If you’ve ever wondered whether Route 66 is worth the drive, let us save you the trouble—yes, yes, a thousand times yes! This isn’t just a road trip: it’s the road trip. Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, Route 66 weaves through eight states, dozens of historic towns, and a century of roadside memories. Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the neon-lit downtowns, or the world’s biggest gas pump (yes, that’s a thing), there’s something magical about cruising the Mother Road.
But what really makes Route 66 worth it? The freedom. The adventure. The unexpected surprises waiting around every bend. It’s a road where every traveler creates their own experience—whether that means stopping at every vintage gas station, taking detours to the Grand Canyon or Las Vegas, or tracking down every last Muffler Man from Illinois to California. It’s a journey that can be as fast or as slow as you want, with classic motels, quirky roadside attractions, and friendly locals ready to welcome you along the way.
Still need convincing? We’ve rounded up 66 reasons why Route 66 is worth every mile. From historic bridges to drive-in theaters, epic eats to scenic parks, you’ll find plenty of reasons to pack your bags, hit the gas, and experience the ultimate road trip for yourself.
Is Route 66 worth it? 66 reasons the answer is YES!
1. It’s the Great American Road Trip.
When you hear “Great American Road Trip,” what comes to mind? Long expanses of gorgeous scenery? A smattering mix of big cities and small towns? Roadside attractions? Diners? Museums? Culture? Local experiences?
Whatever your answer, Route 66 has it. For many, Route 66 is the “Great American Road Trip.” Spanning eight states and traversing half the country, there is little you can’t find on The Mother Road. So if you want to experience America, this great road trip allows you to do it in spades.
2. It’s a bucket-list experience for travelers.
Do you have a bucket list? A list of all the amazing things you want to do in your life? Driving Route 66 is a bucket-list experience for travelers who crave adventure, history, and a taste of authentic Americana. It’s an amazing adventure that can take you one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, or as long as you have. For many, checking Route 66 off their bucket list means creating memories that will last a lifetime.
3. You can customize the trip to your interests.
There’s no one right way to “do” Route 66. You can prioritize your stops based on what you are most interested in seeing. Love roadside attractions? Stop at the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma. Neon signs your jam? Don’t miss spending the night at the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico. Foodie? Try a Cozy Dog in Springfield, Illinois. No matter what you love, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on Route 66.
Your road trip. Your way.
Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,400 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your personalized Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!
4. Route 66 is a photographer’s dream.
Towering neon signs. Over-the-top world’s largest things. Chicken-fried steaks smothered in gravy. And wide expanses of road. Whether you love taking long exposures of night-time scenery on your DSLR or snapping your breakfast on your iPhone, Route 66 is a photographer’s dream full of some of the most Instagrammable spots on the road.
5. You can connect with the past.
Driving Route 66 is like stepping into a time machine that takes you back to the golden age of road trips. As you travel its historic stretches, you’ll encounter vintage motels, retro diners, and roadside attractions that have stood the test of time. The route tells the story of America’s past, from the westward migration during the Dust Bowl to the post-war boom that turned it into a symbol of freedom and adventure. Along the way, you can explore preserved landmarks, meet locals with stories of Route 66’s heyday, and immerse yourself in the nostalgia of simpler times.
6. You can travel through eight states, each with unique culture and charm.
Route 66 offers a rare opportunity to explore the diverse tapestry of the United States, all within a single road trip. Spanning eight states—Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California—this historic highway showcases the unique culture and charm of each region. From the bustling cities of Chicago and St. Louis to the serene deserts of New Mexico and Arizona, every state has its own flavor. You can enjoy deep-dish pizza in Illinois, marvel at cowboy culture in Texas, and admire the vibrant Native American art of the Southwest. Along the way, the changing landscapes, from rolling prairies to rugged mountains, are as varied as the people and traditions that call these states home.
