There’s a reason Route 66 is called The Mother Road — it isn’t just a highway, it’s a journey through the heart and soul of America. This legendary highway, also known as Rogers Highway, has been a symbol of Americana since 1926. Travelers, dreamers, artists, and road tripping families have hit this historic route in search of adventure, freedom, and a piece of pure Americana. And now? It’s your turn.
This 8-day RV itinerary transforms the legendary drive from Chicago to Santa Monica into a perfectly crafted road trip — packed with classic diners, neon-lit motels, quirky roadside attractions, and some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the U.S. The journey covers the entire route across eight states, offering a comprehensive and iconic experience. For the most authentic adventure, follow the main route and seek out original route sections wherever possible. You’ll walk inside enormous caverns, wander dinosaur museums, meet wild burros in a desert ghost town, and stand at the edge of the Pacific Ocean as Route 66 meets the sea.
Better yet, you’ll do it all from behind the wheel of a Cruise America RV — giving you freedom, flexibility, and home-on-wheels comfort every mile of the way. No rushing to checkout times. No expensive hotel searches. Just wide-open roads, unforgettable experiences, and your travel crew right by your side.
So buckle up. Cue the road-trip playlist. Grab a camera. Stock the fridge. Because your ultimate Route 66 adventure starts at the iconic “Begin” sign in Chicago…and ends with a sunset celebration on the Santa Monica Pier.
Let’s hit the road.
Day 1: Chicago, IL → Springfield, IL

~200 miles — The Journey Begins
There’s a special kind of energy that comes with standing at the start of Route 66 — the same road that inspired road-trip culture, carried dreamers westward, and shaped decades of American storytelling. For an authentic start to your journey, there’s an added excitement in following the original route of Route 66, tracing the historic path that parallels modern highways. Your RV is packed, the camera is charged, and the open road is calling.
This first stretch takes you from the skyscrapers of Chicago to the peaceful prairie landscapes of central Illinois. In just a few hours, you’ll go from the roar of city traffic to the quiet hum of Route 66 cruising beneath your wheels — the perfect warm-up for the adventure ahead.
Route 66 Begins in Chicago
Kick things off at the official Route 66 "Begin Sign," on Adams Street. After snapping your photos, set out on the main route to experience the core of Route 66's history, where you'll encounter the most significant stops and attractions along this legendary corridor. Grab a few “we did it!” photos before heading into Lou Mitchell’s, a classic Route 66 diner that has been fueling travelers since 1923. Free donut holes, hot coffee, and a retro atmosphere set the tone for your first day.
Before you leave Chicago behind, you can squeeze in a few iconic sights — Millennium Park (The Bean), the Chicago Riverwalk, or a quick ride up to the Willis Tower Skydeck. They aren’t technically Route 66 attractions, but they’ll make your first postcards home unforgettable.
From Skyscrapers to Small-Town Charm
Once you officially hit the highway, the scenery begins to evolve fast. The towering skyline softens into the farmlands that built the Midwest. Much of the drive follows the old route of Route 66, letting you experience glimpses of its storied past and the nostalgia of historic segments. The drive is smooth and simple — a great day to settle into your RV rhythm.
Your first Route 66-themed stop is in Pontiac, Illinois, a small community with a huge passion for preserving the “Mother Road.” Murals brighten nearly every block, and the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum gives you your first big dose of roadside nostalgia — neon signs, vintage cars, and legends of the highway.
RV Tip: There’s convenient RV parking right behind the museum — making walking around simple and stress-free.
Dinner on Historic Route 66
As the road winds south, hunger will lead you to the Ariston Café, one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants along Route 66 and recognized as one of the historic sites on the route. This family-owned spot has been welcoming travelers since 1924 — long before road-tripping became a cultural movement.
Expect comfort food classics, handmade desserts, and a staff that treat passing guests like locals.
Not far away, another must-try stop is Cozy Dog Drive-In, home of the original corn dog — a fun optional snack if you’ve got room left!
Springfield: History + Classic Americana
When you arrive in Springfield, you’re not just checking into your first stop — you’ve reached Abraham Lincoln’s hometown, and a place deeply rooted in American history. If time allows, stretch your legs while exploring:
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Lincoln Home National Historic Site (listed on the National Register of Historic Places)
What better place to kick off a cross-country journey than the birthplace of so many American stories?
Overnight Stay at Springfield KOA Journey
Surrounded by trees and quiet nature, this is the perfect place to unwind after a day on the road. With full hookups, a dog park, and a relaxing atmosphere, you can settle in comfortably before bigger drives ahead.
Use this first night to check your gear, organize the RV, and rest up — because tomorrow, you’ll cross your first state line!
Day 1 At-a-Glance

