Discover the Best Route 66 Road Trips You Need to Take Now
Route 66 is one of the world’s most iconic highways, and driving along it is a quintessential American experience. Since its inception in 1926, this route has been a symbol of freedom and adventure, with its vast stretches of roads that connect the East Coast to the West Coast of the United States. Traveling along Route 66 offers a unique opportunity to connect with the country’s rich cultural heritage and experience the diverse landscapes of America. In this article, we’ll explore the best Route 66 road trips that you need to take now.
1. Chicago to St. Louis
The first leg of Route 66 is the stretch between our starting point Chicago and the vibrant city of St. Louis. This route is full of historic landmarks, quirky roadside attractions, and scenic beauty. As you drive through Illinois, don’t miss The Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket, a Route 66 icon famous for its fried chicken. Once you are in St. Louis, make sure not to skip the Gateway Arch, a magnificent monument that offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.
2. St. Louis to Tulsa
The next leg of your journey will take you through the lush green countryside of Missouri, the sprawling grasslands of Kansas, and the rugged terrain of Oklahoma. Along the way, you’ll discover an array of charming small towns, iconic diners, and historic sites. In Missouri, visit Meramec Caverns, the largest commercial cave system in the state. In Kansas, take a detour to the historic mining town of Galena and see the inspiration for the Cars movies with a visit to a real-life “Tow Mater.”
3. Tulsa to Amarillo
From Tulsa to Amarillo, you’ll be driving through the quintessential Wild West, where cowboys and oil tycoons once ruled. As you cross the Oklahoma Panhandle, make sure to stop at Lucille’s Roadhouse, a classic Route 66 diner that serves up savory barbecue dishes. In Texas, don’t miss the infamous Cadillac Ranch, a roadside tribute to classic American cars, where visitors can add their own graffiti art to the cars.
4. Amarillo to Albuquerque
The stretch from Amarillo to Albuquerque is one of the longest and most remote portions of Route 66, but it is also one of the most scenic. As you drive through the Texas and New Mexico deserts, you’ll encounter vast open spaces, towering rock formations, and picturesque sunsets. In New Mexico, stop in Tucumcari to see the iconic Blue Swallow Motel, which has been a welcoming oasis for Route 66 travelers since the 1940s.
5. Albuquerque to Santa Monica
The final stretch of Route 66 takes you from Albuquerque to the legendary Pacific Ocean. This part of the journey is full of breathtaking vistas, from the Grand Canyon to the Mojave Desert. In California, don’t miss the quirky Bottle Tree Ranch in the small town of Oro Grande and the vintage Roy’s Motel and Café in Amboy. Finally, as you approach the end of the journey, soak up the sun and the surf at Santa Monica Pier.
Wrapping Up
Route 66 is a unique journey that offers travelers an opportunity to explore the diversity and beauty of the United States. From the Windy City to the sunny beaches of California, this road trip is a classic American adventure that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. No matter which leg of the trip you choose, you are sure to create unforgettable memories.
(Note: Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)
Speech tips:
Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.