2 Week Route 66 Itinerary (East to West)

Embarking on a journey along Route 66, the iconic highway that has captured the imaginations of travelers for nearly a century, is more than just a road trip—it’s an exploration of America’s heart and soul. Stretching from the bustling streets of Chicago to the sun-kissed beaches of Santa Monica, this legendary route offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Our carefully curated 2-week Route 66 itinerary ensures you experience the best of what this historic road has to offer from east to west, with plenty of time to soak in the sights, sounds, and stories that define Route 66.

Starting in the Windy City, you’ll be immersed in the urban energy of Chicago before you hit the open road, heading towards the rolling plains of the Midwest. Each stop along the way reveals a new chapter in America’s story—from the rustic charm of small towns to the grandeur of natural wonders. As you traverse through states like Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, you’ll encounter a diverse tapestry of landscapes and cultures, each with its own unique contribution to the Route 66 experience.

This itinerary is designed to balance adventure and relaxation, offering both well-known landmarks and hidden gems. You’ll visit classic diners serving up hearty Americana fare, explore quirky roadside attractions that epitomize the spirit of Route 66, and stay in charming motels that harken back to the heyday of American road trips. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply in search of an unforgettable journey, our 2-week Route 66 itinerary promises an enriching and exhilarating adventure from start to finish.

Have more than two weeks to explore? Our 3-week itinerary gives you enough flexibility to see nearly everything without feeling rushed, while our 4-week itinerary lets you take a deep dive into every small town, roadside attraction, and historic site along the way. In a rush? Check out our fast-paced 1-week itinerary.

Prepare to cruise down the “Main Street of America,” with the freedom to pause and savor the moments that make this journey truly special. From the rhythmic hum of your tires on the pavement to the ever-changing vistas outside your window, Route 66 offers a timeless escape from the ordinary. So pack your bags, tune up your car, and get ready to embark on the ultimate American road trip, where every mile brings a new discovery and every destination tells a tale worth hearing.

Can you drive Route 66 in 2 weeks?

Can you drive Route 66 in 2 weeks? Absolutely! You can cover the whole of the iconic Route 66 in two weeks, but you’ll need to balance your time wisely. At around 2,448 miles long, Route 66 stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, offering a delightful mix of historic landmarks, quirky roadside attractions, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Two weeks is enough to experience the highlights, but you’ll need to prioritize what matters most to you—whether that’s snapping a photo at the Cadillac Ranch, indulging in a burger at the Snow Cap Drive-In, or wandering through the Petrified Forest.

If you’re planning on doing the full trip from Chicago to Santa Monica in two weeks, you’re looking at an average of about 175 miles a day. That might sound like a lot, but it’s doable if you keep your foot on the gas and avoid lingering too long in any one place. Of course, part of the charm of Route 66 is the unexpected—so allow for a little flexibility. A spontaneous detour to a hidden diner or a surprise stop at a local museum can make your journey even more memorable.

That said, to really soak in the spirit of Route 66, it’s wise to plan ahead. Map out your must-see attractions and give yourself some wiggle room for those happy accidents along the way. Keep in mind that some of the most iconic stops might require a bit more time—like spending a few hours in the Grand Canyon or exploring the historic downtown of Albuquerque. So, while you can certainly drive Route 66 in two weeks, be sure to plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of every mile.

But if you’re someone who really wants to make a lot of stops, follow more of the original alignments, and truly soak in the essence of The Mother Road, consider breaking up the trip into smaller chunks. Take a week to explore Illinois and Missouri this summer, then tackle Oklahoma and Texas next year. Drive to the midpoint and back in a two-week, triple-weekend adventure. Cruise through Arizona, spend a few days unwinding in Santa Fe, or take extra time to hike the Grand Canyon. Explore our Route 66 First Half Itinerary (Illinois to Texas) and Route 66 Second Half Itinerary (New Mexico to California) for two week road trips that explore one half of the Mother Road at a time.

But if you’re determined to do it all in one go, below we’re presented a 2 Week Route 66 itinerary that breaks up the full drive into meaningful chunks and offer plenty of suggestions for things to see each day.

How to maximize your time and enjoyment

Two weeks might sound like a lot of time for a road trip, but Route 66 holds so many iconic stops and hidden gems that you could explore for months and still not see it all. In order to maximize your time you might have to spend more time on the highway, make shorter stops, avoid time-consuming detours, and take your lunch to go. But if two weeks is all you have, here are some ways to maximize your road trip time and enjoyment.

Book Your Accommodation Ahead

Even if you normally fly by the seat of your pants, booking your nightly hotels and motels ahead of time will guarantee you’ll have a place to rest your head each night. With more limited time you won’t have to waste time looking for a place to sleep on the fly or filling out your information when you find a place. You’ll also be arriving at your destination later in the day so there will be a larger chance that that no vacancy sign will be lit up before you get there.

Rent a One-Way Car

If your entire trip is seven days, you won’t have time to make a full round trip. So consider renting a car in Chicago, dropping it off in Los Angeles, and flying home.

