Route 66 FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About The Mother Road

U.S. Route 66—also known as the Mother Road, Main Street of America, and Will Rogers Highway—is one of the most famous roads in the United States. First commissioned in 1926, it connected Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, stretching across eight states and offering a direct route to the West. Route 66 played a vital role in American history, culture, and travel. While it was officially removed from the U.S. Highway System in 1985, its legacy lives on in the towns, businesses, and people who still celebrate its path today.

Route 66 was officially established on November 11, 1926. That’s the day it first appeared on maps as part of the U.S. Highway System, designed to create a cohesive network of roads for long-distance travel.

The Route 66 nickname “Mother Road” comes from John Steinbeck’s 1939 novel The Grapes of Wrath. In it, Steinbeck described Route 66 as the “mother road, the road of flight,” referencing the way it carried Dust Bowl migrants westward in search of a better life. The name stuck and came to symbolize the road’s deeper connection to American hopes, struggles, and dreams.

Yes, much of Route 66 is still drivable—but not as a single, continuous federal highway. After it was decommissioned, parts of the route were absorbed into state and local roads. However, with a good map or guidebook (and a bit of patience), you can follow more than 80% of the original alignment. In many places, you’ll even see “Historic Route 66” signs to help guide your way.

Originally, Route 66 stretched approximately 2,448 miles from end to end. The exact mileage can vary depending on the year or the alignment you follow—since the route shifted over time—but most travelers still use that classic number as a baseline for planning their trip.

How long is Route 66 in miles?

Route 66 winds its way through eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Each state adds its own flavor to the journey, from Midwest farmlands to Southwestern deserts to Pacific coastlines.

What states does Route 66 go through?

The traditional starting point is in Chicago, Illinois, at the corner of Adams Street and Michigan Avenue. From there, Route 66 travels southwest across the country to its ending point in Santa Monica, California, near the Santa Monica Pier. Keep in mind, signage and interpretations of the exact endpoints can vary—but the spirit of the journey is what matters most.

Where does Route 66 start and end?

Route 66 is more than a highway, it’s a symbol of American mobility, innovation, and culture. It was a critical migration route during the Dust Bowl in the 1930s, helped fuel post-WWII road travel and tourism, and inspired generations of adventurers and dreamers. Along its path, countless businesses—motels, diners, gas stations, and roadside attractions—grew up to serve travelers and became icons in their own right. Route 66 helped shape the American road trip as we know it today.

Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985 due to the rise of the Interstate Highway System, which offered faster, more direct travel across the country. Many of Route 66’s segments were replaced by interstates like I-55, I-40, and I-10. As traffic shifted to the newer roads, many towns along the old route declined—but thanks to passionate preservation efforts, Route 66 has seen a resurgence as a nostalgic and cultural travel experience.

While the entire route is not listed as a single entry on the National Register of Historic Places, many individual sites, bridges, buildings, and stretches of Route 66 are protected and recognized for their historical importance. Additionally, several states have designated their portions of Route 66 as official historic highways, helping to preserve and promote their heritage.

The classic Route 66 road trip takes at least two to three weeks if you want to do it right: stopping at attractions, soaking in the local culture, and taking the road less traveled. You can drive it faster, but Route 66 is all about the journey, not the speed. Give yourself enough time to explore the quirky roadside stops, museums, murals, and mom-and-pop diners along the way.

How long does it take to drive Route 66?

Traditionally, Route 66 was traveled east to west, starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica—symbolizing the great American migration westward. Many travelers still follow that direction today for the classic experience. That said, you can absolutely go west to east if that suits your plans better—there’s no wrong way to get your kicks on Route 66!

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are generally considered the best times to hit the road. You’ll avoid the extreme summer heat in the Southwest and the risk of winter snow in the Midwest. Plus, these shoulder seasons offer comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery along the way. Just double-check for local festivals or seasonal closures while planning.