7. It’s an epic road trip for friends, family, or solo travelers.
Route 66 is for everyone. So whether you’re planning a girl’s trip, a couple’s honeymoon, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, The Mother Road is waiting. For friends, it’s an unforgettable adventure filled with shared memories and plenty of laughs. Families can bond over iconic stops, roadside games, and a chance to experience the open road together, making it a perfect way to reconnect. Solo travelers can embrace the freedom of the highway, setting their own pace and exploring at their leisure. No matter who you’re with, the journey offers endless opportunities for adventure, reflection, and discovery, making it the ideal trip for any kind of traveler.
8. You can break up the journey into manageable sections over several trips.
Not ready to take a full Route 66 road trip? That’s OK. You can still experience the magic of the Mother Road by taking a shorter journey. Explore state-by-state, take a weekend trip to Tulsa, or travel the first half this year and save the second half for later. You can travel any stretch of the road for any amount of time that works for you!
9. You don’t need to fly. Just hop in the car and go!
One of the best things about Route 66 is that you don’t need to worry about booking flights, navigating airports, or dealing with delays: just hop in the car and hit the road! Whether you’re starting from the East Coast or the Midwest, the highway is accessible and ready for exploration. Pack up, fuel up, and go at your own pace.
10. You can revisit childhood memories of road trips.
For many of us, our childhoods are full of memories of road trips with families. Route 66 offers the perfect chance to revisit childhood memories of family road trips, evoking the nostalgia of simpler times. Whether it’s the excitement of spotting iconic roadside attractions, the thrill of playing car games, or the joy of stopping at quirky diners for a classic milkshake, this legendary highway brings those cherished moments back to life.
11. You can experience Cars for yourself.
Route 66 came to life in a whole new way through Pixar’s beloved movie Cars. The animated film takes you on a fun-filled adventure along Route 66-inspired town, featuring the colorful characters of Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater. While the movie may be fictional, it was inspired by many of the actual places and people on Route 66. Fans of Cars can experience the magic of these animated vehicles by visiting real-life locations from the movie, such as the Radiator Springs-inspired Seligman, Arizona or the car-inspired car at Cars on the Route in Galena, Kansas.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
12. You can support local businesses.
Are there plenty of chain hotels and McDonald’s franchises along Route 66? Sure. But there are plenty more mom-and-pop shops, volunteer-run museums, and locally-run motels to patronize. Route 66 is about ditching the Four Seasons for Boots Court, the Burger King for the Snow Cap, and the Target for the Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios.
13. You can celebrate miles and milestones.
Route 66 is the perfect place to celebrate a milestone moment in your life. Whether you want a unique honeymoon after getting married, a 66th birthday adventure, or to take an epic road trip between graduating college and starting your career, America’s main street is the perfect place to explore.
14. It’s a well-traveled route.
Route 66 is one of the most documented road trips in the United States. There are plenty of websites (like this one right here), guidebooks, TV programs, and more that have explored the road from east to west and west to east. So whether you’re a road trip notice or a total pro, it’s the perfect place to take a long drive. Need help planning your Route 66 road trip? Get our Route 66 road trip planning toolkit to plan your perfect adventure.
15. You can see a muffler man…or 20!
Route 66 and muffler men go bent arm in bent arm. Muffler men are towering roadside giants built by International Fiberglass to be advertising idols in the 1960s and 70s. Today, the Mother Road offers a fun and unique glimpse at these iconic roadside attractions. Some have been located on Route 66 since the heyday of the road, others have relocated there from other locations, and still others are modern masterpieces that have been built from molds specifically to draw you in to Route 66. There are even two cities—Atlanta, Illinois and Tulsa, Oklahoma—who are battling it out to be considered a “Land of the Giants” with more and more muffler men being erected for all to see. You can find many Route 66 muffler man roadside attractions across Route 66!
16. You can explore small-town America.
Route 66 is a journey through the heart of small-town America, where charm and character thrive at every turn. From quiet main streets lined with mom-and-pop shops to friendly locals eager to share their stories, these towns offer a glimpse into a simpler, more personal side of the country. Explore unique diners, antique stores, and roadside attractions that give each of the small towns on Route 66 its own personality. It’s a chance to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with the roots of America’s highway culture.
