There's no road trip quite like Route 66. Stretching 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, the Mother Road winds through eight states, dozens of historic towns, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in America. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned road warrior, this guide will help you plan, pack, and hit the highway with confidence.
A Brief History of Route 66
Established on November 11, 1926, Route 66 was one of the original highways in the U.S. Highway System. It quickly became a lifeline for Americans heading west during the Great Depression — immortalized by John Steinbeck in The Grapes of Wrath as "the mother road, the road of flight." In the post-war boom of the 1950s and '60s, it became the quintessential American road trip, lined with diners, motels, and neon signs that still beckon travelers today.
The 8 States Along Route 66
Your journey takes you through a remarkable cross-section of America:
- Illinois – Kick off on Route 66 in Chicago's Grant Park and cruise through Springfield
- Missouri – St. Louis, the Gateway Arch, and the rolling Ozarks await
- Kansas – Just 13 miles, but don't skip the tiny town of Galena
- Oklahoma – The state with the most intact historic Route 66 mileage
- Texas – The Texas Panhandle, Amarillo, and the legendary Cadillac Ranch
- New Mexico – Santa Fe detours, turquoise skies, and adobe architecture
- Arizona – Painted Desert, Petrified Forest, and the charming town of Winslow
- California – Barstow to the Santa Monica Pier — the end (or beginning) of the road
Best Time to Drive Route 66
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer the most comfortable driving weather across all eight states. Summer works well but expect heat in the desert Southwest — carry extra water and check your coolant. Winter brings closures in mountain stretches, especially in New Mexico and Arizona.
How Long Does It Take?
Most travelers complete the full route in 10–14 days, but a month gives you time to truly soak it in. Even a week-long partial run — say, Oklahoma City to Albuquerque — delivers an unforgettable taste of the Mother Road.
Essential Route 66 Packing Tips
- A good paper map or dedicated Route 66 atlas (cell service gets spotty)
- Comfortable layers — you'll cross desert, plains, and mountain elevations
- A camera for the endless roadside attractions
- Route 66 travel gear to commemorate the journey
Ready to Hit the Road?
Route 66 isn't just a drive — it's a living piece of American history. Every mile tells a story. Browse our Route 66 collection for travel essentials and mementos to take the spirit of the Mother Road with you wherever you go.