Route 66 in Winter

Start by deciding how much time you have and whether you’ll drive the whole route or just a portion. Then, break your trip into manageable daily legs—about 100–300 miles per day is a good rule of thumb to leave plenty of time for sightseeing. Map out your must-see attractions, pick your overnight stops, and look for classic diners and local joints to fuel up along the way. A Route 66-specific map or guidebook is essential to help you stay on track. Want a head start? Check out the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit—a digital resource that will help you hit the road with confidence and make the most of every mile.

How to Plan a Route 66 Road Trip

While Route 66 was officially decommissioned in 1985, over 80% of the original route is still drivable. In some places, the road has been rerouted, renamed, or replaced by interstates, but historic alignments are preserved and signed in many areas. With the help of a Route 66 map, GPS apps, or printed guides, you can follow the original path pretty closely from start to finish.

Yes! You’ll find plenty of maps—both digital and printed—that trace the original (and even alternate) alignments of Route 66. Look for detailed Route 66 guidebooks, travel apps, or thorough paper maps that show the road through each town and state. Some maps even include notes about attractions, historic sites, and old alignments that you can still explore today.

Staying on the original Route 66 route takes a bit of effort, but it’s part of the fun! Use a dedicated Route 66 guidebook or GPS-based app that follows historic alignments. Look for “Historic Route 66” signs, especially in towns that have embraced their Route 66 roots. And remember, some segments may be unmarked or poorly maintained—so keeping a detailed map handy is always a good idea.

You don’t need a special vehicle to drive Route 66—just one that’s comfortable and reliable for long-distance travel. A standard car, SUV, or even motorcycle will do the trick. That said, road trippers in vintage cars or RVs are a common sight along the highway, adding to the nostalgic feel. Just make sure your vehicle is in good working condition—some stretches can be remote with limited services.

Yes, Route 66 is generally safe for solo travelers. Many people travel the route alone each year and enjoy the freedom and flexibility it offers. Still, as with any road trip, take common-sense precautions: keep your phone charged, let someone know your route, and avoid driving late at night in unfamiliar areas. You’ll likely meet other friendly road trippers along the way!

The original Route 66 was a toll-free highway, and most of the current historic alignments are still free to drive. However, in some areas (especially in Illinois and Oklahoma), you may encounter toll roads or turnpikes that parallel or intersect with the Route 66 path. These toll roads are optional, and you can usually stay on the historic route to avoid them.

Yes—but not everywhere! Many stretches of historic Route 66 are marked with “Historic Route 66” signs, especially in towns and states that embrace their Route 66 heritage. That said, the road was officially decommissioned in 1985, so in some rural or urban areas, signage may be missing, outdated, or confusing. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a backup like a guidebook, printed map, or GPS-based app to help you stay on track.

Definitely! There are several Route 66-specific navigation apps that are tailor-made for following the historic route. These apps often include turn-by-turn directions, historic alignment options, and even points of interest like roadside attractions, diners, and motels. Popular options include the Route 66 Navigation App (available for iOS and Android), which works offline and offers spoken directions. Some guidebooks even come with downloadable GPS files that you can use with apps like Maps.me or Gaia GPS. These tools are invaluable, especially in areas where cell service is spotty.

Yes and no. Google Maps can be helpful, especially in the big cities on Route 66 or for finding nearby gas stations and restaurants. But it doesn’t necessarily follow the historic route—instead, it’ll often default to faster interstate highways, which Route 66 was built to bypass. If you want to truly follow the original Mother Road, you’ll need to cross-reference with a dedicated Route 66 guide, printed map, or specialized navigation app. Think of Google Maps as your co-pilot, not your tour guide.

Absolutely—and they’re a must for serious Route 66 travelers! Classic guidebooks like “EZ66 Guide for Travelers” by Jerry McClanahan are considered the gold standard for navigating the route. These books include mile-by-mile directions, historic info, and tips on what to see and where to eat. There are also a variety of printed maps, road atlases, and regional Route 66 guides available to help you plot your journey and understand the different alignments. Many travelers like to have both a book and a digital app on hand—it’s the best of both worlds!