Stop at Double-Duty Attractions

Whenever possible, combine stops or find stops that can fulfill multiple needs at once. Stay at a hotel that has an on-site restaurant. Stop at a restaurant that doubles as a roadside attraction. Fill up a the gas station next to the landmark. And use the bathroom at a museum to avoid having to pull over at yet another rest stop.

Choose Between Quality and Quantity

Would you rather see as many sites as possible or only the best of the best sites? There is no right or wrong answer to that. The only thing that matters is that you design your one-week Route 66 itinerary around the things you most want to see. Just keep in mind that some stops take longer than others. If you’re a history buff that loves museums, you might be spending an hour or more at each. If you’re a foodie who prefers diners to drive-throughs, that takes more time. If you just have to take a hike through a national monument, that’s your entire afternoon activity. Prioritize what you most want to see and do while keeping in mind that longer stops mean fewer stops.

Be Flexible

When traveling Route 66 in seven days, you’re going to have to be a little flexible with your itinerary. You might have to bypass that roadside gift shop because it doesn’t open for another hour. Or choose a different place for lunch because you’re starving and won’t get to the place you wanted to eat at until 3pm. Or decide on the fly whether you have time to detour to a big blue whale or if you need to keep driving to stay on track.

Route 66 Road Trip 2 Weeks at a Glance

There are infinite ways to split up a Route 66 road trip into fourteen days. This is our recommended breakdown. Below we will expand this Route 66 road trip 2-week itinerary to show all the highlights you’ll see along the way!

Route 66 Road Trip 2 Week Itinerary

Ready to hit the road? Here’s our 2 week Route 66 itinerary. For each section we’ve included starting and ending points, distance traveled, an approximate driving time (this is only time driving, not including stops and detours), and a list of ideas for where to stop, stay, and eat.

With fourteen days to travel between Chicago and Los Angeles, we’ve kept each day between 100 and 275 miles and 2-4 hours of driving, with some days a bit less and some a bit more. Please note that you will NOT be able to visit every attraction we’ve recommended in this timeline. And there are plenty of other attractions that have been left out. But we wanted to be sure to give you all the best highlights you’ll pass so you can decide for yourself which ones you want to see and which you’re OK leaving for the next time you drive Route 66.

Consider this a “best of” type of trip. With two weeks to make the entire journey, you won’t always be staying faithful to the original roads (driving times are based on a mix of local Route 66 and highways) but instead capture the spirit of the road, focusing on stopping at all the best attractions, places to eat, and hotels and motels to stay at along the way.

Ready to hit the road? Explore this Route 66 road trip 2-week itinerary and get ready to spend the best two weeks ever on The Mother Road!

With this fourteen-day Route 66 road trip itinerary, we’re assuming you’ve already arrived in Chicago and are ready to hit the road first thing on day one. That might mean that you live in the city or a nearby suburb or that you flew or drove in the night before. If you’re coming from out of town and spending the first day and/or night in Chicago, you’ll have some options on what to do.

First things first, you’ll need to get settled. If you’re renting a car be sure to pick up your rental when you arrive at the airport or from one of the many pick-up locations around the city. If you’re staying in the city, don’t forget to leave room in your budget for parking at your downtown Chicago hotel, it can be pretty pricey!

You’ll also need to check into your hotel. There are plenty of places to stay in Chicago, check out our list of the best Route 66 motels in Illinois for recommendations! You’ll probably want to get a good night’s sleep because you have a lot of driving coming up! But if you have time, here are some ideas for what to do in Chicago on day zero:

• Take an architectural boat tour, one of the best ways to see Chicago.
• Explore the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the best museums in town, located right across the street from the Route 66 Begins Sign.
• Have a meal at The Berghoff Restaurant, which opened before Route 66 in 1898.
• See Chicago from above with a trip to the Willis Tower Skydeck.
• Explore the neighborhoods! Chicago is more than downtown. Hop on the el and check out some of the neighborhoods like Lakeview, Wicker Park, or Lincoln Square.
• Try some famous Chicago Deep Dish Pizza at Lou Malnati’s, Pizzeria Uno, or Pizano’s, or on a Chicago Pizza Tour.
• Take in a show at Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf, or Broadway in Chicago.
• Visit the “official” Route 66 starting point at Navy Pier, marked with a “The Road Begins Here” sign and a mural inside Harry Caray’s Tavern.

Your first day on Route 66 takes you from Chicago to Springfield, Illinois. Start your morning with a quick selfie at the Historic Route 66 Begin Sign and then grab a delicious diner breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant down the road. On the days they are open (Wednesday-Sunday) they start serving breakfast at 6am or 7am, get there early to avoid a crowd and to get a head start on your drive!

From here you have a lot of ground to cover, and a lot of fun things to see along the way. Here are some potential highlights to add to your day one itinerary:

• Meet the Blues Brothers (in statue form) and learn local history at the Joliet Area Historical Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center.
• Give a space-age hello to the Gemini Giant Muffler Man.
• Explore Ambler’s Texaco Gas Station and take photos with one of the interactive 3D Route 66 Shield Sculptures.
• Step into history at the Odell Historic Standard Oil Filling Station.
• Learn more about Route 66 in Illinois and take your picture in front of one of the biggest murals on The Mother Road at the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum.