|
Experience |
Why It Matters |
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Official Route 66 photo |
The symbolic start of your epic adventure |
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Pontiac murals |
First taste of roadside Americana |
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Dining at Ariston Café |
A historic Route 66 foodie moment |
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Springfield explorations |
History that grounds the journey |
Day 2: Springfield, IL → St. Louis, MO → Rolla, MO

~180 miles — Gateway to the West
Day 2 launches you deeper into classic Americana — across state lines, over the mighty Mississippi River, and into the rolling landscapes of the Ozarks. Today is all about nostalgia, iconic food stops, and legendary Route 66 landmarks that have been delighting travelers for decades.
After a restful night in Springfield, enjoy a peaceful morning on the road…with a big breakfast to kick things off, of course!
Breakfast at Charlie Parker’s Diner — A Route 66 Favorite
One of the most beloved breakfast joints on the Mother Road, Charlie Parker’s Diner serves hubcap-sized pancakes inside a vintage Quonset hut. The vibe is laid-back, and the food is unforgettable — the perfect boost before heading south toward St. Louis.
Step Onto History: Chain of Rocks Bridge
As you approach St. Louis, Route 66 crosses one of the most interesting bridges in America: the Chain of Rocks Bridge, famous for its unusual 22-degree bend and recognized as one of the historic sites along Route 66.
You can walk or bike across for sweeping views of the Mississippi River, imagining the millions of travelers who kicked off new futures heading west.
→ Optional Detour: Snap a photo of the Gateway Arch — America’s tallest monument — just 20 minutes away.
A Frozen Custard Tradition: Ted Drewes
No Route 66 journey is complete without a stop at Ted Drewes Frozen Custard — a St. Louis institution since 1929. Their signature treat is the “concrete,” so thick they serve it upside-down.
Try a classic like Chocolate or Butter Pecan — or go big with Route 66 flavors like Road Crew Crunch (nuts + chocolate chunks).
This stop is pure happiness in a cup.
Explore Route 66 State Park
Just west of St. Louis, Route 66 State Park is a peaceful place to stretch your legs. Wander through scenic riverside trails or tour the historic visitor center, which used to be part of the iconic Bridgehead Inn — a slice of the highway’s golden era preserved and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Keep an eye out for wildlife — deer, foxes, and migratory birds call this area home.
Rollin’ Into the Ozarks
The final drive of the day winds into Rolla, Missouri, where Route 66 swaps urban energy for small-town charm and lush countryside. The Ozark foothills make every mile a beautiful one.
Fun Route 66 roadside gems you may spot along the way:
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Retro neon motels glowing at dusk
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Stone bridges and hand-painted signs
Choose a few for memorable quick photo stops!
Dinner: Casual Downtown Flavor
Once in Rolla, grab dinner at Red Onion Café, a friendly local eatery serving fresh American favorites — from steak to pasta to hearty salads. It’s a cozy finish to a day packed with adventure.
Overnight: Rolla RV Park
Nestled just off the highway, Rolla RV Park offers easy access, quiet evenings, and spacious pull-through sites — a great launch point for tomorrow’s explorations deeper into Route 66 country.
Day 2 At-a-Glance

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Experience |
Highlight |
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Charlie Parker’s Diner |
Giant pancakes + retro Route 66 murals |
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Chain of Rocks Bridge |
Walk across the Mississippi on a historic landmark |
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Ted Drewes |
Famous frozen custard “concretes” |
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Route 66 State Park |
Nature trails and museum exhibits |
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Arrival in Rolla |
Peaceful Ozark atmosphere |
Day 3: Rolla, MO → Joplin, MO → Tulsa, OK