You’ll find a wide range of lodging options along Route 66, from charming mom-and-pop motels to modern hotels, campgrounds, B&Bs, and even a few quirky spots like train cars, teepees, and retro trailers. Whether you’re looking for something basic and budget-friendly or themed and full of character, there’s a place to rest your head in nearly every town along the way. Some travelers book ahead, especially in popular areas or during peak travel seasons, while others enjoy the spontaneity of seeing where the road takes them each night.

Route 66 Accommodations

Yes—and they’re part of what makes the journey so special! Many of Route 66’s classic motor courts and neon-lit motels have been lovingly restored and are still welcoming travelers today. From the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico to the Boots Court Motel in Carthage, Missouri, these historic spots let you sleep in the same places Route 66 travelers did decades ago. Staying at one of these vintage motels is like stepping back in time—with modern comforts included.

The Best Historic Route 66 Motels and Hotels in Each State

There sure are! Some hotels and motels along the route lean hard into the nostalgia with Route 66-themed décor, retro signage, and even themed rooms. You’ll find places with walls decked out in license plates, memorabilia, and murals that celebrate the spirit of the road. A few newer properties and boutique hotels also embrace the Route 66 vibe with mid-century design, roadside charm, and plenty of kitsch. They’re perfect for snapping photos and soaking in that nostalgic Americana ambiance.

The Mother Road is a foodie’s dream, packed with classic diners, small-town cafés, hole-in-the-wall joints, and legendary restaurants. You can chow down on hearty breakfasts, sizzling burgers, handmade milkshakes, BBQ platters, green chile everything, and more. Many eateries along the way have been serving Route 66 travelers for generations, and some are even featured on TV shows like Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. To find the best bites, look for local favorites with packed parking lots, vintage signs, and menus full of comfort food.

Route 66 Dining

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here—every state along Route 66 has its own claim to culinary fame! In Illinois try a Cozy Dog or a Horseshoe. In New Mexico, it’s all about green chile everything. In Oklahoma, you’ve gotta try chicken-fried steak. In California, grab a French dip and load everything up with avocado. And of course, no Route 66 trip is complete without at least one slice of pie, a frosty root beer float, or a meal at a vintage diner. Local specialties are half the fun—so bring your appetite and try it all!

66 Must-Eat Dishes on Route 66

Absolutely—and many of them look like they haven’t changed a lick since the 1950s (in the best way possible). You’ll find chrome-accented diners, neon-lit cafes, and family-owned drive-ins serving up classic American fare. Places like The MidPoint Café in Adrian, Texas, or Lou Mitchell’s in Chicago are iconic Route 66 stops, and new favorites pop up all the time. These are the places where Route 66 really comes alive—one bite at a time.

From giant statues to neon-lit motels, there’s no shortage of unforgettable sights on Route 66. Must-see attractions include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and Wigwam Motel in Arizona. And don’t forget the Route 66 MidPoint sign in Adrian, Texas, where you’re exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica! Each state offers its own icons, so whether you’re into history, oddities, or just amazing photo ops, there’s something to stop for around every curve in the road.

Route 66 Roadside Attractions

Absolutely! There are dozens of museums along the route that celebrate the history and culture of the Mother Road. Favorites include the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, Illinois; the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City, Oklahoma; and the Route 66 Auto Museum in Santa Rosa, New Mexico. These museums often feature classic cars, neon signs, historic photos, and stories from the road that bring the past to life. They’re perfect pit stops to learn more about the road you’re riding on.

Route 66 Museums

Some of the most iconic Route 66 roadside attractions have been drawing travelers off the highway for decades. Think: Cadillac Ranch (those spray-painted cars sticking out of a Texas field), the Muffler Men giants (like the Gemini Giant or Chicken Boy), the Former World’s Largest Rocking Chair in Missouri, Meteor Crater in Arizona. These stops are part of what makes Route 66 so unforgettable.

Route 66 Attractions by State

Yes it is! Cadillac Ranch is located just west of Amarillo, Texas, right off I-40—which replaced much of the original Route 66 through that area. This public art installation features ten vintage Cadillacs buried nose-down in the dirt, and visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their mark. It’s colorful, iconic, and one of the most Instagrammed stops on the entire route. Just bring a can of paint (and maybe some wet wipes).

