Route 66 Road Trip Planner

Route 66 Road Trip Planner

If you're planning an iconic journey down the iconic Route 66 highway across America, the following tips are meant just for you. No matter what time of year you go, you are bound to find plenty to do and lots to eat.  Here's to a safe and enjoyable trip! We hope that this Route 66 Road Trip Planner post inspires you. 

Route 66 Road Trip Planner

Consider the Weather

Plan your road trip excursion during spring or fall. This way, you avoid extreme summer heat and blustery winter weather.

5 Reasons Why Fall is the Best Time for a Road Trip

Give Yourself Enough Time

Plot your road trip thoroughly so you have an idea of how long it's going to take. In general, allow approximately seven days to make the trip one way. However, it can take longer, depending on how often you decide to stop.

Book in Advance

Many of the destinations along Route 66 are extremely popular and may be completely booked when you arrive. If you expect to stop at certain locations along the way, it's always best to make a reservation ahead of time.

Go RVing on the California Coast & Hit the Beaches this Summer

Maintain Your Car or Rent a Car or an RV

If you have doubts about your vehicle making the trip, rent a car instead. A rental car is comfortable and well-maintained. Better yet, the rental company is there to help you in the event something goes wrong with the car.

Route 66 Road Trip Map

Give Yourself Frequent Breaks

Take breaks regularly. A trip along Route 66 can be long and taxing. Staying well-rested is the best way to stay safe on the road.

3 Essential Pre-Road Trip Checks

Travel with Family or Friends

When possible, don't take the trip alone. Having someone in the car with you to keep you company, help with navigation and give input on planning the route takes a lot of the stress off you during your vacation.

Budget for Expenses

Be prepared for gas costs before you set out on your trip. Do a bit of research to see what current fuel prices are like along the route. Set aside a bit of extra cash in case the price goes up while you're gone.

Do Your Research

Invest in a guidebook, such as the “EZ66 Guide for Travelers.” Books like this are great for pinpointing important sites and attractions along the way, as well as providing maps and detailed directions.

Driving Safety Tips

Route 66 Road Trip Plans

Hitting the road on Route 66 is an American classic, a journey through nostalgia, history, and stunning landscapes. To help you plan your epic adventure, below is a customizable Route 66 trip planner, tailored to different durations and interests. 

Eastbound

• Chicago, Illinois: Start your trip at the iconic Buckingham Fountain in Millennium Park, the official eastern terminus of Route 66. Snap a photo with the “Gemini” sculpture and soak up the vibrant city atmosphere.
• Joliet, Illinois: Take a break at the Route 66 Experience, a museum dedicated to this Mother Road's history, and grab a bite at the Cozy Dog Drive-In, famous for its delicious corn dogs.
• St. Louis, Missouri: Immerse yourself in the Gateway Arch's grandeur, take a walk through the historic Soulard district, and catch a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium.
• Tulsa, Oklahoma: Visit the Tulsa Route 66 Museum and explore the city's rich art deco heritage. Don't miss a photo op with the iconic Blue Whale at Catoosa.

Westbound

• Santa Monica, California: Dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean at the Santa Monica Pier, the official western end of Route 66. Enjoy the carnival atmosphere and grab some fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
• Barstow, California: Explore the quirky Route 66 Mother Road Museum and grab a burger at Peggy Sue's Diner, a retro roadside classic.
• Flagstaff, Arizona: Hike through the otherworldly landscape of the Painted Desert and the Petrified Forest National Park, and take in the breathtaking views from atop Humphrey's Peak.
• Albuquerque, New Mexico: Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway for stunning city views, explore the historic Old Town district, and indulge in some delicious New Mexican cuisine.
• Tulsa, Oklahoma: Visit the Tulsa Route 66 Museum and explore the city's rich art deco heritage. Don't miss a photo op with the iconic Blue Whale at Catoosa.
• Amarillo, Texas: Take a selfie with the giant metal longhorn sculpture on Route 66 and explore the Cadillac Ranch, a quirky art installation featuring vintage Cadillacs buried nose-down in the desert. Take the Historic Route 66 Walking Tour.
• Santa Fe, New Mexico: Experience the vibrant culture and stunning adobe architecture of Santa Fe, and take a scenic drive through the breathtaking Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
• Kingman, Arizona: Visit the quirky Powerhouse Museum and climb the historic Santa Fe Railroad water tower for breathtaking views of the Mojave Desert.