17. And you can also explore big cities.
But Route 66 isn’t just about small towns and open roads: it also takes you through some of America’s most vibrant cities. Starting in Chicago, you can explore world-class museums, towering skyscrapers, and deep-dish pizza. St. Louis offers iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch and a thriving music scene. In Oklahoma City, you can dive into cowboy culture and enjoy its revitalized downtown. Albuquerque combines rich history with Southwestern flair, while Los Angeles is the ultimate finale, with beaches, Hollywood, and endless entertainment. Route 66 gives you the best of both worlds, blending big-city energy with the charm of the open road.
18. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from technology and enjoy the open road.
Route 66 offers a rare chance to unplug from the constant buzz of technology and truly connect with the journey. As you travel the open road, the distractions of emails and notifications fade away, leaving you free to focus on the scenery, the people you’re with, and the adventure ahead. It’s a chance to embrace simple joys—listening to music, sharing stories, and marveling at quirky roadside attractions. With no rush to get from point A to point B, you can savor every moment and rediscover the beauty of being present.
19. You can take all the detours you desire.
When you’re traveling Route 66, you’re the boss of your own adventure! Sure, the Mother Road has plenty to see, but if you feel like veering off course, go for it! Take a detour to Las Vegas for some neon-fueled excitement, swing by Branson for live shows and classic Americana, or soak in the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona. Whether it’s a national park, a quirky roadside oddity, or a famous city just a short drive away, Route 66 gives you the freedom to explore beyond the beaten path.
21. You can combine a love of history and travel in one incredible journey.
As you travel from Chicago to Los Angeles, you’ll drive through a century of American stories, from the Dust Bowl migration to the golden age of road trips. You can walk in the footsteps of travelers past at preserved gas stations, retro diners, and historic motels, all while exploring the ever-changing landscapes of the country. Whether you’re standing on a stretch of original pavement or visiting a Route 66 museum, every mile offers a chance to experience history firsthand.
22. You can connect with fellow travelers from around the world.
Route 66 offers a global pilgrimage for travelers who dream of experiencing the Mother Road. Along the way, you’ll meet people from all over the world, from solo adventurers on motorcycles to families road-tripping in classic cars. At roadside diners, motels, and attractions, you’ll swap stories with fellow travelers, sharing tips, laughs, and a mutual appreciation for the history and nostalgia of Route 66. Whether you’re chatting with a local shop owner, signing a guest book at a historic stop, or snapping photos with new friends at Cadillac Ranch, Route 66 has a way of bringing people together, no matter where they’re from.
23. You can take in the charm of neon-lit downtowns.
There’s nothing quite like the glow of neon to bring Route 66 to life after dark. From vintage motel signs to classic diners and theaters, the road is lined with neon-lit downtowns that feel like a step back in time. Places like Tucumcari, Albuquerque, and Springfield (Illinois and Missouri!) light up the night with colorful signs that have been welcoming travelers for generations. These neon spectacles capture the magic and charm of Route 66 in a way that’s simply unforgettable. So plan to cruise through town, snap photos, and soak in the nostalgic glow.
24. You can kickstart your adventure in Illinois, where Route 66 begins!
Your Route 66 journey starts in Illinois. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the small-town charm of places like Pontiac and Atlanta, Illinois sets the tone for an unforgettable road trip. Snap a photo at the Route 66 the iconic Route 66 Begins Sign (or the The Road Starts Here sign at Navy Pier), grab a bite at legendary diners like Lou Mitchell’s, and stop by quirky roadside attractions like the Gemini Giant. With historic gas stations, classic neon signs, and museums packed with Route 66 history, Illinois is the perfect gateway to your cross-country adventure!
25. You can drive through Missouri, where Route 66 meets the Ozarks!
Missouri’s stretch of Route 66 is packed with history, scenery, and classic roadside fun. Cruise through rolling Ozark hills, stop by vintage motels glowing in neon, and grab a bite at retro diners that have been serving travelers for decades. Explore the Route 66 icons of St. Louis, from the Chain of Rocks Bridge to Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, then hit the road for quirky stops like Uranus (yes, really) and the Former World’s Largest Rocking Chair. Whether you’re soaking in the nostalgia of historic motels or crossing the legendary Devil’s Elbow Bridge, Missouri proves that the Mother Road is as vibrant as ever!
