Written by Justin Mewse
Set out on a journey across eight remarkable states as we follow the historic Route 66 and uncover the stories, flavours, landmarks, and characters that make this legendary highway so special. From the bright lights of Chicago to the sun-drenched Santa Monica Pier, explore classic Americana, small-town charm, and unforgettable road trip moments that define the Mother Road.
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
Illinois: Where Your Route 66 Adventure Begins
Illinois sets the scene for an unforgettable Route 66 journey, blending urban energy, small-town charm, and iconic roadside experiences. Travellers can explore world-class attractions in Chicago before following the first stretch of the Mother Road through welcoming communities rich in nostalgia, history, food, and Americana.
Begin Your Adventure in Iconic Chicago
Your Route 66 story starts at the official “Begin Route 66” sign in downtown Chicago. Before heading southwest, take time to enjoy some of the city’s most celebrated attractions, including Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Fuel up at legendary eateries, explore the lakefront, and soak in the buzz of this vibrant metropolis before the adventure unfolds along Illinois’ historic highways and small towns.
Discover Illinois’ First 100 Miles of Route 66
The first 100 miles of Illinois Route 66 reveal some of the state’s most beloved landmarks and early Mother Road icons. Classic stops include Lou Mitchell’s in Chicago, famed for its breakfast tradition, and Old Joliet Prison, where guided tours bring the historic site to life. Just south of Joliet, the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie offers a refreshing natural detour along the historic corridor, with expansive prairie landscapes and the chance to spot the reintroduced bison herd. In Wilmington, the towering Gemini Giant welcomes visitors with its quirky charm, while Dwight’s historic Ambler’s Texaco Station preserves a slice of classic roadside Americana. Further south, Pontiac’s Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum celebrates the road’s legacy through memorabilia and murals. With diners, murals, and small-town warmth at every turn, this opening stretch sets the tone for the journey ahead.
Follow the Mother Road Through Historic Illinois Towns
Continue along Illinois Route 66 as the highway winds through classic communities filled with nostalgic eateries, roadside relics, and rich history. In Atlanta, travellers discover vintage signs, photogenic attractions – such as the playful Paul Bunyon Hotdog Statue, and locally loved diners. Springfield, the state capital, offers world-famous stops such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the impressive State Capitol, and a taste of true local flavour with the iconic Horseshoe sandwich – a hearty Springfield original layered with toasted bread, meat, fries, and creamy cheese sauce. This stretch blends heritage, character, and culinary tradition, guiding travellers deeper into Illinois’ Route 66 story as they head toward the state’s southern reaches.
Experience the Last 100 Miles of Illinois Route 66
The final 100 miles deliver quintessential Route 66 charm with a mix of quirky attractions and cultural landmarks. In Litchfield, enjoy a meal at the historic Ariston Café and catch a movie under the stars at Sky View Drive-In. Further south in Livingston, browse vintage treasures at the Pink Elephant Antique Mall. Collinsville adds a dash of whimsy with its World’s Largest Catsup Bottle, while UNESCO World Heritage Site Cahokia Mounds offers a striking contrast with its deep ancient history. The Illinois chapter concludes in Madison at the iconic Chain of Rocks Bridge, where sweeping Mississippi River views set the stage for the road ahead into St. Louis.
Missouri: A Journey Through Icons, Neon and Classic Route 66 History
Missouri offers some of the most memorable stops along Route 66, from famous city landmarks to glowing neon displays and picture-perfect roadside art. These four highlights capture the spirit, history, and charm that make the state an essential part of the Mother Road.
Gateway Arch, Classic Flavours and Blues in St. Louis
Your Missouri adventure begins in St. Louis, home to the spectacular Gateway Arch, a monument that rises 630 feet above the Mississippi River. Visitors can ride to the top for stunning views across the city and the landscapes that once marked America’s westward expansion. Nearby, satisfy your sweet cravings at Ted Drewes, a beloved St. Louis institution known for its frozen custard “concretes.” These thick, creamy treats are famously served upside down and have delighted Route 66 travellers for decades. Together, the Arch and this legendary custard stand create a perfect blend of culture, history, and flavour to begin your journey through the state. St. Louis also pulses with blues music, from intimate jams to lively stages. Catch live performances at iconic venues like Broadway Oyster Bar and the 1860 Saloon, where talented musicians keep the city’s legendary sound alive.
St. Robert Route 66 Neon Park
As you travel deeper into Missouri, the glow of vintage signs welcomes you to the newly opened St. Robert Route 66 Neon Park. This open-air attraction celebrates the brilliant signage that once guided drivers along the highway. Carefully restored neon pieces shine brightly after sunset, casting colourful reflections and bringing the golden age of roadside travel back to life. Nearby, the Munger Moss Motel offers a classic photo opportunity with its retro charm. The park is a favourite among photographers, history lovers, and anyone who appreciates the artistry of classic Americana, offering a vivid reminder of how light and design shaped the character of Route 66.
