Route 66 United States Map Travel Guide
Introduction
Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America, is one of the most iconic highways in the United States. The route spans over 2,400 miles, stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. It’s a road trip that offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports along the Route 66 United States Map.
Top Attractions
Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most popular attractions along Route 66. The park offers breathtaking views of the canyon, which is over 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and river rafting in the park.
Gateway Arch National Park
The Gateway Arch National Park is located in St. Louis, Missouri. The park is home to the Gateway Arch, which is the tallest national monument in the United States. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top of the arch for stunning views of the city.
Las Vegas Strip
The Las Vegas Strip is a 4.2-mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard that’s lined with casinos, hotels, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy world-class entertainment, shopping, and dining in the city that never sleeps.
Hidden Gems
Oatman
Oatman is a historic mining town located in Arizona. The town is known for its wild burros that roam the streets. Visitors can also explore the old mines and enjoy the town’s unique atmosphere.
Cadillac Ranch
The Cadillac Ranch is an art installation located in Amarillo, Texas. The installation features ten Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their mark on the cars.
Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is a natural swimming hole located in Santa Rosa, New Mexico. The crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and picnicking in the surrounding area.
Food Scene
Tulsa Rib Company
The Tulsa Rib Company is located in Orange, California. The restaurant is known for its mouth-watering BBQ ribs, chicken, and beef brisket. Visitors can also enjoy live music on the weekends.
Big Texan Steak Ranch
The Big Texan Steak Ranch is located in Amarillo, Texas. The restaurant is known for its 72-ounce steak challenge. Visitors who can finish the entire meal in one hour get it for free.
Lou Mitchell’s
Lou Mitchell’s is a family-owned restaurant located in Chicago, Illinois. The restaurant is known for its hearty breakfasts, including pancakes, waffles, and omelets.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on Route 66 can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Consider camping instead of staying in hotels, pack your own food instead of eating out, and use a gas price app to find the cheapest gas stations along the way.
Outdoor Adventures
White Sands National Monument
The White Sands National Monument is located in New Mexico. The park features miles of white sand dunes, which are perfect for hiking, sandboarding, and picnicking.
Rocky Mountain National Park
The Rocky Mountain National Park is located in Colorado. The park features over 350 miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, fishing, and camping.
Grand Canyon Skywalk
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a glass bridge that extends over the canyon. Visitors can walk on the bridge and enjoy stunning views of the canyon below.
Historical Landmarks
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is located in Springfield, Illinois. The site features the home where Abraham Lincoln lived before becoming president.
El Rancho Hotel
The El Rancho Hotel is located in Gallup, New Mexico. The hotel was a favorite of Hollywood stars in the 1930s and 1940s, including John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, and Humphrey Bogart.
Berryman’s Trail
Berryman’s Trail is located in Missouri. The trail was used by Native Americans and pioneers in the 19th century. Visitors can hike the trail and explore the area’s rich history.
Family-Friendly Activities
Route 66 Drive-In Theater
The Route 66 Drive-In Theater is located in Springfield, Illinois. The theater shows double features on the weekends and offers a unique movie-going experience.
Butterfield Stagecoach
The Butterfield Stagecoach is located in Tucson, Arizona. Visitors can take a ride on the historic stagecoach and learn about the area’s rich history.
Kid’s Korner
Kid’s Korner is located in Tucumcari, New Mexico. The attraction features a playground, mini-golf course, and arcade games for children.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Route 66 Museum
The Route 66 Museum is located in Clinton, Oklahoma. The museum features exhibits on the history of Route 66, including vintage cars, neon signs, and memorabilia.
Wigwam Motel
The Wigwam Motel is located in Holbrook, Arizona. The motel features teepee-shaped rooms and is a unique place to stay along Route 66.
Blue Swallow Motel
The Blue Swallow Motel is located in Tucumcari, New Mexico. The motel features vintage rooms and neon signs, and is a popular spot for photographers.
Natural Wonders
Petrified Forest National Park
The Petrified Forest National Park is located in Arizona. The park features petrified wood, colorful rocks, and ancient fossils.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is located in Arizona and Utah. The park features stunning canyons, lakes, and rivers, and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.
Devils Tower National Monument
The Devils Tower National Monument is located in Wyoming. The monument is a unique rock formation that’s sacred to many Native American tribes.
Vibrant Nightlife
Route 66 is home to many vibrant nightlife spots, including bars, clubs, and music venues. Some popular spots include The Roxy in Hollywood, California, The Mint in Scottsdale, Arizona, and Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Local Markets
Visiting local markets along Route 66 is a great way to experience the region’s culture and cuisine. Some popular markets include the Santa Fe Farmers Market in New Mexico, the Farmers Market of the Ozarks in Missouri, and the Hollywood Farmers Market in California.
Beaches and Mountains
Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is located in Santa Monica, California. The pier features an amusement park, restaurants, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains span several states along Route 66, including Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and snowboarding in the mountains.
Big Sur
Big Sur is located in California and features stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and beachcombing in the area.
Cultural Immersion
Acoma Pueblo
The Acoma Pueblo is located in New Mexico. The pueblo is home to the Acoma people, who have lived in the area for over 2,000 years. Visitors can learn about the pueblo’s history and culture, as well as purchase handmade pottery and jewelry.
Cherokee Nation
The Cherokee Nation is located in Oklahoma. The tribe is one of the largest in the United States and has a rich history and culture. Visitors can learn about the tribe’s history and visit cultural sites, including the Cherokee Heritage Center.
Little Italy
Little Italy is located in Chicago, Illinois. The neighborhood is home to many Italian restaurants, bakeries, and shops, and offers a glimpse into Italian-American culture.
Art and Music Scene
Route 66 is home to many art galleries and