New Mexico
A Journey Through Time: New Mexico on Route 66
Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America or the Mother Road, is one of the most iconic and historic highways in the United States. Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this historic route covers a total of 2,448 miles and passes through eight states, one…
Read More
Lone Star State Gems: Texas on Route 66
Texas, the second-largest state in the United States, has always been an iconic symbol of the nation with its multifaceted past, diverse scenery and unique blend of Mexican and American cultures. One of the things that makes Texas truly special is its section of historic Route 66. Route 66, also…
Read More
Arizona: The Pulse of Route 66
Route 66 has always been more than just a highway. It is a symbol of America’s spirit of adventure and a testament to the country’s love for the open road. Route 66 stretches from Chicago, Illinois, in the east to Santa Monica, California, in the west. One of its most…
Read More
Oklahoma: The Heart of Route 66
Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the United States. Spanning over 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, it passes through eight states, one of which is the beautiful state of Oklahoma. Often overlooked as a flyover state, Oklahoma is, in fact, the heart…
Read More
Missouri: Route 66 in the Show-Me State
There’s something magical about taking a road trip down Route 66, known as the “Main Street of America” and the “Mother Road.” One of the eight states it passes through is Missouri, home to big-city St. Louis and the iconic Gateway Arch, as well as other unique attractions, rich history…
Read More
A Journey Through History: Kansas on Route 66
Route 66 is one of the most iconic and historic highways in the United States. This famous road covers eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. Although Kansas only has a small 13.2-mile stretch of Route 66’s 2,400-plus miles, it holds a significant place in…
Read More
Route 66 and the Illinois Odyssey
Illinois is a state of many wonders, not the least of which is its section of the world-famous Route 66. Route 66 stretches from Chicago, Illinois, all the way to Santa Monica, California. Illinois encompasses the starting point of this iconic highway, and travelers embarking on a journey down Route…
Read More
Charming Small Towns Along Route 66 in Illinois, Missouri and Kansas
Stretching over 3,800 kilometers from the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan in Illinois to the stunning Pacific Ocean in California, the legendary Route 66 highway brings together the past and present. Feel the sense of adventure that Route 66 has been providing for generations on a nostalgic road trip highlighting…
Read More
Ocean to Desert Route 66 Road Trip: Cruising California and Arizona
With vibrant Los Angeles, California, as the gateway, this itinerary takes you east along Route 66: the legendary “Mother Road.” Once the main thoroughfare linking the U.S. Midwest to the Pacific, Route 66 has long been associated with open-road adventures. And while the West Coast is the historic end of…
Read More
Route 66 Travel Tips
Whether you’re planning an action-packed itinerary or chasing the freedom of the open road, these resources can get you on your way to an unforgettable Route 66 adventure. About Route 66 Route 66 was established in 1926, linking the Midwest to the Pacific as part of…
Read More
Southwest Route 66: Neon Signs and Skylines in Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico
Set off on an unforgettable journey through Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico, road tripping along historic Route 66. Established in 1926, this cross-country highway quickly became known as a route of possibilities, giving rise…
Read More
Retro-Themed to Certified Green: 10 Unique Places to Stay on Route 66
Route 66, the famous “Mother Road,” sparked a century of adventures across the USA. Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, the route gave rise to countless shops, restaurants and motor lodges catering to cross-country travelers. While Route 66 is no longer an official U.S. highway, many roadside accommodations…
