Take a classic USA road trip
There are road trips, and then there's Route 66. This classic road takes you from Chicago to Los Angeles, and along the way, you'll experience both what you expect and what you didn't know you wanted to experience. From skyscrapers to desert, small-town charm to neon lights, with just the right number of stops along the way to enjoy, discover, and relax.
This road trip is perfect for those who want to travel at their own pace but with a clear plan. You rent your own car of any model, stay at selected hotels, and have plenty of time to discover both iconic sights and unexpected gems along the way.
Chicago
You land in Chicago and have three nights to get into the right mood and explore the Windy City. The city offers everything from skyscrapers and art to blues clubs and, of course, deep dish pizza.
After the long journey to the USA, it can be nice to relax in Millennium Park, where the famous sculpture Cloud Gate, better known as The Bean, is located. The large silver bean has now become something of a symbol for Chicago and is well worth a visit.
Here at your first stop, you'll also find the classic Route 66 sign, which is a must-have in a selfie!
St. louis
When you leave Chicago behind and start driving towards St. Louis, Oklahoma City, and Amarillo, it's not just the road that feels historic – it's almost like traveling through a movie from the 50s. And yes, we're talking about gas stations, neon signs, and diners where the burgers still taste like they did a hundred years ago.
In St. Louis, you're welcomed by a literal gateway, The Gateway Arch. The 192-meter-high arch symbolizes westward expansion. Take the opportunity to go up in it for a fantastic view.
St. Louis also has a good selection of restaurants and is perfect for getting a feel for the typical city along Route 66, with old shops and classic diners.
Springfield
Springfield is a small but significant stop on your Route 66 journey. Here you can take a short break to discover the road's history at the Route 66 Museum. It's a perfect place to get an insight into how the road has developed over the years.
The city has a charming, slightly nostalgic feel, with old shops and classic diners. Don't forget to visit the vintage gas stations that still remain in the city.
Springfield is also known for its beautiful surroundings, so if the weather permits, you can take a walk in the lovely parks. A short but cozy stop along the way.
Oklahoma city
From Springfield, you drive towards Oklahoma City, where you get two nights to explore the city's cowboy culture and the history of the American West.
On the way here, there's a lot to see and do, such as Pops 66, "Soda Ranch," which is well worth a stop. As the name suggests, they sell sodas with all kinds of flavors you can imagine. How about bacon soda, for example?
Once in the city, you can visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum or take a walk in the popular Bricktown district, the city's entertainment area with restaurants, bars, and a charming canal with boat tours.
Amarillo
Now it's time to drive further towards Texas and Amarillo, which is known for its famous Cadillac Ranch. It's an art installation where old Cadillac cars stand upright with their noses buried in the ground. The cars glow in neon colors and stand in stark contrast to the surrounding wilderness.
Amarillo is also known for its large steaks, so make sure to take a break at a local diner for a hearty meal before continuing to the next stop.
Santa fe
From Amarillo's steaks and sprayed cars, you continue west through the open landscape of New Mexico, where the prairie slowly gives way to mountains. Here you will reach the point that marks that you are halfway between Chicago and Los Angeles. You can't miss it – it's marked with large 66 signs on the asphalt!
In Santa Fe, a more artistic atmosphere awaits with its colorful adobe houses and cozy galleries. Here you have two nights to really take in the southwestern culture. Walk around the picturesque alleys, visit the art galleries, and taste the local food. Just be a little careful if you can't handle spicy food, as Santa Fe is a chili lover's paradise.
Holbrook
The journey continues towards Holbrook in Arizona. The road there goes through open desert landscapes, passes red-brown cliffs, and offers a few odd roadside stops, such as artistic gas stations and abandoned diner signs that have seen better days.
Holbrook is best known for its proximity to Petrified Forest National Park, a fascinating area with millions of years old trees that have literally turned to stone and given the park its name.
The town itself bears clear traces of the Route 66 era, with colorful facades and classic diners where it feels like time has stood still.
Grand canyon
One of the highlights of this trip is, of course, the Grand Canyon, and you spend two nights here to really experience this natural wonder.
The Grand Canyon hardly needs further description, most have probably heard of the natural phenomenon that is one of the world's largest. Take a hike along the edge, take pictures, or just stand there and be impressed by the enormous valley.
We can also highly recommend booking a helicopter tour if you want to see the valley from the air.
Las vegas
After the Grand Canyon, it's time to swap silence for flashing lights. You leave the grandeur of nature behind and drive towards Las Vegas, where the contrast couldn't be clearer. A colorful city in the middle of the desert, built to entertain and surprise.
In Las Vegas, something is always happening, and there's so much to do. Take an evening stroll on The Strip, enjoy one of the city's world-class shows, visit grand casinos, and just take in the special atmosphere.
Los angeles
Now it's time for the final leg of the journey. From Las Vegas, you head southwest through the Mojave Desert, where classic Route 66 signs, abandoned gas pumps, and small towns that have seen better days but still have character continue to appear.
Then it appears: Los Angeles. A gigantic city that takes time to get into, both physically and mentally. Route 66 ends at Santa Monica Pier, marking the end of your road trip. Here you can walk along the boardwalk, take a dip in the Pacific Ocean, or just stand by the Route 66 sign and feel a little pleased with yourself.
In Los Angeles, there are plenty of things to see and experience. Here, film history mixes with surf culture, street art with luxury shopping, tacos with vegan food. Walk in the footsteps of stars (literally) in Hollywood, go up to Griffith Observatory, or visit luxurious Beverly Hills. A perfect end to the journey!
Customize your trip
Does it not feel quite right? Want more nights in Los Angeles? Skip Las Vegas?
Maybe you just want to stay in small motels along the roadside, or conversely, can only imagine 5-star hotels?
No problem – you can easily change the trip according to your wishes!
Frequently asked questions about route 66
Before you set off with a full tank and playlist ready, it might be good to sort out some basic questions. You know – things you otherwise google in the middle of nowhere when coverage disappears.
How long is route 66?
The stretch between Chicago and Santa Monica is about 3,940 kilometers. The road winds through eight states and three time zones.
How long does it take to drive route 66?
Two to three weeks is enough to experience both the big stops and the small surprises along the way. This route is planned for about three weeks, but you can of course adjust according to taste and stamina.
Can you drive the whole way?
The original road is not completely intact, but almost the entire route can be followed via smaller roads and historic road sections. Many parts are even signposted as "Historic Route 66," and it's often there that you find the most charming stops.
A package tour and a linked arrangement offer travellers different booking processes but provide the same protection under the Package Travel Act, ensuring customer rights and peace of mind during the trip.
