Route 66 Essentials: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
America's first divided highway, the road of pioneers and migrants, Route 66 is a true legend across the États-Unis! Stretching nearly 4000 km
America's first divided highway, the road of pioneers and migrants, Route 66 is a true legend across the États-Unis ! Stretching nearly 4000 km, this route known as the "Mother Road" crosses 3 time zones and 8 states. To ensure you don't miss the essentials, we've compiled the main stops to include on your Route 66 journey !
Route 66 in Illinois
Route 66 is traditionally traveled from East to West, departing from Chicago. As the third largest city in the États-Unis, it would be a shame not to take time to explore it. In any case, Route 66 begins on Adams Street, at the corner of Michigan Avenue.
Route 66 in Missouri
The journey continues southwest on this route also known as the Deep South. You'll arrive at Saint Louis, Missouri's largest city. Here stands one of the symbols of westward expansion: the Gateway Arch. Standing 192 meters tall, this arch is considered the gateway to the mythic "Midwest".
Route 66 in Oklahoma
Onward to Oklahoma. The small town of Catoosa counts among the iconic Route 66 stops. Here you'll find the famous life-sized whale built by Hugh Davis in a pond.
Not far from Catoosa, don't miss the city of Tulsa either. Self-proclaimed "oil capital of the world," it underscores the importance of the petroleum industry in a state that was once one of the country's major producers.
Route 66 in Texas
Head to Texas where Route 66 takes you through incredible gas stations and other typical roadside buildings. In the town of Shamrock, don't overlook the extravagant U-Drop Inn, a restaurant gas station built in 1997 in Art Deco architecture that today serves as a visitor information center, museum, and chamber of commerce.
The city of Amarillo, meanwhile, is known for its BBQ restaurants and steakhouses. Here lies the legendary "Big Texan Steak Ranch," the restaurant that created the "72 ounces steak" competition. Leaving Amarillo, you'll discover Cadillac Ranch, where you can see a dozen vintage Cadillacs buried in the ground.
Route 66 in New Mexico
Route 66 continues through New Mexico. This stretch is highly prized by Route 66 purists. Indeed, it's one of the few places where you'll find dirt roads, wooden bridges, and numerous desert, mountain, and rocky landscapes far from civilization. Between its Old West towns, bars, and gas stations, the sense of discovery is total !
Along the way, you can pass through the charming city of Santa Fe, renowned for its historic earthen brick architecture. You'll also have the chance to see Gallup, considered the Native American capital of the southwestern États-Unis.
Route 66 in Arizona
Next stop: Arizona ! This state is home to some of the most significant and renowned natural sites in the États-Unis. Among them are the Petrified Forest National Park, the Painted Desert National Park, and the Grand Canyon National Park (for which you'll need to venture slightly off Route 66 and take the Desert View Drive, a road that hugs the canyon for access).
After this nature-focused crossing, you can take a detour to the city that never sleeps: Las Vegas !
Route 66 in California
Route 66 ends in California, specifically in Los Angeles at the iconic Santa Monica Pier sign. To finish this getaway in style, you can enjoy the upscale neighborhoods of Bel Air and Beverly Hills, film studios, and the Santa Monica beach!
Frequently asked questions
Allow 2 to 4 weeks to complete the 4000 km of Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles, depending on your preferred pace and number of stops. A minimum of 3 weeks is recommended to fully enjoy the must-see attractions.
The best periods to drive Route 66 are spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). Summer can be extremely hot, particularly in the New Mexico and Arizona deserts where temperatures often exceed 40°C.
Route 66 officially begins in Chicago, Illinois, on Adams Street at the corner of Michigan Avenue. It is traditionally driven from East to West to Santa Monica, California.
Route 66 passes through several exceptional natural sites, including the Petrified Forest National Park, the Painted Desert, and the Grand Canyon in Arizona. To reach the Grand Canyon, you must take the Desert View Drive that runs along the canyon.
No, any rental car works for Route 66. However, many travelers choose an iconic American vehicle (Mustang, Chevrolet) or a motorcycle for a more authentic experience in keeping with the spirit of the road.
No, Las Vegas is not on the official Route 66 route. However, it's a popular detour from Arizona or California, as it's only a few hours' drive away. Las Vegas is located in the state of Nevada.
