Rediscover Route 66: 100 Years of the Mother Road, Americana & Open-Road Adventure
Rediscover the legendary Route 66 and journey through a century of Americana, from the neon glow of Chicago to the red-rock vistas of Arizona. Celebrate 100 years of the Mother Road as you explore its classic diners, vintage motels, and offbeat roadside attractions. Follow the trail through Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona – each offering its own blend of history, culture, and open-road adventure.
Along the way, meet the characters, taste the flavours, and experience the communities that keep the spirit of Route 66 alive today.
Use the links below to explore each state, or scroll on to uncover the stories, sights, and experiences that make the Route 66 Centennial a once-in-a-lifetime road trip:
Hit the road across the memorable heartland states of Route 66: Illinois | Missouri | Oklahoma | Texas | New Mexico | Arizona
Celebrate 100 years of Route 66: Route 66 Centennial Celebrations | Route 66 Museums & Attractions | Dining Along the Mother Road
Suggested Route 66 itineraries: 18-Day Historic Route 66 Self-Drive | 17-Day The Famous Road Route 66 | 16-Day Self-Drive Route 66 | 16-Day Highlights Of Route 66 Escorted Tour | 15-Day Route 66 By RV | 15-Day Route 66 By Motorcycle
Confessions of a Globetrotter Blog: Journey Along Route 66 – Your Guide to Eight States of Americana, Culture and Roadside Legends
Hit the Road Across the Memorable Heartland States of Route 66
Illinois
Start your Route 66 adventure where it all begins – in Illinois, the birthplace of the Mother Road. From Chicago’s Lake Michigan shoreline – alive with world-class museums, music, shopping, and its iconic skyline, to the classic charm of Springfield, home of Abraham Lincoln, every mile is packed with history, flavour and Americana. Cruise past vintage diners, murals, and neon-lit signs; explore quirky roadside attractions like Pontiac’s Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum; and soak up the open-road freedom that defines the ultimate U.S. road trip. Discover where nostalgia meets adventure – click through to explore Illinois’ unforgettable stretch of Route 66.
Missouri
Missouri offers an extraordinary variety of experiences, making it a must-see destination for anyone looking for authentic American experiences. America’s most famous highway, Route 66, runs right through Missouri, taking travellers on an unforgettable road trip through the nostalgic, neon-illuminated past. Begin outside St Louis with the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge over the Mississippi, then continue south-west through historic small towns where classic diners, 1950s-style motels and quirky attractions capture the charm of an era. Springfield, Missouri is recognised as the birthplace of Route 66 and will kick-off the celebrations as the Mother Road celebrates its centennial in 2026.
Oklahoma
Get your kicks on 400+ miles of Route 66 in Oklahoma – the Mother Road’s longest driveable stretch, making its way past charming towns, roadside diners and myriad quirky attractions. Experience Oklahoma City, Tulsa and homely communities along the way – you’ll meet friendly people; discover unique shopping and relish diverse eating places. Intriguing museums celebrate America’s Main Street, including the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, Clinton and the National Route 66 Museum, Elk City. Take a nostalgic ride on Route 66 and let its golden age whisper to you through vibrant neon signs, quaint motels, drive-in movie theatres and friendly small towns.
Texas
Spanning nearly 178 miles across the Texas Panhandle, Route 66 became a symbol of freedom and hope for those chasing new beginnings out West. The legacy of the Mother Road lives on in Texas through classic small-town main streets, neon-lit diners, vintage gas stations, and quirky roadside landmarks. Visitors can step inside the art-deco Tower Station & U-Drop Inn in Shamrock, marvel at the Leaning Tower of Texas near Groom, explore the Devil’s Rope Museum in McLean, or leave their mark at Amarillo’s iconic Cadillac Ranch. Each stop along the way offers a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of the American road trip.
