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There is no superior method to explore the USA than by hitting the highway — particularly along the storied Route 66. Celebrating its centenary in 2026, this emblematic road has consistently inspired wanderers and embodies the American ethos. Lovingly referred to as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 navigates through the core of the USA — traversing the plains and cornfields of the Midwest, crossing the Mississippi River, winding through the deserts and canyons of the Southwest, and concluding at the Pacific Coast.
Originally established in 1926, Route 66 extends from Chicago to Santa Monica, covering eight states and over 3,900 kilometers. Although it was retired as a federal highway many years ago, the essence of freedom and adventure associated with the route has not diminished. Retro diners continue to serve up slices of Americana. Restored motels shine in the soft neon glow of a bygone era. And each eccentric roadside attraction recounts a tale — one of discovery and bonding with the people and landscapes of the USA.
As the USA gears up for a year of significant events in 2026 — the centennial of Route 66 and America’s 250th anniversary — there’s never been a more motivating moment to experience the highway that introduced the world to the American road trip.
ROUTE 66
Chicago, Illinois
Route 66 commences in Chicago, Illinois, where the “Begin Route 66” marker signifies the official initiation of the highway. Prior to embarking, consider taking a boat expedition along the Chicago River to appreciate the city’s architectural skyline, and indulge in a slice of genuine deep-dish pizza. As you travel towards St. Louis, Missouri, make a brief stop at the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, located approximately 100 miles southwest of Chicago, to peruse the assortment of artifacts and memorabilia.
St. Louis, Missouri
During the 4.5-hour journey to St. Louis, quirky attractions abound with retro motels, museums, and drive-in diners to keep you amused along the route. Don’t overlook the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge as you traverse the Mississippi River into Missouri. Once a segment of Route 66 for many decades, it has since been restored as one of the world’s longest pedestrian and bike bridges.
Upon reaching St. Louis, you’ll encounter the Gateway Arch — the tallest human-made monument in the USA. Take a tram journey to the summit for breathtaking views of the city, then visit the Museum at the Gateway Arch to delve deeper into the history of the USA.
Baseball enthusiasts can check out Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals Major League Baseball team. Just minutes away, the Anheuser-Bush Brewery offers fresh pours directly from the finishing cellars. Beermaster Tours are also available, providing behind-the-scenes access to the brewing process of Budweiser.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Traveling along Route 66 from St. Louis to Oklahoma City, you’ll encounter vintage gas stations, museums, the state Capitol building, and iconic landmarks like the Round Barn and Pops 66 Soda Ranch. Capture a snapshot at the 21-meter-tall LED soda bottle, and visit the diner and shop inside, which boasts nearly 700 varieties of classic and uniquely flavored sodas, in addition to delicious eats.
If you have a craving for meaty indulgence, local barbecue spots serve Oklahoma-style barbecue, distinguished by its amalgamation of regional influences and rich flavor that satisfies the palate.
After filling up, take a leisurely walk around Lake Hefner before stopping by Mix-Tape by Factory Obscura, an art installation adorned with murals. Then follow the signs to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum to learn about the USA’s Wild West origins. After that, it’s time to hit the road once more — next destination: Texas.
Amarillo, Texas
Relive the golden days of the Mother Road in Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District, where Spanish Revival, Art Deco, and Art Moderne architecture provide a nostalgic backdrop for photographs.
Just a brief drive away, Cadillac Ranch showcases Cadillacs covered in graffiti, partially buried in the ground. Bring along a spray can to leave your mark on this artistic installation.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
From Amarillo, drive westward and stop at the Blue Hole — a crystal-clear natural swimming spot with hidden caves east of Santa Rosa, New Mexico. Proceed to Albuquerque, where neon signs illuminate the 18-mile stretch of Route 66.
Stroll through the streets of Old Town, dotted with restaurants and boutiques, then make your way to 66 Diner for a vintage dining experience. Inside, jukebox melodies, an old-fashioned soda fountain, and neon touches bring the 1950s to vivid life.
Further along the highway, visit Petroglyph National Monument — one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America — and the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, which offers sweeping views of the Rio Grande Valley.
Holbrook, Arizona
Head westwards to Holbrook, roughly 3.5 hours from Albuquerque. One of the most recognizable landmarks along Route 66 is the Wigwam Village Hotel — one of only three remaining wigwam villages out of the seven constructed nationwide before 1950.
Stop to admire the town’s dinosaur statutes just off Route 66, and then travel to Petrified Forest National Park for a full-day expedition. Discover one of the walking trails in Painted Desert Park at your own pace, or opt for a guided tour led by top-notch guides and field specialists.
Los Angeles, California
Buckle up for the concluding segment of Route 66, which concludes at Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles. No visit to this city is complete without strolling along Santa Monica Beach and taking in the views.
Nearby, the Heal the Bay Aquarium offers visitors the chance to explore the marvels of marine life. Don’t forget to add the historic 1922 Looff Hippodrome Carousel and Third Street Promenade to your must-visit itinerary before flying back home.
MORE ROAD TRIP IDEAS
Few experiences embody the spirit of adventure quite like embracing the open road. And while Route 66 represents the quintessential American road trip, the USA also presents numerous other unforgettable journeys across its incredibly diverse terrains.
Desert Landscapes and Hidden Towns
Joshua Tree National Park (San Bernardino County, California) → Pioneertown
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(San Bernardino County, California) → Amboy (San Bernardino County, California) → Route 66 → Oatman (Mohave, Arizona)
Immerse yourself in one of the planet’s most enchanting desert settings on an expedition rich in natural splendor and historic allure. Roam amidst fantastical rock formations and gnarled Joshua trees before proceeding to Pioneertown. Initially constructed in the 1940s as a permanent Hollywood film set, the town now serves as a desert haven featuring artisan boutiques and the iconic Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace, a dining and music venue that attracts visitors from far and wide.
Journey through the Mojave Desert to Amboy for a visit to Roy’s Motel and Café, a time-honored emblem of Route 66’s glorious era. Conclude your expedition in Oatman, where wild burros roam the streets of a bygone Wild West settlement.
Southwest Cultures
Santa Fe (Santa Fe, New Mexico) → Taos Pueblo (Taos, New Mexico) → Acoma Sky City (Cibola, New Mexico) → Chaco Canyon (San Juan, New Mexico) → Mesa Verde (Montezuma, Colorado)
Explore the legacy of America’s native communities throughout the Southwest. Commence in Santa Fe’s adobe-lined avenues, then proceed to Taos Pueblo — a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been continuously inhabited for over a millennium. Perched on a 360-foot mesa, Acoma Sky City offers sweeping desert vistas and an insight into the customs and history of the Acoma people. Stargaze beneath the heavens of Chaco Canyon, then wrap up your journey at Mesa Verde National Park, where cliff dwellings unveil the narratives of Puebloans who constructed small settlements from the cliffs in the 13th century.
The Pacific Northwest Trail
Astoria (Clatsop, Oregon) → Olympic Peninsula (Washington) → San Juan Islands (San Juan, Washington) → North Cascades (Whatcom, Washington)
Begin in Astoria, Oregon, where Victorian architecture and vibrant murals beckon to be explored on foot. From there, navigate through ancient woodlands and along the Wilderness Coast of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. Take a ferry to San Juan Islands for chances to spot orcas and indulge in farm-to-table dining, then delve into North Cascades National Park — an alpine wilderness characterized by jagged summits, deep ravines, and over 300 glaciers.
No matter which path you choose, the USA is a realm where tales unfold in unforeseen locations, and every journey offers fresh moments of bonding, discovery, and awe.
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