Route 66

The Basics

One of America’s first highways, Route 66 is rife with culture, views, and history. With such a long length, there are numerous ways to experience a slice of Route 66 from any number of the states it passes through—Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Drive along Route 66 to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park and catch the views on guided day trip, or step into the Wild West at some of Arizona’s ghost towns. Pass through the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, tour the Cahokia Mounds of Collinsville, explore Downtown Albuquerque, and play on the pier in Los Angeles; the options are endless.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Some modern maps don’t show Route 66, but detailed directions are available online.

• Route 66 begins in Chicago and ends in Santa Monica, California, but only segments of the original road remain.

• Fuel up often along the road, especially in western states like Arizona where gas stations can be scarce.

• Don’t forget sunglasses; the east-west orientation of Route 66 means you’ll likely be driving into the rising or setting sun at some point.

How to Get There

Old Route 66 passes through eight different states; the segments that remain in each state are often well marked with Historic Route 66 signage. Road tripping is by far the most popular way to experience the route.

When to Get There

The best time to visit Route 66 depends largely on which section you’ll be visiting. Spring and autumn are both good times to experience the entirety of the road. Expect high summer temperatures in the West and icy winter conditions along the road’s eastern expanse.

Time Allowance on America’s Mother Road

With so much to see and do along Route 66, trip length can vary greatly. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least seven days one-way, and add extra days in destinations you might want to explore in-depth on side trips from the road.

Ways to explore

With such a great length, there are lots of ways to experience a slice of Route 66 from any number of the states it passes through—Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Drive along it to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and catch the views on a guided day trip, or step into the Wild West at some of Arizona’s ghost towns. The official starting point of the legendary highway is a hot spot on Chicago walking tours, and you can experience its Santa Monica terminus on two wheels or four.

Accessibility

Route 66 is generally accessible, but some historic motels and attractions may not be.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Don’t forget sunglasses—the east-west orientation of Route 66 means you’ll likely be driving into the rising or setting sun at some point.

What to wear

Plan your outfits around the season in the cities you’ll be visiting: In the winter, Chicago can be freezing, while Los Angeles is temperate.

Not allowed

State laws on marijuana along the route vary: Check before crossing state lines.

Address

Route 66 runs from Chicago to Santa Monica, passing through eight different states; the segments that remain are often well marked with Route 66 signage.

Driving

Road tripping is by far the most popular way to experience the route. Be sure to allow plenty of time for sightseeing and eating, rather than just driving long days.

Public transportation

Public transportation access to Route 66 varies.

Best times to visit

While the retro motels can be a glowing sight after dark, Route 66 is best enjoyed by daylight.

Best days to visit

There’s no bad day to experience Route 66.

Best months to visit

The best time to visit largely depends on which section you’ll be driving. Spring and fall are both good times to experience the entirety of the road. Expect high summer temperatures in the West and icy winter conditions along the road’s eastern expanse.

Special events

In early May, the Historic Route 66 Fun Run brings hundreds of vintage cars and their drivers together in Seligman, Arizona, to cruise a 140-mile (225-kilometer) stretch of the highway.