26. You can explore Kansas, the Mother Road’s shortest stretch!
Kansas may have the shortest stretch of Route 66—just 13 miles—but it packs in plenty of charm and history. Drive through the small but mighty towns of Galena, Riverton, and Baxter Springs, where well-preserved buildings and vintage gas stations take you back to the road’s heyday. Stop by the famous Cars on the Route to see the truck that inspired Tow Mater, cross the historic Rainbow Bridge, and experience the welcoming spirit of small-town America. It’s a quick ride, but every mile is packed with pure Route 66 nostalgia!
27. You can drive the longest driveable stretch of Route 66 in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma boasts the longest drivable stretch of Route 66, and every mile is packed with history, roadside fun, and classic Americana. Cruise through rolling prairies, stop at legendary attractions like the Blue Whale of Catoosa and the giant Pops soda bottle, and explore the Route 66 museums in Clinton and Elk City. Take a walk through Tulsa’s neon-lit Route 66 district, cross historic bridges, and visit quirky small towns that keep the Mother Road spirit alive.
28. You can truly see that everything’s bigger in Texas.
Everything’s bigger in Texas—including the fun you’ll have on Route 66! This stretch of the Mother Road takes you through the heart of the Panhandle, where roadside legends like Cadillac Ranch, the leaning Britten water tower, and the giant cross in Groom make for unforgettable pit stops. Chow down on a 72-ounce steak challenge at The Big Texan in Amarillo, cruise through ghost towns frozen in time, and soak in those endless open skies. With wide-open roads and a mix of classic Americana and Western charm, Texas is a Route 66 experience you won’t want to miss!
29. You can delve into New Mexico, where Route 66 meets the southwest spirit.
New Mexico’s stretch of Route 66 blends vibrant cities, stunning desert scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Cruise down Albuquerque’s Central Avenue, where retro motels and neon signs keep the spirit of the Mother Road alive. Explore Santa Fe, the nation’s oldest capital, where adobe buildings and historic plazas add charm to the journey. Experience the vast beauty of the high desert, stop by classic trading posts, and take in breathtaking sunsets over the mesas. From lively urban hubs to wide-open landscapes, New Mexico delivers an unforgettable Route 66 adventure!
30. You can take it easy in Arizona.
Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 is packed with rugged landscapes, classic roadside stops, and a taste of the Old West. Stand on the corner in Winslow, explore the kitschy fun of Holbrook’s Wigwam Motel, and drive through the stunning scenery of Petrified Forest National Park—the only national park with a piece of Route 66 running through it! Stop by the legendary Route 66 town of Seligman, the birthplace of the Mother Road’s revival, and take in the neon glow of Williams, the last town bypassed by the interstate. From ghost towns to breathtaking desert views, Arizona proves Route 66 is more than just a road.
31. You can reach the grand finale of the road in California.
California marks the end of the road, but the adventure is far from over! Cruise through the Mojave Desert, where weathered roadside relics stand as reminders of the highway’s golden days. Stop in Barstow and Victorville to see classic diners and vintage motels before rolling into Los Angeles, where Route 66 unofficially ends at the Santa Monica Pier. Snap a photo at the End of the Trail sign, dip your toes in the Pacific, and celebrate completing one of the most legendary road trips in the world. California is the perfect grand finale for your Route 66 journey!
32. You can travel the way you want.
Route 66 isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of road trip—it’s all about the journey, no matter how you choose to roll. Whether you’re cruising in a classic car, road-tripping in an RV, joining a bus tour of travel enthusiasts, feeling the wind on a motorcycle, or even pedaling your way across on a bicycle, the Mother Road welcomes all kinds of travelers. You can take it slow, make spontaneous stops, or plan every mile—it’s your trip, your way.
