10 Best Stops Along Route 66: Legendary Places You Can’t Miss
Route 66 offers an amazing road trip adventure across America. This historic highway stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles, passing through eight states along the way. You’ll find all kinds of unique sights and attractions to explore as you cruise down the Mother Road.
The best stops on Route 66 let you experience the heart and soul of classic Americana. From quirky roadside attractions to stunning natural wonders, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to discover some unforgettable places that capture the spirit of the open road. Your Route 66 journey is sure to create lasting memories as you hit these must-see spots!
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1) Santa Monica Pier, California
Santa Monica Pier marks the end of your epic Route 66 journey. This iconic landmark sits right on the Pacific coast, offering stunning ocean views.
You’ll spot the famous “End of the Trail” sign, perfect for a memorable photo op. It’s a great place to celebrate finishing your cross-country adventure.
The pier is more than just a pretty sight. It’s packed with fun activities for all ages. You can ride the Ferris wheel, try your luck at carnival games, or enjoy tasty treats from food stands.
Don’t miss the chance to watch a beautiful California sunset from the pier. The sky turns amazing colors as the sun dips into the ocean.
When you’re done exploring, kick off your shoes and relax on Santa Monica Beach. Feel the soft sand between your toes and listen to the waves crash.
The pier area has lots of shops and restaurants too. You can grab a bite to eat or pick up some souvenirs to remember your Route 66 trip.
2) Oatman Ghost Town, Arizona
You’ll step back in time when you visit Oatman, a lively ghost town on old Route 66 in Arizona. This former gold mining town now offers a unique blend of history and quirky charm.
As you stroll down the main street, you might spot wild burros roaming freely. These descendants of miners’ donkeys are a big draw for visitors. Don’t be surprised if they approach you looking for food!
Oatman’s wooden boardwalks and old-timey storefronts transport you to the Old West. You can browse gift shops, grab a bite at small restaurants, or watch mock gunfights in the street.
The town sits at 2,700 feet elevation, nestled in the Black Mountains. The drive there is an adventure itself, with winding roads and stunning desert views.
Despite being called a ghost town, Oatman is far from empty. It’s a popular stop that brings Route 66 history to life. You’ll find plenty to see and do in this quirky slice of Americana.
3) Cadillac Ranch, Texas
Get ready for a quirky roadside attraction that’ll make you do a double-take! Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas is a must-see stop on your Route 66 adventure.
Picture this: ten Cadillacs nose-diving into the ground, their tail fins pointing to the sky. It’s a strange and wonderful sight that’ll have you reaching for your camera.
These colorful cars are covered in ever-changing layers of graffiti. Bring your own spray paint and add your mark to this unique piece of art. Don’t worry, it’s totally allowed and even encouraged!
The cars represent different models from 1949 to 1963, showcasing the evolution of the Cadillac tail fin. It’s like a time capsule of American automotive history, with a funky twist.
Cadillac Ranch is easy to spot from the highway and completely free to visit. You can get up close and personal with the cars, making it a great spot for memorable photos.
Remember to wear closed-toe shoes, as the field can get muddy. And don’t forget your sunscreen – there’s no shade out there in the Texas sun!
4) Midpoint Sign, Texas
You’ve made it halfway! The Midpoint Sign in Adrian, Texas marks the exact middle of Route 66. It’s 1,139 miles from both Chicago and Los Angeles.
Pull over and snap a photo with this iconic marker. It’s a popular spot for road trippers to celebrate their progress.
Right across from the sign, you’ll find the Midpoint Cafe. This historic eatery has been serving travelers since 1928. Stop in for a slice of their famous “ugly crust” pie.
Adrian is a tiny town, but it holds a special place in Route 66 lore. The sign and cafe make it a must-visit spot on your journey.
Take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come and the adventures that lie ahead. You’re officially halfway through your epic road trip on the Mother Road!
5) Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Get ready to step back in time at Petrified Forest National Park. This unique spot along Route 66 in Arizona is a must-see for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
As you drive through, you’ll be amazed by the colorful badlands of the Painted Desert. The vibrant reds, pinks, and purples will make you feel like you’re on another planet.
Don’t miss the chance to see the park’s main attraction – the petrified wood. These ancient trees have turned to stone over millions of years, creating a stunning display of colors and patterns.
Take a short hike on the Crystal Forest Trail to get up close to these geological wonders. You can also check out the park’s visitor center to learn more about the area’s rich history.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you explore. You might spot pronghorn antelope, coyotes, or various bird species in their natural habitat.
Remember to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and unique rock formations. This stop on Route 66 will leave you with unforgettable memories of Arizona’s natural beauty.
6) Wigwam Motel, Arizona
Get ready for a unique stay at the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona. This iconic Route 66 stop lets you sleep in a teepee-shaped room, giving you a one-of-a-kind experience.
Built in the 1930s and 1940s, the Wigwam Motel is part of a small chain. Only two locations remain on Route 66 today, making it a rare treat.
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you arrive. Vintage cars are parked outside, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere.
Don’t forget your camera! The Wigwam Motel is super photogenic. Its neon signs and distinctive shape make for great pictures.
If you can’t get a room, it’s still worth stopping by. Take some photos and soak in the Route 66 vibes.
The Wigwam Motel offers more than just a place to sleep. It’s a piece of American road trip history that you can be part of.
