Route 66 travel itinerary: an unforgettable tour

Traveling along Route 66 is a unique experience, where the past, American culture and the freedom of the road meet. In this article, you'll find a detailed itinerary for those who want to explore the famous road that connects Chicago to Santa Monica, passing through 8 states and many tourist attractions. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime with this complete Route 66 itinerary.

What you'll find here:

What is Route 66?

How many days does it take to travel Route 66?

Route 66 travel itinerary

Route 66 road trip: essential tips

Frequently asked questions about the Route 66 road trip

What is Route 66?

Route 66, also known as the "Mother Road", was opened in 1926 and is one of the most iconic routes in the United States. Some 4,000 km long, it crosses 8 states and is considered one of the country's main road attractions. This road was key to the migration of people during the Great Depression and has become a symbol of freedom and road trips in American culture.

How many days does it take to travel Route 66?

The length of a trip along Route 66 depends on your pace and the time you have available. On average, a complete trip takes between 10 and 14 days, which allows you to take your time, stop at the main tourist attractions and enjoy the towns along the way.

Route 66 travel itinerary

Here's a suggested itinerary for Route 66, taking in some of the main towns and attractions along the way.

1. Chicago, Illinois (start of Route 66)

• What to do: Start your trip in Chicago, where Route 66 begins. Visit Millennium Park, Navy Pier and the famous "Bean" (Cloud Gate). Don't forget to take a photo next to the Route 66 Begin Sign, the landmark that marks the beginning of the road.

• Suggested duration: 1 day.

2. St. Louis, Missouri

• What to do: In St. Louis, explore the Gateway Arch, a symbol of westward expansion. Take the opportunity to visit the Missouri Botanical Garden and the Old Courthouse.

• Suggested duration: 1-2 days.

3. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

• What to do: Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. If possible, also visit a museum dedicated to Route 66 to learn more about the history of the road.

• Suggested duration: 1 day.

4. Amarillo, Texas

• What to do: In Amarillo, stop off at the famous Cadillac Ranch, an open-air art installation. Take the opportunity to visit the Big Texan Steak Ranch, famous for its "huge steak" challenge.

• Suggested duration: 1 day.

5. Albuquerque, New Mexico

• What to do: In Albuquerque, explore the Old Town, visit classic Route 66 diners and local museums. It's a great spot to experience the mix of Hispanic and American culture typical of the southwestern USA.

• Suggested duration: 1-2 days.

6. Flagstaff, Arizona

• What to do: Flagstaff is an excellent base for visiting the Grand Canyon, about an hour away. The city also has historic buildings and a typical Route 66 atmosphere.

• Suggested duration: 1-2 days.

7. Santa Monica, California (end of Route 66)

• What to do: The journey ends in Santa Monica, by the Pacific Ocean. Relax on the beach, visit the Santa Monica Pier and explore nearby Venice Beach, known for its bohemian atmosphere.

• Suggested duration: 1-2 days.

Route 66 road trip: essential tips

• Be prepared for long distances: Route 66 is a long drive, with fairly empty stretches. Always take water, snacks and make sure you have GPS or up-to-date maps.

• Make frequent stops: Take your time. The magic of Route 66 is in the detours, small towns and unlikely stops along the way.

• Check the road conditions: Some original segments have been replaced by modern highways or may be closed. Check the condition of the route before you set off and adjust the route if necessary.

Frequently asked questions about traveling Route 66

🔹 How many days does it take to drive Route 66?
We recommend between 10 and 14 days for a complete trip, with time to explore the main sights and towns along the way.

🔹 What are the main sights on Route 66?
Some highlights are the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, the Grand Canyon (on a detour from Flagstaff) and Santa Monica Pier in California.

🔹 Do I need a guidebook to travel Route 66?
It's not compulsory, but having a guidebook, map or app dedicated to Route 66 will help you find the historic stretches, less obvious attractions and make sure you don't miss any iconic spots along the road.

Prepare your favorite playlist, buckle up and set off to discover the endless roads, iconic towns and landscapes that make Route 66 one of the most iconic journeys in the world. Before you do, take a Just in Case to make sure you're protected throughout your journey. Visit our webapp and find out about our coverage extensions for motor vehicles and adventure sports, perfect for those crossing deserts, small historic towns and long kilometers of road. Take out a Just in Case and all you have to worry about is enjoying every curve of your adventure safely and freely!