Being cooped up in a car on a road trip can make even the best travelers a little antsy. So it’s always a good idea to plan some time out of the car and in the great outdoors. Luckily there are plenty of Route 66 outdoor activities to add to your road trip itinerary.
Route 66 is filled with beautiful natural wonders: there are National Parks, National monuments, state parks, roadside parks, animal farms, and more. Whether you want to stretch your legs at a scenic outlook, feed an alpaca, ride a zip line, or take a multi-day hike, there are plenty of options to fit your wants and needs. You can even take a short detour to The Grand Canyon in Arizona.
Looking for the best Route 66 outdoor activities to add to your road trip itinerary? Use the filters below to search our outdoor directory by location, type, or keyword to fill your travel plan. Whether you’re visiting just one of the eight states on The Mother Road (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, or California) or driving the entire journey from Chicago to Los Angeles (or vice versa), there are plenty of opportunities to park your car and explore the brilliant nature of Route 66.
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Search Route 66 Outdoor Activities
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Atlanta Route 66 Park in Atlanta, Illinois
This small park takes you on a walk through time. Atlanta Route 66 Park in Atlanta, Illinois celebrates the town's history on The Mother Road. Take a stroll through Atlanta Route 66 Park and have a picnic at the table overlooking a fun Route 66 mural.
Gathering Place in Tulsa, Oklahoma
The Gathering Place opened in Tulsa, Oklahoma on September 8, 2018, as a place for as a “vibrant and inclusive space, where diverse communities could come together to explore, learn and play.” The award-winning 66.5-acre park is located along the Arkansas River. It was created by the George Kaiser Family Foundation (GKFF).
Must SeeMeramec Caverns in Sullivan, Missouri
Meramec Caverns in Sullivan, Missouri is the collective name for the 4.6 mile cavern system that runs through the Ozarks near Stanton. At 400 million years old, it's probably the oldest attraction in Missouri, though it has only been open as a tourist attraction since 1933. With around 150,000 annual visitors, it’s the most visited.
Ed Smalley Centennial Park in Stroud, Oklahoma
Ed Smalley Centennial Park in Stroud is a small Route 66 stop with monuments, a gazebo, and local history next to the Rock Cafe.
Heritage Park in Weatherford, Oklahoma
Heritage Park in Weatherford features Route 66 touches, a wind energy display, a painted turbine blade, a veterans memorial replica, and family-friendly amenities.
McPhetridge Centennial Park in Weatherford, Oklahoma
McPhetridge Centennial Park in Weatherford features a giant Route 66 spaceman, a centennial monument, and small-town history along Route 66.
Henry’s Rabbit Ranch in Staunton, Illinois
Hare it is! Henry’s Rabbit Ranch in Staunton, Illinois is a Route 66 visitor center and souvenir shop with a particular pedigree. The theme at this Route 66 roadside attraction is rabbits. There are often dozens of real rabbits hopping around, a line up of VW Rabbits buried nose first in the ground a la Cadillac Ranch.
Must SeeGrand Canyon National Park in Arizona (South Rim)
Just a short detour off Route 66, the Grand Canyon is a sight that’ll leave you awestruck. This colossal gorge in northern Arizona stretches an impressive 277 miles, with some points diving over a mile deep. Formed by the relentless power of the Colorado River, which began carving through ancient rock nearly six million years ago.
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument in Flagstaff, Arizona
Set in the high desert of Flagstaff, Arizona, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument showcases the impact of ancient volcanic eruptions on the landscape. Here, you’ll find black lava fields, colorful cinder cones, and scenic views of nearby peaks. Stop by to explore unique trails and learn about the area’s natural and cultural history.
Wupatki National Monument in Flagstaff, Arizona
Located between the Painted Desert and the San Francisco Peaks, Wupatki National Monument in Flagstaff, Arizona, is a significant historical site preserving the ruins of ancient pueblos. It offers a direct look at the Sinagua, Kayenta, Cohonina, and other indigenous cultures who lived here over 900 years ago.
