Route 66 road trip is one of the most exciting adventures you can take in the United States. Known as the “Mother Road,” this historic route takes you from Chicago to Santa Monica, passing through small towns, big cities, and all kinds of unique stops along the way.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a classic American road trip, Route 66 is the perfect choice. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan, where to stop, what to pack, and how to enjoy every moment. Let’s hit the road!
Contents
🚗 What Is the Route 66 Road Trip?
Route 66 is a famous highway that once stretched 2,448 miles across the U.S. It starts in Chicago, Illinois, and ends at the Santa Monica Pier in California. Along the way, it runs through 8 states:
Illinois
Missouri
Kansas
Oklahoma
Texas
New Mexico
Arizona
California
Today, even though parts of the road are no longer official highways, you can still follow it using historic signs and maps.
📍Why Take a Route 66 Road Trip?
There are many reasons people love a Route 66 road trip. Here are a few:
You’ll see amazing roadside attractions.
You can visit small towns and meet friendly people.
It feels like stepping back in time.
You can take as long as you want—it’s your journey!
One family from Texas took 3 weeks to explore the entire road. They stopped at diners, museums, and even slept in a wigwam motel!
🗺️ Route 66 Road Trip: Full State-by-State Breakdown
Let’s look at what you can see in each state during your Route 66 road trip:
You’ll find many cool motels and hotels along the way. Some are old-fashioned, which adds to the charm! Try:
Blue Swallow Motel (Tucumcari, NM)
Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, AZ)
Munger Moss Motel (Lebanon, MO)
🍔 What to Eat Along Route 66
A Route 66 road trip is not complete without good food! Try:
Lou Mitchell’s in Chicago for breakfast
Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, IL
Delgadillo’s Snow Cap in Seligman, AZ
Many places serve classic American food like burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes.
🧳 What to Pack for Your Route 66 Road Trip
Here’s a quick checklist to help you pack:
Comfortable clothes and shoes
Map or GPS (download offline maps!)
Snacks and water
Sunglasses and sunscreen
A camera or phone charger
Emergency car kit
🕒 How Long Should a Route 66 Road Take?
It depends on how much time you have. Here’s a simple plan:
Trip Length
What You’ll Cover
1 Week
Quick highlights, big cities only
2 Weeks
Main towns and fun stops
3+ Weeks
Full Route 66 with side trips
Most people take 2 to 3 weeks to enjoy it fully.
🛠️ Real-Life Example: The Martin Family Trip
The Martins from Ohio took a Route 66 road trip in 2023. They used a small RV and spent 21 days on the road. They shared photos daily and said their favorite stop was the Cadillac Ranch in Texas.
They planned their trip with printed maps, used Google Maps for detours, and stayed in motels every 2–3 nights to rest.
Their advice? “Go slow. The small towns are the best part!”
🔮 Future of Route 66 Road Trips
Even though parts of Route 66 are not in perfect shape, many groups are working to preserve it. In fact, Route 66 is being considered for National Historic Trail status, which means even more funding to keep it alive for future generations.
Also, with the rise of electric vehicles, some towns along the way are adding EV charging stations, so road trips will stay eco-friendly.
📊 Quick Reference Chart for Route 66 Road Trip Planning
Category
Tips
Time Needed
2–3 weeks for full trip
Best Months
May to October
Budget Range
$2,000–$5,000 depending on length
Fuel Stops
Plan ahead in remote areas
Lodging
Book motels in advance during peak season
Must-Do
Cadillac Ranch, Blue Whale, Route 66 museums
Route 66 Road Trip: A Fun and Easy Guide for Every Traveler
🤔 FAQs
Q1: Is the Route 66 road still possible today?
Yes! While parts of it are no longer official highways, many parts are open and signed as Historic Route 66.
Q2: How long is the Route 66 road?
It’s about 2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. Most people take 2–3 weeks to explore it well.
Q3: Is Route 66 safe for road trips?
Yes, it’s safe! Just make sure your vehicle is in good condition, and stay in towns or rest stops when needed.
Q4: What is the best time to do a Route 66 road?
Spring and fall are best. Summer can be hot, especially in Arizona and New Mexico.
Q5: Can you take a Route 66 road with kids?
Absolutely! Many stops are kid-friendly, and the whole family will enjoy the history and fun places.
🏁 Final Thoughts
A Route 66 road trip is more than a vacation—it’s a journey through American history, culture, and roadside charm. Whether you take two weeks or a full month, this trip will create memories that last a lifetime.
Plan smart, pack light, and get ready to cruise the Mother Road. Don’t forget to take pictures, chat with locals, and enjoy every moment of this unique road adventure!
Want to explore more road trips across America? Visit TravelUSA for ideas and planning tools.
