. One of the most iconic is “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66,” originally composed by Bobby Troup and famously performed by Nat King Cole. This song captures the spirit of adventure associated with the road. Listen to the classic track Route 66 by Nat King Cole on Spotify!
Preparing for Your Route 66 Adventure with Superprof
Before setting out on your Route 66 road trip, consider enhancing your experience by learning new skills or brushing up on existing ones. Superprof offers personalized tutoring in various subjects that can help you during your road trip! A little preparation can turn a great trip into an unforgettable one. Whether you're traveling solo or with others, investing in a few practical skills beforehand can help you get the most out of every mile.
Photography
Capture the scenic landscapes and American vintage with professional techniques.
History
Gain deeper insights into the historical significance of the places you'll visit.
Spanish Language
Useful for communicating in regions with rich Hispanic heritage, especially in New Mexico and California.
Automotive Mechanics
Basic car maintenance knowledge can be invaluable on a long road trip.
Traveling Route 66 is an exploration of America's history. The "Mother Road" offers an unforgettable drive through time and terrain. Whether you're a history fan, a music lover or an adventurer at heart, Route 66 promises rich experiences. Think of the people you'll meet, the towns you'll discover and the road that brings it all together! It is so exciting! Now it's time to plan your trip. Do not forget to travel safely!
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