Route 66 road trip guide: Top highlights along the journey

Known as the Mother Road, a phrase popularized by author John Steinbeck, it served as a route for Dust Bowl refugees heading west. Although Route 66 is no longer marked on official highway maps, traversing its remaining stretches is considered one of America's quintessential road trips.

Spanning eight states from Chicago to Los Angeles, Route 66 stretches nearly 2,500 miles across diverse regions, including the Midwest, Great Plains, Southwest, and West. Over the years, much of the route has been supplanted by interstate highways, particularly Interstate 40, making it necessary to navigate through various detours to find the original road.

As a result, most travelers opt to explore a specific segment, allowing ample time for stops, or they may choose to stay in one of the larger towns along the route and venture out in either direction.

From east to west, here are some of the top destinations to experience the nostalgia of the Mother Road.

Chicago, Hinsdale, and Joliet, Illinois

The iconic starting point of Route 66 is Buckingham Fountain located in Chicago's Grant Park, but the real adventure begins when you head southwest out of the city.

A great place to kick off your journey is the Route 66 Welcome Center at the Joliet Area Historical Museum, featuring an impressive exhibit on Muffler Men, the giant fiberglass figures used to promote car repair shops.

Classic eateries that continue the tradition of Route 66's roadside hospitality include the Rich & Creamy ice cream stand, Joliet Kicks on Route 66, and Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket, famous for its fried chicken and the catchy slogan, "Get Your Chicks on Route 66."

For an unforgettable all-American meal, Al's Steak House has been delighting hungry road travelers with top-quality steaks for 60 years. As you continue southwest on what is now Highway 55, be sure to snap some photos at the beautifully preserved Ambler's Texaco Gas Station in Dwight, where the gas pumps shine a vibrant red.

Where to stay

Between Chicago and Joliet, you'll find a wide range of hotel options that cater to every budget and loyalty program. The Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop, housed in the former headquarters of the Chicago and North Western Railway, embodies a different era of travel history, with landmark Union Station just a short stroll away. Opened in the fall of 2023, this stylish hotel features decor that celebrates the glamour of cross-country train journeys. Its new rooftop restaurant, Seville, is worth a visit, offering innovative cocktails, small plates, and classic Spanish dishes like paella. Room rates start at $240 or 65,000 points per night.

A recent addition to Joliet, the Candlewood Suites Joliet Southwest features spacious accommodations and an indoor pool, and it welcomes pets. Rooms begin at $113 or 21,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Marriott's TownePlace Suites Joliet South also boasts a large indoor pool and offers generously sized, well-appointed rooms that provide ample space to unwind after your journey. Rooms are available starting at $134 or 12,800 Bonvoy points per night.

Pontiac, Illinois

Pontiac proudly showcases its Mother Road heritage through 23 vibrant outdoor murals and two museums that celebrate America's passion for automobiles. The Pontiac-Oakland Museum and Resource Center features a rotating exhibit of rare Pontiac and Oakland models, while the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum displays vintage advertisements, signs, and even a classic Volkswagen hippie bus nestled within an old fire station.

Litchfield, Illinois

While it's a brief stop, you won't want to skip the Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center, which boasts an intriguing collection of nostalgic memorabilia.

Close by, the ultra-retro Ariston Cafe stands as one of the oldest continuously operating establishments along Route 66, serving a delightful mix of American, Southern, Greek, and Italian dishes since 1924.

Springfield, Missouri

As you enter Missouri, be sure to check out the Chain of Rocks Bridge, now exclusively open to pedestrians and cyclists, renowned for its striking dogleg curve in the middle.

Springfield boasts a collection of vintage Route 66 establishments spread across two downtown streets: St. Louis Street to the east and the Chestnut Expressway to the west. The Route 66 Car Museum stands out as a major highlight, showcasing over 70 rare and collectible classic cars.

One of Springfield's most iconic historical structures is the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque. This ornately designed old theater, constructed in 1923, is still in the hands of the Shriners, who utilize it as an auditorium and concert venue. Close by, a plaque recounts the tale of Wild Bill Hickok's fatal encounter with fellow gambler Dave Tutt, allegedly sparked by Tutt showing off a watch he had won from Hickok.

Where to stay

Bonvoy members will be delighted to discover the SpringHill Suites Springfield North (starting at $136 or 26,000 points), a stylish addition to the hotel lineup featuring generously sized rooms that can easily fit cribs, rollaway beds, and trundle beds, complete with microwaves and minifridges.