You bet! Communities along Route 66 love to celebrate their stretch of the Mother Road with festivals, car shows, concerts, and parades. Popular events include the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival in Springfield, Missouri; the Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Weekend in Illinois; and the AAA Route 66 Road Fest in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Events often feature classic cars, live music, food vendors, and guided tours.

Route 66 Events

Oh yes—and they’re hauntingly beautiful. As the interstate bypassed many small Route 66 towns, some dwindled into near-abandonment. Places like Glenrio, Texas/New Mexico, Cuervo, New Mexico, and Amboy, California, are filled with crumbling buildings, faded signs, and the eerie quiet of a bygone era. These ghost towns are reminders of how Route 66 shaped (and was shaped by) the people and places along its path. They’re great for exploring—just be respectful of private property and safety signs.

There are photo-worthy spots practically every mile, but some classic favorites include:
The Route 66 Begin and Route 66 End signs in Chicago and Santa Monica
Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas
The Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma
Route 66 murals in towns like Pontiac, Illinois and Cuba, Missouri
The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona
The Route 66 Midpoint Sign in Adrian, Texas
Giant roadside Muffler Men across the Route
Neon signs glowing bright in cities like Tucumcari, Albuquerque, and Kingman

Keep your camera (or phone) ready—some of the best shots happen spontaneously when you’re just soaking in the road.

Oversized statues—like muffler men, soda bottles, and giant smiling animals—were roadside marketing gold back in the heyday of Route 66. As car travel boomed, businesses needed a big way to grab the attention of passing motorists, and nothing says “Stop here!” like a 30-foot-tall fiberglass man holding a hot dog. Today, these supersized sculptures are iconic Route 66 photo ops and quirky reminders of classic American ingenuity.

That depends on what scenery revs your engine. If red rocks and desert vistas are your thing, Arizona and New Mexico serve up jaw-dropping landscapes with mesas, mountains, and Route 66 running straight through the heart of the Southwest. Prefer the rolling hills of the Ozarks? Missouri has you covered. And for coastal charm, it’s tough to beat the final stretch through California into Santa Monica, where the road meets the Pacific Ocean. Every state along Route 66 offers a different kind of beauty—there’s no wrong turn here.

If you’re short on time but big on adventure, a few prime stretches pack in a lot of roadside punch:
Seligman to Kingman, Arizona: Full of quirky attractions, vintage diners, and classic motels.
Tucumcari to Albuquerque, New Mexico: Neon, nostalgia, and Southwest scenery galore.
Springfield to St. Louis, Missouri: A dose of Route 66 charm with museums, diners, and roadside oddities.
Chicago to Atlanta, Illinois: A quick hit of the Mother Road’s start, including murals, museums, and Muffler Men.
These routes can be covered in a weekend and offer a solid sample of what makes Route 66 legendary.

Illinois is where Route 66 begins—literally. Highlights include:

Route 66 Begin Sign in downtown Chicago
Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant for a classic breakfast
Gemini Giant in Wilmington
Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac
Mural tours, diners, and restored gas stations throughout small towns like Atlanta, Lincoln, and Litchfield

Illinois Route 66 Attractions

Rolling hills and Mother Road history The Show-Me State shows off with:

Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis
Meramec Caverns in Stanton
Devil’s Elbow Bridge in the Ozarks
Route 66 Museum in Lebanon
Giant Rocking Chair in Fanning
Vibrant Route 66 history in Cuba and Springfield

Missouri Route 66 Attractions

Short but sweet (only 13.2 miles!). The smallest stretch of Route 66 still packs a punch:

Cars on the Route in Galena (home of Tow Mater’s inspiration!)
Rainbow Bridge in Baxter Springs
Nelson’s Old Riverton Store—a historic general store
Friendly small towns full of charm and history

Kansas Route 66 Attractions

The state with the most original miles of Route 66. Highlights include:

Blue Whale of Catoosa
Totem Pole Park in Foyil
Route 66 Historical Village in Tulsa
Round Barn in Arcadia
Pops 66 Soda Ranch—grab a quirky soda!
Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton

Oklahoma Route 66 Attractions

Big skies, bigger roadside attractions. The Texas Panhandle serves up:

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo (spray cans encouraged!)
Midpoint Café in Adrian—the halfway point of Route 66
Bug Ranch in Amarillo (like Cadillac Ranch, but VW-style)
Leaning Water Tower in Groom
Conoco Tower Station and U-Drop Inn in Shamrock—an Art Deco masterpiece

Texas Route 66 Attractions

Southwest vibes and neon nights. Here, the scenery and signage are equally stunning:

Tucumcari’s neon motels (like the Blue Swallow)
Santa Rosa’s Route 66 Auto Museum
Albuquerque’s Central Avenue (loaded with historic sites and signs)
Santa Fe Loop—an original alignment with history and charm
Loretto Chapel’s miraculous staircase in Santa Fe
66 Diner and Kimo Theatre in Albuquerque

New Mexico Route 66 Attractions

Deserts, diners, and roadside dinosaurs. One of the best-preserved and most popular stretches:

Wigwam Motel in Holbrook
Standin’ on the Corner Park in Winslow
Meteor Crater and Two Guns ruins
Seligman—birthplace of Route 66 revival
Hackberry General Store—a retro stop with photo ops galore
Oatman—wild burros roam the streets!

Arizona Route 66 Attractions

From desert heat to ocean breeze. The final stretch of Route 66 is full of contrasts:

Roy’s Motel & Cafe in Amboy—iconic desert photo op
Bottle Tree Ranch near Oro Grande
Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino
Route 66 End of the Trail Sign on the Santa Monica Pier
Urban attractions in Los Angeles, from vintage theaters to classic diners

California Route 66 Attractions

The cost of a Route 66 road trip can vary widely depending on your travel style, how many miles you cover each day, and whether you’re dining on diner burgers or fine dining. On average, most travelers spend $150–$300 per day, which includes gas, lodging, food, and attractions. Budget travelers might spend less with careful planning, while those who splurge on boutique hotels, big-city experiences, or premium attractions could spend more. The good news? There’s a version of Route 66 for every budget.

A full Chicago-to-Santa Monica trip usually takes two to three weeks, so total costs often land between $2,000 and $7,000 per person. That estimate includes:
Lodging: ~$80–$150 per night (cheaper for budget motels, more for boutique stays)
Gas: ~$300–$600 depending on vehicle and fuel prices
Meals: ~$30–$60 per day per person
Attractions & Souvenirs: varies, but budgeting $100–$300 total is a good start
If you’re camping, traveling by RV, or road tripping with friends to split costs, it can be significantly more affordable. And don’t forget—some of the best Route 66 attractions, like quirky roadside stops and scenic views, are completely free!

Yes! One of the best parts of driving Route 66 is the abundance of affordable motels, vintage motor courts, and budget-friendly inns. In smaller towns, you’ll find plenty of mom-and-pop motels that are clean, comfy, and full of character—often under $100 a night. For travelers who want to save even more, campgrounds and RV parks are scattered along the route, especially in more rural areas.

Pro tip: Booking mid-week or traveling during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) can help lower prices even more.

For the most part, yes—it’s easy to find gas, especially when you’re near cities or along the more traveled stretches. Still, parts of Route 66 go through rural or remote areas (especially in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California), where gas stations can be 40–60 miles apart. It’s always a smart move to fill up before you get below half a tank, especially when venturing off the interstate or cruising old alignments.

Oh, you better believe there’s no shortage of mementos to bring home from America’s most famous highway. From classic postcards and enamel pins to vintage-style t-shirts, coffee mugs, patches, and magnets, nearly every town along the route has a shop—or five—selling Route 66-themed souvenirs. You’ll also find locally made goods like pottery in New Mexico, cowboy gear in Texas, and neon-sign decor just about everywhere. And don’t forget to grab a “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” bumper sticker or a Route 66 road sign replica—it’s practically a rite of passage. Browse some of the best Route 66 souvenirs to bring home from your journey.

