Few journeys capture the spirit of the open road quite like Route 66. Stretching nearly 2,500 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, this legendary highway has long been a symbol of adventure, nostalgia, and classic Americana. Nicknamed the ‘Mother Road’, Route 66 passes through eight states and countless small towns, desert landscapes, and neon-lit roadside attractions. While the journey itself is part of the magic, it’s the memorable stop-offs along the way that truly bring this iconic road trip to life. From retro diners to truly unique natural wonders, these are some of the experiences that shouldn’t be missed.
Begin beneath the famous Route 66 sign in Chicago
The journey traditionally begins in Chicago, where the historic ‘Begin Route 66’ sign marks the starting point of this legendary road trip. Before setting off, take time to explore the city’s iconic architecture, lively neighbourhoods, and must-try food scene. A stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk or a visit to Millennium Park is the perfect way to kick off the adventure, before heading out of the city and onto the open road.
Step back in time at the Cadillac Ranch
One of Route 66’s most famous and quirky landmarks is just outside Amarillo. The colourful Cadillac Ranch features a line of vintage Cadillacs buried nose-first in the Texas soil. Visitors are encouraged to leave their mark with spray paint, making this ever-changing roadside art installation one of the most photographed stops along the route.
Experience the magic of the Grand Canyon
A slight detour from Route 66 rewards travellers with one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on earth: Grand Canyon National Park. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the canyon’s vast scale and dramatic colours are truly unforgettable. Many choose to stay overnight near the South Rim to experience both sunrise and sunset over the canyon – when the shifting light paints the landscape in shades of amber, crimson, and gold.
Walk along historic Route 66 in Seligman
The small town of Seligman is often described as the spiritual heart of Route 66. When large sections of the highway were bypassed by the interstate system, this town helped keep the Route 66 legacy alive. Today, Seligman is filled with vintage diners, souvenir shops, and retro motels that feel like stepping into a 1950s postcard. It’s also home to Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In, a wonderfully eccentric roadside diner known for its playful pranks and classic burgers.
Visit the Blue Whale of Catoosa
One of Route 66’s most beloved roadside attractions can be found in Catoosa. The cheerful Blue Whale of Catoosa has been welcoming travellers since the 1970s and has become an enduring symbol of Route 66’s quirky charm. Originally built as an anniversary gift, the giant smiling whale now sits beside a small pond and picnic area, making it a fun and nostalgic place to stretch your legs, snap a photo, and soak up a little Route 66 history.
Explore the surreal landscapes of Petrified Forest National Park
In eastern Arizona, Route 66 passes close to the extraordinary Petrified Forest National Park – the only national park in the United States through which the historic highway once ran. Here, ancient trees that lived more than 200 million years ago have turned to colourful stone, scattered across a striking desert landscape. The park also borders the Painted Desert, where layers of red, purple, and orange rock create one of the most distinctive landscapes along the entire Route 66 journey.
Finish at Santa Monica Pier
The road trip officially ends at Santa Monica Pier, just outside Los Angeles. Here, a Route 66 sign marks the symbolic end of the journey where the highway meets the Pacific Ocean. After thousands of miles of adventure, there’s no better way to celebrate than watching the sunset over the water or taking a ride on the pier’s historic Ferris wheel.
To see all these sights and more on your Route 66 road trip, speak to your personal Travel Counsellor today.
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