New Mexico
The New Mexico stretch is one of the most iconic parts of Route 66, carving through Southwestern landscapes and serving up a healthy dose of nostalgic Americana. Passing through Tucumcari, Santa Rosa, Albuquerque and Gallup, road trippers will encounter vintage neons, classic diners and motels that preserve the road’s mid-century spirit. Albuquerque’s Central Avenue is a lively hub, complete with restored landmarks and Route 66 festivals celebrating its history. This portion of the journey also showcases New Mexico’s stunning high desert landscapes and cultural mix, making it a state worth slowing down for.
Arizona
From Lupton to just west of Kingman, Arizona boasts 385.2 miles of the longest preserved stretch of the original Mother Road in the United States. In 2026, the Main Street of America celebrates its Centennial – 100 years of memories, community, history and the open road. Radiator Springs in the movie Cars draws inspiration from Peach Springs, Hackberry, Seligman and Holbrook. Which town has the best Mater tow truck look-alike is an ongoing debate. Whether heading west to east or east to west on the Mother Road, there’s no shortage of quirky landmarks and iconic destinations to explore and discover along Arizona’s Route 66.
Celebrate 100 Years of Route 66
With just under a year until Route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary on 11th November 2026, now’s the perfect time to hit the road along America’s iconic Mother Road. From classic diners and retro soda fountains to quirky roadside attractions and modern food halls, there’s something to delight every curiosity and appetite. Road trips remain one of the world’s favourite travel experiences, and Route 66 is the ultimate adventure, connecting travellers to people, places and stories across generations. So take the wheel, enjoy the nostalgia, explore vibrant towns, and experience the charm and freedom that make Route 66 truly unforgettable.
Route 66 Centennial Celebrations
Join the excitement along Route 66 as communities celebrate the history, culture, and unforgettable experiences that define the Mother Road. Classic cars, lively parades, local festivals, and immersive events bring the iconic highway to life for travellers of all ages.
Key centennial events to experience:
- Springfield, Missouri Kick-Off – The official birthplace of Route 66 hosts concerts, livestream events, parades, and classic car shows to launch the centennial on 30 April 2026
- State celebrations – Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona offer local parades, historic site events, and community festivals
- Centennial Fun Run – Classic car cruises, live music, and family-friendly festivities across the Route
- Mother Road Market Bash – Oklahoma’s popular market hosts food, music, and pop-up art installations
- Historic ceremonies – Special centennial events bring history to life along the Mother Road
- End of the trail – Santa Monica Pier features live performances and commemorative ceremonies to mark the Route’s iconic conclusion
Route 66 Museums & Attractions
The Mother Road is packed with quirky roadside attractions, fascinating museums, and iconic landmarks that celebrate a century of history, culture, and Americana. Along Route 66, there’s something for every traveller to enjoy – whether it’s vintage cars, neon signs, or giant sculptures that make for unforgettable photos.
Must-see stops along the Route:
- Illinois highlights – Route 66 Hall of Fame in Pontiac, Route 66 Experience in Springfield, the Pink Elephant Antique Mall in Livingston and the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle in Collinsville
- Missouri quirks – Gateway Arch, Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, St. Robert Route 66 Neon Park, Red Cedar Inn in Pacific, World’s Largest Rocking Chair at Fanning Outpost, and the Route 66 Car Museum
- Oklahoma gems – Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Ed Galloway Totem Pole Park and Threatt Filling Station
- Texas art – Cadillac Ranch outside Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon – Texas’ “Grand Canyon”
- New Mexico pit stops – Route 66 Auto Museum, West Central Visitor Center and Route 66 Remixed public art series
- Arizona landmarks – Petrified Forest National Park, Jack Rabbit Trading Post, Kingman Route 66 Museum and Winslow’s “Take It Easy” sites
Dining Along the Mother Road
Route 66 is lined with classic diners, retro soda fountains and unforgettable local favourites that capture the flavour of America’s heartland. Whether you’re craving comfort food, world cuisines or quirky roadside treats, the Mother Road serves up something for every appetite.