33. You can sleep where celebrities slept.
Want to rest your head where Hollywood legends once did? Route 66 has you covered! Stay at El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico, where stars like John Wayne and Katharine Hepburn were regular guests during the golden age of Westerns. In Springfield, Missouri, you can book the Elvis-themed room at the Best Western Rail Haven, where the King himself once stayed. Route 66 lets you sleep in style—just like the stars who traveled this legendary highway before you!
34. It’s family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Route 66 is the ultimate road trip for travelers of all ages! Kids will love the larger-than-life roadside attractions like the Blue Whale of Catoosa and the giant spaceman in Wilmington, while parents can enjoy classic diners, historic motels, and scenic drives. Explore hands-on Route 66 museums, stop at quirky souvenir shops, and let everyone stretch their legs at fun roadside parks and attractions. Don’t forget to have a family-friendly laugh at the Poozeum in Williams, Arizona! Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, the Mother Road offers something for everyone—turning a simple drive into a family adventure full of memories!
35. You can participate in Route 66 festivals and events.
All year long, towns along the route host festivals that bring the Mother Road’s history and culture to life. Check out the Route 66 Road Fest in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a massive event featuring classic cars, live entertainment, and interactive exhibits. In Texas, the Route 66 Festival in Amarillo offers food, music, and a deep dive into the highway’s heritage. Join car lovers at the Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion in California, experience the nostalgia of the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival in Springfield, Missouri, or take part in the Route 66 Jamboree in Miami, Oklahoma. No matter where you go, there’s always a party happening on Route 66! Check out upcoming Route 66 events here!
36. You can enjoy geocaching adventures along the route.
For those who love a good treasure hunt, Route 66 is packed with geocaching opportunities! Geocaching is a global outdoor activity where participants use GPS devices to hide and seek containers, or “caches,” at specific locations. Hidden all along the Mother Road, these caches lead you to historic landmarks, quirky roadside stops, and even some off-the-beaten-path surprises. Whether you’re searching for a cache near Cadillac Ranch, uncovering a hidden gem in Tucumcari, or logging a find at an old gas station in Illinois, geocaching adds an extra layer of adventure to your journey. It’s the perfect way to explore Route 66 while making discoveries beyond the guidebooks!
37. You can feel the joy of discovery at every turn.
Route 66 is full of surprises, and that’s what makes it so special! One minute you’re driving through wide-open expanse, the next you’re pulling over for a giant blue whale or an old-school soda fountain. Every town, every mile, and every quirky roadside stop offers something new to uncover: neon-lit diners, hidden ghost towns, and stretches of road that sings as you drive over it. You never know what’s waiting around the next bend, making every mile an adventure!
38. You can enjoy great food.
From sizzling steaks in Texas to green chile smothered burgers in New Mexico, Route 66 is a road trip for your taste buds! Stop at classic diners serving up mile-high pies, mom-and-pop cafés dishing out homemade comfort food, and historic drive-ins where carhops still bring your meal to your window. Whether you’re craving Chicago-style hot dogs, an Oklahoma onion burger, or a Route 66-themed milkshake, the Mother Road is packed with legendary eats that make every meal part of the adventure! Need inspiration? Check out the 66 Must-Eat Dishes on Route 66.
39. You can have a dog-friendly adventure.
Why leave your four-legged co-pilot behind when Route 66 is packed with pet-friendly stops? Many roadside attractions, historic motels, and outdoor diners welcome dogs, so your pup can enjoy the journey too! Take a stroll along the sidewalks of charming small towns, snap a photo together at the World’s Tallest Gas Pump, or stretch your legs at dog-friendly parks along the way. Whether you’re road-tripping with a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, the Mother Road is ready for your dog-friendly adventure!
40. You can visit unique roadside attractions, from giant rocking chairs to vintage gas stations.
Route 66 is the king of quirky roadside attractions! Where else can you see a towering rocking chair in Missouri, a giant blue whale in Oklahoma, or a field of colorfully graffitied Cadillacs in Texas? Along the way, you’ll find vintage gas stations restored to their former glory, oversized statues standing watch over the highway, and plenty of offbeat oddities that make perfect photo ops. Whether it’s a massive muffler man, a wigwam-shaped motel, or a roadside sculpture, the Mother Road is packed with one-of-a-kind stops you won’t find anywhere else!