7) Chain of Rocks Bridge, Missouri
The Chain of Rocks Bridge is a must-see stop on your Route 66 journey through Missouri. This historic bridge spans the Mississippi River, connecting St. Louis to Illinois.
You’ll be amazed by its most unique feature – a 22-degree bend in the middle. This unusual design made it a standout along the Mother Road.
Originally built for cars, the bridge now welcomes only pedestrians and cyclists. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride with stunning river views.
As you cross, imagine the countless travelers who drove this path during Route 66’s heyday. The bridge played a crucial role in the famous highway’s route after 1936.
Today, it’s a free attraction. You can take your time exploring the mile-long bridge and soaking in its history.
Don’t forget your camera! The Chain of Rocks Bridge offers great photo opportunities of the river and surrounding landscape.
8) The Blue Whale, Oklahoma
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is a must-see stop on your Route 66 adventure. This giant blue whale has been a beloved roadside attraction since 1972.
Hugh S. Davis, a retired zookeeper, built the whale as an anniversary gift for his wife. It’s a sweet story that adds charm to this quirky landmark.
You can’t swim in the whale anymore, but it’s still a great spot for a picnic. The area around it has been fixed up, making it a nice place to relax and stretch your legs.
The whale’s big smile will greet you as you drive up. It’s hard to miss this bright blue giant right off the highway.
In 2022, the Blue Whale celebrated its 50th birthday. That’s half a century of bringing joy to travelers like you!
You’ll find the Blue Whale at 2680 N. Highway 66 in Catoosa, Oklahoma. It’s free to visit, so there’s no reason to skip this iconic Route 66 stop.
9) Route 66 Museum, Oklahoma
The Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma is a must-see stop on your journey along the Mother Road. This museum takes you on a trip through time, showcasing over 60 years of Route 66 history.
As you walk through the exhibits, you’ll see vintage cars, old photos, and cool artifacts from the road’s heyday. The museum does a great job of bringing the past to life.
One of the coolest things about this place is the audio tour. It’s narrated by Michael Wallis, who wrote a famous book about Route 66. His voice adds a nice touch to your visit.
The museum is fun for the whole family. Kids and adults alike will enjoy learning about the road’s impact on American culture and travel.
You’ll get a real sense of what it was like to cruise down Route 66 back in the day. The exhibits show how the road changed over time and why it became such an important part of U.S. history.
Don’t forget to check out the gift shop before you leave. You can pick up some neat Route 66 souvenirs to remember your visit.
10) Meramec Caverns, Missouri
You can’t miss Meramec Caverns on your Route 66 adventure. These limestone caves are a must-see stop in Missouri. They’ve been around since the Civil War and are full of cool rock formations.
As you explore the caverns, you’ll see amazing underground lakes. The guided tours teach you about how the caves formed over millions of years. You’ll also learn about Native American history in the area.
The caverns stretch for 4.6 miles underground. Don’t worry, you won’t have to walk that far! The tour shows you the best parts. Look out for the weird and wonderful shapes made by stalactites and stalagmites.
Meramec Caverns is open every day. You can visit year-round since the temperature inside stays constant. It’s a great break from the summer heat or winter cold on your road trip.
Remember to bring a light jacket. The caves can be chilly even when it’s hot outside. Wear comfy shoes too. You’ll be walking on uneven ground during the tour.
History of Route 66
Route 66 played a big role in American history. It helped people move west and shaped pop culture for decades.
Origins and Development
Route 66 began in 1926. It connected Chicago to Los Angeles, stretching 2,448 miles across eight states. The road let farmers ship crops and helped people escape the Dust Bowl in the 1930s.
World War II brought more traffic as people moved to work in factories. After the war, families used Route 66 for vacations. New motels, diners, and gas stations popped up to serve travelers.
In the 1950s, the road got busier. But soon, new highways took over. By 1985, Route 66 wasn’t an official U.S. highway anymore.
Cultural Impact
You’ve probably heard Route 66 called the “Mother Road.” John Steinbeck gave it this name in his book “The Grapes of Wrath.” The road became a symbol of the American dream and freedom.
Movies, TV shows, and songs made Route 66 famous. It showed up in the 1960s TV show “Route 66” and the hit song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66.”
Today, Route 66 still draws tourists. People come from all over to drive parts of the old road. They want to see the neon signs, vintage motels, and small towns that made Route 66 special.
Tips for Road Tripping Route 66
Planning your Route 66 adventure takes some careful thought. You’ll want to pick the right season and pack smart to make the most of your trip.
Best Time to Travel
- Spring and fall are great times to hit Route 66. The weather is mild, and crowds are smaller. Aim for April-May or September-October.
- Summer can get very hot, especially in the Southwest. Winter brings cold and possible snow in the northern parts.
- Weekdays are less busy than weekends. This means shorter lines at attractions and easier booking at motels.
- Think about special events along the route too. Music festivals or car shows can add fun to your trip.
Packing Essentials:
Pack light, but don’t forget these key items:
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks for the road
- First-aid kit
- Car emergency kit
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Paper maps (don’t rely just on GPS)
- Cash for small shops and attractions
- Bring layers for changing weather. A light jacket is useful even in summer.
- Pack a cooler for drinks and perishable snacks. This saves money on food stops.
- Don’t forget chargers for your devices. A portable battery pack is handy too.
