Traveling Route 66 backwards flips the traditional east-to-west plan — and that’s exactly what makes it so compelling. Instead of beginning in the Midwest and heading toward the Pacific, this itinerary starts at the iconic end of the Route 66 journey in sunny California and unfolds eastward through deserts, prairies, small towns, and historic downtowns. From the moment you step onto the Santa Monica Pier, the trip feels intentional, cinematic, and refreshingly different.

For road trippers chasing nostalgia, this reverse route offers a smoother narrative arc. You begin with ocean breezes, palm-lined streets, and bustling coastal energy before easing into quieter stretches of the Mother Road, where neon signs glow at dusk, and classic diners still serve breakfast all day. Heading eastward allows the trip to gradually slow down, revealing the historical and touristic value of the historic route mile by mile, rather than rushing through it.

There are also practical advantages to driving the iconic route this way. Starting in a major travel hub like Southern California works well for travelers flying in, while ending in Chicago offers easy departure options once the journey is complete. Along the way, the drive avoids overreliance on interstate highways, favoring the old route where original pavement, hand-painted signs, and preserved main street stretches bring the legendary highway to life.

Most importantly, this direction highlights the country’s diverse landscapes in a way that feels natural and rewarding. The entire trip moves from coastal city limits into desert landscapes, through rolling hills, and finally into the heart of the Midwest — a progression that mirrors the story of American road travel itself. It’s a road trip designed for exploration, reflection, and unforgettable stops, especially when experienced by RV with the flexibility to pause wherever curiosity strikes.

With Cruise America making one-way RV travel simple and accessible, this version of Route 66 isn’t just a novelty — it’s one of the most immersive and well-paced ways to experience the classic route from start to finish.

The Historic Route: What Makes This Drive So Iconic

Route 66 is more than pavement stretching across the map — it’s a historic route with unmatched historical and touristic value, deeply tied to how Americans explored, migrated, and connected communities long before modern interstate highways took over. Route 66 once linked small towns to economic opportunity and remains one of the most recognizable travel corridors in the world.

Why Route 66 Still Matters Today

• It preserves large sections of the old route (roughly 85%), allowing travelers to drive original alignments instead of bypass roads

• Many towns still feature intact main street corridors built specifically for Route 66 travelers

• Historic art deco buildings, signage, and storefronts remain in active use

• The road represents a time when travel prioritized experience over efficiency

What Makes Route 66 Different From Other Road Trips

Unlike highways designed purely for speed, this classic route rewards those who slow down. Traveling reveals:

• Quirky roadside attractions created to capture attention in the early days of car travel

• Glowing neon lights that come alive after sunset

• Iconic lodging landmarks that once served weary road trippers night after night

• Family-owned businesses that have operated for generations

Experiencing the Route the Right Way

Driving Route 66 by RV allows for a more authentic connection to the journey:

• Travelers can stop frequently to explore key attractions without rushing

• Overnight stays often provide a scenic and restful stay just outside city limits

• RV travel makes it easier to explore preserved stretches of the old school route

• Flexibility encourages the discovery of places not listed on typical itineraries

Why a Reverse Route Enhances the Story

Taking the route heading eastward allows the narrative to unfold gradually:

• Landscapes shift naturally from deserts to plains to rolling farmland

• Architecture and town layouts evolve mile by mile

• The journey highlights how Route 66 shaped communities across regions

• Each stop builds on the last, reinforcing why this remains a legendary highway

A few things to keep in mind:

• The reverse route is growing in popularity

• West to East travelers report higher “discovery” satisfaction

• The reverse order of Route 66 makes things feel less crowded

• Weather progression can feel more comfortable (best travel season is spring & fall)

• Gradually transitions into quieter towns, preserved main streets, and deeper Americana

Taken together, Route 66 isn’t just a drive — it’s a living museum of American travel culture. Following this iconic route in reverse allows travelers to experience its history, personality, and character in a way that feels intentional, immersive, and deeply rewarding.