Atlanta, Illinois is a good stop for the afternoon. Grab lunch and a slice of pie at Country-Aire Restaurant and don’t forget to check out their new pie-holding Uniroyal Gal while you’re there! Then head into town to check out why this town is earning its nickname “the Land of the Giants.” Take photos with the famed hot dog muffler man then cross the street to see the American Giants Museum and their Snerd Giant, Texaco Big Friend, Space Man, Indian Brave, Carpet Viking, and Phillips 66 Cowboy!

Then it’s time to hit the road again towards your final destination of the day: Springfield.

• Look for Lincoln at the World’s Largest Railsplitter Covered Wagon, the Abraham Lincoln Watermelon Monument, and the Big Mel-O-Cream Donut.
• Not sick on muffler men yet? Good. Visit the Lauterbach Giant in Springfield.

Route 66 Motorheads Bar & Grill

When it comes time for dinner, head to Route 66 Motorheads Bar and Grill. This Route 66 restaurant is a gathering place for lovers of The Mother Road, car culture, and a good time. Stop in to grab a delicious bite to eat from their curated menu of American favorites (try a local favorite, the horseshoe!), drink an ice-cold drink from the bar, listen to live music, or explore a treasure trove of Americana memorabilia at their museum. Outside you’ll find the World’s Largest Route 66 Sign being held up by a custom muffler man.

Learn More About Route 66 Motorheads Bar and Grill

Browse Illinois Route 66 Restaurants

After dark head to one of the coolest attractions on Route 66: the Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. This condensed version of The Mother Road takes visitors on a walkthrough of the highlights of all 421 miles and 92 communities on Illinois Route 66. While you can visit any time, it’s best seen after sunset when all the neon lights are lit.

Start your morning off with breakfast at a Route 66 favorite: Cozy Dog Drive In. While they are more well-known for their lunch and dinner fare, this restaurant also offers a good selection of breakfast dishes, like eggs, pancakes, and toast.

After filling up, spend the morning enjoying one or two of the sites in Springfield, like the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Illinois State Capitol Building, the Illinois State Museum, Lincoln Home National Historic Site, or Lincoln’s Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery before hopping back in your car to start journeying west.

Even if you’re mostly sticking to the highway, be sure to pull off in Auburn to drive on the Original Route 66 Brick Road (also known as Brick 66), 1.4 miles of hand-laid brick road from 1931. Enjoy the drive then find some more attractions.

• Find the fascinating history of Litchfield and Route 66 in Illinois at the Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center.
• Drive to the past at Soulsby Service Station.

For lunch stop at a Route 66 institution: The Ariston Cafe, one of the oldest American restaurants on the Mother Road. The Ariston Cafe opened in 1924 and offers a range of delicious American, Southern, Italian, and Greek fare. After lunch, keep heading west and…

• Visit a menagerie of over-the-top roadside attractions at the Pink Elephant Antique Mall.
• Cross the Mississippi from Illinois to Missouri by taking a stroll over the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge.

You’ve made it to St. Louis! If you’re looking for dinner consider ordering a local St. Louis–style pizza! The unique pie has a thin, cracker-like crust and is topped with Provel cheese! You can find it at several local establishments, including a favorite chain, Imo’s Pizza.

Don’t forget dessert! Stop at Ted Drewes for their famous frozen custard!

Where to Stay in St. Louis, Missouri

While there aren’t any specific Route 66 hotels in St. Louis, there are a lot of hotels with a history as long as the road. For a special stay, book a room at a historic downtown hotel with a past, like the St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at The Arch, or Magnolia Hotel St. Louis.

Book a St. Louis Hotel

Best Missouri Route 66 Motels

Your third day on Route 66 takes you across most of Missouri, from St. Louis to Springfield. Start your morning in St. Louis by grabbing breakfast to go at Donut Drive-In, an unpretentious bakeshop that has been serving classic doughnuts since 1953. With a belly full of coffee and pastries, it’s time to continue heading west. Here are some Route 66 highlights to add to your two-week itinerary as you travel across Missouri:

• Explore below the surface at Meramec Caverns.
• Check out all the public art in the Route 66 Mural City.
• Have a seat at the Route 66 Rocker (the former world’s largest rocking chair).
• Explore Larry Baggett’s Trail of Tears Memorial.
• Cross Devil’s Elbow Bridge.
• Taste the delicious fudge at Uranus Fudge Factory And General Store (and check out all the fun sites on the property).
• Experience the ultimate glow up at Route 66 Neon Park.
• You won’t be staying at Munger Moss Motel, but you should stop by to admire the neon sign!
• Need a bathroom break? Pull over at the Missouri Route 66 Welcome Center Rest Area.

Where to Eat Lunch on Missouri Route 66

Depending on when you want to pull over for lunch, there are plenty of Missouri restaurants to choose from! Some favorites include: Dowd’s Catfish and BBQ, Hangar Kafe, Missouri Hick Barbeque, Sweetwater Bar-B-Que, Tater Patch, or Wrinks Market.

