Route 66, often referred to as the Main Street of America, is one of the most iconic highways in the United States. Spanning from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this historic route has been a symbol of American freedom and adventure for generations.
I recently returned from a quirky road trip along the Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri portion and had theeeee absolute best time. I immediately wanted to reach out to fellow travel bloggers to put together the ultimate list of unique route 66 attractions by state!
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Table of Contents
Where Does Route 66 Start and Stop?
Route 66 officially begins in Chicago, Illinois, at the corner of Adams Street and Michigan Avenue. It stretches across eight states, covering approximately 2,448 miles, before reaching its western terminus at the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California.
This coast-to-coast journey offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the heart of America.
Distance of Route 66 (in miles)
The 2,448-mile journey along Route 66 provides a captivating glimpse into the heart of America.
Travelers can expect to spend around two weeks to a month exploring its numerous attractions, historical landmarks, and scenic wonders, depending on how much they want to savor the experience.
BEFORE YOU START!!! Download this FREE Route 66 Attractions by State BUCKET LIST PLANNER!
History of Route 66
Route 66’s history is as rich and diverse as the states it crosses. Originally established in 1926, it was one of the first highways in the U.S. Highway System.
Route 66 served as a vital link between the Midwest and the West Coast during the Great Depression, offering a lifeline to those seeking economic opportunities and a better life. This road was not just a means of transportation but a symbol of hope and adventure, as immortalized in countless songs, books, and films.
Map of Route 66 Attractions
To help you plan your journey along Route 66 attractions by state, we’ve highlighted some must-see stops below. Happy road tripping!
Tip! Need help planning this road trip? Check out my favorite road trip planning tools and apps!
Route 66 Illinois Attractions
1. Millennium Park
Chicago, Illinois features Millennium Park as a scenic city park along Historic Route 66!
Millennium Park is known for its incredible architecture among green spaces and walking paths. Most visitors come to see Chicago’s infamous Bean (now known as the “Cloud Gate)”. The shiny, mirrored 33 foot high sculpture was constructed in 2004 and is now a Chicago staple.
Millennium Park is also known for festivities year-round. Summer features include free concerts and movie screenings. In the winter, the park features a marvelous ice skating rink!
It is ultimately a central place in Chicago and makes a great starting point for any trip. Within 5 minutes walking distance, visitors can explore neighboring Grant Park, a visit to the infamous Sears Tower, or one of Chicago’s highly known museums.
Park entrance is free. Hours are from 6:00am-11:00pm daily. Use the SpotHero app to find a parking spot nearby, or consider taking public transportation or Uber.
As experienced by Alyssa of An Apple a Plane
2. Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Springfield, the capital city of Illinois, is a popular stop on the historic Route 66 for travelers. One of the must-see places in this city is the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, which was the residence of Abraham Lincoln and his family before he moved to the White House to serve as the 16th President of the United States.
Lincoln and his wife bought the house in 1844, and it was the only home he ever owned. The home has been restored to its 1860 appearance, and several structures within the four-block historic neighborhood have also been preserved to look as they did in Lincoln’s time. The site was designated as a National Historic Site in 1971.
Free guided tours of the house are conducted by National Park Service rangers, who provide insights into Lincoln’s life, his family, and the times in which they lived. Other nearby attractions include the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Dana-Thomas House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
As experienced by Sophie of Delightful Travel Notes
TIP! Use these fun road trip trivia questions on your Route 66 road trip!
Route 66 Missouri Attractions
1. Gateway Arch
The Gateway Arch is the famous landmark of St. Louis, Missouri and is well worth spending a few hours on your Route 66 road trip.
There are many things you can explore here, but the most popular is taking the tram ride to the top of the arch. If you only do one thing, this should be it! You’ll be rewarded with a stunning view over St. Louis and the Mississippi River.
If you want to do more, there is a museum, documentary movie, virtual reality theater, and a riverfront cruise. You can also tour the Old Courthouse. Once you are finished at Gateway Arch National Park, consider finding some famous St. Louis BBQ after a busy day.
Ticket prices for Gateway Arch vary depending on what things you want to see and do, but for the standard tram ride, prices start at $15 for adults, $11 for children, and $12 if you have the America the Beautiful pass. Preferred parking is available at the Stadium East Garage and costs $9 for the first 5 hours.
Recommended by Stefanie of Open Road Odysseys
2. Gay Parita’s Garage
Gay Parita’s Garage in Paris Springs MO is what you imagine Route 66 will be filled with as you travel along. It’s a 1930s garage (actually a replica of the original which burned down in the 50s) and it’s filled with relics of the past.