Read More
Mother Road Must-Sees: Route 66’s Iconic Roadside Attractions
This guide serves as your compass to the quirky, historic and captivating attractions that pepper the legendary Route 66 highway. Route 66 gained its iconic status during the 1930s by connecting rural towns to major cities and fueling the rise of road trip culture in the USA. Buckle up to…
Read More
Good Eats on Route 66: Road Trip Dining Guide
From diners and cafes to markets and fine dining, these make ideal stops for refueling while on a Route 66 road trip or as a side of Americana on an extended trip from larger cities nearby. Watch for classic neon signs and Route 66 memorabilia, and pull over if you’re…
Read More
Natural Wonders Near Route 66
The legendary route stretches across the heart of the USA, from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, serving up awe-inspiring scenery, cultural landmarks and nostalgic charm along the way. Embark on a road trip that reaches some of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders – scenic sites that act as…
Read More
Deep histories and desert communities: Route 66 in California
Set off on an epic California road trip packed with scenic views and historic stops. California’s stretch of Route 66 winds through dramatic desert landscapes and vibrant communities, offering road trippers an authentic slice of Americana along one of the oldest and most well-known highways in the USA. As you…
Read More
Must-see Route 66 Attractions in Texas
Situated right in the middle of the Mother Road, the Texas stretch of Route 66 delivers vintage thrills and down-home charm. Saddle up for some truly Texas adventures on your Route 66 road trip. You can explore nearly 240 kilometers of the Mother Road in the North Texas panhandle, with…
Read More
Eclectic Stops on Route 66 Oklahoma
Cruise rolling prairies, wooded hills, quaint towns and cosmopolitan cities, stopping along the way for museums, roadside photo ops and great food. Traveling Route 66 through Oklahoma is like stepping back in time. The state is home to the longest drivable stretch of the original highway, offering travelers a nostalgic…
Read More
Iconic Sights and Hidden Gems on and off Route 66 in Arizona
Route 66 stretches through Arizona, offering travelers an unforgettable journey through history, stunning landscapes and classic Americana. Travel east along Arizona’s Route 66, exploring the highway’s legendary culture in cities, towns and roadside attractions from Kingman to Flagstaff. As you cruise through desert canyons and fragrant pine forests, you’ll discover…
Read More
4 Reasons to Take a Route 66 Road Trip Through Missouri
Discover what makes the Mother Road a must-see, from historic sites and scenic views to iconic food stops and vintage lodging along Missouri’s Route 66. Route 66 runs through approximately 450 kilometers of the state of Missouri, with plenty of nostalgic attractions, delicious eats and charming roadside stops to keep…
Read More
Nostalgia and New Experiences on and around Route 66 in Illinois
Route 66, often referred to as the Mother Road, holds a special place in U.S. history and culture. In Illinois, this iconic highway offers a nostalgic journey through charming small towns, vibrant cities and scenic landscapes. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the hidden gems of central and western…
Read More
Enchanting Histories and Iconic Sights: Travel Route 66 Through New Mexico
Pack your suitcase and buckle up for a nostalgic journey through New Mexico. Route 66 crosses over nearly 800 kilometers of the Land of Enchantment, offering plenty of chances to get immersed in the one-of-a-kind culture of the Southwestern USA. Americana charms abound in classic diners, quirky curio shops and…
Read More
5 Can’t-Miss Route 66 Stops in Kansas
Your short-but-sweet ride through Kansas takes you through one-of-a-kind history, unique architecture and plenty of downhome charm. Although Kansas’ stretch of Route 66 is shorter than what you’ll find in neighboring states, its 19 kilometers of the Mother Road are packed with nostalgic charm, historic landmarks and delightfully quirky stops.