Day 1: Santa Monica, CA to San Bernardino, CA (Approx. 75 Miles)

Day 1 sets the tone for your Route 66 road trip, blending oceanfront energy with the anticipation of leaving the coast and heading inland. Beginning in Santa Monica, this short driving day gives you time to soak in the symbolism of the journey before transitioning from sunny California beaches to the first inland stretches of the mother road.

Start at the Route 66 End Sign

• Visit the official Route 66 End Sign at the Santa Monica Pier

• This iconic sign marks the western bookend of the legendary highway

• A must-stop photo opportunity for documenting your Route 66 backwards adventure

• Early morning or golden hour offers the best light with fewer crowds

Breakfast: A Classic Beginning

The Original Pantry Café

• A legendary breakfast stop known for generous portions and old-school service

• Ideal for fueling up before leaving the coast

• Sets the tone for the classic route dining experiences ahead

Coastal Detour Options (Optional)

If time allows before heading inland, consider:

• A quick drive north toward Malibu with views of the Pacific

• Exploring nearby beach pull-offs for scenic photos

• Staying overnight at Malibu Beach RV Park for travelers who want an extended coastal start

For those staying closer to Santa Monica, Dockweiler Beach RV Park offers:

• Oceanfront RV camping directly on the sand

• A convenient location near LAX for travelers flying in

• Easy access to bike paths and beachfront walks

Heading Inland: Leaving the Coast Behind

As you depart Santa Monica:

• Bustling streets slowly give way to suburban sprawl

• Palm-lined boulevards transition into early desert foothills

• The drive introduces the shift away from big city attractions toward smaller towns and historic corridors

• This transition reinforces why the reverse route feels so intentional

Dinner: A Route 66 Classic

Mitla Café

• A historic Route 66 stop known for its Mexican-American cuisine

• Often credited with influencing the rise of fast food tacos in the U.S.

• A true dining destination rooted in Route 66 history

• A fitting first dinner on the old school route

Why This Day Works

• Short mileage allows time for photos, rest, and adjustment to RV travel

• Coastal scenery balances well with urban history

• Provides a gentle transition from modern California into the historic route

• Ideal pacing for easing into longer driving days ahead

RV Tip:
Starting with a low-mileage day helps new RV travelers get comfortable with handling, parking, and planning stops before tackling longer desert stretches later in the trip.

Day 2: San Bernardino, CA to Barstow, CA to Needles, CA to Oatman, AZ to Kingman, AZ to Seligman, AZ (Approx. 300 Miles)

Day 2 is where the Route 66 road trip truly starts to feel iconic. Leaving Southern California behind, you enter wide-open desert landscapes, preserved roadside landmarks, and small towns where Route 66 still defines daily life. This stretch delivers some of the most photographed moments on the historic route, making it one of the most memorable days of the entire trip.

Breakfast: A Retro Route 66 Staple

Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner

• Neon-lined diner with classic American breakfast favorites

• Popular with road trippers chasing nostalgia

• A strong introduction to the old school route diner culture

Crossing the Mojave Desert

As you travel east from Barstow:

• The scenery opens into vast desert vistas with long, uninterrupted sightlines

• This stretch highlights why Route 66 became such a major route for early motorists

• Minimal development allows the scenic beauty of the desert to take center stage

Iconic Stop: Roy’s Motel & Café

Roy’s Motel & Café

• One of the most photographed iconic landmarks on Route 66

• Famous for its towering neon sign and abandoned motel aesthetic

• A must-stop photo opportunity, especially under clear desert skies

• Captures the spirit of the legendary highway better than almost any other stop

Nearby, travelers may also spot:

• Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, a quirky outdoor art installation made from thousands of glass bottles

• One of the most unique, quirky roadside attractions along the route

Arizona Crossing: Mountains, Switchbacks, and Wild Burros

Crossing into eastern Arizona brings a dramatic change:

• Desert landscapes give way to rocky hills and mountain roads

• The climb into Oatman delivers cooler temperatures and sweeping views

• This Arizona crossing feels adventurous and untouched

Oatman

• A former mining town turned Route 66 legend

• Famous because wild burros roam freely through town

• Wooden sidewalks, staged gunfights, and souvenir shops line the street

• One of the most entertaining stops on the classic route

Dinner: A True Route 66 Original

Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In

• Playful, family-run diner known for humor and oversized portions

• A cornerstone of Route 66 preservation efforts

• A fun and memorable dining destination after a long drive

Overnight Stay: Seligman / Route 66 KOA Journey

Seligman / Route 66 KOA Journey

• One of the most convenient RV parks along the route

• Mountain views and quiet surroundings offer a scenic and restful stay

• Easy access to historic Seligman’s main street and shops

Why This Day Stands Out

• Combines wide-open desert with mountain scenery

• Includes multiple iconic route photo opportunities

• Delivers classic Route 66 character without major city traffic

• Reinforces why traveling the reverse route feels immersive and intentional

RV Tip:
Fuel up before leaving Barstow and again before entering Arizona. Long desert stretches have limited services, and planning ahead ensures a smoother, stress-free drive.

Day 3: Seligman, AZ to Holbrook, AZ to Albuquerque, NM (Approx. 250 Miles)

Day 3 delivers one of the most visually striking stretches of the Route 66 journey. Traveling heading eastward, the drive moves through eastern Arizona’s high desert, colorful badlands, and preserved sections of the old route before arriving in New Mexico’s largest city. This is a day defined by desert vistas, geological wonder, and wide-open space.

Morning Departure: High Desert Light

• Early morning light enhances the scenic beauty of northern Arizona

• Cooler temperatures make this a comfortable driving day

• Long sightlines emphasize the country’s diverse landscapes

Stop: Painted Desert

• Known for layered hills in shades of red, pink, purple, and gold

• One of the best places on the iconic route for photography

• Scenic overlooks provide easy pull-offs for RV travelers

Explore: Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park

• Home to ancient trees turned to stone over millions of years

• Features badlands, fossil beds, and preserved sections of the historic route

• Offers a rare chance to drive directly through a national park on Route 66

• A powerful reminder of the stunning natural wonders found along the Mother Road

RV Tip:
Check vehicle length restrictions before entering the park and plan your route accordingly. Parking areas are spacious, but it’s best to stay aware of turning space at overlooks.

Optional Lunch Stop: Holbrook, AZ

• A classic Route 66 town with strong mid-century character

• Great place to stop for fuel, supplies, and a quick bite

• Known for iconic lodging landmarks like vintage motels and neon signage

Crossing Into New Mexico

As you continue east:

• Terrain shifts from desert flats to mesas and rolling plateaus

• Adobe architecture begins to appear

• The drive feels calmer and less commercial, reinforcing the appeal of the old school route

Dinner: A New Mexico Route 66 Favorite

66 Diner

• Retro diner with classic Route 66 style and New Mexican flavors

• A popular stop for travelers seeking a classic roadside diner experience

• Neon lights and vintage décor shine after dark

Overnight Stay: Route 66 RV Resort

Route 66 RV Resort

• One of the area’s most convenient RV parks

• Spacious pull-through sites ideal for longer rigs

• Easy access to Albuquerque while offering a quiet, scenic and restful stay

Why This Day Works

• Combines natural history with cultural Route 66 landmarks

• Delivers some of the most dramatic scenery of the entire trip

• Balances exploration with manageable driving distances

• Smoothly transitions from the Arizona desert into New Mexico culture

Day 4: Albuquerque, NM to Tucumcari, NM to Amarillo, TX (Approx. 290 Miles)

Day 4 blends classic Route 66 artistry with some of the most recognizable roadside icons on the journey. Traveling east, the scenery shifts from New Mexico’s high desert into the open plains of the Texas Panhandle, where bold colors, oversized attractions, and wide skies dominate the drive. This is a day where Route 66 feels playful, expressive, and unapologetically larger than life.

Morning Drive: Leaving Albuquerque

• The drive east begins with open highways and expansive views

• Fewer interstate highways make it easier to stay on the old route

• Morning light highlights mesas, grasslands, and distant horizons

Stop: Tucumcari Route 66 Murals

Tucumcari

Tucumcari is one of the most visually striking towns along the iconic route, known for embracing Route 66 culture through public art.