With rusty old cars, old shop items, gas pumps and signs around it’s perfect for taking photos. The whole site is free to walk around and enjoy with free parking just outside on the roadside. The owners are a treasure trove of stories so if you have time it’s definitely worth chatting with them.
The garage is just one of many quirky and interesting Missouri attractions on Route 66 – if you love old gas stations then you might enjoy seeing one just a mile or so down the road in Spencer which is also being restored.
Carthage is a nearby town with a great historic motel to spend the night in too – The Boots Court Motel has recently been restored to its original condition and lights up with neon at night.
Recommended by Kristy of Lost on 66
Route 66 Kansas Attractions
1. Cars on Route 66
If you’re a fan of the Disney-Pixar movie “Cars,” you’ll love the real-life inspirations you can find in the town of Galena, Kansas!
The director of the movie actually stopped in Galena and found inspiration in for Mater from an old rusty truck at this gas station. After snapping a few pics, be sure to walk down the main street where you’ll find the Galena Route 66 marker, tasty restaurants, shops, and a Route 66 mural!
It’s free to visit and park and makes for a fun stop for all ages.
Route 66 is a quintessential American road trip HOWEVER, it’s a long one. Be prepared with this list of 100+ fun road trip questions!
Route 66 Oklahoma Attractions
1. Dairy King
In Commerce, Oklahoma, the Dairy King is a classic Route 66 diner known for its delicious burgers and shakes. This was an unplanned stop for us, and turned out to be one of my favorites (the best kind of road trip!)
The owner gladly let us in (even though they were closed) and happily shared historic pictures and stories about the shop and route. When then had the opportunity to taste his famous route 66 cookie!
It’s right down the road from the Hole in the Wall Conoco Gas Station (below) and 100 percent worth a stop!
2. Hole in the Wall Conoco
A restored vintage service station in Commerce, OK, where you can step back in time and learn about the history of Route 66. Although it’s restored and not completely authentic, it’s still a fun stop for some quick photos!
3. Blue Whale
Located in Catoosa, Oklahoma, this 80-foot-long blue whale serves as a unique roadside attraction and a popular spot for picnics and photo ops.
It’s free to enter with a large parking and short walk down to the whale. The slide is of course closed (you wouldn’t want to swim in the water), but you can still wander onto the whale and take some funny pictures!
4. Golden Driller Statue
In Tulsa, Oklahoma, you’ll find the Golden Driller Statue, a 75-foot-tall tribute to the oil industry, which has played a significant role in the state’s history. It’s been around since 1953 and became a quintessential Tulsa landmark in 1966.
It’s free to visit with a large parking lot. Tulsa is a great home base for an Oklahoma weekend trip with unique Route 66 stops!
5. Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on 66
Located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, this 66-foot-tall space cowboy statue welcomes visitors with a sense of cosmic whimsy. In addition to the statue, there’s also a fun and small gift shop to explore. It’s the perfect spot to grab some quirky Route 66 souvenirs.
AND the best part is…they happily let my dog come shop inside! You know I LOVE a good dog-friendly attraction!
6. Pops 66 Soda Ranch
One of the best stops along Route 66 is located in Arcadia Oklahoma. Pops 66 Soda Ranch is a diner, convenience store, and gas station.
Wait What?! How can a convenience store be one of the best stops along Route 66, you ask? Well, to start there is a 66-foot-tall glow-in-the-dark bottle of pop just off the road! Yes! This is one of the most Instagrammable spots on Route 66.
One thing we love about Pops is that there are over 600 flavors of pop bottles to choose from! In fact, if you like root beer, there are over 80 different brands. Part of the fun is choosing unique flavors like chocolate soda, or coconut cream soda. Some are delicious and some are disgusting like pickle soda!
If you are on a road trip this is also a great place to stop and eat. The diner serves delicious food! They serve all American foods like hamburgers and chicken. They also have a southern favorite, fried okra. There is both indoor and outdoor seating.
Once you are ready to hit the road again, you can fill up your tank and be on your way!
As experienced by Lisa of Planning Away
7. Oklahoma City National Monument
While Oklahoma is home to numerous Route 66 attractions, none are as powerful as the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. The memorial and museum stand as a powerful and heartfelt tribute to the victims, survivors, and brave rescuers of the tragic 1995 Oklahoma City bombing.