~180 miles — Caves, Cars & Classic Americana
Day 3 takes you into the heart of the Ozarks and onward into Oklahoma — a state where Route 66 nostalgia thrives. This stretch is packed with underground adventures, quirky small towns, and roadside attractions that feel straight out of a movie…because some of them are!
Breakfast at Ferguson’s Country Store & Restaurant
Fuel up with a warm, country-style breakfast at Ferguson’s — famous for homemade biscuits and generous portions. The rustic setting gives you a real feel for Missouri hospitality, and the drive afterward winds through beautiful wooded hills.
Go Underground at Meramec Caverns
Just west of Stanton lies Meramec Caverns, one of Route 66’s most iconic attractions. Known as the hideout of outlaw Jesse James, this vast cave system invites you to wander through towering limestone formations lit in brilliant colors.
Tour highlights:
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Massive Wine Table Formation
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The Stage Curtain, a 70-foot natural calcite drape
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Underground river + cool temps (great break on hot days!)
It’s been a Route 66 road trip essential for generations — and the tradition continues with you.
Pixar Magic in Kansas: Cars on the Route (Galena, KS)
Cross the state line for a quick dip into Kansas — the shortest stretch of Route 66, but one of the most charming.
Just off the highway in Galena, stop at Cars on the Route, home to the very tow truck that inspired Tow Mater from Disney-Pixar’s Cars. This spot is closely connected to Pixar's Cars, as it directly inspired characters and scenes in the beloved animated film, making it a must-visit for fans.
Snap photos with the trucks, grab a souvenir, and enjoy the fun small-town energy.
Lunch + Stroll in Joplin, MO (Optional Mid-Day Stop)
If you’re not quite ready for the Oklahoma border, Joplin makes a perfect leg-stretching break. Wander the downtown murals, grab lunch at a local grub spot, or pick up Route 66 memorabilia. The Joplin History & Mineral Museum is a bonus for geology fans.
Dinner: Red Onion Café (Joplin or Tulsa Option)
If you didn’t stop earlier, Red Onion Café also has a location in Tulsa later on — making it a solid choice either way.
Try:
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House-made pastas
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Slow-roasted meats
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The famous Burnt Onion Dip
A little culinary indulgence goes a long way after a day of road tripping.
Final Leg: Welcome to Oklahoma!
As the land flattens and wide-open skies take over, you’ll roll into Tulsa — one of the most vibrant Route 66 cities on the map.
Expect:
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Neon lights
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Classic signage
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Live music + thriving food culture
For a taste of Tulsa's modern food scene, visit Mother Road Market, a popular food hall featuring a variety of local vendors and diverse cuisines, perfect for travelers seeking a communal dining experience.
Tulsa puts a fun urban spin on your adventure.
Stay the Night: Tulsa RV Ranch
A comfortable, spacious RV park with:
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Easy parking + large pull-through sites
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A western-themed atmosphere
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Modern amenities for unwinding
It’s the perfect reset before another big scenic day tomorrow.
Day 3 At-a-Glance

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Stop |
Highlight |
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Ferguson’s Country Store |
Country-style breakfast classics |
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Meramec Caverns |
Underground adventure + outlaw history |
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Cars on the Route |
Tow Mater inspiration + photo ops |
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Joplin murals |
Optional city stroll |
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Arrival in Tulsa |
Nightlife + classic Route 66 |
Day 4: Tulsa, OK → Elk City, OK → Amarillo, TX

