Are you dreaming of cruising down the legendary Route 66? What States Does Route 66 Travel Through? The Mother Road spans eight states, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart of America, and TRAVELS.EDU.VN can help you plan your dream road trip. Discover iconic landmarks, quirky roadside attractions, and breathtaking landscapes while we provide seamless travel planning and support. You’ll uncover America’s past, see stunning vistas, and maybe even get a peek into the future!
1. Understanding the Allure of Route 66
Route 66, often called the “Mother Road,” is more than just a highway; it’s a symbol of American freedom, adventure, and the open road. Established in 1926, it originally stretched over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, becoming a vital artery for travelers, migrants, and commerce. Though officially decommissioned in 1985, Route 66’s legacy lives on, drawing adventurers eager to experience its unique charm.
1.1. Why is Route 66 So Famous?
Route 66’s fame stems from its historical significance during the Dust Bowl era, its representation in popular culture (books, movies, and music), and the nostalgic appeal of classic Americana. According to the National Historic Route 66 Federation, the highway “represents the romance of the road” and embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery.
1.2. Can You Still Drive the Entire Route 66?
While the original Route 66 is not entirely continuous due to sections being replaced by Interstate highways, you can still drive most of it. Historic Route 66 associations in each state have worked hard to preserve and mark the original alignments.
1.3. What Makes Traveling Route 66 Special?
Traveling Route 66 is special because it offers a glimpse into a bygone era. You’ll encounter vintage gas stations, classic diners, quirky roadside attractions, and small towns that have retained their historic character. It’s a journey through time, filled with unique experiences and photo opportunities.
Historic Route 66 sign in Arizona, symbolizing American freedom and adventure
2. What States Does Route 66 Travel Through? A Detailed Look
So, what states does Route 66 travel through? Let’s take a journey through each of the eight states that Route 66 traverses, highlighting key attractions and experiences along the way.
2.1. Illinois: The Beginning of the Journey
- Key Cities: Chicago, Springfield, Pontiac, Joliet
- Top Attractions:
- The Art Institute of Chicago: Starting point of Route 66.
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (Springfield): Delve into the life of America’s 16th president.
- Gemini Giant (Wilmington): A towering fiberglass statue that’s perfect for a photo op.
- Experiences: Iconic diners, historic architecture, and vibrant cityscapes.
- According to the Illinois Route 66 Association: “Illinois is where the journey begins, offering a blend of urban excitement and small-town charm.”
- Don’t Miss: The Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac.
2.2. Missouri: Caves, Arches, and Nostalgic Eats
- Key Cities: St. Louis, Springfield, Cuba, Carthage
- Top Attractions:
- Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis): A symbol of westward expansion.
- Meramec Caverns (Stanton): Explore vast underground caves.
- Chain of Rocks Bridge (Madison County): A historic bridge with a unique 30-degree bend.
- Experiences: Exploring natural wonders, enjoying classic diners, and immersing yourself in history.
- As noted by the Missouri Division of Tourism: “Missouri offers a diverse landscape, from urban attractions to stunning natural caves, making it a memorable stop on Route 66.”
- Don’t Miss: Ted Drewes Frozen Custard in St. Louis, a Route 66 institution.
2.3. Kansas: A Short But Sweet Stretch
- Key Cities: Galena, Baxter Springs
- Top Attractions:
- Cars on the Route (Galena): Inspired the movie “Cars.”
- Rainbow Bridge (Baxter Springs): One of the oldest concrete bridges on Route 66.
- Experiences: Nostalgic main streets and unique museums.
- The Kansas Historic Route 66 Association highlights that: “While Kansas has a shorter stretch of Route 66, it’s packed with historical landmarks and charming small towns.”
- Don’t Miss: The Kan-O-Tex Service Station in Galena, now home to “Cars on the Route.”
2.4. Oklahoma: Heart of the Mother Road
- Key Cities: Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Clinton
- Top Attractions:
- Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum: Honors the victims of the 1995 bombing.
- Route 66 Museum (Clinton): Showcases the history and culture of the Mother Road.
- Blue Whale of Catoosa: A quirky roadside attraction.
- Experiences: Exploring historical landmarks, enjoying unique museums, and experiencing vibrant city life.
- The Oklahoma Route 66 Association states: “Oklahoma has more drivable miles of Route 66 than any other state, making it a must-visit for any road trip enthusiast.”
- Don’t Miss: The Milk Bottle Grocery in Oklahoma City, a classic Route 66 landmark.
2.5. Texas: Big Skies and Cadillac Dreams
- Key Cities: Amarillo, McLean
- Top Attractions:
- Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo): A public art installation featuring ten Cadillacs buried nose-first.
- Devil’s Rope Museum (McLean): Dedicated to the history of barbed wire.
- Experiences: Experiencing unique art installations, exploring quirky museums, and enjoying the vast Texas landscape.
- According to the Texas Route 66 Association: “Texas offers a unique blend of art, history, and wide-open spaces, making it an unforgettable stop on Route 66.”