Tastes to try along the Route:
- Cozy Dog Drive-In, Springfield – Famous for its original corn dog recipe, this Illinois hotspot is a real Route 66 staple and offers a simple retro menu of burgers, onion rings and more
- Missouri Hick BBQ, Cuba – For smoked meats and cold beer, this roadside BBQ joint is a true Route 66 staple
- Mother Road Market, Tulsa – Oklahoma’s vibrant non-profit food hall featuring global bites and local vendors
- The Big Texan Steak Ranch, Amarillo – The most famous dining stop on Texas Route 66. Known for its 72-oz steak challenge, Western saloon vibes and live entertainment. A must-visit for first-timers
- El Pinto Restaurant, Albuquerque – Just a short drive off Route 66, known for traditional New Mexican cuisine, festive décor, and margaritas
- Delgadillo’s Snow Cap, Seligman – Arizona’s beloved retro stop for shakes, sandwiches and playful nostalgia
Suggested Route 66 Itineraries
Embark on the ultimate American road trip along iconic Route 66 with six unforgettable holiday options below, from self-drive adventures to RV, motorbike, and fully escorted tours. Discover classic diners, neon signs, and legendary landscapes at your own pace or with expert guides.
18-Day Historic Route 66
Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this highway makes the perfect setting for the ultimate road trip. Stay on the old two-lane Route 66, avoiding major roads, and take a trip back in time to see motels with neon signs, quirky roadside attractions and classic Americana diners.
** Tailor to your needs **
From £1,339pp
Operated by Discover North America
- Begin at the official Route 66 start point in Chicago, explore Lincoln heritage sites, iconic Muffler Men, historic diners, and cross the Mississippi via the Chain of Rocks Bridge
- Wind through Ozark landscapes, explore Meramec Caverns, neon-lit motels, vintage car collections, and classic small towns that showcase Route 66’s golden age
- Enjoy a brief but memorable stretch featuring Rainbow Bridge, the Old Riverton Store, and film-inspired stops celebrating Route 66 pop culture
- Discover Tulsa and Oklahoma City’s rich Route 66 legacy, from Art Deco landmarks and Muffler Men to soda ranches, historic museums, and glowing neon districts
- Experience the Panhandle’s biggest icons, including Cadillac Ranch, Midpoint Café, Amarillo’s Big Texan Steak Ranch, and beautifully restored Art Deco service stations
- Take in high desert scenery, neon-lit Tucumcari, Santa Fe’s historic plaza, Albuquerque’s Central Avenue, and trading posts rich in Native American culture
- Travel through Petrified Forest, Winslow, Flagstaff, Williams, and Seligman, with unforgettable stops at the Grand Canyon and classic Route 66 mountain passes
- Cross the Mojave Desert past Amboy and Barstow, trace Old Route 66 through Pasadena and Los Angeles, and finish at the legendary Santa Monica Pier “End of the Trail” sign
- 17 nights hotel accommodation
- 18 days compact car rental including zero excess
- A personalised Roadbook containing essential travel information, daily itinerary highlights and routing maps
- Taxes unless otherwise specified
- ABTA & ATOL protected
17-Day The Famous Road Route 66
Travel the Mother Road from Chicago to the California coast, weaving through neon-lit towns, classic roadside stops, vast desert scenery and rich cultural icons along the way, before celebrating the journey’s exciting final end at the sparkling Pacific in true Route 66 style.
