A ROUTE 66 ROAD TRIP TRAVEL GUIDE 2025
Howdy everyone, I’m Big Mike, and Route 66 is more than just a highway to me – it’s a passion. For years, I’ve been collecting its history, piece by piece. I even own a store packed with Route 66 treasures – old signs, vintage tailgates, you name it – right here in Seligman, Arizona. It’s called Route 66 Road Relics, and it’s a haven for anyone who loves this road as much as I do. But that’s not all – I’ve also built a huge online community of fellow Route 66 enthusiasts through my website, Facebook page, and right here on my YouTube channel where I share all my Route 66 adventures.
Route 66 is one of the most iconic road trips in America. In this video, I’ll show you 30 must-see stops along the way. So buckle up and get ready for a wild ride!
WEATHER ON ROUTE 66
Now, let’s talk weather. Route 66 stretches across a diverse landscape, so you’ll encounter different conditions depending on where you are and when you go.
The sweet spot for ideal weather is generally between March 20th and October 31st. You’ll find pleasant temperatures and sunshine for most of that stretch.
Now, about those summer months. It’s true, it can get pretty hot, but it really depends on where you are. You’ll find that the eastern part of the route, through Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri, tends to be more humid. So, while the temperatures might not be as extreme as the desert, that humidity can make it feel pretty sticky.
As you head west, things start to dry out. But once you hit around Kingman, Arizona, and into California, that’s where the real heat kicks in. Remember those elevations I mentioned? Well, Seligman sits at around 5300 feet, and Flagstaff is even higher at 7000 feet. That higher altitude helps keep things a bit cooler.
If you don’t mind the heat, summer is still a great time to travel Route 66. Just be prepared and pack accordingly. Plenty of water, sunscreen, and maybe even a portable fan will be your best friends!
.. Now, I gotta be honest with you, winter on Route 66 can be a whole different beast. You’ll encounter snow and ice in the higher elevations, and many businesses close down for the season. If you’re set on a winter trip, the most doable section would be the western part – from Hackberry, Arizona, to Kingman, Oatman, and then into California. But even then, be prepared for some chilly temperatures and limited services.
To stay updated on the latest weather conditions, I recommend checking preferred weather websites or apps. That way, you can be repared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. We have some limited weather information on our website too www.route66roadrelics.c
Trip Duration: 5 DAYS TO 3 WEEKS
If you’re short on time, say 5 days, you could focus on a specific section of Route 66. For example, you could explore the Arizona stretch, with its stunning scenery and historic towns like Seligman, Flagstaff, and Winslow. Or maybe you’d prefer the Oklahoma stretch, with its quirky roadside attractions and vibrant cities like Tulsa Oklahoma and the Blue Whale of Catoosa and even Afton, Oklahoma to see the Crosstar Museum.
Got a week to spare? You could cover a larger portion of the route, like Chicago to Oklahoma City, experiencing the heartland of America and its iconic landmarks. Or you could start in Amarillo, Texas, and head west to Los Angeles, soaking up the Southwestern vibes and ending with the Pacific Ocean.
Now, if you really want to savor the Route 66 experience, I recommend taking 2 to 3 weeks. This gives you the freedom to explore at a leisurely pace, take those detours to hidden gems, and really immerse yourself in the history and culture of this Historic highway.
No matter how much time you have, remember that Route 66 is all about the journey, not just the destination. So take your time, soak it all in, and enjoy the ride!”
Many folks choose to tackle Route 66 in a car, and that could be anything from a classic convertible to a modern SUV or even a trusty pickup truck. This gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace, stop wherever you like, and pack everything you need for a comfortable journey. Plus, there’s just something special about hitting the open road in a vehicle that suits your style.
For those seeking a true sense of freedom and adventure, a motorcycle tour is the way to go. You can feel the road beneath you, experience the elements up close, and connect with the Route 66 spirit in a whole new way.
If you prefer more of an outdoorsy experience, consider camping along Route 66. There are plenty of campgrounds and RV parks along the way, offering everything from basic amenities to full hookups. You can pitch a tent under the stars, roast marshmallows around a campfire, and wake up to the sounds of nature.
And you know, a lot of folks like to mix things up! You might stay in those classic Route 66 motels for part of your trip and then throw in some camping to get closer to nature. For example, you could spend a few nights in a cozy cabin or under the stars in Williams, Arizona, while enjoying the rest of your trip in those iconic roadside motels.
And speaking of combining accommodations, an RV trip might be the perfect option if you want the comforts of home with the freedom of the open road. You’ll have all the amenities you need right there with you, plus the flexibility to park your RV at campgrounds, RV parks, or even some roadside attractions.
WHERE TO START AND END YOUR ROUTE 66 ROAD TRIP
Now, let’s talk about where you want to begin and end your Route 66 journey. The classic route runs from Chicago in the east to Santa Monica, California, in the west. But you can also do it in reverse, starting in Santa Monica and heading east.