41. You can meet friendly locals along the way.
One of the best parts of driving Route 66 isn’t just the places you see—it’s the people you meet. From mom-and-pop diner owners to motel hosts who’ve been welcoming travelers for decades, the locals along the Mother Road are full of stories, history, and hospitality. Whether you’re chatting with a shop owner in a small-town trading post or swapping travel tips with a gas station attendant who’s seen it all, you’ll find that Route 66 is kept alive not just by its landmarks, but by the friendly folks who call it home.
42. You can feel the thrill of nostalgia as you drive.
Cruising down Route 66 is like stepping back in time. As you navigate this historic highway, you’ll encounter vintage neon signs, classic diners, and retro motels that evoke the charm of mid-20th-century America. Each mile offers a glimpse into the past, from restored gas stations to iconic roadside attractions, immersing you in the rich history and culture that have made the Mother Road legendary. It’s a journey that not only connects you to the golden age of road travel but also lets you experience the enduring spirit of Americana firsthand.
43. You can drive across historic bridges that have carried travelers for decades.
Route 66 is home to some incredible bridges, each with its own story to tell. From the iconic Chain of Rocks Bridge spanning the Mississippi River to the beautifully curved Rainbow Bridge in Kansas, these historic structures have been carrying road-trippers, dreamers, and adventure seekers for generations. As you drive across these engineering marvels, you can almost feel the echoes of the past—Model Ts, classic Chevys, and family station wagons making their way west.
44. You can make your own Route 66 traditions, from photo ops to favorite stops.
Whether it’s snapping a photo at every state line, always stopping for pie at mom-and-pop diners, or hunting down every Muffler Man along the way, you can create your own traditions that make the journey uniquely yours. Maybe you’ll collect Route 66 passport stamps, leave notes in roadside guestbooks, or recreate a family trip from decades past. However you travel, your traditions will become part of the road’s story—just like the millions of travelers who came before you.
45. You can enjoy a mix of the old and the new—historic landmarks and modern attractions.
Route 66 is the perfect blend of past and present. You can walk through history at classic motels, vintage gas stations, and historic diners while also enjoying modern museums, trendy shops, and updated attractions that keep the spirit of the Mother Road alive. One moment, you’re stepping into a soda fountain from the 1950s; the next, you’re exploring a new Route 66 visitor center. Whether you love the nostalgia of the past or the excitement of what’s new, Route 66 offers the best of both worlds.
46. It’s a road trip where the journey is just as incredible as the destination.
On Route 66, it’s not just about where you’re going—it’s about everything you experience along the way. Every mile is packed with history, quirky roadside stops, breathtaking landscapes, and the kind of small-town charm that makes you want to slow down and take it all in. Whether you’re pulling over for a neon-lit diner, a giant fiberglass statue, or just to soak in a wide-open stretch of highway, the journey itself becomes the adventure. On Route 66, the road is the destination.
47. You can visit Route 66 state and national parks for hiking, camping, and stunning views.
From the towering rock formations of Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona to the scenic beauty of Route 66 State Park in Missouri, there are plenty of places to stretch your legs, set up camp, and take in the great outdoors. Want to take your adventure up a notch? Detour to the Grand Canyon in Arizona for one of the most breathtaking views in the world or head to Texas to explore Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the U.S. Whether you’re hiking, stargazing, or just enjoying a picnic with a view, the parks along Route 66 offer a perfect break from the pavement.
48. You can enjoy classic drive-in theaters still showing movies under the stars.
There’s nothing quite like watching a movie under the stars at a classic drive-in theater, and Route 66 is home to some of the best. From the nostalgic glow of the 66 Drive-In in Carthage, Missouri, to the iconic Tee Pee Drive-in Theater in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, you can experience entertainment the way it was meant to be—on the big screen, from the comfort of your car. Grab some popcorn, tune in your radio, and settle in for a night of classic fun that feels straight out of a bygone era.