Birthplace of Route 66 in Springfield
Continue west to Springfield, proudly known as the birthplace of the Route 66 name. Visitors can explore this heritage at the History Museum on the Square, where hands-on exhibits, interactive galleries, and well-preserved stories trace the road’s evolution and cultural impact. Springfield blends its historical roots with a lively modern atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for curious travellers. Whether you are diving into the museum’s collections or enjoying the welcoming downtown area, the city invites you to experience the origins of one of America’s most iconic highways.
Route 66 Mural Park in Joplin
Your Missouri journey concludes in Joplin, celebrated for its vibrant Route 66 Mural Park. Here, visitors pose beside a classic red Corvette sculpture and two large murals that capture the spirit of mid-century travel along the Mother Road. Bright colours, nostalgic imagery, and creative artwork make this spot a must for photos and a joyful celebration of Americana. It is a lively place to stretch your legs, reflect on your travels, and enjoy one of the most popular Route 66 snapshots in the state.
Kansas: A Quick Slice of the Mother Road
Kansas offers just a short 13-mile stretch of Route 66, but it packs in history and charm. Highlights include the Marsh Arch Bridge, the Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum, and classic roadside relics that capture the spirit of the Mother Road.
Oklahoma: Heartland Adventures and Cultural Highlights
Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66 is rich in history, culture, and entertainment. From iconic roadside attractions and vibrant music scenes to authentic Native American heritage and diverse dining experiences, the state offers travellers a lively and unforgettable segment of the Mother Road.
Diverse Attractions Along the Route
Oklahoma is packed with memorable stops along Route 66, offering something for every traveller. One of the most distinctive is Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park, home to the world’s largest concrete totem pole and a landmark celebrated in Route 66 lore. This colourful folk-art site features hand-carved designs, a charming “Fiddle House” showcasing Galloway’s intricate woodwork, and picnic tables supported by small concrete totems – all part of a whimsical tribute to Native American culture created by the artist in his retirement years. Beyond the park, visitors can explore historic gas stations, characterful small towns, and local museums that share Oklahoma’s deep connection to the Mother Road. Scenic stretches, roadside art, and welcoming communities combine nostalgia with fresh discovery, ensuring every stop reflects the warmth, creativity, and unique charm that make Oklahoma an essential part of the Route 66 experience.
The Oklahoma Music Trail
The state boasts a deep musical pedigree, with a vibrant Oklahoma Music Trail showcasing its contribution to country, jazz, and rock history. Visitors can follow the trail to live music venues, historic recording studios, and landmarks tied to legendary performers. Whether attending a small-town concert, visiting a museum, or spotting plaques celebrating musical icons, travellers will discover the rich rhythms and stories that have shaped both local culture and America’s broader musical heritage.
Authentic Native American History and Culture
Oklahoma is home to a wealth of Native American cultural sites, including museums, historic landmarks, and interactive experiences. Travellers can learn about tribal history, art, and traditions, gaining insight into the state’s indigenous communities. Route 66 visitors encounter authentic cultural experiences that enrich the journey, connecting the legacy of the Mother Road with the deep heritage of the land it traverses.
Eclectic Food Experiences
Oklahoma’s food scene is as diverse as its attractions, with offerings ranging from classic BBQ and farm-to-table fare to fine dining. Route 66 travellers can enjoy legendary comfort foods at local diners, sample regional specialties in bustling towns, or explore innovative culinary experiences in vibrant city centres. Every meal becomes a way to savour the culture, flavours, and hospitality that define Oklahoma along the Mother Road.
Texas: Big Flavours and Iconic Sights on the Mother Road
The Texas Panhandle offers a mix of bold roadside attractions, vast landscapes, and rich music history. From Amarillo’s quirky landmarks to stunning state parks and lively Lubbock, travellers experience the spirit, adventure, and character of Route 66 in Texas.
Amarillo and the Midway of Route 66
Amarillo marks the halfway point of Route 66 and is a lively hub for road trippers. The Amarillo Route 66 Festival in July 2026 promises music, parades, and family-friendly festivities. Food lovers flock to The Big Texan Steak Ranch, famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge and fun, classic Texan atmosphere. Amarillo captures the bold, adventurous spirit of the Mother Road and makes a memorable stop for travellers looking for both history and entertainment.
Cadillac Ranch – Iconic Roadside Art
Just outside Amarillo, Cadillac Ranch is an unmistakable Route 66 landmark. This public art installation features a line of half-buried, brightly painted Cadillacs that invite visitors to pose, spray paint, and engage with one of the most photographed roadside attractions in the U.S. Its quirky, colourful appeal makes it a must-see for anyone travelling the Mother Road, and it perfectly embodies the playful creativity that has defined Route 66 for decades.
Great Outdoors in the Panhandle
Texas’ natural landscapes offer spectacular adventures near Route 66. Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the U.S., showcases dramatic cliffs, hiking trails, and unforgettable views. At Caprock Canyons State Park, travellers can see Texas’ free-roaming bison herd while exploring rugged terrain and scenic trails. These outdoor experiences provide a refreshing break from the highway, letting visitors immerse themselves in the vastness, beauty, and wildlife of the Texas Panhandle.