~260 miles — Route 66 Icons, Soda Stops & Texas Legends
Day 4 is when Route 66 nostalgia hits full throttle. Today’s drive delivers giant roadside attractions, colorful Americana, and some of the most recognizable Mother Road landmarks. The wide-open plains of Oklahoma transition into the rugged ranchlands of Texas — setting the stage for a classic Western experience.
Buckle up — this one’s packed with memories.
Breakfast at Tally’s Good Food Café
Kick off the day at Tally’s, a Tulsa Route 66 treasure known for:
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Huge cinnamon rolls
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Hearty diner favorites
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Neon lights + retro flair
This beloved spot has fed road trippers since 1987 — so you’re joining a long line of happy travelers.
Smile With the Blue Whale of Catoosa
Just outside Tulsa sits one of Route 66’s most charming quirks:
The Blue Whale of Catoosa
Once a family swimming hole, now a beloved photo stop. Climb inside the whale or enjoy a peaceful stroll by the pond. Perfect for stretching those morning driving legs!
Pops 66 Soda Ranch (Optional Stop, Arcadia)
If you’re up for a slight detour, Pops offers:
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700+ soda flavors
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A giant 66-foot soda bottle glowing at night
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A fuel stop + diner-style eats
Try something wacky like bacon soda — just because you can.
Elk City Route 66 Museum Complex
Halfway to Texas, Elk City makes a memorable midday stop.
Explore:
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National Route 66 Museum (walk through postcard-style streets)
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Transportation Museum
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Mock western storefronts
It’s a fun blend of history and photo ops — especially for kids and nostalgia lovers.
Classic Diner Fun at Lucille’s Roadhouse (Optional Lunch)
Between Oklahoma City and Elk City lies one more retro delight.
Lucille’s serves:
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Chicken-fried steak
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Hand-spun shakes
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Classic car décor
A great pick if you skipped Pops earlier!
Dinner & Show: The Big Texan Steak Ranch
Cross into Texas and prepare for big everything. This world-famous stop has:
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The legendary 72-ounce steak challenge
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Live country energy
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Gift shops + quirky Western flair
Don’t miss exploring the gift shop for quirky souvenirs and unique memorabilia that capture the spirit of Route 66.
Even if you’re not brave enough to take the challenge, the food and atmosphere are worth the stop.
Pro Tip: Grab a photo in the oversized rocking chair outside.
Spray Paint Your Mark at Cadillac Ranch
Just outside Amarillo stands a surreal art installation: Cadillac Ranch.
Ten Cadillacs buried nose-first in the dirt — and YOU are invited to paint them!
Bring spray paint or purchase some onsite and leave your mark on Route 66 history.
Best time to visit:
Golden hour — for incredible photos and cooler temps.
Overnight at Amarillo KOA Journey
Settle in for a cozy evening at this friendly RV park equipped with:
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Pool (seasonal)
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Dog park
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Shady sites + easy Route 66 access
You’ll appreciate the calm after an action-packed day!
Day 4 At-a-Glance

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Stop |
Highlight |
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Tally’s Good Food Café |
Giant cinnamon rolls + diner vibes |
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Blue Whale of Catoosa |
Iconic Route 66 photo stop |
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Elk City Museum |
Classic Americana history |
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Big Texan Steak Ranch |
72 oz steak challenge! |
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Cadillac Ranch |
Spray-paint your memories |
Day 5: Amarillo, TX → Tucumcari, NM → Albuquerque, NM

~290 Miles | Neon Nights & Desert Sights
Today, Route 66 takes you westward into New Mexico — a land of vibrant murals, retro neon, and dramatic desert scenery. As you transition from the Texas Panhandle to the Land of Enchantment, the landscapes shift from flat prairie to mesas painted in shades of red and violet.
This stretch is pure roadside Americana — a blend of nostalgia and natural beauty.
Fuel Up at an Amarillo Favorite
Ye Olde Pancake Station – Amarillo
Start your day with fluffy pancakes served on sizzling hot plates. Locals love this spot for its old-school Route 66 charm — and you will too.
Tip: Try their famous French Toast — it’s a staple for a reason.
Neon History & Desert Art
Tucumcari Route 66 Murals – Tucumcari, NM
Just across the state line lies Tucumcari, one of Route 66’s most photogenic towns. Wander Main Street and you’ll quickly see why — more than 40 colorful murals celebrate the Mother Road’s golden era.
Mesalands Dinosaur Museum & Natural Sciences Center
Dinosaurs and road trips? Yes, please. This museum features fossils and towering sculptures — a great stop if you love natural history.
Lunch or Treat Time
Del’s Restaurant (optional stop)
A long-running favorite for enchiladas and steaks — ideal for a hearty midday break. Or…
Tee Pee Curios
Grab a snack and check out one of the most iconic mid-century souvenir shops on Route 66.
Roll Into Retro-Cool Albuquerque
Chrome counters, jukeboxes, and mile-high milkshakes — this place is the real deal. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Route 66’s retro aesthetic.
Old Town Albuquerque (if time allows)
Cobblestone plazas, adobe architecture, local shops, and live music help you tap into New Mexico’s rich cultural identity. Consider staying more than one night to fully explore the city's attractions and experience everything Old Town Albuquerque has to offer.
Stay Under the Desert Sky
Albuquerque KOA Journey
Conveniently located on Route 66 with mountain views, a pool, pull-through RV sites, and a welcoming vibe. A great spot to rest up before tomorrow’s national park adventures.
Day 5 At-a-Glance