Short Trip (3-5 days)

• Chicago, Illinois: Start your adventure in the Windy City, by snapping a pic by the iconic Buckingham Fountain in Millennium Park. Visit the Route 66 End Sign on Jackson Boulevard and explore the vibrant West Loop district. Grab a Chicago CityPass. 
• Springfield, Illinois: Head west to Springfield, the “Land of Lincoln.” Pay homage to the 16th President at his tomb and the Lincoln Presidential Library. Don't miss the Cozy Dog Drive-In, a Route 66 legend serving its famous corn dogs since 1949.
• St. Louis, Missouri: Cross the mighty Mississippi River into St. Louis, Missouri. Take a ride on the Gateway Arch tram for breathtaking city views, and grab a slice of St. Louis-style Imo's Pizza.
• Tulsa, Oklahoma: Continue southward to Tulsa, the “Oil Capital of the World.” Learn about Route 66 history at the Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza and explore the Tulsa Art Deco District. For a quirky stop, visit the Meadowbrook Mansion, a 1930s “castle” open for tours.

A Vacation Behind the Wheel: 5 Rules for Planning the Perfect Road Trip

Medium Trip (7-10 days)

• Follow the short trip itinerary above, then add these detours:
• Joliet, Illinois: Take a break in Joliet and visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum to delve into the Mother Road's rich history. Check out the quirky Gemini Giant statue, a 60-foot-tall Muffler Man welcoming travelers.
• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Discover Oklahoma City's vibrant culture and history. Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, a moving tribute to the victims of the 1995 bombing. Catch a baseball game at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark or explore the Bricktown Entertainment District.
• Santa Fe, New Mexico: Immerse yourself in the unique charm of Santa Fe, with its adobe architecture, art galleries, and delicious Southwestern cuisine. Visit the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum or explore the vibrant Santa Fe Farmers Market.

Long Trip (14+ days)

• Include the short and medium trip itineraries, then add these extended adventures:
• Amarillo, Texas: Discover the “Route 66 City of the West” with its vibrant murals, vintage neon signs, and historic Route 66 landmarks like the Cadillac Ranch and Palo Duro Canyon. Don't miss the Big Texan Steak Ranch, where you can tackle a 72-ounce steak challenge!
• Albuquerque, New Mexico: Experience the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Albuquerque. Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway for breathtaking mountain views, explore the Petroglyph National Monument, or delve into the history of Route 66 at the National Museum of National History and Science.
• Flagstaff, Arizona: Hike through the otherworldly landscapes of the Painted Desert and the Petrified Forest National Park. Visit the Lowell Observatory, where astronomers like Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto. Flagstaff is also a gateway to the Grand Canyon, a must-see natural wonder.

Tips for Planning Your Route 66 Road Trip

• Choose your route: There are several variations of Route 66, so do your research and decide which one you want to follow.
• Plan your stops: Make a list of the places you want to see and book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. Consider booking your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
• Pack for the weather: Route 66 traverses a variety of climates, so be sure to pack accordingly.
• Embrace the journey: Don't be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore hidden gems along the way.
• Most importantly, have fun: Route 66 is a road trip adventure, so relax, enjoy the scenery, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
• Learn the costs: Research the opening hours and admission fees for attractions before you go.
• Make memories: Don't forget to bring your camera and capture all the memories of your Route

5 Reasons Why Fall is the Best Time for a Road Trip

Remember, this is just a starting point, and there are endless possibilities for customizing your Route 66 trip. So get out there, hit the road, and experience the magic of the Mother Road for yourself! There you have it… several tips to help make your trip down Route 66 as fantastic as possible. We hope that you are inspired by this Route 66 Road Trip Planner. Now, get packing! Happy travels.