Browse Missouri Route 66 Restaurants

From there, it’s on to Springfield, Missouri, “The Birthplace of Route 66.” It was here where the iconic highway’s name was officially christened in 1926. And, today, Springfield is still a must-visit city, with its its rich history, charming atmosphere, and abundance of Route 66 landmarks to explore.

• Admire the World’s Second Largest Fork.
• Visit the Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park.
• Take photos with the Hubcaps on Route 66 Sculpture.
• Stop into the Springfield Route 66 Visitor Center.
• Take photos at the Birthplace of Route 66 Monument and Birthplace Plaza
• Dive into the past at the History Museum on the Square.
• Drive into the past at the Route 66 Car Museum.

When it comes time for dinner, burgers are the name of the game, with several classic fast food restaurants that will satisfy anyone’s cravings, like Joe’s Route 66 Diner in Strafford or the Route 66 Steak ‘n Shake. Or explore some of the best meals in Springfield at Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes or Civil Kitchen.

Where to Stay in Springfield, Missouri

There are plenty of chain hotels in Springfield, Missouri. But if you want a truly authentic experience, staying at one of the classic Route 66 motels here is a must. Two of the best motels on all of Route 66 are located in Springfield: the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven (stay in the Elvis suite if you can!) and Rockwood Motor Court.

Book a Springfield Hotel

Best Missouri Route 66 Motels

Today’s journey takes you through three states, so be sure to start your day with a hearty diner breakfast at College Street Cafe, a local favorite that has been slinging comfort fare since the 1950s. After filling up on eggs and toast, it’s time to finish off the last 80 miles of Missouri.

• Explore the vintage wonderland at Gary’s Gay Parita.
• Look to the past at Spencer Station.
• Take photos at Route 66 Mural Park.

Finish driving the last couple of miles through Missouri and head into Kansas. Kansas is the shortest state on Route 66, but you should still plan time on your Day Four itinerary to stop at at a few of the best places in Kansas. Here are some highlights:

• Meet some of the stars of Cars at Cars on the Route.
• Explore the Galena Mining and Historical Museum.
• Shop and take photos at Gearhead Curios and the Big A Texaco Giant Muffler Man.
• Stop for souvenirs and a sandwich at Nelson’s Old Riverton Store.
• Walk across the Rainbow Bridge.
• Learn something new at the Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum.
• Get Route 66 info at the Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station Visitors Center.

After cruising through Kansas, it’s time to spend the rest of the day in Oklahoma. Here are some some of the best places to stop at:

• Grab a burger to go at at Waylan’s Ku-Ku Burger.
• Find vintage charm (and Route 66 cookies) at the Dairy King and Allen’s Conoco Fillin’ Station.
• Explore the Coleman Theatre.
• Stop for lunch at Clanton’s Cafe or Hi-Way Cafe for lunch (and explore their Big Bill muffler man, Chef Muffler Man, and other roadside giants while you’re there).
• Wander around Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park.
• Say hi to the Blue Whale of Catoosa.

From here it is on to Tulsa, your destination for the night and the entire next day. Stop for a Tex-Mex dinner at El Rancho Grande Mexican Food Restaurant and retire to your hotel to relax for the night.

Where to Stay in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa is home to several great hotels, whether you want to stay in a classic roadside experience, a renovated landmark, or a modern gem. Some favorites include Desert Hills Motel, The Campbell Hotel, or Hotel Indigo. Book two nights so you can spend day five exploring all that Tulsa has to offer!

Book a Tulsa Hotel

Best Oklahoma Route 66 Motels

On a multi-week road trip it’s always good to choose at least one place to stay for an entire day. It gives you a chance to sleep in a little, relax a little, and dive a little deeper into the local scene. For this 2-week Route 66 itinerary were choosing to spend a day in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the “Capital of Route 66.”

There are plenty of things to see, both on Route 66 and off, in Tulsa, making it an ideal place to place roots for a day. Here are some of the best Tulsa Route 66 attractions to include in your day in the city:

• Get breakfast at Wildflower Cafe.
• Shop for souvenirs at Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on 66 and enjoy the view of the Buck Atom Space Cowboy Muffler Man and Stella Atom Space Cowgirl Uniroyal Gal.
• Stand under the Meadow Gold Sign, do some shopping at Meadow Gold Mack and and 66 Collective, and visit the Meadow Gold Mack Muffler Man, Cowboy Bob Muffler Man, and Rosie the Riveter Uniroyal Gal.
• Check out the East Meets West Symbolic Route 66 Midpoint sculpture and the Neon Park.
• Learn about Black stories at the Greenwood Cultural Center and the Black Wall Street Memorial.
• Stand next to The Golden Driller.
• Explore the open-air Route 66 Historical Village.
• Step into a film set at The Outsiders House Museum.
• Visit the Woodie Guthrie Center or the Bob Dylan Center.
• Enjoy nature at the Gathering Place.
• Catch a show or just admire the neon sign at Cain’s Ballroom.