Dedicated Route 66 enthusiasts often prefer the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven (from $129 or 20,000 points per night), while Hilton Honors members might favor the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Springfield (starting at $380 or 145,000 Hilton Honors points per night), which has been completely renovated with earthy furnishings and a midcentury modern aesthetic.

Galena and Riverton, Kansas

Though the Kansas segment of Route 66 spans just 13.2 miles, it features some significant stops. One highlight is the town of Galena, home to the historic Kan-O-Tex gas station, now transformed into Cars on the Route, a homage to Pixar's animated film "Cars."

Located in the historic Missouri-Kansas-Texas train depot, the Galena Mining & Historical Museum showcases vintage furnishings, tools, and historical documents that narrate the story of life in a thriving mining town.

Just a short drive west in Riverton, make a stop at the Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store, a beloved pit stop since the 1920s. This deli offers classic sandwiches, and the owner, who is also the president of the Kansas Route 66 Association, proudly showcases his collection of memorabilia.

Not as widely known but cherished by locals is the charming white Rainbow Bridge, which gracefully spans Brush Creek about 2 miles west of Riverton.

Clinton, Oklahoma

Oklahoma boasts the most original and drivable segments of Route 66 compared to any other state, proudly honoring this legacy. The route was instrumental during the Dust Bowl migration of the 1930s.

This pride is vividly showcased at the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton. Thanks to substantial state and local funding, the museum has curated an extensive collection, including a re-creation of a classic 1950s diner where visitors can take a seat.

Those who have traveled this route before might feel nostalgic about the now-gone Trade Winds Inn, once a favorite of Elvis Presley, who stayed there four times. Clinton also features the Water-Zoo, an indoor water park that's a great pit stop for tired kids on a road trip.

Where to stay

In Clinton, you can find points-friendly accommodations like the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Clinton Historic Route 66, which features a large outdoor pool (starting at $96 or 15,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night), and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clinton (starting at $110 or 18,000 IHG One Rewards points per night).

Tulsa, Stroud, and Chandler, Oklahoma

Tulsa proudly holds the title of the culinary capital along the Route 66 road trip, featuring numerous restaurants inspired by the Mother Road. Notable among them is El Rancho Grande, a Mexican restaurant that has been delighting diners for over 60 years under its charming neon sign. For a quintessential Mother Road diner experience, don't miss Tally's, famous for serving breakfast all day long.

At Mother Road Market, there's something delicious for everyone. Choose from Chicken & the Wolf, Bodhi's Bowl, or even Brazilian dishes at Doctor Kustom, and enjoy your meal on a family-friendly outdoor patio adorned with Route 66-themed murals and a mini-golf course.

Before you leave, explore the unique shops at Mother Road Market, where you can find an array of books, toys, and creative souvenirs. Be sure to make a final stop at the Desert Hills Motel to capture a photo of its iconic neon sign.

As you head west from Tulsa, keep an eye out for Rock Creek Bridge. Measuring just 12 feet in width, it offers a striking reminder of how narrow roads like Route 66 were during the early Model T era. In Stroud, you'll encounter another iconic piece of Route 66 neon at the Skyliner Motel, which invites travelers with its impressive red arrow.

Now, back to the movie "Cars." The Rock Cafe, located just west of Stroud and constructed from local stone in the 1920s, is a must-visit for fans. Director John Lasseter frequented this spot while creating the film, leaving behind signed posters, napkins, and even graffiti.

Chandler features the Route 66 Interpretive Center, which stands out from other Mother Road museums by focusing on educational experiences.

McLean, Texas

Stretching nearly 200 miles across the flat plains of the Texas panhandle, Route 66 in Texas has mostly been replaced by Interstate 40, leaving behind remnants of old Mother Road businesses located on the business loops of various towns.

Kicking off from the east, the first stop is the historic ranching town of McLean. The interstate didn’t bypass this town until the early 1980s, and it has made remarkable strides in preserving its historical buildings.

Be sure to snap a photo with the enormous neon Texas sign, and don’t miss the well-preserved Phillips 66 station, where the pumps still display a price of 19 cents per gallon.

A must-visit is the Devil's Rope Museum, which honors barbed wire—referred to as the "devil's rope" by cowboys. It features one of the finest collections of Route 66 memorabilia and souvenirs along the entire Mother Road.