|
Stop |
Highlight |
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Ye Olde Pancake Station |
Fluffy pancakes + local Route 66 charm |
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Cadillac Ranch |
Spray-paint your mark on these buried classics |
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Tucumcari Murals |
80+ neon-bright murals celebrating Route 66 |
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Mesalands Dinosaur Museum |
Life-size fossils + fun family stop |
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66 Diner (Albuquerque) |
Retro milkshakes + diner nostalgia |
Day 6: Albuquerque, NM → Holbrook, AZ → Seligman, AZ

~250 Miles | National Parks & Classic Route 66
Today might just become one of your favorite days of the trip. You’ll explore Petrified Forest National Park, photograph the Painted Desert, and discover some of the most iconic towns along Route 66.
This is the Mother Road at its most scenic.
A Classic New Mexican Breakfast
Frontier Restaurant – Albuquerque
Right across from the University of New Mexico, this beloved institution is famous for hand-rolled tortillas, breakfast burritos, and giant cinnamon rolls. Start spicy — stay happy.
A Journey Through Millennia
Petrified Forest National Park & Painted Desert – AZ
Step into a landscape frozen in time — literally.
The Petrified Forest features ancient, rainbow-hued fossilized wood that’s over 200 million years old. The adjacent Painted Desert showcases sweeping bands of red, lavender, and pink badlands.
Must-see park viewpoints:
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Blue Mesa
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Newspaper Rock Petroglyphs
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Painted Desert Inn Historic Landmark
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Crystal Forest Trail
Bonus: It’s the only national park Route 66 passes directly through — look for the old roadbed!
Explore a Living Route 66 Relic
Holbrook, AZ – Wigwam Motel
A classic photo op — this quirky 1950s motel features rooms shaped like teepees. Even if you’re not staying, stop for pictures!
Optional detour: Meteor Crater — one of the best-preserved meteor impact sites on Earth.
Retro Magic in Seligman
Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In
Expect burgers, shakes… and a side of laughter. This legendary stop is filled with humor, classic cars, and Route 66 memorabilia.
Historic Downtown Seligman
Often called the “Birthplace of Route 66 Preservation”, Seligman is the perfect place to stretch your legs, grab souvenirs, and admire restored neon signage.
Settle In for a Scenic Evening
Seligman / Route 66 KOA Journey
Mountain views, starry skies, and a quiet night’s rest after a fun-filled day exploring Arizona’s best Route 66 treasures.
Day 6 At-a-Glance

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Stop |
Highlight |
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Frontier Restaurant |
Famous cinnamon rolls + true New Mexican flavors |
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Petrified Forest National Park |
Otherworldly landscapes + ancient petrified wood |
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Painted Desert Overlooks |
Photo-worthy colorful cliffs + scenic viewpoints |
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Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In |
Burgers, shakes + Route 66 humor |
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Seligman |
Birthplace of Route 66’s revival, shops + neon history |
Day 7: Seligman, AZ → Kingman → Oatman → Needles → Barstow → San Bernardino

