Route 66 remains the ultimate American road trip, but today’s travelers can experience it in fresh and exciting ways. The historic highway, stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, offers a mix of classic Americana, stunning landscapes, and modern attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, here’s how to rediscover Route 66 with a new perspective.
1. Start in Chicago: A Modern Gateway to the Past
Begin your journey in Chicago, Illinois, where Route 66 officially starts. While the road’s history dates back to 1926, the city offers plenty of modern attractions:
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Visit Millennium Park for a selfie with “The Bean.”
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Explore the city’s famous deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s.
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Walk along Historic Route 66 Begin Sign on Adams Street.
2. Drive Through Time in Missouri
Missouri’s stretch of Route 66 blends history with adventure. In St. Louis, stop by the Gateway Arch for breathtaking views. Then, continue to Meramec Caverns, a vast underground cave system that once sheltered Jesse James. For a taste of nostalgia, visit Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a roadside favorite since the 1920s.
3. Discover the Quirky Side of Oklahoma
Oklahoma boasts the longest drivable stretch of Route 66, filled with quirky roadside attractions:
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The Blue Whale of Catoosa, a giant blue whale sculpture that has become an iconic photo stop.
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Pops 66 Soda Ranch in Arcadia, featuring over 700 varieties of soda.
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Route 66 Museum in Clinton, showcasing the history of the highway.
4. Explore Texas: Big Skies and Bigger Burgers
In Amarillo, Texas, stop at Cadillac Ranch, where colorful, graffiti-covered Cadillacs rise from the desert. For a true Route 66 experience, take the Big Texan Steak Challenge—a 72-ounce steak you eat for free if you finish in an hour!
5. The Enchanting Landscapes of New Mexico
New Mexico’s Route 66 offers stunning desert landscapes and rich culture. Visit Santa Fe, known for its adobe architecture and vibrant arts scene. In Albuquerque, take a detour on the Sandia Peak Tramway for breathtaking mountain views. Don’t miss El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, once a favorite stop for Hollywood stars.
6. Arizona’s Desert Wonders
Arizona’s Route 66 features both natural beauty and classic roadside attractions.
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Stand on the famous “Standin’ on the Corner” corner in Winslow.
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Visit Meteor Crater, one of the best-preserved meteor impact sites in the world.
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Drive through Petrified Forest National Park, where ancient trees have turned to stone.
7. California: The Road to the Pacific
The final stretch of Route 66 takes you through California’s Mojave Desert, past ghost towns and rugged landscapes. Stop in Barstow to visit the Route 66 Mother Road Museum before reaching Santa Monica Pier, where the road meets the Pacific Ocean. Celebrate your journey with a sunset walk along the beach.
Conclusion
Route 66 has evolved, but its charm remains timeless. Whether you follow the traditional path or explore modern detours, this classic American road trip continues to inspire travelers. Reimagine the journey by blending nostalgia with new experiences, and create your own unforgettable adventure on the Mother Road.