Amarillo and Cadillac Ranch, Texas

Amarillo remains a stronghold of the beef industry, processing 2 million cattle each year, which helps maintain that classic Wild West atmosphere, even with its growing population. Route 66 runs along Sixth Street through what is now known as the Old Jacinto District, where you can explore boot and saddle shops, as well as antique stores.

As you travel along I-40, you won’t miss the enormous steer head marking the Big Texan Steak Ranch, which originally opened on Route 66 in 1960. Families will enjoy the charming Wild West-style building, quirky decor, and generous portions at wallet-friendly prices.

The most photographed road-themed attraction in the Amarillo area is Cadillac Ranch, conveniently located just off I-40, about 10 miles west of the city. This iconic site features 10 rusting Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground, showcasing the distinctive American midcentury design from 1949 to 1964 with their finned backsides pointing skyward.

Cadillac Ranch was established in 1974 by a group of artists from San Francisco, commissioned by the eccentric millionaire Stanley Marsh III. In the late 1990s, Marsh relocated the Cadillacs to a more remote location to escape the city's growth. Following Marsh's passing in 2014, the installation's future became uncertain, but its vibrant, day-glo-painted cars remain popular for advertisements and photo shoots, ensuring its continued existence for now.

Where to stay

The Big Texan (starting at $76) provides both lodging and dining options, offering a truly unforgettable experience with unique accommodations such as authentic covered wagons and vintage Airstream trailers.

You'll discover a variety of choices for nearly every loyalty rewards program; consider staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Amarillo (rooms from $87 or 24,000 Hilton Honors points per night), Marriott's Residence Inn Amarillo (rooms starting at $149 or 20,500 Bonvoy points per night), and many more.

Tucumcari, New Mexico

Tucumcari is arguably one of the best places on Route 66 for time capsule photo opportunities, boasting an array of vintage signs along the aptly named Route 66 Boulevard. Many of these signs adorn classic motor lodges and diners, including Del's Restaurant, which showcases a giant cow on its sign.

Another highlight you'll notice is the nearly 100 murals that embellish side streets, shops, restaurants, and grocery stores. Don’t miss the Mother Road-themed mural at the intersection of Second Street and Tucumcari Boulevard, and be sure to check out the Magnolia gas station, decorated with Route 66 memorabilia and signs.

Where to stay

While exploring, you'll likely come across the charming signs of Tucumcari's numerous 1940s-style motor lodges, including the Blue Swallow Motel (rooms starting at $134 per night) and the Historic Route 66 Motel, which embraces midcentury chic with a street-side patio featuring "Jetsons"-inspired chairs. Rates for rooms begin at just $76 a night, and they come equipped with refrigerators, microwaves, and cozy armchairs; some even include sleeper sofas for added sleeping space.

For Bonvoy members, the newly opened Fairfield Inn & Suites Tucumcari offers a delightful blend of contemporary comforts and midcentury modern decor that perfectly captures Route 66 nostalgia. Room rates start at $119 or 40,000 Bonvoy points per night.

Santa Rosa, New Mexico

Renowned for its commitment to preserving vintage signs and structures, Santa Rosa is also home to the Route 66 Auto Museum, easily identifiable by the bright yellow car that sits atop a pole, making it a can't-miss landmark.

The museum boasts a remarkable collection of classic cars from the dawn of the automotive era, alongside an impressive array of vintage gas pumps that truly embody the essence of Route 66. Another highlight of Santa Rosa is the Blue Hole, a remarkably deep spring-fed lake that attracts scuba divers from near and far.

Where to stay

The Hampton Inn Santa Rosa, conveniently located on Route 66, is a popular choice among Hilton Honors members seeking to maximize their points, with rooms available starting at 20,000 points per night.

The La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Rosa, like all La Quinta properties, is a hit with pet owners among Wyndham members due to its pet-friendly policies; room rates begin at $124 per night.

Williams, Arizona

"The last town bypassed by I-40," proclaims a mural on the main street, reflecting Williams' unique character as both a rugged Western town and a nostalgic cruising destination from the 1950s.

Retro-style photo opportunities abound, featuring the sky-blue Arizona 9 Motor Hotel sign and a neon cow inviting diners to Rod's Steakhouse. A striking Coca-Cola-red car perched atop Cruiser's 66 Cafe can be spotted from blocks away.