Lubbock – Music, Wine, and Culture
A short detour from Route 66 brings travellers to Lubbock, the birthplace of 1950s rock and roll pioneer Buddy Holly and a lively hub for live music. The city also sits at the heart of the High Plains Wine & Vine Trail, where 90% of Texas wine grapes are grown. Visitors can enjoy tasting rooms, vineyard tours, and music-themed experiences, making Lubbock a cultural and culinary highlight just a few hours off the Mother Road.
New Mexico: Colour, Culture, and Classic Route 66 Charm
New Mexico offers travellers a rich blend of colourful towns, vibrant art scenes, and iconic Mother Road landmarks. From neon-lit motels to cultural centres and striking desert landscapes, the state provides unforgettable stops along Route 66.
Tucumcari and the Blue Swallow Motel
Tucumcari is a quintessential Route 66 stop, famed for its Blue Swallow Motel, one of the most photographed motels along the Mother Road. With its neon signage, retro charm, and welcoming atmosphere, it captures the spirit of 1950s road travel. Beyond the motel, the town is dotted with murals, vintage diners, and historic motels that transport visitors back to the golden age of the highway, making Tucumcari a must-see destination for nostalgic travellers.
Santa Fe – Art, Architecture, and Culture
A short detour off Route 66, Santa Fe is America’s highest state capital and a treasure trove of culture. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum showcases the works of the iconic painter, while the city’s adobe architecture and more than 80 art galleries along Canyon Road offer a feast for the senses. Santa Fe is a unique blend of historic charm, creative energy, and Southwestern style, rewarding travellers willing to explore beyond the main highway.
Albuquerque – History, Views, and Urban Route 66
Albuquerque features the longest continuous stretch of Route 66 within a single city, measuring 18 miles along Central Avenue. Highlights include the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, celebrating Native American heritage, and the Sandia Peak Tramway, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding desert. The city combines history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a central hub for Route 66 travellers seeking both experiences and iconic photo opportunities.
Gallup – Red Rocks and Legendary Hospitality
Gallup is framed by stunning red rock landscapes and offers a welcoming slice of classic Route 66 Americana. The legendary El Rancho Hotel has hosted Hollywood stars and Route 66 travellers for decades, blending history, comfort, and Western charm. Gallup’s unique atmosphere, rich Native American heritage, and nearby natural beauty make it a memorable stop for those exploring New Mexico’s Mother Road corridor.
Arizona: Big Skies, Bold Icons and Pure Route 66 Magic
Arizona delivers some of Route 66’s most unforgettable scenery and roadside character. From neon-lit motels and unusual landmarks to storied small towns and desert landscapes, the state offers classic Americana at its most vivid and memorable.
Iconic Landmarks Along Arizona’s Route 66
Arizona is home to many of the Mother Road’s most recognisable sights, where bold architecture and roadside whimsy create perfect photo stops. Travellers can visit the Jack Rabbit Trading Post in Joseph City, famous for its “Here It Is” sign, explore the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook with its teepee-shaped rooms, or wander through Winslow, immortalised in the Eagles’ song Take It Easy. With quirky attractions, vintage motels, and desert backdrops, this stretch feels like an open-air museum of mid-century Americana.
Route 66 by Moonlight: Arizona’s After-Dark Adventures
Arizona transforms after sunset, offering travellers a chance to experience Route 66 in a whole new light. Neon signs flicker to life in towns like Kingman, Williams, and Seligman, casting colourful glows across historic storefronts and classic diners. Clear skies reveal exceptional stargazing, especially in areas away from major towns, where the desert opens up to vast constellations. Evening walks, nighttime photography, and late-night stops at local diners make Arizona’s nocturnal Route 66 just as enchanting as the daytime journey.
Faces and Places of Route 66: Hackberry to Seligman
Between Hackberry and Seligman, travellers encounter some of the most charismatic characters and locations on the Mother Road. The Hackberry General Store is a must-stop for vintage petrol pumps, classic cars, and quirky décor. Seligman, considered the birthplace of the Route 66 revival, is home to colourful shops, retro diners, and memorabilia celebrating the road’s enduring history. This stretch is rich with personality, where local storytellers, family-run businesses, and eye-catching roadside oddities keep the spirit of Route 66 very much alive.
Six Days Touring the Mother Road
A six-day road trip across Arizona’s portion of Route 66 offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and nostalgic attractions. Travellers can explore historic towns such as Holbrook, Winslow, Flagstaff, Williams, Kingman, and Oatman, each offering its own take on classic Americana. With opportunities to visit nearby landmarks such as the Petrified Forest, sample local diners, browse vintage shops, and enjoy scenic desert drives, this itinerary showcases the absolute best of Arizona’s Mother Road heritage.
California: The Legendary End of the Trail
California marks the symbolic finish line of Route 66, where the Mother Road meets the Pacific Ocean at Santa Monica Pier. Travellers can enjoy the iconic “End of the Trail” sign, ocean views, lively boardwalk attractions, and a well-earned moment of celebration at the very edge of America’s most storied highway.
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