• Colorful murals line buildings along main street

• Artwork depicts classic cars, neon signs, and Route 66 history

• One of the best walkable stops for photography on the historic route

• A great place to stretch your legs and explore at a relaxed pace

Crossing Into Texas

As you pass the state line:

• Landscapes flatten into rolling plains

• The sky feels bigger and more open

• Roadside attractions become bolder and more playful

• This transition reinforces the country’s diverse landscapes found along Route 66

Dinner: A Legendary Texas Stop

The Big Texan Steak Ranch

• Famous for the 72-ounce steak challenge

• A true dining destination and Route 66 institution

• Western-themed décor and lively atmosphere

• Ideal for travelers who want a memorable Route 66 dinner experience

Iconic Attraction: Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch

• Ten Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground

• Visitors are encouraged to add their own spray-paint art

• One of the most photographed iconic landmarks on the route

• Sunset offers dramatic lighting and colorful backdrops

Overnight Stay: Amarillo KOA Journey

Amarillo KOA Journey

• One of the area’s most convenient RV parks

• Pool, dog park, and easy highway access

• A comfortable, scenic, and restful stay after a full day of driving

Why This Day Stands Out

• Combines art, history, and interactive attractions

• Delivers two of the most recognizable Route 66 stops in one day

• Easy terrain and straight roads make for relaxed RV driving

• Highlights the playful side of the legendary highway

RV Tip:
Keep a small amount of spray paint on hand if you want to participate at Cadillac Ranch — it’s part of the experience and makes for a fun, personalized photo stop.

Day 5: Amarillo, TX to Elk City, OK to Tulsa, OK (Approx. 260 Miles)

Day 5 is a quintessential Route 66 road trip day—steady driving, classic stops, and deep-rooted American culture. As you cross into Oklahoma, you’ll notice how well this state preserves the historic route, with long, drivable segments of the old route and communities that still celebrate Route 66 as a living part of daily life.

Morning Drive: Texas Panhandle to Oklahoma Plains

• Wide-open roads and long sightlines make for relaxed RV driving

• Subtle landscape shifts introduce greener fields and rolling hills

• The pace feels unhurried, ideal for exploring roadside stops

Museum Stop: Route 66 Museum (Elk City)

National Route 66 Museum

• One of the most comprehensive Route 66 museums along the route

• Exhibits cover transportation history, early road travel, and local culture

• A strong stop for understanding the historical and touristic value of Route 66

• Easy access and parking make it RV-friendly

Lunch Stop: A Classic Roadside Bite

• Elk City and nearby towns offer multiple classic roadside diner options

• Expect comfort food, friendly service, and vintage décor

• A practical place to refuel both your RV and yourself

Driving Through Oklahoma’s Route 66 Corridor

Oklahoma stands out for its preservation:

• The state contains more original Route 66 miles than any other

• Towns along the way retain their main street character

• Occasional references to Oklahoma City appear in signage and museum exhibits, reflecting the road’s broader cultural reach without requiring a detour

Iconic Stop: Blue Whale of Catoosa

Blue Whale of Catoosa

• A smiling roadside sculpture that has become a Route 66 legend

• One of the most beloved quirky roadside attractions

• Great photo stop with pull-off access

• A favorite among families and road trippers chasing nostalgia

Dinner: Downtown Tulsa

Red Onion Café

• Modern American cuisine in a relaxed setting

• A contrast to classic diners earlier in the day

• A popular dining destination in Tulsa’s lively downtown

Overnight Stay: Tulsa RV Ranch

Tulsa RV Ranch

• One of the area’s most convenient RV parks

• Pull-through sites suitable for larger rigs

• Quiet setting outside the city for a scenic and restful stay

Why This Day Works

• Strong balance of driving and exploration

• Deep dive into Route 66 preservation and storytelling

• Mix of nostalgic roadside stops and urban adventures

• Reinforces Oklahoma’s role as a heartland chapter of the mother road

RV Tip:
Oklahoma’s stretches of Route 66 are well-maintained and RV-friendly, but services can be spaced out. Top off fuel when you stop at towns rather than waiting for the next one.