Located just an hour from Grand Canyon National Park, Williams serves as an excellent base for exploration. The Grand Canyon Railway offers "door-to-door" service directly to Grand Canyon Village, complete with entertaining staged "shootouts" and wildlife viewing along the route.

Where to stay

In Williams, IHG members can enjoy the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Williams with rates starting at $132 or 24,000 IHG points per night. Choice Hotels members have options such as Quality Inn Near Grand Canyon or Comfort Inn Near Grand Canyon, both beginning at $90 or 20,000 Choice points per night.

Wyndham Rewards members will appreciate the extensive choices available, including La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Williams-Grand Canyon Area ($97 or 30,000 points per night), Ramada by Wyndham Williams ($60 or 15,000 points per night), and Howard Johnson by Wyndham Williams ($56 or 15,000 points per night).

For a unique and adventurous experience, consider staying at the newly opened Backland Luxury Camping, a glamping resort located just 20 minutes from Williams. Spanning 160 acres of lush forest, it features an on-site spa and restaurant, with tent accommodations starting at $395 a night.

Seligman and Hackberry, Arizona

Seligman is a treasure trove of vintage cafes, shops, and gas stations, all vibrantly painted and adorned with antiques salvaged from the nearby desert. It's a photographer's paradise — a quintessential stop on Route 66. This charming spot marks the point where Route 66 veers off from I-40 and heads towards Hackberry, where the Hackberry General Store exudes the authentic Mother Road atmosphere that many polished museums lack.

Kingman and Oatman, Arizona

A pivotal stop on the Route 66 journey, Kingman features the uniquely detailed Arizona Route 66 Museum. Located in the Powerhouse Visitor Center, it showcases the history of the westward route, which dates back to its origins as an Indian trail, wagon train path, and railroad line before it became a favorite for road trippers. Highlights include a covered wagon and a classic Dust Bowl truck, along with eye-catching 1950s roadsters.

Taking the sharp turn north to explore the historic mining town of Oatman is a detour worth making. Here, the main street seems to be stuck in time, complete with wooden sidewalks and burros roaming freely among the vintage storefronts.

Barstow, California

Barstow is home to several quirky landmarks that celebrate its past as a key rail hub, including a unique McDonald's built from repurposed railroad cars. Yet, for Route 66 enthusiasts, the main attraction is the Route 66 Mother Road Museum, nestled within the historic Casa del Desierto, a former Fred Harvey hotel that now reflects its faded elegance.

Just outside Barstow in the Mojave National Preserve, the Kelso Depot has been transformed into a visitor center, bookstore, and museum, with its old baggage room, ticket office, and dormitory restored to their 1930s charm. The Desert Light Gallery features exhibits on natural history and art.

Barstow serves as a popular stopover for travelers heading to San Francisco or Los Angeles, as well as to the stunning desert national parks of Zion, Bryce, and Grand Canyon.

Where to stay

You’ll discover a variety of points-friendly accommodations, such as the Hampton Inn & Suites Barstow (starting at $299 or 50,000 Hilton points per night) and the Quality Inn on Historic Route 66 (rooms available from $103 or 16,000 Choice Privileges points per night).

Best Western Rewards members can choose between two options: the Best Western Desert Villa Inn (rooms from $134 or 20,000 points per night) and the newer Best Western Plus New Barstow Inn & Suites (starting at $143 or 28,000 points per night).

Heading west toward the coast

Route 66 has been altered numerous times as it winds through California, making it challenging to follow its path or locate the remnants that still exist. The remnants appear in small, disconnected zigzag segments.

Victorville, California, features a brief segment of the route, highlighted by an encouraging welcome sign and the California Route 66 Museum. In the nearly deserted Newberry Springs, the Baghdad Cafe gained fame from the 1980s art-house film that shares its name.

For those seeking a genuine glimpse into the past, these segments of Highway 66 are ideal. Here, you’ll find endless stretches of solitude, where tumbleweeds dance across the cracked pavement. Abandoned motel signs linger, and vintage gas pumps, confined behind chain-link fences, yearn for the attention of motorists long departed.

Where to stay

While many travelers might opt to push onward to Los Angeles for the night, consider finishing your journey with a stay at San Bernardino’s nostalgic Wigwam Motel (rooms start at $109 a night), where individual stucco units surround a pool, all nestled under swaying palm trees reminiscent of the 1950s.