Where to Eat Lunch and Dinner in Tulsa

If you’re hungry in Tulsa, there are plenty of places to choose from. Two favorites are the classic diner, Tally’s Good Food Café or the Mother Road Market, a modern food court that has something for everyone!

Browse Oklahoma Route 66 Restaurants

Day 6 offers a relatively short drive between Tulsa and Oklahoma City, but the route packs a punch with things to see. Check out of your Tulsa hotel, and start heading west on Route 66 from Tulsa to Oklahoma City.

• Stop for photos at the Crossroads Of America Sign.
• Admire the World’s Tallest Gas Pump at the Heart of Route 66 Auto Museum.
• Explore the Bristow Train Depot and Museum.
• Drive on the original Brick Paved Broadway Street.
• Peruse the Chandler Route 66 Interpretive Center.
• Stop at Rt 66 Bowl – even if you don’t have time for a game, check out the vintage sign out front!
• View the Historic Threatt Filling Station.
• Have fun at OK County 66.
• Walk around the Arcadia Round Barn.
• Drink a weird soda at Pops 66.
• Take fun photos with the Blue Hippo in Edmond.

After a long day of exploring Route 66 in Kansas and Oklahoma, you’ve made it to Oklahoma City! But the fun doesn’t stop there! Here are some of the best things to see in Oklahoma City.

• Find the Milk Bottle Grocery.
• Admire the Gold Dome Building.
• Take in a show at the Tower Theatre (or just check out the vintage sign).
• Take a spin on the Wheeler Ferris Wheel and OKC Sign.

After a long day of exploring, settle into your hotel and grab dinner at one of these Oklahoma restaurants: Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, Cheever’s Cafe, or Leo’s BBQ.

Where to Stay in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City has a whole array of accommodation options to choose from. If you’re looking for a unique hotel in Oklahoma City that combines vintage charge, modern amenities, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, you’ve got to spend the night at The Classen Inn. The renovated 1963 motel compliments its original Googie architecture and neon sign with modern amenities and hip artwork and murals.

Book an Oklahoma City Hotel

Best Oklahoma Route 66 Motels

Start Day Seven with a good (and early) breakfast at HunnyBunny Biscuit Co. or Sunnyside Diner. You’ll need the fuel because this is a long day of driving and stops! Day seven is the halfway point (time-wise) of this two-week Route 66 road trip itinerary, you will dip your toes into two states, finishing up Oklahoma and making it into Texas.

After filling up on a good breakfast, hop in your car and get ready to explore the rest of Oklahoma! Here’s what you’ll pass on this next leg of your journey.

• Take fun photos at the El Reno Mother Road Monument.
• See muffler men with a twist the the Muffler Men Cutouts Mural.
• Pay respects to the Mother of the Mother Road at Lucille’s Historic Highway Gas Station.
• Have a blast at the Weatherford Rt. 66 Spaceman.
• Learn something new at the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum.
• Visit history at the National Rt 66 and Transportation Museum.
• Explore the ghost town of Texola.

And now it’s time to drive the fifth state of the journey: Texas. From fun museums to fun roadside attractions to fun relics from the past, there are many things to see in Texas. We’ll be spending the night in Sharock before moving on, so be sure to save some time to explore all the best things to do in Shamrock.

• Admire the historic Conoco Tower Station and U-Drop Inn.
• Learn about local history at the Pioneer West Museum.
• Find Ireland in Texas at Blarney Stone Plaza.

Before retiring to your motel room for the night, treat yourself to dinner at Grif’s Steakhouse, with a menu featuring steakhouse fare like rib eyes, filets, loaded baked potatoes, and bacon-wrapped asparagus. Or grab a pizza and wings in or to eat back in your motel room at Rusty’s on 66!

Where to Stay in Shamrock, Texas

Shamrock, Texas is a great place to spend the night on your Route 66 road trip. It’s a convenient stopping point for those with lots of attractions on their itinerary. Luckily, Shamrock has plenty of classic motels to choose from, like the Shamrock Country Inn Motel, Western Motel, and Blarney Inn. Book a room and spend some time exploring all the attractions in town.

Book a Shamrock Motel

Best Texas Route 66 Motels

On day eight we’re driving all the way from Shamrock, Texas to Tucumcari, New Mexico. If you spent the night at Shamrock Country Inn don’t forget to stop in for breakfast and make yourself a Texas-shaped waffle before you leave. Today its on to Amarillo, but not without stopping at a few attractions along the way.

• Learn Something new at the Route 66 Museum & Devil’s Rope Museum.
• Pull over for the Leaning Tower of Texas and the Groom Cross.

Once you hit Amarillo, there’s plenty to explore. Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District is comprised of art galleries, antique stores, restaurants and bars housed in historic buildings. Park your car and spend some time exploring this fun main street. Then check out some of the attractions on the quirkier side of town.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch

If you worked up a big appetite from a big day of driving on Route 66, there’s only one meal for you: the 72-ounce steak challenge at The Big Texan Steak Ranch. Not quite that hungry? Don’t worry, they have more modest size portions too. If you’re driving through Amarillo around lunch time, they even have lunch specials!