Day 6: Tulsa, OK to Joplin, MO to Rolla, MO (Approx. 180 Miles)

Day 6 trades plains for hills as you cross into Missouri, where Route 66 winds through small towns, forested landscapes, and some of the most beloved attractions on the old route. This shorter mileage day is perfect for exploration, combining pop-culture nostalgia with underground natural wonders.

Morning Drive: Leaving Tulsa

• Easy morning departure with light traffic

• Gradual transition from flat farmland into rolling hills

• Cooler temperatures and greener scenery mark a noticeable shift

Pop-Culture Stop: Cars on the Route

Cars on the Route

• Quirky roadside stop that inspired Pixar’s Tow Mater

• Packed with vintage trucks, memorabilia, and photo ops

• A favorite among road trippers chasing nostalgia

• Quick stop with easy pull-in access for RVs

Crossing Back Into Missouri

• The route re-enters Missouri near Joplin

• Towns feel quieter and more traditional

• Original alignments of the historic route appear frequently

Lunch Stop: Ferguson’s Country Store & Restaurant

Ferguson’s Country Store & Restaurant

• A classic country stop with hearty comfort food

• Known for homemade biscuits and friendly service

• A satisfying, no-frills break from driving

Natural Wonder: Meramec Caverns

Meramec Caverns

• One of Missouri’s most visited natural attractions

• Massive limestone caves with guided tours

• A dramatic contrast to roadside Americana above ground

• Highlights the stunning natural wonders found along Route 66

Evening Arrival: Rolla, Missouri

• A laid-back college town surrounded by Ozark scenery

• Ideal base for a quieter evening after a full day of stops

Overnight Stay: Rolla RV Park

Rolla RV Park

• Well-maintained park with full hookups

• Shaded sites provide a scenic and restful stay

• Convenient access to town without city congestion

Why This Day Works

• Short mileage allows time for attractions without rushing

• Combines pop culture, classic dining, and natural beauty

• Forested terrain offers visual variety late in the trip

• A comfortable reset before the final push toward Illinois

RV Tip:
Missouri’s hills and curves are gentle but frequent. Use lower gears on descents and take advantage of pull-offs to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Day 7: Rolla, MO to St. Louis, MO to Springfield, IL (Approx. 180 Miles)

Day 7 blends engineering marvels, classic food traditions, and preserved stretches of the historic route as you move from Missouri into Illinois. This is a day where Route 66 history feels tangible—bridges you can walk, diners that have served generations, and towns that still celebrate the route as if it were 1926.

Morning Departure: Ozarks to River City

• Rolling terrain gradually flattens as you approach the Mississippi River

• Forested scenery gives way to urban edges and river views

• A comfortable drive that balances scenery with accessibility

Stop: Route 66 State Park

Route 66 State Park

• Preserves a scenic stretch of the old route along the Meramec River

• Walking trails and exhibits highlight early road travel

• A peaceful place to stretch your legs before entering the city

• Reinforces the historical and touristic value of Route 66

Classic Breakfast: Charlie Parker’s Diner

Charlie Parker’s Diner

• Retro diner famous for oversized pancakes

• A true classic roadside diner experience

• Popular with locals and Route 66 travelers alike

Iconic Crossing: Chain of Rocks Bridge

Chain of Rocks Bridge

• One of the most unique bridges on Route 66

• Distinctive bend midway across the Mississippi River

• Pedestrian- and bike-friendly for close-up exploration

• One of the most photographed iconic landmarks along the route

Crossing Into Illinois

As you enter Illinois:

• Route 66 weaves directly through town centers

• Preserved signage and storefronts line main street corridors

• The road feels slower, more personal, and deeply nostalgic

Dinner: A Route 66 Institution

Ariston Café

• One of the oldest continuously operating Route 66 restaurants

• Family-run with a classic menu and welcoming atmosphere

• A must-stop dining destination on the Illinois stretch

Overnight Stay: Springfield KOA Journey

Springfield KOA Journey

• Quiet, well-maintained RV park surrounded by greenery

• Easy access to Springfield’s attractions

• A comfortable and scenic and restful stay before the final day

Why This Day Stands Out

• Combines natural scenery, urban history, and preserved Route 66 sites

• Walkable attractions break up the driving

• Illinois’ preservation efforts shine on the classic route

• Sets up an emotional finish to the journey

RV Tip:
The Chain of Rocks Bridge is not open to vehicle traffic—park nearby and explore on foot for the best experience and photos.

