Photos of 66-To-Cali in Santa Monica, California
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to 66-To-Cali in Santa Monica, California, here are some things to know before you go.
How do you get a Route 66 Certificate of Completion?
The 66-to Cali kiosk on the Santa Monica Pier is the official place to get your Route 66 Certificate of Completion, one of the most Unique Route 66 Souvenirs to Bring Home From Your Journey. Stop by during their opening hours (11:00am – 7:00pm) to purchase this unique souvenir. The certificate costs $9.98 (plus tax). They will ask you some questions to verify your journey and will fill it out with your name and completion date by hand. Missed them when you stopped by? You can also order a certificate online.
Where is 66-to-Cali located?
On the Santa Monica Pier, across from Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. Look for the white wooden kiosk filled with Route 66 gear.
Is this the official end of Route 66?
Not exactly. The Santa Monica Pier is considered the unofficial end of Route 66, but it has become the place most travelers choose to celebrate finishing the journey. With food, games, rides, and that sweeping Pacific Ocean view, it’s a fitting finale to the Mother Road.
When Route 66 was established in 1926, the official western terminus was in downtown Los Angeles. In 1936, the route was realigned to end at Olympic Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica (that’s the recognized official endpoint and you can still find an end sign and begin sign there).
The Santa Monica Pier remains the symbolic finish line where most road trippers pose with the famous End of the Trail sign.
What souvenirs can you buy at 66-to-Cali?
66-to-Cali offers a variety of made-in-America Route 66 souvenirs, including t-shirts, magnets, stickers, postcards, and books. You can also purchase an “official” certificate of completion if you’ve driven the Mother Road end to end. The Route 66 Certificate of Completion is one of the most unique Route 66 souvenirs to bring home from your journey.
Is it worth a stop if you didn’t drive all of Route 66?
Absolutely. Whether you finished all 2,448 miles or just walked over from the beach, it’s the perfect spot for Route 66 souvenirs and photos. The knowledgeable staff on hand can answer all of your questions, offer advice on where to go for a meal or photograph, and inspire you to hit the Mother Road for yourself.
Where can you park for 66-to-Cali one the Santa Monica Pier?
Parking is available right on the pier deck (limited hours, Monday–Thursday), or in nearby beach lots ($7–$18 per day) that run from sunrise to sunset. For longer visits, try the Civic Center Garage or downtown Santa Monica parking structures, which offer the first 90 minutes free. Metered street parking is also available throughout the city. If you’d rather skip driving, the Metro E Line drops you just a short walk from the pier or you can walk from any nearby hotel. Find more parking information here.
Where to Stay Near 66-To-Cali
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest at the beginning or end of your journey with a stay at one of these Santa Monica hotels near Route 66.
The Georgian
The Georgian Hotel has been serving the Hollywood greats since 1933 and is recognized as one the most visually stunning and iconic establishments on the California coast. Spend the night in a stylish suite with an ocean view, dine on their famed coastal cuisine, and have the beach right at your doorstep.
Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows was developed in the 1920s on the site of a 19th-century estate. Over the years this Santa Monica hotel has hosted a variety of Hollywood stars, including Greta Garbo and Marilyn Monroe. Stay in an ocean-view room or enjoy one of the charming 1930s bungalows.
Santa Monica Hotel
Santa Monica Hotel offers a good mix of location, value, and comfort. The simple motel is located one mile from Santa Monica Pier and offers free self-parking, cable TV, and WiFi in a vibrant setting.
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