- Don’t Miss: The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, where you can attempt to eat a 72-ounce steak.
2.6. New Mexico: Ancient Cultures and Blue Waters
- Key Cities: Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Tucumcari, Santa Rosa
- Top Attractions:
- Taos Pueblo: A UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back over 1,000 years.
- Blue Hole (Santa Rosa): A natural swimming hole with crystal-clear blue water.
- Route 66 Murals (Tucumcari): Depicting scenes from the Mother Road’s history.
- Experiences: Exploring ancient cultures, swimming in natural springs, and admiring vibrant murals.
- The New Mexico Route 66 Association notes: “New Mexico is a state of contrasts, offering a blend of Native American history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant Route 66 culture.”
- Don’t Miss: The Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, a beautifully preserved historic motel.
2.7. Arizona: Grand Canyons and Ghost Towns
- Key Cities: Williams, Flagstaff, Holbrook, Oatman
- Top Attractions:
- Grand Canyon National Park: One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
- Petrified Forest National Park: Explore ancient petrified wood.
- Oatman: A historic mining town with wild burros roaming the streets.
- Experiences: Exploring natural wonders, visiting historic towns, and enjoying the unique desert landscape.
- The Arizona Route 66 Association states: “Arizona offers some of the most iconic scenery along Route 66, including the Grand Canyon and the quirky town of Oatman.”
- Don’t Miss: The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, where you can sleep in a teepee-shaped room.
2.8. California: The End of the Road
- Key Cities: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, San Bernardino, Pasadena
- Top Attractions:
- Santa Monica Pier: The official end of Route 66.
- Griffith Observatory (Los Angeles): Offers stunning views of the city.
- Wigwam Motel (San Bernardino): Another chance to stay in a teepee-shaped motel.
- Experiences: Enjoying the California sunshine, exploring iconic landmarks, and celebrating the end of your journey.
- As highlighted by the California Route 66 Association: “California marks the end of the road, offering a blend of urban excitement and beautiful coastal scenery.”
- Don’t Miss: The Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow.
3. Planning Your Route 66 Adventure
Planning a Route 66 road trip can be exciting, but it also requires careful preparation. TRAVELS.EDU.VN is here to make your journey seamless and unforgettable.
3.1. Determining Your Itinerary
Start by deciding how much time you have and what you want to see and do along the way. A typical Route 66 road trip takes about two to three weeks, but you can customize your itinerary based on your interests.
3.2. Choosing the Right Time to Travel
The best time to travel Route 66 is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot, especially in the desert regions.
3.3. Selecting Your Mode of Transportation
You can drive your own car, rent a vehicle, or even take a motorcycle tour. Consider the type of vehicle that will be most comfortable for a long road trip.
3.4. Booking Accommodations
Book your accommodations in advance, especially if you plan to stay in popular motels and hotels along the route. Look for historic Route 66 motels for an authentic experience.
3.5. Budgeting for Your Trip
Budget for gas, food, accommodations, and attractions along the way. The cost of a Route 66 road trip can vary depending on your travel style and preferences.
3.6. How Can TRAVELS.EDU.VN Help?
TRAVELS.EDU.VN offers comprehensive travel planning services to make your Route 66 adventure stress-free:
- Custom Itineraries: Tailored to your interests and time frame.
- Accommodation Booking: We find the best Route 66 hotels and motels to match your budget.
- Transportation Assistance: Rental car options and motorcycle tour packages.
- Attraction Recommendations: Insider tips on must-see landmarks and hidden gems.
- 24/7 Support: Assistance throughout your journey.
4. Must-See Attractions Along Route 66
Route 66 is packed with attractions, from natural wonders to quirky roadside stops. Here are some must-see highlights.
4.1. Natural Wonders
- Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona): A breathtaking natural wonder.
- Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona): Explore ancient petrified wood formations.
- Meramec Caverns (Missouri): Vast underground caves.
- Blue Hole (New Mexico): A natural swimming hole.
4.2. Historic Landmarks
- Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis, Missouri): Symbol of westward expansion.
- Taos Pueblo (New Mexico): A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (Oklahoma): Honors victims of the 1995 bombing.
- Chain of Rocks Bridge (Missouri): A historic bridge with a unique design.
4.3. Quirky Roadside Attractions
- Cadillac Ranch (Texas): A public art installation.
- Blue Whale of Catoosa (Oklahoma): A beloved roadside icon.
- Wigwam Motel (Arizona & California): Sleep in a teepee-shaped room.
- Gemini Giant (Illinois): A towering fiberglass statue.
4.4. Museums and Cultural Sites
- Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum (Illinois): Honors the history of Route 66.
- Route 66 Museum (Oklahoma): Showcases the Mother Road’s culture.
- Devil’s Rope Museum (Texas): Dedicated to barbed wire history.
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (Illinois): Delve into Lincoln’s life.
5. Experiencing the Culture of Route 66
Route 66 is not just about the destinations; it’s about the journey and the culture you experience along the way.
5.1. Classic Diners and Roadside Eats
- Ted Drewes Frozen Custard (Missouri): A Route 66 institution.