** Tailor to your needs **
From £1,399pp
Operated by Purely Travel
- Soak up Chicago’s architectural brilliance, cultural heavyweights and dining scene before hitting the ‘Begin Route 66’ sign, classic diners, and early roadside icons en route to Lincoln country
- Experience vintage Route 66 driving, explore the depths of Meramec Caverns, enjoy river life along the Mississippi, and discover historic towns rich in neon, nostalgia and small-business Americana
- Travel the heartland of the Mother Road, with long drivable stretches, Romanesque courthouses, decade-by-decade Route 66 storytelling, and classic highway towns steeped in motoring history
- Cross the Panhandle’s wide-open landscapes, pose at Cadillac Ranch, mark the Route 66 midpoint, and embrace Amarillo’s larger-than-life steakhouse legends
- Immerse yourself in high-desert scenery, Pueblo-influenced architecture, Santa Fe’s thriving arts scene, and one of Route 66’s most scenic and least-changed stretches
- Discover petrified forests, trading posts, Wild West railway towns, and the jaw-dropping scale of the Grand Canyon, alongside some of the longest preserved sections of the original route
- Contrast quiet desert roads with the spectacle of Las Vegas, crossing the engineering marvel of Hoover Dam and enjoying world-class entertainment and nightlife
- Trace the final miles of the Mother Road through desert outposts and classic highway towns before reaching the iconic Route 66 end point near the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica
- 16 nights accommodation on a Room Only basis
- Car hire
- ATOL protected
16-Day Self-Drive Route 66
Experience an epic Route 66 adventure from Chicago to Santa Monica, exploring classic diners, iconic landmarks, desert scenery, vibrant cities, national parks, and nostalgic Americana on an unforgettable cross-country road trip.
** Low Deposit **
From £1,789pp
Including flights
Operated by American Sky
- Begin your Route 66 adventure in Chicago, exploring towering city views, iconic landmarks and the historic starting point of America’s most legendary highway
- Journey into the scenic Ozarks, visiting Meramec Caverns and discovering St. Louis icons like the soaring Gateway Arch
- Pass through Kansas’s short but memorable stretch of Route 66, marked by small-town charm and classic roadside Americana
- Explore the spirit of the Mother Road with historic motels, retro gas stations and the rich cultural heritage of Oklahoma City
- Discover quirky Panhandle attractions in Amarillo, from the world-famous Big Texan Steak Ranch to the colourful Cadillac Ranch
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant landscapes and cultures of Albuquerque and Santa Fe, where Native American, Hispanic and Route 66 history meet
- Experience iconic Arizona highlights along the Mother Road, including the Petrified Forest, Flagstaff, Williams and the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon
- Follow Route 66 through the Mojave Desert to its iconic finale on the Santa Monica Pier, where the “End of the Trail” sign marks your journey’s completion
- 15 nights accommodation on a Room Only basis
- Fully inclusive car rental – upgrades available at a supplement (eg: SUV or convertible), electronic maps
- Las Vegas Strip night flight helicopter excursion
- Return international flights
- ATOL protected
16-Day Highlights Of Route 66
Travel the iconic Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles on this escorted tour, visiting historic towns, classic diners, and Route 66 museums. Explore the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and landmarks like the Gateway Arch and Lincoln Presidential Museum along the way.
** Expert tour leader | Modern coach **
From £2,769pp
Operated by Discover North America
- Stand at the start of the “Mother Road” in Chicago and explore the Windy City’s jazz clubs, Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, and the soaring Willis Tower
- Discover Route 66 nostalgia in Pontiac, browse the Hall of Fame & Museum, then explore Springfield and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum
- Cross the Mississippi River to St. Louis, ride to the top of the Gateway Arch, and enjoy sweeping city and river views
- Experience the music scene and scenic charm of Branson before winding through Missouri’s Ozark countryside and historic Route 66 towns
- Visit the iconic diner and gas station at Arcadia, explore Oklahoma City’s landmarks, and uncover vintage motels, signs, and architecture along the old road
- Stop at the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City, see Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and explore classic Americana at Russell’s Car Museum in New Mexico
- Take a scenic ride along Central Avenue in Albuquerque, wander Old Town, visit Acoma Sky City, and ride the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway for desert and canyon views
- Explore Williams’ historic Route 66 downtown, marvel at the Grand Canyon South Rim, then end your journey in Los Angeles, taking in Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica Pier
- 15 nights accommodation
- Selected meals
- Admissions / sightseeing as specified
- Services of a professional tour leader
- All transportation by modern coach
- Porterage
- ABTA & ATOL protected
15-Day Route 66 By RV
Embark on a classic Route 66 adventure by RV, campervan or motorhome, cruising from Chicago to Los Angeles. Explore iconic roadside stops, historic towns, desert landscapes, the Grand Canyon, vibrant cities, and the Pacific Coast finale.