49. You can cruise over original stretches of pavement that date back nearly a century.
In many places on Route 66, you can still drive over original stretches of pavement laid nearly a century ago, feeling the same bumps and curves that early travelers experienced. From the hand-laid brick road in Auburn, Illinois, to the narrow, curvy Ribbon Road in Oklahoma, these historic sections let you connect with the past in a way no modern highway can. Every crack and faded centerline tells a story of the millions who have traveled this legendary route before you.
50. You can see how each town along the way has its own unique personality.
One of the best parts of driving Route 66 is discovering how no two towns are alike. Each stop along the way has its own unique personality, shaped by history, local culture, and the people who keep the spirit of the Mother Road alive. From the cowboy charm of Amarillo to the neon glow of Tucumcari, the artistic flair of Santa Fe to the vintage vibes of Seligman, every town offers something special. Whether it’s a quirky roadside attraction, a beloved diner, or a historic motel, each place has its own story to tell—and you get to be part of it.
51. It’s a road trip where every mile tells a story.
Every mile of Route 66 is packed with history, character, and stories waiting to be discovered. From the ghost towns that whisper of boom-and-bust eras to the neon-lit diners that have served generations of travelers, the road itself is a storyteller. You’ll pass through landscapes shaped by time, businesses run by passionate locals, and landmarks that have stood the test of time. Whether it’s a crumbling roadside motel, a famous Route 66 icon, or a stretch of original pavement, every turn of the wheel adds a new chapter to your own road trip adventure.
52. You can learn about Native American history and culture along the route.
Route 66 offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of Native American tribes who have called this land home for centuries. As you travel through states like Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Arizona, you’ll find opportunities to learn about their traditions, art, and stories. Visit historic pueblos, shop for handcrafted Native jewelry, or stop by cultural centers and museums that share the deep roots of the land.
53. You can take part in classic road trip traditions, from playing games to collecting souvenirs.
A Route 66 road trip is the perfect excuse to embrace those classic road trip traditions! Play “I Spy” with quirky roadside attractions, keep a tally of state license plates, or crank up the tunes and sing along to road trip anthems. Stop at gift shops to collect postcards, stickers, and Route 66 memorabilia to commemorate your adventure. Whether it’s snapping a picture at every state line, grabbing a unique Route 66 souvenir from each stop, or simply pulling over for a spontaneous roadside picnic, you can make your journey as fun and memorable as the road itself.
54. You can feel the excitement of following in the tire tracks of millions of travelers before you.
Driving Route 66 isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about becoming part of a legacy nearly a century in the making. As you follow the same path that millions of dreamers, road trippers, and adventure-seekers have traveled before you, you’ll feel the energy of those who once chased new beginnings, cross-country adventures, and the simple thrill of the open road. Whether you’re rolling past neon-lit motels, cruising over historic bridges, or stopping at a café that’s been serving travelers for generations, you’re adding your own story to the ever-growing history of the Mother Road.
55. You can ride a stretch of the road that plays music under your tires.
On Route 66, even the road itself puts on a show! Near Tijeras, New Mexico, there’s a special stretch of highway that plays “America the Beautiful” when you drive over it at just the right speed. This unique musical highway uses grooves in the pavement to create a tune that hums beneath your tires—a fun and unexpected surprise that makes your journey even more memorable. It’s just one of the many ways Route 66 turns an ordinary drive into an unforgettable adventure!
56. You can drive at your own pace—no rush, no stress, just the open road.
On Route 66, the journey is yours to control. There’s no need to race to your destination—this is a road made for wandering. Whether you want to take a leisurely cruise, stop for every quirky roadside attraction, or just soak in the scenery, you can set your own pace. No rigid schedules, no stressful deadlines—just you, the open road, and the freedom to enjoy the ride however you please.
57. You can be part of the ongoing story of Route 66, helping keep its legacy alive.
Driving Route 66 is a chance to be part of history. Every traveler who ventures down the Mother Road helps keep its spirit alive, from stopping at classic diners to snapping photos at vintage motels. By supporting the businesses, landmarks, and communities along the way, you’re ensuring that Route 66 continues to inspire future generations. This legendary highway isn’t just a relic of the past—it’s a living, breathing piece of Americana, and you get to write your own chapter in its ongoing story.