Day 8: Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL (Approx. 200 Miles)

Day 8 brings your Route 66 backwards journey to a meaningful close as rural Illinois gives way to the energy of another major American city. Traveling the final miles heading eastward, the road transitions from quiet town centers into historic suburbs and, finally, the bustling streets of Chicago — the official starting point of the legendary highway.

Morning Departure: Final Miles on the Mother Road

• Illinois Route 66 passes directly through small towns and city limits

• Vintage signage and preserved storefronts reflect the old school route

• This stretch feels reflective, signaling the end of the entire trip

Stop: Pontiac Murals & Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum

Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum

• One of the most visually engaging Route 66 stops in Illinois

• Large-scale murals celebrate Route 66 history and pop culture

• Exhibits include memorabilia, vehicles, and roadside artifacts

• A strong final small-town stop before entering a major metro area

Lunch Stop: A Chicago Route 66 Classic

Mitchell’s Diner

• A beloved Route 66–era diner known for hearty comfort food

• A fitting last classic roadside diner stop on the route

• Located conveniently for travelers entering the city

Finish Line: Route 66 Begin Sign

• Celebrate at the official Route 66 Begin Sign in downtown Chicago

• This moment completes the reverse route journey coast to city

• A symbolic bookend to starting at the Santa Monica Pier

• One of the most important iconic landmarks on the iconic route

Explore Chicago’s Urban Highlights (Optional)

For travelers with extra time:

• Visit Millennium Park for skyline photos and public art

• Walk along the lakefront or enjoy nearby neighborhoods

• Experience Chicago’s blend of history, architecture, and urban adventures

Why Ending in Chicago Works

• The city represents the birthplace of Route 66

• Ending in a major hub simplifies logistics for travelers flying home

• The contrast between desert landscapes and city life underscores the country’s diverse landscapes

• The finish feels intentional, celebratory, and complete

RV Tip:
Plan RV drop-off and parking logistics in advance when entering Chicago. Traffic patterns and limited urban RV parking make early planning essential for a smooth final day.

Why Cruise America Is the Best Way to Experience Route 66

Traveling Route 66 backwards works best when flexibility is built into the journey. With long scenic stretches, spontaneous roadside stops, and towns worth lingering in, RV travel allows you to experience America's most famous highway on your own terms — and that’s where Cruise America fits into the experience.

Built for the Route 66 Experience

• One-way RV rentals make a reverse route itinerary simple and efficient

• No need to backtrack or rush to return a vehicle

• Ideal for travelers flying into Southern California and departing from Chicago

Flexibility That Enhances the Entire Trip

Route 66 rewards curiosity. Traveling by RV allows you to:

• Pull off for unexpected quirky roadside attractions

• Stay overnight near historic towns instead of major hotel corridors

• Adjust pacing without being locked into rigid reservations

• Explore preserved sections of the old route without relying on interstate highways

Comfortable RV Travel Across Diverse Landscapes

From sunny California beaches to desert landscapes, rolling hills, and Midwest cities:

• RV travel keeps accommodations consistent across changing regions

• Easy access to great RV camping near iconic landmarks and national parks

• Onboard amenities make long driving days more comfortable

• Perfect for enjoying the country’s diverse landscapes without constant packing and unpacking

A More Immersive Way to Follow the Mother Road

• Wake up closer to Route 66 attractions each morning

• Enjoy scenic and restful stays near historic towns and natural landmarks

• Experience Route 66 as a journey, not just a checklist

• Ideal for travelers who want to slow down and experience the historic route authentically

The Perfect Match for a Classic American Road Trip

Route 66 is about freedom, discovery, and storytelling. An RV lets you live that story — stopping when something catches your eye, staying when a place feels special, and moving on when the road calls.

With Cruise America, this iconic route becomes an experience you'll want to share with everyone. Book your RV today!