Route 66 is known for being the “Mother Road” of America—a symbol of freedom, mobility, and that classic open-road spirit. It’s celebrated for its quirky roadside attractions, retro diners, historic motels, neon signs, and small-town Americana. Culturally, Route 66 represents mid-century optimism, the golden age of car travel, and the American dream on wheels. Whether you’re looking for kitsch, culture, or a slice of pie the size of your head, Route 66 delivers it all with a side of nostalgia.

Yes! Route 66 has made its mark on the silver screen and the small screen. The most famous is probably the Route 66 TV show (1960–1964), which followed two young men traveling the highway in a Corvette. The road also gets plenty of love in movies like Cars (2006)—which was inspired by real-life Route 66 towns and landmarks—and pops up in classics like Easy Rider, The Grapes of Wrath, and Bagdad Cafe. If you’re a film buff, a Route 66 trip feels like driving through a giant pop culture time capsule.

Oh yes—perhaps the most iconic Route 66 anthem is the one you’re humming right now:
“If you ever plan to motor west, travel my way, take the highway that’s the best…”
The song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” was originally written by Bobby Troup in 1946 and has been covered by legends like Nat King Cole, Chuck Berry, The Rolling Stones, and even Depeche Mode. It’s become the unofficial theme song of the highway. There are also tons of other songs that reference Route 66, from rock and country to blues and indie, further cementing its place in American music history.

Yes! Many Route 66 attractions, museums, and visitor centers offer passport-style stamps that travelers can collect in official or homemade booklets. Some regions and states even have their own Route 66 passports, like in Oklahoma or Arizona, which encourage you to explore local stops and earn stamps along the way. It’s a fun, interactive way to document your trip—and a great (and free!) souvenir to take home.

Nope! If you’ve got a valid driver’s license and a roadworthy vehicle, you’re good to go. You don’t need a special permit or off-road vehicle—Route 66 is mostly paved and open to standard cars, motorcycles, and RVs. Just make sure your ride is in good shape (brakes, tires, fluids—you know the drill), and you’re ready to roll.

Absolutely! Route 66 isn’t like a modern interstate—it weaves through towns, farmland, mountains, and downtown streets, so keep your eyes peeled for signage and follow a Route 66 map or guidebook to stay on track. Drive slow and enjoy the scenery—this isn’t a race. Many attractions are right off the road, so be ready for frequent stops. Also, keep in mind that cell service can be spotty in rural areas, so download maps ahead of time just in case.

Pack like a pro road-tripper! Essentials include:

A Route 66 guidebook or map
Printed reservations (some spots don’t have Wi-Fi)
A cooler for drinks and snacks
Comfortable clothes and walking shoes
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
A first-aid kit and basic car repair supplies
A portable phone charger or power bank
And of course, a camera—you’ll want to document every diner, sign, and oversized roadside attraction!

Route 66 Packing List

Definitely! Route 66 is a bucket list ride for motorcyclists and a fantastic route for RVers. There are plenty of RV parks and campgrounds along the way, plus scenic stretches that are perfect for cruising on two wheels. Just make sure to plan fuel and overnight stops in advance—especially in more remote areas—and always check road conditions for tight turns or low clearances if you’re in a big rig.

Yes, many places along Route 66 welcome dogs—but it depends on the location. Outdoor attractions, roadside stops, and motels with designated pet rooms are common, but always call ahead to confirm pet policies. Bring water, bowls, waste bags, and a leash, and never leave your furry friend in a hot car. You’ll both enjoy the trip more when they can safely stretch their legs and sniff around a bit!

While dogs tend to be easier road trip companions, Route 66 isn’t quite as cat-friendly—but it’s not impossible. Some hotel chains like La Quinta and Red Roof Inn allow cats, and with the right prep, your feline friend can enjoy the ride too (though maybe not the selfies). Just be sure to keep them secure and comfortable in the car and give them a quiet place to relax at night.

