Route 66 (US - 12 days)
Route Overview
The Ultimate Classic American Road Trip
Experience the legendary Route 66, one of the most iconic road trips in the world. This unforgettable 2,400-mile journey takes you east to west from Chicago to California, crossing eight states and showcasing the heart and soul of America.
Travel through classic small towns, vast desert landscapes, and timeless roadside attractions that define the spirit of the American road trip. From retro diners and neon signs to historic landmarks and open highways, Route 66 offers a nostalgic journey through decades of US culture and history.
Along the way, experience the changing scenery of the Midwest, the Southwest, and the California desert before reaching the Pacific Coast - completing one of the most famous driving routes in the world.
The Eight-State Odyssey
Our curated itinerary guides you through the distinct landscapes and "Americana" of eight states:
- Illinois & Missouri: Start in Chicago and cross the Mississippi River into the Ozarks.
- Kansas & Oklahoma: Experience the shortest stretch in Kansas before entering the "Cradle of Route 66" in Oklahoma.
- Texas & New Mexico: Drive the vast plains of the Texas Panhandle and the high-desert mesas of Santa Fe.
- Arizona & California: Witness the painted deserts and the Oatman Highway hairpins before concluding at the Santa Monica Pier.
Must-See Roadside Landmarks
- The Cadillac Ranch (Texas): An interactive public art installation featuring ten half-buried cars.
- The Wigwam Motels: Experience classic "Kitsch" architecture in Holbrook, Arizona.
- The Midpoint Café: Stand exactly halfway between Chicago and Los Angeles in Adrian, Texas.
-
The Mojave Desert: Navigate the rugged beauty of the California desert as you descend toward the Pacific Coast.
Itinerary
- Day 1: Chicago & Route 66 (the "Mother Road") Departure
- Day 2-4: Missouri & Oklahoma
- Day 5-6: The Great Plains & Texas Panhandle
- Day 7: Texas to Santa Fe (Mountain Time)
- Day 8: New Mexico & the legendary 'Dead Man’s Curve'
- Day 9: The Continental Divide & Arizona
- Day 10: Sitgreaves Pass & California (Pacific Time)
- Day 11-12: The Mojave & Santa Monica Pier
Why choose the Route 66 road trip?
- This itinerary meticulously follows the historic alignment of the "Mother Road". Based on the definitive EZ66 Guide for Travelers by Jerry McClanahan, our route ensures you experience the authentic heart of Route 66, avoiding motorways wherever possible to keep you on the original ribbons of asphalt.
- A true cross-country journey through eight diverse states
- Rich in Americana, culture, and classic roadside attractions
Trip Information
- No of Days: 12
- Estimated Daily Drive: 4 hrs 12 mins
-
Estimated Max Elevation: 2,292m (7,520ft)
Basic Itinerary
Couldn't load pickup availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Route 66 start and end?
Following the traditional “Mother Road” path, the journey begins in Chicago and ends at the iconic Santa Monica Pier on the Pacific Coast.
How many states does Route 66 pass through?
The route crosses eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
Is 12 days enough to see it all?
With an average daily drive of 4 hours and 12 minutes, a 12-day schedule provides a healthy balance. It gives you enough "windshield time" to appreciate the changing landscapes while leaving plenty of room for roadside diners, photo ops, and overnight stays.
What are the must-see attractions along Route 66?
Highlights include Cadillac Ranch (Texas), the Oatman Highway (Arizona), and the Midpoint Café (Texas), the Wigwam Motels (Arizona), and the Mojave Desert (California).
Is the original road still there?
While much of the original 1926 alignment has been replaced by modern interstates (like I-40), our itinerary focuses on the preserved historic segments and is based on the definitive EZ66 Guide for Travelers by Jerry McClanahan.
What is the best time of year to drive Route 66?
Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable temperatures. Summer can be very hot in desert regions such as Mojave Desert.
What kind of weather should I expect?
Because you are crossing nearly the entire continent, weather varies wildly. You’ll start with the humid Midwest, cross the windy plains of Oklahoma and Texas, endure the dry heat of the Mojave Desert, and finish with the cool Pacific breeze in California.
Are there other long-distance "heritage" routes that offer a mix of history and changing landscapes?
Absolutely. While Route 66 is the ultimate American "Mother Road" , our Wild Atlantic Way itinerary in Ireland offers a similar epic journey. Both routes are about following a specific historic trail—shifting from coastal cliffs to rugged mountain passes like the Conor and Healy Passes.