For decades, Route 66 has captured the imaginations of travelers across the US. The 2451-mile stretch from Illinois to California offers ever-changing landscapes from rolling green hills to vast deserts. Throw in the nostalgia of roadside diners, vintage motels, and a fair few hidden gems along the way and it’s easy to see why so many choose to drive this iconic route every year. Read on to discover some top tips on how to plan the perfect Route 66 experience and seek out some sites a little quirkier than your average neon sign.
Itinerary and Route
If you’re planning on going all in and driving the entire route, you’ll need to put aside two to three weeks to do so. Whilst it’s a good idea to have a general route and itinerary in mind, do leave a little time and space for spontaneity and flexibility. Chicago is the official start of the route and it ends in Santa Monica, but you don’t have to do the whole journey. Oklahoma is home to the oldest part of the route, so is definitely worth checking out for a more authentic Route 66 experience.
Transport
If the starting point for your Route 66 journey is close to your front door then you can of course use your own car, provided you’re confident it will go the distance. If you need to travel further afield then it’s often worth considering getting a flight closer to the start of your route, then hiring a car at the airport.
This means that you won’t have to drive for miles before even starting your actual road trip- you don’t want the novelty of the drive to have worn off even before you’ve even begun! Also, there’s the option to completely change up your vehicle and choose everything from a sporty little number to an SUV which certainly adds a sense of occasion to the drive!
Additionally, there’s the hassle factor to consider when it comes to choosing a hire car over your own. A hire car will already be fully insured wherever you go, and nearly all providers will offer roadside assistance too. Obviously, hiring a car will cost a little extra but there are some astounding savings available with special discount codes for various car rentals, which could save a fair few dollars. Many regular road trippers also look for providers which offer a loyalty scheme whereby drivers can earn points and exchange them for even further discounts or use them for an upgrade and accessories.
When to Go
As you’ll be driving across the country, expect a varying climate whenever you decide to set off. September is often a good bet as there aren’t too many extremes when it comes to the weather and there should hopefully be a little less rain.
Accommodation
There are plenty of films depicting the couple who pull off the side of the road on a romantic whim and haul up in some characterful motel for the night. Whilst you may be able to do this on occasion, the likelihood is you’ll need to book most accommodation in advance, particularly if you’re traveling in high season. Don’t leave too long a distance between your overnight stop-offs, and make sure they have a 24-hour check-in if you know you’re going to be arriving late.
Pit-stops with a difference: Quirky hidden gems on Route 66
Totem Pole Park (Foyil, Oklahoma)
It doesn’t get much quirkier than a giant totem pole held up by a huge concrete turtle which is the focal point of this charming little park and museum! The site was created by a retired teacher and showcases a collection of hand-carved sculptures and visitors can enjoy a picnic under the world’s largest concrete totem pole!
Lucille’s Road House (Weatherford, Oklahoma)
This family-run diner, dedicated entirely to chili has won several rewards and has even been featured on Man Versus Food! It’s famous amongst the locals, not only for its incredible chili but its warm and welcoming staff, making it the perfect road trip pit stop. Order your chili from mild to hot-hot or if you dare, try firebrand style!
Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument (Fritch, Texas)
This fascinating monument is one of the least visited sites in the National Park System. The lack of visitors teamed with serene natural surroundings makes for a lovely quiet and reflective stop-off. Visitors can learn about how the Native American communities used flint for toolmaking over 12,000 years ago. The topic is niche but fascinating nonetheless!
Blue Hole Spring (Santa Rosa, New Mexico)
There are plenty of lovely spots to stop for a quick splash and refresh along Route 66. Blue Springs is a little way from Santa Rosa so admittedly it’s a bit of a detour, but one that’s entirely worth the short drive. This stunning clear water pool is the most northern of a series of cenotes along the Pecos River. 61-degree water makes it an ideal spot for a bathe and the array of aquatic life and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for a scuba dive or a spot of snorkeling.
The Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, Arizona)
This is a small chain of unique hotels which were built in the 1930s and 40s. Each guest room is designed to resemble Native American teepees, offering a motel stay like no other! If you like your home comforts don’t be put off by the rather rustic appearance of the exterior as each room is fully equipped with plenty of mod-cons and amenities.
Two Guns (Coconino, Arizona)
Several ghost towns can be found along Route 66 each giving a unique glimpse into the past. Two Guns is a deserted town and once trading post but it’s perhaps its previous life as a zoo that adds that extra layer of quirk and as it’s somewhat off the beaten track, it remains quieter and therefore retains that ghost town eerie atmosphere!
The charm of Route 66 lies within its nostalgia and so much joy can be found through coming across the comfortingly familiar tropes of the greatest of American road trips. However, whether it’s a hidden landmark, a tucked away monument, or a lesser-known natural beauty spot, it’s always worth taking that extra bit of time to seek out something a little different, unique, and therefore truly memorable.