** SAVE up to £100 **
From £2,795pp
Including flights
Operated by Trips Beyond
- Soak up Chicago’s lakefront energy, classic architecture and legendary blues scene before joining Route 66
- Cruise the Mother Road to St Louis, collecting your RV and settling into life on America’s most storied highway
- Travel through the Ozark Highlands, exploring Meramec Caverns and the outlaw legends hidden beneath Missouri’s hills
- Cross into Oklahoma via Tulsa, tracing Cyrus Avery’s legacy and photographing vintage motels and neon-lined streets
- Roll into the Texas Panhandle, stopping at Route 66 museums, restored Phillips 66 stations and Amarillo icons
- Pass Cadillac Ranch and the Midpoint Café, sampling classic roadside Americana en route to New Mexico
- Discover Albuquerque and Santa Fe, blending Route 66 history with Pueblo culture, art-filled streets and regional cuisine
- Enter Arizona to explore Petrified Forest National Park, the Painted Desert and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon
- Follow classic Route 66 towns through Seligman and Kingman, then cross Hoover Dam into dazzling Las Vegas
- Finish the journey through the Mojave Desert, historic ghost towns and Los Angeles neighbourhoods, ending at Santa Monica Pier
- 2 nights accommodation in Chicago on arrival
- Your choice of RV, motorhome or campervan
- Return international flights
- ABTA & ATOL protected
15-Day Route 66 By Motorcycle
Throttle along Route 66 from Chicago to L.A. on a guided motorcycle adventure, exploring historic towns, quirky roadside icons, breathtaking landscapes, desert highways, vibrant cities, and hidden gems for a superb journey on America’s Mother Road.
** SAVE up to £200 **
From £5,149pp
Including flights
Operated by American Sky
- Cruise the streets of Chicago and experience iconic landmarks, lakeside views, and vibrant culture
- Explore Springfield and St. Louis, riding past historic monuments, neon attractions, and classic Mother Road highlights
- Navigate Missouri’s rolling hills and quirky towns, discovering oversized roadside statues and hidden Route 66 gems
- Ride through Oklahoma’s heartland, enjoying Native American heritage, small-town charm, and historic Route 66 motels
- Take in Texas’ Panhandle with stops at Amarillo, Cadillac Ranch, and the legendary Big Texan Steak Ranch
- Experience New Mexico’s high desert, Santa Fe’s arts scene, and Albuquerque’s Route 66 treasures along the Rio Grande
- Discover Arizona’s iconic scenery from Holbrook to the Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, and Winslow’s famous corner
- Conclude in California, riding through the Mojave Desert to Los Angeles and the Santa Monica Pier “End of the Trail” sign
- 14 nights 3* to 4* motorcycle-friendly hotels on a Bed & Breakfast basis*
- 1 Harley-Davidson motorcycle for 2 people sharing**. Separate motorcycles available at an additional supplement
- Late model motorcycle rental, Bike Model Guarantee, fuel on riding days
- Half-shell helmet for rider and pillion, custom armoured riding jacket, custom tour completion patch
- *Breakfast on riding days, hosted welcome dinner on first night, hosted farewell dinner and party on last night
- Experienced multilingual tour guide
- Support vehicle equipped for luggage and spare bike, support vehicle driver, door-to-door luggage service
- Eagle Rider on-road concierge
- National park entrance fees
- Grand Canyon helicopter tour on day 11
- Hotel parking fees, toll fees
- Transportation between tour hotel and Eagle Rider locations
- + VIP zero damage waiver
- Return international flights
- ATOL protected
**Clients MUST have a motorcycle license to ride
Confessions of a Globetrotter Blog:
Journey Along Route 66: Your Guide to Eight States of Americana, Culture and Roadside Legends
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through eight extraordinary states as we travel the legendary Route 66, discovering the history, flavours, icons, and personalities that bring this storied highway to life. From Chicago’s vibrant cityscape to the sunlit shores of Santa Monica, experience timeless Americana, character-filled towns, and the memorable moments that have made the Mother Road a road-trip classic.
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