You sure can! There are plenty of campgrounds, RV parks, and some state or national parks near the route. Whether you’re tent camping, traveling in an RV, or looking for a cozy cabin, you’ll find options all along the way. Just make sure to research your overnight stops in advance—some campgrounds may be seasonal or require reservations.

Many parts of Route 66 are accessible, but accessibility varies by location. Museums, visitor centers, and national chains often have ADA-compliant entrances and restrooms, but smaller, older roadside stops may have limitations. It’s a good idea to call ahead or check websites for accessibility info before visiting attractions or booking accommodations. With a little planning, Route 66 can absolutely be enjoyed by travelers with mobility needs.

Absolutely! Route 66 is world-famous and attracts travelers from all over the globe—from Europe and Asia to Australia and beyond. Many international visitors come to experience the classic American road trip, complete with vintage motels, quirky roadside attractions, retro diners, and wide-open highways. It’s a unique slice of Americana that’s become a dream adventure for countless globetrotters.

Yes! Most major U.S. car rental companies (like Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, and Avis) allow non-U.S. residents to rent vehicles, as long as you have a valid driver’s license from your home country and a credit card in your name. You’ll also need to meet minimum age requirements (usually 21 or 25 depending on the company). Keep in mind that automatic transmission cars are the norm in the U.S., and you’ll likely be offered one unless you specifically request a manual.

Rent a Car for Route 66
Learn More About Renting a Car for Your Route 66 Road Trip

Yes, there are! If you don’t want to plan every stop yourself or prefer to travel in a group, guided Route 66 tours are a great option. These range from motorcoach tours to motorcycle convoys and even self-drive caravan tours where your route, lodging, and activities are pre-planned for you. Many companies cater specifically to international tourists and offer multi-language guides or support.

It depends. Many U.S. rental companies and law enforcement officers will accept a driver’s license from your home country, especially if it’s written in English. However, it’s strongly recommended (and sometimes required by rental companies) that you also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is essentially a translation of your license and helps avoid any issues if you’re pulled over or need to show ID.

The Route 66 Centennial marks 100 years since Route 66 was officially established in 1926. It’s a big birthday bash for the Mother Road, and fans across the country—and around the world—are gearing up to celebrate a full century of classic Americana, historic road trips, neon signs, and quirky roadside wonders.

Route 66 Centennial

The official centennial date is November 11, 2026, but you don’t have to wait until then to party. Celebrations, events, and commemorations are already popping up along the route and are expected to ramp up throughout 2025 and 2026.

From Illinois to California, states and towns along Route 66 are revving their engines and sprucing up their stretches of the highway. That includes restoring vintage signs and buildings, funding beautification projects, organizing community cleanups, upgrading museums, and launching special tourism initiatives. Local Route 66 associations, tourism boards, and chambers of commerce are working together to ensure their slice of the road shines for the centennial—some are even forming committees and applying for grants to preserve and promote Route 66 heritage. You’ll also see cities planning festivals, mural projects, car shows, and centennial-themed art installations.

Yes! Communities along the route are planning parades, festivals, car shows, concerts, art exhibits, historical reenactments, and more. From small-town celebrations to major citywide events, the calendar is quickly filling up. Be sure to check local tourism sites and Route 66 organizations for updates as 2026 approaches.

Route 66 Centennial Events

Of course! You can expect a whole highway’s worth of commemorative gear—think t-shirts, hats, patches, pins, mugs, and maps all decked out with Route 66 centennial logos and designs. Many gift shops, museums, and roadside stops are already planning limited-edition souvenirs.

Yes—Congress established the Route 66 Centennial Commission to help plan and promote the centennial celebration on a national level. Their mission is to coordinate activities, support preservation efforts, and raise awareness about the cultural importance of Route 66. They’re also working with local organizations to amplify the festivities from state to state.

The best way? Hit the road! Whether you travel a few miles or the full 2,448, visit a museum, attend a festival, or grab a bite at a classic diner, you’re part of the centennial spirit. You can also follow Route 66 associations and travel blogs, collect special passport stamps, and share your experiences with fellow road warriors online. This is your chance to celebrate 100 years of adventure, history, and roadside charm—don’t miss it!