In 2026, the famous Route 66 will celebrate its 100th anniversary. This historic highway in the United States is known worldwide and has played a significant role in 20th-century American culture. Route 66 is a dream destination for many travelers, stretching nearly 4000 km from Chicago to Santa Monica, passing through eight states.

This road trip takes you along the entirety of Route 66. While the sample itinerary covers 22 days, you can choose to travel for a shorter or longer period. We recommend to take 3 to 4 weeks for this unforgettable journey by car.

Day 1 and 2: Chicago
Your journey begins in Chicago, the largest city in Illinois. This itinerary suggests a two-day stay, but you can certainly extend your visit if you wish.

• Relax in Millennium Park and admire the famous Cloud Gate.
• Climb the Willis Tower for a breathtaking view from the 103rd floor.
• Cycle through the city along Lake Michigan and through its green parks.
• Attend a sports event in one of the city’s famous stadiums.
• Shop till you drop on the Magnificent Mile.

Day 3: Chicago - Springfield (320 km, approx. 3½ hours)
Today, you pick up your rental car and drive to Springfield, known for its many tributes to Abraham Lincoln.

• Tour the Dana-Thomas House, a beautiful example of Prairie architecture.
• Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
• Explore the Lincoln Home National Historic Site.

Day 4 – 5: Springfield - Saint Louis (160 km, approx. 2 hours)
After an overnight stay, continue to Saint Louis, Missouri, a vibrant city filled with attractions.

• Admire the Gateway Arch, the symbol of the city.
• Visit the impressive Cathedral Basilica.
• Spend a day at Six Flags amusement park.
• Stroll through the expansive Forest Park.

Day 6 – 7: Saint Louis – Springfield (340 km, approx. 3½ hours)
Drive to Springfield, a city that calls itself the birthplace of Route 66.

• Discover the Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center.
• Explore the Fantastic Caverns on a unique cave tour.
• Visit the Air & Military Museum of the Ozarks or the Springfield Art Museum.

Image

Day 8: Springfield – Tulsa (300 km, approx. 3 hours)
Today, you head to Tulsa, Oklahoma, a city with a rich history in the oil industry.

• See the giant statue of The Golden Driller.
• Admire the Art Deco buildings in the city.
• Enjoy the art and gardens of the Philbrook Museum.

Day 9: Tulsa - Oklahoma City (170 km, approx. 2 hours)
Your next stop is Oklahoma’s capital, Oklahoma City, a green city with lively neighborhoods.

• Relax at Lake Hefner with options for sailing, picnicking, or hiking.
• Explore the Adventure District and enjoy the nightlife.

Day 10: Oklahoma City – Amarillo (410 km, approx. 4 hours)
Today, you drive to Amarillo, Texas, where art and nature meet.

• Visit the iconic Cadillac Ranch.
• Take a trip to Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Day 11 – 12: Amarillo - Santa Fe (464 km, approx. 5 hours)
In Santa Fe, New Mexico, you’ll spend two days soaking up the city’s history and culture.

• Stroll through the historic Barrio de Analco.
• Explore the highlights around Santa Fe Plaza.
• Visit the Santa Fe Opera open-air theater.

Day 13: Santa Fe – Albuquerque (120 km, approx. 2 hours)
Travel to New Mexico's largest city, Albuquerque, also famous from the Netflix series Breaking Bad.

• Discover the Petroglyph National Monument.
• Explore the Old Town and the San Felipe de Neri Church.
• Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway, the longest aerial tram in the U.S.

Day 14 – 15: Albuquerque - Petrified Forest NP (360 km, approx. 4 hours)
Today, you arrive at the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, known for its fossilized trees and colorful landscapes.

• Hike the Blue Mesa Trail or opt for a more adventurous paths.
• Drive through the park and stop at scenic viewpoints.

Day 16 – 17: Petrified Forest NP - Grand Canyon NP (350 km, approx. 4 hours)
Your next destination is the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Spend two days exploring this breathtaking national park.

• Take the shuttle to Hermits Rest.
• Walk along the Rim Trail.
• Book a helicopter flight over the canyon for a unique perspective.

Image

Day 18: Grand Canyon NP – Seligman (160 km, approx. 2 hours)
Seligman, a nostalgic Route 66 town, is your next stop.

• Enjoy a meal at Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In.
• Stroll through the colorful town filled with neon lights and classic cars.

Day 19 – 20: Seligman - Las Vegas (290 km, approx. 3 hours)
In Las Vegas, you’ll marvel at the bright lights and large casinos of this famous city.

• Visit the Neon Museum.
• Take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel, the High Roller.
• Explore Fremont Street and enjoy the nightlife.

Day 21 – 22: Las Vegas - Los Angeles (440 km, approx. 5 hours)
You’ll end your journey in Los Angeles, where Route 66 officially concludes at the Santa Monica Pier.

• Visit Universal Studios or Disneyland.
• Explore the bustling downtown area of Los Angeles and the Walk of Fame.
• Stroll along the pier and admire the famous Route 66 sign.
• Bike along the beach from Santa Monica to Venice Beach.

Would you like more information about this route or do you have another itinerary in mind? Whether you need advice on the best routes or have questions about renting a car, our team is happy to assist you!