Map Of Us 66
US 66, also known as the Main Street of America, is one of the most iconic highways in the United States. Spanning over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, this historic route takes you through some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and vibrant cities.
Top Attractions
One of the must-see attractions on US 66 is the Grand Canyon, a natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe. Other popular stops include the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, and the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider visiting the Blue Hole in Santa Rosa, New Mexico, a stunning natural pool with crystal-clear water. Another hidden gem is the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, where you can spend the night in a teepee-shaped room.
Food Scene
The food scene along US 66 is diverse and delicious. Make sure to try a classic Chicago-style hot dog, a juicy steak in Texas, and a slice of pie at the famous Rock Cafe in Oklahoma. Don’t forget to stop by the Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Illinois, where the corn dogs were invented.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Consider camping instead of staying in hotels, packing your own meals instead of eating out, and visiting free attractions like the Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma. Don’t forget to use gas apps like GasBuddy to save money on fuel.
Outdoor Adventures
US 66 is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking in the Ozark Mountains to kayaking in the Colorado River, there are plenty of opportunities to explore nature. Make sure to visit the Red Rocks State Park in Oklahoma and the Joshua Tree National Park in California.
Historical Landmarks
US 66 is steeped in history, and there are many landmarks that commemorate its past. These include the Chain of Rocks Bridge in Missouri, the Route 66 Museum in Illinois, and the Wigwam Motel in Arizona. Make sure to also check out the historic murals in towns like Tucumcari, New Mexico.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? There are plenty of family-friendly activities along US 66. Take them to the Meramec Caverns in Missouri, where they can explore underground caves, or to the Route 66 Drive-In Theater in Springfield, Missouri, where they can watch a movie under the stars.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique, consider visiting the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, where you can see a row of graffiti-covered Cadillacs buried in the ground. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Bottle Tree Ranch in California, a whimsical art installation made from recycled bottles.
Natural Wonders
US 66 is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. Make sure to stop by the Painted Desert in Arizona, a colorful landscape of badlands and canyons, and the Santa Monica Pier in California, where you can watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Vibrant Nightlife
US 66 is not just about natural beauty and history โ it also has a vibrant nightlife. Make sure to check out the jazz clubs in St. Louis, the dance clubs in Tulsa, and the bars in Albuquerque. Don’t forget to try the local beer and wine along the way.
Local Markets
US 66 is a great place to shop for local souvenirs and artisanal products. Make sure to visit the Farmers Market in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts, and the Route 66 Flea Market in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where you can find vintage treasures.
Beaches and Mountains
US 66 has it all โ from sandy beaches to snow-capped mountains. Make sure to visit the Santa Monica Beach in California, where you can relax in the sun and surf, and the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, where you can go hiking and skiing.
Cultural Immersion
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, US 66 is the perfect place to do it. Visit the Pueblo Indian villages in New Mexico, where you can learn about the traditions and crafts of the Native American people, or attend a rodeo in Texas, where you can experience the thrill of the Wild West.
Art and Music Scene
US 66 has a rich art and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and festivals. Make sure to visit the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas, the Woody Guthrie Center in Oklahoma, and the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California.
Walking Tours
US 66 is a great place to explore on foot. Take a walking tour of the historic district in Albuquerque, where you can see adobe buildings and Spanish colonial architecture, or the downtown area in Chicago, where you can admire the skyscrapers and public art.
Architectural Marvels
US 66 is home to many architectural marvels, from the Art Deco buildings in Tulsa to the Mid-Century Modern homes in Palm Springs. Make sure to visit the Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix, the Wrigley Mansion in Chicago, and the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
Historical Sites
US 66 has a rich history, and there are many sites that tell its story. Make sure to visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Illinois, where Abraham Lincoln lived before becoming president, and the Route 66 State Park in Missouri, where you can see the remnants of the original highway.
Biking Routes
US 66 is also a popular destination for biking enthusiasts. Take a bike ride along the Katy Trail in Missouri, a 237-mile trail that follows the Missouri River, or the Santa Fe Trail in Kansas, a historic trail that dates back to the 1800s.
Wellness Retreats
If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the road, US 66 has many wellness retreats where you can relax and recharge. Make sure to visit the Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa in New Mexico, where you can soak in natural hot springs, or the Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa in Tucson, where you can take yoga classes and receive spa treatments.
Adventure Sports
US 66 is also a great place for adrenaline junkies. Go skydiving in Oklahoma, rock climbing in Arizona, or zip-lining in Missouri. Make sure to also try the Route 66 zipline in Williams, Arizona, where you can soar over the beautiful landscape.
With so much to see and do along US 66, this historic highway is the perfect destination for your next road trip. Use our comprehensive travel guide to plan your itinerary and make the most of this unforgettable journey.