~300 Miles | Arizona → California
Welcome to one of the most adventurous, rugged, and nostalgia-packed stretches of Route 66! Day 7 is a full-throttle blend of quirky towns, steep desert switchbacks, abandoned relics, and wildlife encounters — a day that feels like traveling through a living museum of the American West.
Today, you’ll journey through historic Seligman, the birthplace of the Route 66 revival; wind your way over the Black Mountains into the eccentric mining town of Oatman; pass through the heat-shimmering Mojave Desert; and finally roll into sunny Southern California. This is a bucket-list stretch of the Mother Road, filled with stories you’ll be telling for years.
Fuel Up for Adventure
Breakfast Suggestion
Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner – Kingman
Step into a neon-soaked time capsule bursting with vibrant turquoise booths and vintage jukebox tunes. Order a stack of pancakes with their famous root-beer-glazed bacon or go big with a hearty chicken-fried steak breakfast — you’ll need the fuel!
Bonus Stops in Kingman:
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Route 66 Museum — Learn about the Dust Bowl, the highway boom, and the road culture that shaped America
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Locomotive Park — Great photo op with a 1920s steam engine
Quirky Roadside Fun & Wild Burros in Oatman
Leaving Kingman, Route 66 turns scenic and wild. The twisting, narrow drive over Sitgreaves Pass rewards you with heart-pounding cliffside views.
Oatman, Arizona
Suddenly, an old Wild West town appears — and it’s not just the cowboys who greet you. Wild burros roam freely, sticking their noses in search of treats and attention. Grab a staged gunfight show, explore rustic storefronts, and soak in the mining-town charm that inspired Disney-Pixar’s Cars.
Travel Tip: Burros are friendly but don’t feed them anything other than approved snacks from local shops — it keeps them safe!
Ghost Town Vibes & Mojave Mirage
Continue west through miles of arid beauty and abandoned stops — a raw, cinematic experience.
Featured Stops:
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Cool Springs Station — Iconic gas-station-turned-photo-must-stop
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Needles, California — Your official welcome to the Golden State 🏜️
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Amboy Crater — A volcanic cone perfect for short hikes and epic drone shots (if permitted)
Roy’s Motel & Café – Amboy
Route 66 purists consider this a sacred stop. Its vintage neon sign is a postcard-perfect image of mid-century roadside America.
Fun Fact: Roy’s once appeared in films with stars like Jim Carrey and Robert Blake.
Dinner with a Heaping Side of History
Mitla Café – San Bernardino
Since 1937, this landmark has served legendary enchiladas, tacos, and pozole to locals — and even helped inspire the first Taco Bell. It’s a delicious tribute to Route 66’s multicultural roots.
Where to Stay
Postcard Cabins – Big Bear (Outdoor Collection by Marriott)
Escape the desert heat and head into the mountains for fresh air and cozy pine-forest vibes. It’s a peaceful night before your grand finale at the Pacific Ocean.
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Scenic location
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Starlit skies
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The perfect recharge before Day 8
Day 7 Travel Tips
✔ Watch for burros on the road — they wander freely
✔ Keep water stocked — long stretches have no services
✔ Take it slow on twisting mountain curves
✔ Summer heat in the Mojave can exceed 115°F — plan your timing accordingly
Day 7 At-a-Glance

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Stop |
Highlight |
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Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner |
Neon diner fun + classic breakfast favorites |
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Kingman Route 66 Museum |
Vintage cars + Mother Road history |
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Oatman Wild Burros |
Meet friendly burros in a quirky mining town |
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Roy’s Motel & Café (Amboy) |
Iconic retro sign + desert photo op |
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Mitla Café (San Bernardino) |
Legendary tacos since 1937 |
Day 8: San Bernardino, CA → Santa Monica, CA