Learn More About The Big Texan Steak Ranch

Browse Texas Route 66 Restaurants

• Slug some bugs at VW Slug Bug Ranch.
• Spray paint a legendary roadside attraction at Cadillac Ranch.
• Take a gander at the 2nd Amendment Cowboy Muffler Man.

As you drive from Amarillo towards New Mexico there is one stop you can’t miss: the Route 66 Midpoint Sign! As you pull over at this stop for selfies you’ll know that you’ve officially made it halfway on Route 66! If the Route 66 Midpoint Cafe is open, be sure to stop inside for a cup of coffee and slice of their famous ugly crust pie.

From here it is straight on to Tucumcari, New Mexico where you’ll explore the town, find a hotel, grab some dinner, and get a good night’s sleep under the glow of some impressive neon signs. (Heads up that you’ll even gain an hour as you cross the border into the state!) Here are some Tucumcari to-dos to add to your Route 66 road trip 1 week itinerary:

• Explore the New Mexico Route 66 Museum. (Currently Closed)
• Take photos in front of the Route 66 Monument.
• Buy souvenirs at Tee Pee Curios.

When it’s time for dinner, there are several Tucumcari restaurants to choose from, but two of our favorites are Del’s Restaurant (with the big cow on its sign) or La Cita Restaurant (with the giant sombrero entrance). You can’t go wrong with either!

Be sure to check out all the restaurants, shops, and motels at night, when all the iconic neon is lit up!

Where to Stay in Tucumcari, New Mexico

Tucumcari, New Mexico is home to some of the most famous motels on Route 66. In fact, billboards once lined the roads leading into town with advertisements promoting the 2,000 motel rooms available in the area, earning its popular slogan, “Tucumcari Tonite!”

Two of our top picks for where to stay in Tucumcari, and, really, all of New Mexico, are the Blue Swallow Motel and Motel Safari. They both offer everything you could want in a modern motel while maintaining the vintage charm of Route 66’s heyday.

Book a Tucumcari Motel

Best New Mexico Route 66 Motels

As hard as it will be to check out of your Tucumcari motel, it’s time to hit the road again. Stop for a classic American breakfast at Kix On 66 then start heading west.

New Mexico has two diverging alignments with one taking a detour to Santa Fe. In the interest of making the most of our two-week time on the road, we are skipping that Santa Fe alignment in favor of the more direct route, driving straight from Tucumcari to Albuquerque. We’ll save Santa Fe for our next road trip.

Skipping Santa Fe does not mean skipping a good time. Here are just some of the things to do in New Mexico, between Tucumcari and Albuquerque:

• Explore the Route 66 Auto Museum.
• Enjoy nature and diving at the Blue Hole.
• Stop for souvenirs and a snack at Clines Corners.
• Make music in your car on the Musical Highway.
• Detour to the quirky Tinkertown Museum.

Hungry in Albuquerque?

There are plenty of Route 66 establishments to choose from for lunch and dinner in Albuquerque, whether you’re hungry for classic diner fare, New Mexican favorites, and a fast food specialty. Here are our favorite recommendations:

• Loyola’s Family Restaurant
• 66 Diner
• Owl Cafe
• Dog House Drive In

Browse New Mexico Route 66 Restaurants

Once you reach Albuquerque you’ll have the rest of the day to explore. Here are some highlights to add to your itinerary.

• Explore Old Town Plaza and San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church.
• See snakes at the American International Rattlesnake Museum.
• Check out the Chevy on a Stick: Cruising San Mateo 1.
• Learn something new at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.
• Admire the Kimo Theatre.
• Take a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway.

For a fun and spooky experience, end your night with a Ghost Tour of Old Town Albuquerque where you’ll learn about local lore on a lantern-lit tour. Then return to your Route 66 motel to take a swim or retire for the night.

Where to Stay in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque, New Mexico, holds a prominent place in the history of Route 66. Established in 1706, it predates Route 66 by centuries, but its location along the route made it a pivotal stop for travelers, both in its heyday and today. The city’s Central Avenue thrived with motels, diners, and neon signs, defining the classic Route 66 experience.

While there are plenty of places to stay in Albuquerque, our pick is El Vado Motel. Opened in 1937, El Vado was one of the first Route 66 hotels in New Mexico. The hotel has been fully renovated and features historic character and charm combined with modern comforts and amenities. Enjoy your room, relax by the pool, or grab a beer at the on-site tap room.

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Best New Mexico Route 66 Motels

After Albuquerque, it’s straight on to Gallup. There aren’t too many big sites for in between, so enjoy the gorgeous vistas in front of you as you drive. Do be sure to pull over in Grants to drive through the Route 66 Neon Drive-Thru Sign and, if you want to see where water flows both ways, you can find the Continental Divide marker. For nature lovers, a detour to the Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano is a must: take a leisurely hike to see two opposing natural landmarks.