58. You can find hidden gems that aren’t in any guidebook.
One of the best parts of driving Route 66 is the unexpected surprises along the way. While the Mother Road has plenty of famous attractions, some of the most memorable moments come from stumbling upon hidden gems—quirky roadside art, mom-and-pop diners with the best pie you’ve ever had, or an old neon sign flickering in the twilight. These off-the-beaten-path discoveries might not be in any guidebook, but they make your journey uniquely yours.
59. You can discover new reasons to love Route 66 every time you drive it.
No two Route 66 road trips are ever the same. Whether it’s your first time on the Mother Road or your tenth, there’s always something new to see, do, and experience. Maybe you’ll take a different detour, meet a fascinating local, or finally stop at that roadside attraction you missed last time. With every journey, you’ll find new reasons to fall in love with Route 66 all over again.
60. You can experience the beauty of Route 66 in all four seasons.
Route 66 isn’t just a summer road trip—it’s a year-round adventure! In the spring, wildflowers bloom along the roadside, adding bursts of color to your drive. Summer brings long days perfect for cruising with the windows down. Fall transforms the landscape with golden leaves, especially in the Midwest, while Route 66 in winter dusts parts of the route with snow, creating a whole new kind of magic. No matter when you go, Route 66 offers a stunning backdrop for your journey.
61. You can get inspired by the Route 66 artists, musicians, and writers who have captured its magic.
Route 66 has long been a muse for creatives of all kinds. Musicians have sung about it, from Nat King Cole’s classic (Get Your Kicks on) Route 66 to rock and country tunes that celebrate the road’s spirit. Artists have painted murals, crafted neon signs, and built quirky roadside sculptures that bring the highway to life. Writers have penned novels, travelogues, and poems that capture the magic of the Mother Road. As you drive, you’ll find inspiration in every town, every sign, and every mile of this legendary highway.
62. You can discover new places off the beaten path.
One of the best parts of Route 66 is the unexpected surprises along the way. A small-town diner with the best pie you’ve ever had, a nearly forgotten ghost town waiting to be explored, a roadside oddity tucked just a few miles off the highway—every turn holds the potential for a new discovery. Whether you’re following a tip from a friendly local or just taking a detour on a whim, Route 66 rewards those who are willing to venture off the beaten path.
63. You can stay in historic motels that have welcomed travelers for generations.
Route 66 is lined with historic motels that have been welcoming road-weary travelers for decades. From neon-lit motor courts to retro roadside inns, these classic stays offer a true taste of the Mother Road’s golden era. Sleep in a wigwam in Holbrook, Arizona, check into the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico, or stay where Elvis did at the Rail Haven in Springfield, Missouri. Each motel has a story, a history, and a charm that modern hotels just can’t match.
64. You can feel a sense of accomplishment completing such an iconic journey.
Reaching the end of Route 66—or even completing a big stretch of it—comes with a real sense of achievement. Whether you start in Chicago and make it all the way to the Santa Monica Pier or break it up into smaller adventures, you’re following in the footsteps (or tire tracks) of generations of travelers who have taken on this legendary road. It’s not just about the miles—it’s about the memories, the experiences, and the feeling of knowing you’ve been part of something truly iconic.
65. You can create memories that will last a lifetime.
Every mile of Route 66 holds the potential for unforgettable moments—whether it’s watching a neon sign flicker to life at dusk, sharing a milkshake at a classic diner, or stumbling upon an offbeat roadside attraction that makes you laugh. The road is full of stories waiting to be written, and the memories you make along the way will stick with you long after the trip is over. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, Route 66 offers an adventure you’ll never forget.
66. It’s Route 66—do you really need another reason?
Route 66 isn’t just a road, it’s an experience, a legend, and a rite of passage for road trippers. It’s the kind of journey that stays with you long after the last mile. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia, adventure, or just a great slice of pie, the Mother Road delivers. So really—do you need another reason? Just pack your bags, hit the gas, and see for yourself why Route 66 is worth every mile.