The outdoor memorial is a peaceful and contemplative space, filled with symbolic elements like the Gates of Time, which mark the time before and after the blast, and the Survivor Tree, which miraculously withstood the blast. The memorial grounds also include 168 chairs, illuminated from below at night, symbolizing each life that was lost.
Step inside the museum and see the exhibits that provide a profound and enlightening experience, recounting the stories of those who perished, those who endured, and those forever changed.
The outdoor memorial is free to visit. Entry fees to the museum are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors and military personnel, and $12 for students. Children under 5 can enter for free.
For parking, the Memorial Parking Garage is nearby and is complimentary with paid museum admission.
There are plenty of other things to do while visiting Downtown Oklahoma City. Visit the nearby Myriad Botanical Gardens, walk across Skydance Bridge, and ride on the Bricktown Water Taxi.
As experienced by Caitlin of Twin Family Travels
Route 66 Texas Attractions
1. The Leaning Tower of Texas
Located right off route 66 in Groom Texas, the leaning tower of Texas is worth stopping by for pictures. This tilted water tower was originally constructed as a marketing technique to get visitors to stop by Ralph Britten’s truck stop.
Passersby would stop by the truck stop to warn Britten that the tower was falling, and end up buying snacks and drinks.
Unfortunately, Britten’s truck stop was burned down in a fire and no longer exists. But, the tilting tower still remains, and it’s one of the most interesting places to stop along route 66. Although you can’t walk up to the tower, you can get close enough to take excellent photos.
Once you’re done taking pictures, stop by The Grill for incredible southern food from a small family owned restaurant. This restaurant has incredible breakfast burritos and warm southern hospitality so you won’t want to miss it!
As experienced by Layla Pond of Layla’s Lens
2. Cadillac Ranch
The concept of Cadillac Ranch is both simple and ridiculous: ten 20th-century Cadillacs are lined up in the West Texas desert with their front ends buried in the sand–and the resulting photo op has been popular for decades!
As arguably the most popular Route 66 attraction in Texas, Cadillac Ranch is a quick, easy, and well-worth it detour when driving the Mother Road.
Originally built as a piece of public art in 1974, the whimsical nature of Cadillac Ranch has been delighting locals and visitors driving through the area ever since.
Located just off of I-40 outside of Amarillo (you can see it from the road), Cadillac Ranch is both easy to access and free to visit.
If you are open to spending a few dollars, though, consider bringing along some spray paint to participate in the most popular thing to do at Cadillac Ranch: add artwork to the cars!
This colorful practice is highly encouraged–just be sure to photograph your masterpiece, as someone will no doubt be along to paint over it shortly.
Once you wrap up at Cadillac Ranch, consider sticking around the Panhandle to explore a few more of the cool things to do in and around Amarillo, including visiting the Route 66 Historic District, hiking to the Lighthouse in Palo Duro Canyon (the second-largest canyon in the USA!), and enjoying even more kitsch at the Big Texan Steak Ranch.
As experienced by Kate Storm of Lone Star Travel Guide
Route 66 New Mexico Attraction
1. The Route 66 Auto Museum
The Route 66 Auto Museum stands out as a must-see attraction on Route 66 in New Mexico. This stop isn’t just for car enthusiasts. Featuring an impressive collection of more than 30 vintage vehicles, it offers a glimpse into the past. There are cars, taxis, and trucks on display.
The museum is fully decorated with colorful Route 66 nostalgia, like classic records and iconic Coca-Cola signs, adding to the atmosphere for visitors.
Before you depart, explore the souvenir shop, where you’ll find a variety of unique souvenirs, especially for car lovers back home. Admission to the museum is $5, making it an affordable stop along your journey.
The closest cities are Santa Fe and Albuquerque.
As Experienced by Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes
2. Frontier Restaurant in Albuquerque
Making a pitstop at the iconic Frontier Restaurant on Route 66 in Albuquerque is a must. It’s one of the most popular eateries in ABQ. After all, they’ve been serving up some of the best traditional New Mexican fare at affordable prices for over 50 years.
You’ll find all of the classic dishes of the state: green chile burgers, carne adovada (a pork stew), posole, enchiladas, and of course, a slew of burritos. If you can make it for breakfast, they are famous for their cinnamon rolls.
In addition to the delicious food, it’s also a Route 66 landmark. You can’t miss this red and yellow barn-like structure. Inside, it’s got that vintage diner vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Check out the collection of paintings and New Mexican tapestries on the walls done by local artists.
Stay nearby at the Spring Hill Suites by Marriot and you can walk to the diner. If you do spend the night check out some local breweries and don’t miss the Old Town.