Read More
Pulaski County, Missouri: Offbeat Attractions and Scenic Beauty Along Route 66
The halfway point between St. Louis and Joplin, Pulaski County’s portion of the Mother Road will surprise and delight with an abundance of quirky and quintessential things to do and see. Tucked away in the heart of Missouri’s breathtaking Ozark Mountains is the quaint and often surprising Pulaski County. In…
Read More
Tulsa, Oklahoma: Legacy and History in The Capital of Route 66
Explore nostalgic attractions, modern neighborhoods and rich histories along the Mother Road. Tulsa was officially designated The Capital of Route 66® in 2024 – and it wears this title proudly, with local attractions, businesses and historic sites paying homage to the iconic motorway. Enjoy some classic Americana, then go beyond the…
Read More
Fuel Your Curiosity on Arizona’s Route 66
Find vintage vibes and hidden vistas on this retro road trip Buckle up for a journey that blends science, history and natural beauty – all fueled by the spirit of Route 66. This Arizona adventure includes exploring the electric history of Kingman, stargazing at Lowell Observatory and uncovering the mysteries…
Read More
Short, Sweet and Not-to-be-Missed: Drive Route 66 through Southeast Kansas
Discover quirky stops, shops and photo-ops when you take a ride on the Mother Road through Southeast Kansas Kansas sits in the center of the American heartland and is known for its wide-open skies and free-spirited vibes. The state is a gateway to the American West, so it’s fitting that…
Read More
Quirky Stops & Photo Ops: Drive Route 66 from Arizona to Kansas
Get your pics on Route 66! Take this road trip across the Southwestern portion of the fabled USA roadway cemented in culture and paved with nostalgia. Embark on a road trip along historic Route 66 through the Southwestern states of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma, ending in the Midwestern…
Read More
Oklahoma’s Outdoor Gems: State Parks, Heritage Sites and Route 66
Hit the open road and find hidden gems, fascinating museums and charming communities around every corner. Road trip enthusiasts will find an exciting array of attractions amid Oklahoma’s hills and plains. Home to picturesque parks, diverse Indigenous communities and the USA’s longest drivable stretch of Route 66, Oklahoma beckons with…
Read More
Ask a Local About Springfield, Illinois
Welcome to Springfield, Illinois. At the heart of the Prairie State (otherwise known as Illinois), Springfield’s charms lie in its history – its retro diners and drive-ins, its only-found-here delicacies, and its Route 66 and Abraham Lincoln landmarks. It’s a place where you can visit a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece…
Read More
Explore the Heart of the USA on Route 66
There’s no better way to discover the USA than by traveling along one of its most iconic roads. Linking Chicago, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California, historic U.S. Route 66 ran 3,940 kilometers through eight states. Retracing the fabled route gives travelers a chance to see several major landmarks and monuments…
Read More
Sooner Scenery Sights: A Classic Oklahoma Road Trip
Cowboys, barbecue and wide-open spaces. Oklahoma still has much of the mystique and wonder that drove settlers here during the state’s 1889 Land Rush. These 50,000 homesteaders raced to claim the city’s land in a day, and the town sprang up overnight. Much of this pioneer past is preserved at…
Read More
Route 66: Leaving Chicago
Route 66: Leaving Chicago This article was originally posted on National Geographic Traveler’s blog, Digital Nomad, by author Andrew Evans. I wanted a convertible. A red vintage convertible with shiny chrome rims and white leather seats. But the Enterprise at O’Hare [International Airport] didn’t have any of…
Read More
Joplin, Missouri: Art, Culture and the Great Outdoors
As you make your way into downtown Joplin, Missouri, along the famous Route 66, you’ll see the city’s history and charm depicted in beautiful murals along and off Main Street. Discover Joplin’s diversity in the up-and-coming art scene and local businesses that make these century-old downtown buildings their homes. Downtown’s…
Read More
Springfield, Missouri: Attractions, Shopping and Route 66
I was really excited to be going to Springfield, Missouri, as I had heard about its great taverns, excellent restaurants and huge Bass Pro Shops. In fact, my expectations were pretty high, so when everything in Springfield exceeded those expectations, I became a huge fan of this wonderful city. Spending…
Read More
Springfield, Missouri: Route 66 Vacation for the Whole Family
Known as the birthplace of Route 66, Springfield is a must-see destination when traveling the Mother Road or visiting Missouri. With all kinds of entertainment and activities available in this metropolitan atmosphere, I had a hard time deciding what to do first. Everywhere I explored was a homegrown reflection of…
Read More
Springfield: Vibrant City Life Along Route 66