Now, I know many of you might be wondering about the recent wildfires in California. While California is working hard to recover, it might be a while before things are fully back to normal in certain areas along the Route 66 corridor. So, if you’re concerned about accommodations or potential disruptions, here’s a thought: use Las Vegas as your base!
You can fly in and out of Las Vegas, which often has better flight options and deals anyway. Then, you can easily do day trips or spend a few days at a time exploring the California portion of Route 66. Don’t get me wrong, the Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Ocean are iconic spots, and you should definitely check them out. But there’s so much more to see and do along the California stretch of Route 66! You’ve got cool towns like Barstow with its Route 66 Mother Road Museum, and don’t forget about the ghost town of Calico – that’s a must-see!
For a true Route 66 experience, I highly recommend staying in one of the many historic motels that line the route. These motels often feature retro architecture, neon signs, and vintage charm. Most even offer modern amenities like Wi-Fi and swimming pools, while still maintaining their classic Route 66 character
For a taste of history, check out the El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico, or the La Posada in Winslow, Arizona. And don’t forget those classic Route 66 motels. If you’re in Carthage, Missouri, the Boots Court is a great option. And right here in Seligman, you can find the Aztec Motel and Creative Space, and the Historic Route 66 Motel.
Think of it like this: each state is like a mini-road trip within your larger Route 66 journey. You can focus on specific themes, like exploring the history of the route in Oklahoma, soaking up the natural beauty of Arizona, or experiencing the quirky roadside attractions of California.
With so much to see and do along Route 66, it can be hard to know where to start. So, I’ve compiled a list of 20 must-see spots that will give you a taste of the best this iconic highway has to offer.
- Chicago, Illinois: The birthplace of Route 66, offering a vibrant city experience with historical significance.
- Meramec Caverns, Missouri: Explore these magnificent caves with their stunning formations and fascinating history.
- St. Louis, Missouri: Home to the iconic Gateway Arch and other Route 66 landmarks.
- Tulsa, Oklahoma: Experience the city’s rich Art Deco architecture, Route 66 murals, and vibrant cultural scene.
- Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma: A whimsical roadside attraction featuring a giant blue whale that you can climb inside.
- Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, Texas: Ten graffiti-covered Cadillacs planted nose-down in a field, a classic Route 66 photo op.
- Tucumcari, New Mexico: A vibrant town with classic motels, neon signs, and a lively atmosphere.
- El Rancho Hotel, Gallup, New Mexico: A historic hotel that once hosted Hollywood stars during the golden age of Westerns.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico: The capital city, offering a unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures.
- Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona: Experience the otherworldly beauty of colorful landscapes and petrified wood.
- Two Guns, Arizona: Explore the remnants of this ghost town with its intriguing history and eerie atmosphere.
- Winslow, Arizona: Stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona, and capture a classic Route 66 photo.
- Seligman, Arizona: A must-stop town with historic motels, diners, and my very own Route 66 Road Relics store.
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: Witness the awe-inspiring vastness and beauty of this natural wonder.
- Williams, Arizona: A charming mountain town serving as the gateway to the Grand Canyon.
- Hackberry General Store, Arizona: A classic Route 66 stop with a nostalgic atmosphere and unique souvenirs.
- Oatman, Arizona: A historic mining town with wild burros roaming the streets and a Wild West feel.
- Barstow, California: Home to the Route 66 Mother Road Museum and the ghost town of Calico.
- Santa Monica Pier, California: The iconic end of Route 66, offering stunning ocean views and amusement park fun.
- California Beaches: Explore the beautiful beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway, from Malibu to Santa Barbara.
ARIZONA TRAVEL GUIDE
Welcome to your ultimate guide to exploring the captivating wonders along the iconic Route 66 in the beautiful state of Arizona. Immerse yourself in the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture as you embark on an unforgettable journey through this legendary highway. From the majestic Grand Canyon to the charming small towns, from the nostalgic roadside attractions to the awe-inspiring natural wonders, Arizona offers a multitude of experiences that will leave you spellbound. Get ready to discover the hidden gems, indulge in local flavors, and create memories that will last a lifetime on your remarkable adventure along Route 66 in Arizona.
Starting and Ending Points
Travel Route 66
Step back in time and experience the nostalgia as you journey along this iconic route, traversing through breathtaking landscapes, quirky roadside attractions, and vibrant towns. Route 66 weaves together a tapestry of stories, showcasing the rich history, diverse cultures, and scenic wonders of America. From the bustling city streets to the vast stretches of open road, every mile offers a unique adventure and a chance to create unforgettable memories. So fasten your seatbelt, embrace the freedom of the open road, and embark on an extraordinary voyage along Route 66, where the past and present merge to create an unforgettable journey.