Classic New Mexican Fare

As you pull over for lunch it’s a good day to try some classic New Mexican fare. Two exceptional options are El Cafecito in Grants and Jerry’s Cafe in Gallup. Both offer a stand-out menu of enchiladas, chile rellenos, and tacos smothered in red or green chile (or try “Christmas style” and get both). And no visit would be complete without a fluffy sopapilla on the side!

Browse New Mexico Route 66 Restaurants

Once you reach Gallup there’s even more to explore. Park your car in one of the Main Street lots and see what Gallup Route 66 has to offer:

• Admire “Dude Man,” the Cowboy Muffler Man.
• Find Galoop, the Route 66 loop statue.
• Stop into Richardson’s Trading Post and all the other Native American Trading Posts.
• Explore the Gallup Cultural Center and Navajo Code Talker Museum.
• Visit the Rex Museum.

Settle in for the night at one of the best motels on Route 66: the Historic El Rancho Hotel. For dinner try Jerry’s Cafe for excellent New Mexican food or take it easy and head down to the motel’s lobby to eat at The Silver Screen.

Where to Stay in Gallup, New Mexico

Sleep where the stars have at the Historic El Rancho Hotel, which has hosted some of Hollywood’s biggest movie movie stars and makers, including Robert Mitchum, Elia Kazan, Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn, William Holden, Billy Wilder, Kirk Douglas, Gregory Peck, Troy Donahue, and more. Photos of the stars are peppered throughout the intricately designed property and each room is themed with a star’s photo and information.

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Best New Mexico Route 66 Motels

On Day Eleven of your Route 66 road trip you’ll leave Gallup and drive right into Arizona. As you enter the state you’ll enter the land of petrified wood and the Petrified Forest National Park.

The National Park takes around 45 minutes to an hour to drive the 28-miles straight through the park, but, you’ll want to plan for at least a few hours to get out of your car to enjoy the scenic views and many of the things to see in Petrified Forest National Park.

Plan to spend the entire morning of your eleventh day on the road exploring, hiking, and taking breathtaking photos of your surroundings. Once you’ve seen it all, exit the park and head into Holbrook, but not without stopping at some of the quirky rock shops that line the area, like Painted Desert Indian Center, Stewart’s Petrified Wood, and Rainbow Rock Shop to do some shopping and check out the over-the-top dinosaur roadside attractions out front.

But the quirk doesn’t stop there if you spend the night in one of the tee-pee shaped hotel rooms at Wigwam Motel. It’s a quintessential stay for anyone traveling the Mother Road. Grab dinner next door at Butterfield Stage Co Steak House then retire for the night under the glow of the motel’s neon sign.

Wigwam Motel

“Have you slept in a Wigwam lately?” This iconic Route 66 motel has been attracting travelers from the road with its unusual architecture since 1950. Spend the night at the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona. Also known as Wigwam Village No. 6.

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Best New Mexico Route 66 Motels

Day twelve of this 2-week Route 66 road trip itinerary is a day packed full of adventure. So plan to leave early and pull over multiple times.

The first stretch of today’s road trip takes you past Joseph City, Winslow, Flagstaff, and Williams. If there is more wiggle room in your itinerary consider adding an extra day or two to break up your drive, spend more time exploring these cities, or take a detour to the Grand Canyon. But with a lot of ground to cover, here are some must-see stops along your path.

• Sit on a giant rabbit at Jack Rabbit Trading Post.
• Stand on the corner at Standin’ on The Corner Park.
• Witness a natural landmark at Meteor Crater Natural Landmark.
• Explore the ruins at Twin Arrows Trading Post.
• Say hello to the first ever Lumberjack Muffler Man in Flagstaff.

Once you’ve driven through Holbrook, Winslow, Flagstaff, and Williams, you’ll come to one of the most famous places on Route 66: Seligman, Arizona. Once a bustling pit stop along the historic Route 66, Seligman, Arizona retains its nostalgic charm with pride. Known as the “Birthplace of Historic Route 66,” this town holds a special place in the heart of Route 66 enthusiasts and history buffs alike. There are many things to do in Seligman, Arizona so park your car and wander through the town’s shops and businesses. Here are some highlights:

• Honor the “Guardian Angel” of Route 66 at Angel & Vilma Delgadillo’s Original Route 66 Gift Shop.
• See vintage bikes at the Copper Cart and Route 66 Motoporium.
• Stop into Highway Hot Dog, Return to the 50s, Route 66 Road Relics, Route 66 RoadRunner, and Rusty Bolt.
• Take photos in front of the Seligman Grocery Mural.

Delgadillo’s Snow Cap

Where on Route 66 can you get a cheeseburger with cheese, some “dead chicken,” and a mustard surprise, all served with a smile (or, at least a potato smile)? You can get all that and more at Delgadillo’s Snow Cap in Seligman, Arizona, a Route 66 institution that has been slinging burgers, milkshakes, and a unique sense of humor since 1953. If you need to stop for lunch on your Arizona stretch of this Route 66 road trip 1 week itinerary, this is the place to go.

Learn More About Delgadillo’s Snow Cap

After Seligman, keep driving Route 66 towards Kingman, passing even more fun roadside attractions like Grand Canyon Caverns, Hackberry General Store, and Giganticus Headicus.

