California
California Video Playlist
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📍 Must-See Attractions Along California’s Route 66
Needles, California
El Garces Harvey House: A restored 1908 railroad hotel and depot, showcasing Mission Revival architecture.
Needles Regional Museum: Features exhibits on local history, Route 66 memorabilia, and Native American artifacts.
Old Trails Bridge: A historic bridge over the Colorado River, once a vital crossing for Route 66 travelers.
Amboy, California
Roy’s Motel & Café: An iconic mid-century landmark with a towering neon sign, symbolizing the heyday of Route 66.
Amboy Crater: A dormant volcanic cinder cone offering hiking opportunities and panoramic desert views.
Ludlow
Historic Ludlow Café: A classic stopover spot for travelers seeking a taste of vintage Americana.
Desert Ruins: Explore remnants of old Route 66 buildings, offering a glimpse into the past.
Barstow, California
Route 66 Mother Road Museum: Houses a collection of artifacts and photographs celebrating the history of Route 66.
Western America Railroad Museum: Showcases railroad artifacts and locomotives, reflecting Barstow’s rail heritage.
Victorville
California Route 66 Museum: Features interactive exhibits and vintage memorabilia dedicated to the Mother Road.
Old Town Victorville: Stroll through historic downtown with its classic architecture and local shops.
San Bernardino, California
Original McDonald’s Site and Museum: Located at the original site of the first McDonald’s, featuring memorabilia and history of the fast-food chain.
California Theatre of the Performing Arts: A beautifully restored 1928 theater hosting various performances.
Wigwam Motel: Stay in one of the few remaining teepee-shaped motel rooms, a unique lodging experience on Route 66.
Rancho Cucamonga, California
Cucamonga Service Station: A restored 1915 gas station now serving as a museum, highlighting the golden era of Route 66.
Pasadena
Colorado Street Bridge: An architectural marvel from 1913, offering scenic views and a touch of history.
Old Pasadena: Explore a vibrant district filled with historic buildings, shops, and eateries.
Los Angeles
Philippe the Original: A historic deli known for its French dip sandwiches, serving patrons since 1908.
Olvera Street: A bustling Mexican marketplace, offering cultural experiences and traditional goods.
Hollywood Walk of Fame: A short detour leads to this world-famous sidewalk celebrating entertainment legends.
Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica Pier: Marking the western terminus of Route 66, the pier offers ocean views, an amusement park, and the “End of the Trail” sign.
Pacific Park: Enjoy rides and games at this seaside amusement park located on the pier
🛏️ Recommended Accommodations Along Route 66 in California
Needles
Desert Mirage Inn & Suites: Offers comfortable rooms with easy access to Route 66 landmarks. Book on TripAdvisor
Rio Del Sol Inn: Features a pool and modern amenities, ideal for travelers seeking relaxation.
👉 Book the Rio Del Sol Inn on TripAdvisor https://tripadvisor.tp.st/IKyZXB2t
Barstow
Route 66 Motel: A classic motel adorned with vintage Route 66 signs and memorabilia.
👉Book the Route 66 Motel on TripAdvisor https://tripadvisor.tp.st/hTxEHD0X
California Inn: Provides clean rooms and convenient access to local attractions.
👉 Book the California Inn on TripAdvisor https://tripadvisor.tp.st/UknUq7Be
Pasadena
- Book the Sage Motor Hotel on TripAdvisor https://tripadvisor.tp.st/S7oFDrSW
San Bernardino
Wigwam Motel: Experience a unique stay in a teepee-shaped room, a true Route 66 icon.
- 👉 Book the Wigwam Motel on TripAdvisor https://tripadvisor.tp.st/cCM7YEB4
Hilton Garden Inn: Provides modern comforts and is centrally located for exploring the area.
- 👉 Book the Hilton Garden Inn on TripAdvisor https://tripadvisor.tp.st/QK19bD4g
Santa Monica
Shore Hotel: An eco-friendly hotel offering ocean views and contemporary design.
- 👉 Book the Shore Hotel on TripAdvisor https://tripadvisor.tp.st/IUWnvna4
- Ocean View Hotel: Located steps from the beach, providing easy access to the Santa Monica Pier.
- 👉 Book the Ocean View Hotel on TripAdvisors https://tripadvisor.tp.st/CAnGPYsp
California Route 66: From Needles to Santa Monica Pier
Needles Start your California Route 66 journey in Needles, a gateway town full of desert charm. Stop at the historic El Garces Harvey House, explore the Needles Regional Museum, or snap photos at iconic motels and vintage signs along Broadway Street.
Amboy Visit Amboy, home of the famous Roy’s Motel and Café, a legendary Route 66 landmark. Don’t miss the nearby Amboy Crater, a volcanic cinder cone offering spectacular desert vistas and hiking opportunities.
Ludlow A classic stopover, Ludlow is known for its historic café and gas station ruins. Explore remnants of old Route 66 buildings and experience the quiet nostalgia of this desert outpost.
Barstow Barstow is packed with Route 66 history. Visit the Route 66 Mother Road Museum, see vintage locomotives at the Western America Railroad Museum, and stroll downtown for quirky shops and murals.
Victorville Explore Victorville’s Route 66 Museum, full of fascinating memorabilia and stories from the Mother Road. Don’t miss the iconic New Corral Motel neon sign, perfect for memorable photos.
San Bernardino San Bernardino boasts the original McDonald’s site, now a museum filled with quirky fast-food history. Also, enjoy the beautifully restored California Theatre and explore downtown murals celebrating Route 66. Famous for its historic Wigwam Motel, one of the few remaining wigwam-style motels, offering unique overnight stays and great photo opportunities.
Rancho Cucamonga In Rancho Cucamonga, don’t miss the historic Cucamonga Service Station, now a vibrant museum showcasing the golden era of Route 66, complete with vintage pumps and classic cars.
Pasadena Drive through beautiful Pasadena, known for the iconic Colorado Street Bridge, a picturesque landmark since 1913. Explore Old Pasadena for dining, shopping, and historic architecture.
Los Angeles In LA, stop by historic landmarks like Philippe the Original restaurant, Olvera Street—the city’s oldest street—and the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame just a short detour away.
Santa Monica Pier Finish your California Route 66 adventure at the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Take your photo at the “End of the Trail” sign, enjoy ocean views, amusement park rides, and savor fresh seafood, celebrating your unforgettable journey along the legendary Mother Road.