Located along Missouri’s Route 66, and known as “The Birthplace of the Mother Road,” Springfield is a diverse city with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Throughout Springfield, I found myself surrounded by trendy boutiques, bustling restaurants, quality microbreweries and modern lodging options. Tour Mother’s Brewing Company When I arrived in…
Read More
A Taste of Vibrant St. Louis, Missouri
I was recently given an assignment that took me to St. Louis, Missouri, and I had no idea I was in for such a treat! Within a few short hours, it was clear to me that with all of the culture, history, dining, iconic landmarks and plenty of Route 66…
Read More
Route 66 Through Missouri: Get Your Kicks in 3 Charming Areas
In the USA, the 4,000-kilometer stretch of Route 66 is the premier destination for world travelers seeking to experience a slice of classic Americana. And with more than 480 kilometers of “The Mother Road” located in Missouri, the “Show Me State” is home to more than one-tenth of this historic…
Read More
Pulaski County: Charming Stretch Along Route 66
Driving historic Route 66 unveils many of Missouri’s picturesque locales. Home to 53 kilometers of the iconic “Mother Road,” south-central Missouri’s Pulaski County gave me a visually stunning spread of Midwestern landscape. It isn’t surprising that people call this area “America’s Heartland;” its mix of untouched natural beauty – exemplified…
Read More
Where History and Adventure Converge: Great Rivers and Routes of Southwest Illinois
Three great rivers – the Mississippi, the Missouri and the Illinois – meet iconic Route 66 in a region where outdoor activities and historic sites promise unforgettable adventure. Meet the Great Rivers & Routes region of Southwest Illinois, the only place in the USA where the Great River Road joins…
Read More
Dining Along Route 66: A Missouri Road Trip for Foodies
Get your foodie-fix on Missouri’s stretch of Route 66. This 483-kilometer swath of iconic roadway features a wide range of mom-and-pop eateries, local favorites and memorable destinations. Be ready to go a bit off-road where more good-eating adventures await. Lebanon Start in south-central Missouri, where old Route 66 winds through…
Read More
Fun Photo Spots Along the First Stretch of Route 66 in Illinois
Get at the heart of Route 66: Start from the start! The first 160-kilometer stretch of Route 66 – from Chicago through Joliet to Pontiac, Illinois – is packed with nostalgia, fun and great food. It’s the perfect start to a journey along the USA’s “Mother Road.” Joliet: The City…
Read More
6 Places to Eat Along Route 66 – from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon
There are few better ways to experience authentic USA food than to sample the cafés and diners along iconic Route 66. Point your car east on this historic byway as you head from Los Angeles, California, to the majestic Grand Canyon in Arizona. You’ll be richly rewarded by beautiful scenery…
Read More
Cruising Missouri’s Route 66: Classic Sites and Family Adventure
Missouri is located in the heart of the midwestern USA and boasts tons of memorable attractions including historic sites, iconic landmarks and beautiful countryside. It’s also home to a large stretch of Route 66, one of the most famous roads in the USA. Nicknamed “the Mother Road,” Route 66 opened…
Read More
Illinois’ Route 66: Touring Classic Stops on the USA’s Mother Road
Route 66 – also known as the “Mother Road” – is the quintessential American road trip. After falling into decline when the interstate highway system was created, Route 66 is experiencing a renaissance and calling curious travelers to rediscover the freedom of the open road. This itinerary takes you to…
Read More
Road Trip through Missouri on Historic Route 66
Dive into Missouri’s must-see cities and attractions on a journey down Historic Route 66. Venture off-the-beaten-path to explore some of the state’s friendly small towns and discover unique hidden gems and nostalgic stops all along the way. Fly into St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) and rent a car to…
Read More
Route 66 in Illinois: Cruising a Legendary Highway
While most routes are meant to get you directly to a destination, Route 66 in Illinois is all about the journey. Hit the open road and explore charming small towns, historic sites, kitschy attractions, popular diners and more. Here’s a handy checklist for cruising Illinois’ Route 66. What are you…
Read More
Route 66 in Illinois: Retro Dining on the Mother Road
Round out your road trip with this collection of quintessential Route 66 eateries in Illinois. It has inspired everything from rock ‘n’ roll songs to blockbuster movies: Route 66. The Mother Road, as it’s known, was established in 1926 – truly the classic American road trip. Travelers are hitting the…
Read More
Enjoying our content?
Sign up to get updates from the Route 66 Centennial Commission and stay in the know on the latest Route 66 updates and news