Once in Kingman, check into your hotel, and keep exploring! Depending on when you arrive it might be a little too late for museums, but there’s still plenty of other attractions to see! Get dinner at Mr D’z Route 66 Diner, a classic Route 66 diner with a menu to match! Here are some other fun attractions in Kingman:

• Drive your car through the Drive-Thru Route 66 Sign.
• Look for the World’s Longest Map of Route 66.
• Explore the Powerhouse Visitor Center and Arizona Route 66 Museum.
• Learn something new at the Mohave Museum of History and Arts.
• View the Old Trails Garage Building.
• Take photos with the Yellow Route 66 Mural.

Where to Stay in Kingman, Arizona

Kingman offers an array of hotels that not only promise a comfortable stay but also transport you back in time to the heyday of Route 66. Whether you prefer a cozy motel with a touch of nostalgia or a modern hotel with a retro twist, Kingman’s hotels are an integral part of your journey through this historic highway.

El Trovatore Motel is located in downtown Kingman and offers themed rooms dedicated to Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, John Wayne, and more. Look for the famous neon sign!

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Best Arizona Route 66 Motels

Spend the morning of day 13 in Kingman, Arizona exploring anything you didn’t have time for the night before. Get to the museums early, check out the murals, and maybe head back to Mr D’z Route 66 Diner for a classic diner breakfast.

While we don’t have too much ground to cover today, that ground will include a tricky drive on an infamous stretch of road.

Arizona boasts the longest continuous stretch of original Route 66, which runs from Ash Fork through Oatman, Arizona, and that’s where we’re heading today. Drive west on Route 66, pull off for a souvenir and a soda at Cool Springs Station and then prepare for a unique drive ahead. The Arizona Sidewinder is only 8-miles long, but prepare to take 191 sharp curves and turns on a narrow, curbless stretch of the Black Mountains. It’s not a drive for the faint of heart! But it is a drive that will take you to Oatman, a stop that is a highlight for many Route 66 travelers.

Oatman, Arizona

Route 66 runs right through Oatman, Arizona. The picturesque town is nestled inside the Black Mountains offering stunning scenic views. And, while there is plenty to love about this ghost town — historic buildings, kitschy businesses, panoramic vistas, fun surprises — it is one thing that draws in visitors about all else: the wild burros that own the town.

There are plenty of things to do in Oatman, Arizona, the gold mining ghost town. Come to see the burros, stay to witness a (staged) shootout, and grab lunch with a ghost at the Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Bar.

Things to Do in Oatman, Arizona

After spending the afternoon exploring Oatman, it’s time to b-line it for your destination, and the last state of Route 66: California. As you pull into Needles, there are still a few things to explore in town:

• Step into history at El Garces Hotel and Train Station.
• Take photos in front of the Needles Railroad Borax Wagon.
• Grab an old-west style dinner at the Wagon Wheel Restaurant.

Where to Stay in Needles, California

Nestled along the iconic Route 66, the charming town of Needles, California, beckons travelers with a unique blend of history and modern comforts. This destination has been a vital stop for road trippers since the heyday of the Mother Road, when it became a pivotal rest stop, providing weary travelers with a place to recharge, refuel, and rejuvenate before continuing their cross-country journey.

Today, Needles continues to embrace its heritage, with a range of hotels and motels that pay homage to the town’s rich history. Book a room at the Best Western Colorado River Inn, Rio Del Sol Inn, or one of the many other motels in town.

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Best California Route 66 Motels

It’s our last day on the road and today we’re traversing all of California! As you travel through California on day fourteen of your road trip, there are several highlights worth pulling over for, including:

• Find a ghost town at Roy’s Motel & Cafe.
• Explore the Barstow Station.
• Learn something new at the Route 66 Mother Road Museum or the California Route 66 Museum.

Where to Eat Lunch on California Route 66

If you’re looking for a classic diner experience when traveling on Route 66, consider a stop at Ludlow Cafe. Enjoy classic diner fare in a friendly travelers atmosphere.

• Have fun at the Original McDonald’s Museum.
• Check out the California Wigwam Motel.
• Pull over at the Cucamonga Service Station.
• Say hello to the Chicken Boy Statue.

You’ve made it! After seven days of driving, you’ve made it to the end of Route 66! Celebrate with a trip to the Santa Monica Pier, take a photo with the End of the Trail Sign, and stop by 66-to-Cali for a commemorative souvenir or certificate of completion!

Check into your hotel for your last night on the road and have a celebratory dinner at Chez Jay, Connie and Ted’s, Dan Tana’s, or The Albright!

The next day be sure to return your rental car and catch your flight home. Or, turn around and start driving back from West to East! I hope you had fun on your one-week Route 66 road trip! Next time, plan a two-week itinerary or even for a month!

Where to Stay in Santa Monica, California

Los Angeles, California is the western terminus of this iconic highway, plan to spend your last night on the road in a Santa Monica hotel near the end point. Some of the best places to stay include The Georgian, The Santa Monica Hotel, and Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows.

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Best California Route 66 Motels