~75 Miles | The Final Stretch of Route 66
You’ve made it to the last chapter of your Route 66 adventure. Today is all about savoring the joy of the journey — and celebrating your arrival at the Pacific Ocean. The drive from San Bernardino into Los Angeles is shorter, but packed with history, nostalgia, and iconic attractions.
Roll into the End of the Mother Road
Route 66 End of the Trail Sign – Santa Monica Pier
Drive onto Ocean Avenue, breathe in the salty air, and look ahead — the shimmering Pacific awaits.
Park the RV and walk the final steps to the iconic “End of the Trail” sign.
Pose. Celebrate. Reflect.
You’ve just crossed 2,400+ miles across 8 states, experiencing the heart of Americana!
Fun Fact: Santa Monica is not where Route 66 originally ended — but it became the celebrated end point due to its powerful symbolism: the edge of the continent.
Beach Time + Victory Feast
Santa Monica Beach
Dip your toes into the Pacific, stroll the pier, or relax under the sun — you earned this moment of pure bliss.
Dinner: The Albright
Fresh seafood and California-style fare right on the pier. Toast to your achievement with a plate of grilled shrimp or a shareable seafood boil while admiring the ocean views.
Stay Somewhere Truly Unique
Dockside Boat & Bed – Long Beach
Swap wheels for waves and end your trip aboard a cozy houseboat hotel. It’s peaceful, scenic, and offers a whole new way to experience Southern California.
Extras nearby you may enjoy:
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Shoreline Village dining & shops
Route 66 Completion Tips
✔ Keep your camera ready — you’ll want photos of everything
✔ Traffic can be busy — factor in extra time entering Los Angeles
✔ Celebrate — this is a once-in-a-lifetime drive!
Day 8 At-a-Glance

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Stop |
Highlight |
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The Original Pantry Café |
LA classic serving huge portions since 1924 |
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Route 66 End Sign — Santa Monica Pier |
The official finish line of Route 66! |
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Santa Monica Beach |
Dip your toes in the Pacific + photo celebration |
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The Albright |
Fresh seafood + ocean-side dining |
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Long Beach Waterfront |
Unique overnight experience with marina views |
Why RVs Provide the Richest Route 66 Experience
Route 66 isn’t just a drive — it’s a living piece of history meant to be explored slowly, spontaneously, and with a front-row seat to America’s most iconic landscapes. While many travelers choose an RV for the flexibility and comfort it offers, others opt for a rental car, which can be less intimidating and easier to maneuver, especially if you prefer staying in hotels or motels along the way. Each option has its pros and cons: an RV provides a home on wheels, while a rental car allows for easier parking and potentially lower fuel costs.
Traveling by RV lets you soak in every moment of the adventure without rushing from one hotel reservation to the next. Packing light with just a carry-on can make daily luggage handling much easier, whether you’re in an RV or a rental car, especially if you’re staying in different accommodations each night.
Here’s why an RV transforms Route 66 from a road trip into a once-in-a-lifetime experience:
Freedom to Follow the Road Wherever It Leads
Some of the best Route 66 moments aren’t planned — they’re discovered.
With your home on wheels, there’s no need to skip that quirky museum, charming small town, or neon-lit diner that catches your eye. Your schedule is yours to shape.
Wake Up In the Scenery
Instead of spending nights in generic hotels off the highway, you can camp:
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Under wide-open desert skies
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Steps from historic downtowns
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Near national parks and wildlife habitats
You’re not just passing by America — you’re living in it.
A Budget-Friendly Way to Go Big
Hotels along Route 66 fill fast and can be pricey, especially near popular stops.
With an RV, accommodations and transportation merge into one — giving you more room in the budget for roadside eats, activities, and unique experiences.
Together Time — The Good Kind
Route 66 is full of sights and stories worth sharing.
In an RV, the whole crew is together:
laughing, snacking, playing games, and making memories between each stop — not stuck in separate hotel rooms.
Roadside Dining, Your Way
Sure, Route 66 is famous for its diners…but having a kitchen means:
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Meals whenever you need fuel
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Snacks always within reach
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Dietary preferences, no problem
And you can still enjoy those classic burgers and milkshakes along the way!
A True Americana Adventure
Route 66 was built for explorers — people searching for freedom, possibility, and the wide-open West. RV travel keeps that spirit alive, giving you the same sense of independence the original travelers experienced.
Ready to Hit the Mother Road?
Route 66 is more than a highway — it’s one of America’s most famous roads, a living piece of history filled with neon lights, quirky roadside stops, and unforgettable landscapes. And the best way to experience every mile of it? In the comfort and freedom of an RV.
With Cruise America, you can:
✔ Skip the hotel hunt
✔ Travel at your own pace
✔ Wake up next to a new adventure every day
✔ Support local businesses along the route for a more authentic experience
Reserve your Cruise America RV today — and let the Mother Road guide you all the way to the Pacific!