Route 66 Road Trip

Jody Vandergriff

Ready to get your kicks on route 66? This route 66 road trip route and map covers all the best sights and attractions along America's Mother Road.

Santa Monica, Rattlesnake Museum & Gift Shop, New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Pecos Pueblo, Perch Lake, Blue Hole, La Cita, Tucumcari, Cadillac Ranch, Blue Whale of Catoosa, Cars on the Route, Meramec Caverns, El Rancho Hotel, Tower Station & motel U-Drop Inn Cafe, Gateway Arch National Park, Threatt Filling Station Route 66, Rock Cafe, East Galena, Red Cedar Inn,, Wagon Wheel Motel

  • Santa Monica, United States

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  • Rattlesnake Museum & Gift Shop in Albuquerque, United States

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      The Rattlesnake Museum and Gift Shop is a unique and educational attraction located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, along Route 66. It houses a vast collection of live rattlesnakes and other reptiles and amphibians that visitors can observe up close. The museum offers an opportunity to learn about the different species of rattlesnakes found in the United States, their habitats, and their importance to the ecosystem. The gift shop provides an extensive selection of rattlesnake-themed souvenirs and gifts, including books, jewelry, and even rattlesnake meat.

  • New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science in Albuquerque, United States

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      Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on the iconic Route 66, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science is an immersive and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The museum features a vast collection of fossils, minerals, and dinosaur skeletons, including a life-size animatronic T-Rex. The exhibits cover the Earth's natural history, from the formation of the universe to the evolution of life on Earth. Visitors can participate in hands-on activities, watch planetarium shows, and explore the museum's interactive displays.

  • Pecos Pueblo, United States

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      Pecos Pueblo is a National Historic Landmark located in Pecos, New Mexico, and is a fascinating stop along Route 66. The pueblo was once a significant trade center and home to over 2,000 people, and visitors can explore the ruins of the pueblo and learn about its rich history. The museum offers exhibits that showcase the pueblo's history, including its interaction with Spanish colonizers and its role in the Santa Fe Trail. The site also includes a mission church dating back to the 1600s, which is a beautiful example of Spanish Colonial architecture.

  • Perch Lake, United States

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      Perch Lake is a fantastic spot to take a break from the road during your Route 66 trip. It's located in northern Minnesota's Chippewa National Forest, just a short drive off the beaten path. The lake is about 25 miles north of Grand Rapids and only 3 miles off Highway 38, making it a convenient stop for road trippers. Once you arrive, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake is well-stocked with different species of fish, so it's perfect for both seasoned and novice anglers. You can rent a boat or a canoe to explore the lake's secluded bays and inlets, or simply relax and soak in the scenic beauty of the area.

  • Blue Hole, United States

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  • La Cita in Tucumcari, United States

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  • Tucumcari, United States

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  • Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, United States

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  • Blue Whale of Catoosa, United States

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      Built in the 1970s, this is exactly what it sounds like - a giant whale photo opp.

  • Cars on the Route, United States

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      Pixar's Cars movie found inspiration for it's lovable character Mater at this stop on Route 66.

  • Meramec Caverns, United States

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      Part of the Ozarks, this cave system is a spectacular sight 400 million years in the making. As if that isn't enough, the caves have had their place in American history as well - they were once a stop on the Underground Railroad, housing thousands of runaway slaves and they were a hiding place for the infamous outlaw, Jesse James. The Meramec Caverns are one of the most famous stops on former Route 66 in Missouri.

  • El Rancho Hotel, United States

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      Built in 1936 by the brother of famous movie director D.W. Griffith, the El Rancho Hotel was a home base for filmmakers capturing scenes from the Wild West. Located along the famous Route 66, the building can't be missed with its curious inscription across the front: "Charm of yesterday...Convenience of tomorrow." Today, the hotel is still in operation and is a fun way to catch a comfortable night's sleep on your route 66 road trip. Book early and you can stay in rooms named after its former famous guests.

  • Tower Station & motel U-Drop Inn Cafe, United States

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      You can't miss this art deco building along Route 66. Established in 1936 as a cafe and filling station, it is now owned by the town of Shamrock. It has been fully restored and operates as a Visitors Center.

  • Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis, United States

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      The iconic Gateway Arch in St Louis is a must-see attraction on your Route 66 road trip.

  • Threatt Filling Station Route 66, United States

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      Built in 1915, this early gas station catered to African American travelers.

  • Rock Cafe, United States

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      Rock Cafe on Route 66 first opened in 1939 and flourished in the post Depression era. Since, the cafe has had its ups and downs, surviving tornados and a devastating fire. However, after a major effort to restore the cafe to its original glory, it is once again open for dining.

  • East Galena, United States

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      Galena sprung up as a mining town in 1876 years before Route 66 would make its way right through the town center. It is considered the oldest mining town in Kansas. Today, its a well preserved example of a classic American town and the perfect pit stop for your route 66 road trip.

  • Red Cedar Inn,, United States

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      The Red Cedar Inn opened right after the end of the prohibition period and was well positioned to be a favorite stop with Route 66 literally at its front door. No suprise it was frequented by celebrities of the time. No longer in operation, it is now being converted into a visitors center.

  • Wagon Wheel Motel, United States

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      Established in 1936, you can't miss the landmark neon sign of the Wagon Wheel Motel - the oldest continually operated motel on Route 66.