- Ariston Cafe (Illinois): A historic diner serving classic American fare.
- The Big Texan Steak Ranch (Texas): Home of the 72-ounce steak challenge.
- 66 Diner (Springfield, Missouri): A nostalgic diner with a retro vibe.
5.2. Historic Motels and Accommodations
- Blue Swallow Motel (New Mexico): A beautifully preserved historic motel.
- Wigwam Motel (Arizona & California): A unique teepee-shaped motel.
- Munger Moss Motel (Missouri): A classic Route 66 motel with a rich history.
5.3. Local Events and Festivals
- International Route 66 Mother Road Festival (Illinois): Celebrates Route 66 history.
- Route 66 Days (Oklahoma): A festival with live music, food, and car shows.
- Get Your Kicks on Route 66 Festival (Arizona): Celebrates Route 66 culture.
5.4. Interacting with Locals
One of the best ways to experience the culture of Route 66 is to interact with the locals. They often have stories and insights that you won’t find in any guidebook.
6. Practical Tips for a Smooth Route 66 Trip
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable Route 66 road trip, keep these practical tips in mind.
6.1. Pack Appropriately
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Sunscreen and hat
- First-aid kit
- Camera and charger
- Road maps and GPS
6.2. Stay Hydrated and Rested
Drink plenty of water, especially in the desert regions, and get enough rest to avoid fatigue.
6.3. Be Prepared for Unexpected Detours
Route 66 is not always well-marked, and you may encounter detours. Be flexible and enjoy the adventure.
6.4. Respect Local Culture and History
Treat the historic sites and local communities with respect.
6.5. Stay Safe on the Road
Drive carefully, obey traffic laws, and be aware of your surroundings.
7. The Economic Impact of Route 66
Route 66 continues to have a significant economic impact on the communities it passes through.
7.1. Tourism Revenue
Route 66 attracts tourists from all over the world, generating revenue for local businesses and economies.
7.2. Preservation Efforts
The preservation of Route 66 helps maintain historic landmarks, creating jobs and preserving local heritage.
7.3. Small Business Support
Route 66 supports numerous small businesses, including motels, diners, and souvenir shops.
7.4. Job Creation
Tourism and preservation efforts create jobs in the hospitality, construction, and retail sectors.
8. The Future of Route 66
Route 66’s future looks bright, with ongoing preservation efforts and increasing interest from travelers worldwide.
8.1. Preservation Initiatives
Organizations like the National Historic Route 66 Federation are working to preserve and promote the highway.
8.2. Increased Tourism
Route 66 is attracting a new generation of travelers interested in experiencing its unique charm and history.
8.3. Technological Integration
New technologies, such as GPS and mobile apps, are making it easier to plan and navigate Route 66 road trips.
8.4. Sustainable Tourism
Efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism practices along Route 66, ensuring that its resources are preserved for future generations.
9. Addressing Common Misconceptions About Route 66
There are several misconceptions about Route 66 that need to be addressed.
9.1. “You Can’t Drive the Entire Route Anymore”
While the original Route 66 is not entirely continuous, you can still drive most of it by following the historic alignments.
9.2. “It’s Just a Road for Nostalgic Travelers”
Route 66 offers something for everyone, including history buffs, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
9.3. “It’s Too Expensive to Travel Route 66”
A Route 66 road trip can be budget-friendly if you plan carefully and choose affordable accommodations and activities.
9.4. “It’s Not Safe to Travel Route 66”
Route 66 is generally safe, but it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
10. FAQs About Route 66
Here are some frequently asked questions about Route 66.
10.1. What is Route 66?
Route 66 was a historic highway in the United States that connected Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California.
10.2. What states does Route 66 travel through?
Route 66 travels through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
10.3. How long is Route 66?
The original Route 66 was approximately 2,448 miles long.
10.4. How long does it take to drive Route 66?
Most people take about two to three weeks to drive Route 66.
10.5. What are the best times to travel Route 66?
The best times to travel Route 66 are during the spring and fall.
10.6. What should I pack for a Route 66 road trip?
Pack comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a camera, and road maps.
10.7. How much does it cost to drive Route 66?
The cost varies, but you should budget for gas, food, accommodations, and attractions.
10.8. Are there guided tours of Route 66?
Yes, there are guided tours available for those who prefer a structured experience.
10.9. Can TRAVELS.EDU.VN help me plan my Route 66 trip?
Yes, TRAVELS.EDU.VN offers custom itineraries, accommodation booking, and 24/7 support.
10.10. Where does Route 66 end?
Route 66 ends at the Santa Monica Pier in California.
In conclusion, Route 66 offers an incredible journey through the heart of America. From its starting point in Chicago to its ending point at the Santa Monica Pier, Route 66 is filled with stunning scenery, historic landmarks, and unique attractions that will make for an unforgettable road trip. And, understanding “what states does Route 66 travel through” is the first step in planning your epic adventure.
Ready to start planning your Route 66 adventure? Contact TRAVELS.EDU.VN today for personalized travel assistance!
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