“Just take my way that’s the highway that’s the best” Bobby Troup 1946.
When the road was originally designated in 1926, it started in Chicago, Ilinois and ended in Los Angeles, California, but was extended in 1936 to Santa Monica on the coast. It was officially removed from the US Highway System in 1985.
Many sections of the route have since been preserved as Historic Route 66. The impact of the National Highways bypassing small towns like those of the original Route 66, form the basis of the Pixar Film “Cars”.
Planning a driving holiday this year, then there could be no better choice than driving down Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles linking hundreds of rural communities along the way.
Although the original route was declassified many years ago with careful planning its possible to drive along most of it. There are some excellent Historic Route 66 Maps and Guides (*AD) available to help you plan your journey.
Most people drive the Route 66 East to West, so all the rental cars end up in the West. You can save up to 30% on the cost of your car rental by travelling from West to East plus you get the benefit of a shorter flight back to the UK.
The original Route 66passes through eight states and nearly 2,500 miles of diverse landscapes and historic communities. Travellers can explore classic roadside attractions such as vintage neon signs, restored diners, quirky museums, and well-preserved motels that capture the spirit of mid-20th century American travel.
Cities like St. Louis, Tulsa, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff each offer unique glimpses into the cultural and economic history that made Route 66 famous.
Due to its length of the highlights of a Route 66 journey is the remarkable variety of scenery along the way. The route crosses the rolling plains of the Midwest, the wide-open prairies of Oklahoma and Texas, the dramatic mesas of New Mexico, and the striking deserts of Arizona and California.
Popular stops include Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo, the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, and the charming town of Williams, known as the gateway to the Grand Canyon. Each region offers a distinct blend of natural beauty, local traditions, and historic landmarks that make the journey as memorable as the destination.
A trip along Route 66 is not just a drive across the country; it is a nostalgic exploration of American culture, history, and the enduring appeal of the open road.
Best Times to Go
- May – June: Please temperature and long daylight hours.
- September – October: Less crowded with excellent weather.
- Avoid July – August for the sections in the Arizona and California deserts, where temperatures can become dangerously high.
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