As experienced by Denise of Chef Denise
Route 66 Arizona Attractions
1. Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park, tucked in the northeast corner of Arizona, is one of only two national parks along Route 66.
This hidden gem offers stunning scenery, ranging from vibrantly striated badlands, colorful deserts, and, of course, countless pieces of fossilized woods.
The park offers several easy and short trails that are approachable for hikers of any skill level. For example, the Blue Mesa Trail winds below the rim of a mesa and follows along a pathway that weaves between massive indigo-hued hills of bentonite clay.
Alternatively, the Crystal Forest Trail is the best option to see an impressive array of fossilized wood, from hundreds of millions of years ago!
To enter the park, it costs $20 per private car.
If you want a homebase near the park, consider staying in Holbrook, a quirky town offering a mix of 1950s Americana nostalgia and nods to the area’s petrified wood, like kitschy dinosaur statues.
For the full Route 66 experience, book a stay at the Wigwam Motel, a series of steel and concrete rooms that resemble tipis (the conical dwellings used by Plains Indians) that have become iconic along the Mother Road.
As experienced by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler
2. Winslow, AZ
No road trip through the Grand Canyon state is complete without a stop in Winslow, AZ on historic Route 66!
Start your visit by revisiting the famous Standin’ on a Corner Park in downtown Winslow, which memorializes the town’s mention in the Eagles’ famous song, “Take It Easy.”
Here, you can get a picture with the Eagles-inspired mural, the flat bed Ford, and park sign. It’s a popular spot, so come early for the best chance of having the place to yourself.
On the road next to the park is a huge Route 66 sign painted on the intersection. Take a picture, but be aware of traffic.
Afterwards, shop for a Route 66 souvenir at one of the many cute shops in this area. You should also grab a stool at the counter of the Sipp Shoppe across the street from the park: the milkshakes here are incredible.
Parallel parking is free along the streets of downtown. If the area around the park is crowded, you can park at the visitors center (about 4 blocks away) and walk.
As experienced by Natalie Vereen-Davis of Camping Kiddos
Route 66 California Attractions
1. The Mojave National Preserve
The Mojave National Preserve is a great stop along Route 66 or on any road trip. This unique desert is home to sand dunes, unique plants, and lava tubes.
Take some time to check out Kelso Dunes, some of the largest sand dunes in the country. Spend an hour or two exploring, but make sure you bring plenty of sunscreen and water! You’ll also find lots of Joshua Trees here. The highest concentration are along Cima Road.
If you have a heavy-duty four-wheel drive vehicle, you can see and explore a lava tube. Be careful though – the road to get there is long and rough and will take some time, so make sure you have the proper vehicle and enough time to make it there and back.
The Mojave National Preserve is free to enter and explore and is open all year round. Stop in at one of the visitor centers to find out other things to see and do and learn more about this fascinating place.
As experienced by Stefanie of Open Road Odysseys
2. Santa Monica Pier
Ending a Route 66 road trip at the Santa Monica Pier is the best way to wrap up an iconic American road trip!
This historic pier offers a great mix of live music, street performers, shops, and stunning ocean views — get your camera ready! It’s one of the best spots to capture the sunrise or sunset over the water.
If you’re traveling with kids, you won’t want to miss Pacific Park, an amusement park (on the pier) with a giant Ferris wheel and roller coaster.
The pier is a popular destination year-round, especially when the weather is nice.
Parking can be a bit of a hassle; it’s best to park in a garage in downtown Santa Monica and then take a leisurely stroll to the pier.
Check out the Santa Monica farmer’s market if you’re visiting on a Saturday or Wednesday. It’s filled with fresh flowers, veggies, fruits, and more. Before you head out of the area, don’t miss grabbing a slice of pizza at Margo’s Pizza Kitchen and Bar; it’s one of the best spots for vegan ‘za in LA.
As experienced by Rebecca of Veggies Abroad
Route 66 Attractions By State Recap!
As you journey through these states, you’ll also come across numerous other roadside attractions, vintage diners, and historic landmarks that make Route 66 a truly unforgettable adventure.
Route 66 is more than just a road; it’s a piece of American history, culture, and the spirit of adventure. Traveling this iconic route allows you to step back in time and experience the unique charm of small-town America.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a road trip full of nostalgia and wonder, Route 66 has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a journey through the heart of America on the famous Route 66.
Don’t forget to grab this Route 66 Attractions by State FREE planning bucket list!
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