Route 66 Tours 

Experience the charm of small town America on route, whilst you are also swinging by some of the big cities for a tour that you will never forget.   

So what is this buzz really about? Well first of all, Route 66 has got quite a history. This originally started as a highway with its origins in the state of Illinois (Chicago) and stretched all the way to Los Angeles, California and covering states like Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. It played a vital role in getting around back in the 30’s, but was largely replaced by the Interstate Highway System originally introduced by President Eisenhower. Nowadays you’ll find Route 66 tours include predominantly a drive alongside the scenic byway named, Historic Route 66.  

With so many states and so many miles covered (approx 2448 as a matter of fact), it’s no wonder folks always wonder what they must have on their “To-do list” for a Route 66 tour. This is a tough question to answer and for obvious reasons. The best place to start is to see how much time you actually have on hand.

 The general feedback from travellers is that two weeks, will do the trick. Yes, you’ll do a lot of driving, but you will also see some really great sites and places. What are these? Ignoring the charm of all the small towns, local gas stations and diners, let’s have a look at some of the main points of interest on a State by State basis: 

Illinois  

Even though, the state of Illinois has many great sites and attractions, the first place to be is the city of Chicago. This is one of the foremost cities in America and has many great historic sites, great restaurants and fun things to do. Start your Route 66 tour here with a day in the Windy City.  

Missouri     Eventually you’re going to make your way through Illinois and drive through Missouri. Many people are surprised by some of the interesting things to see here.   Take a stop in St Louis and take in the city life.

On route to Oklahoma City you will cross the Marsh Arch Bridge west of Riverton (small town on Route 66), Kansas. This bridge is actually the last of its kind and is also interestingly placed on the National register of Historic Places. Visit Galena and also learn about the Fort Blair and Baxter Springs Massacre.  

Oklahoma  

Your main destination is no doubt Oklahoma City. This off course doesn’t mean there’s nothing on the way there. Be on the lookout for world renowned attractions such as the Round Barn, Blue Whale, the Milk bottle building and many more! 

Texas  

With Texas, where do you start..? It’s so big! Well for many people there are a few must do’s when it comes to a route 66 tour in Texas. One of the top destinations is Amarillo. This is a place with so much charm, sites and attractions that you will be guaranteed to run out of time. Barring this, also make sure to stop by the Devil’s Rope Barbed Wire Museum, Cadillac Ranch and the Bugg Ranch in Conway. And don’t leave the state without having a steak at the famous Big Texan Restaurant.  

New Mexico 

It depends on what you are looking for, but there’s one thing that really stands out here – Ghost Towns!! Visit the deserted towns of Montoya, Newkirk and Cuervo to experience vintage Route 66 tours. You’ll love it! 

Arizona  

There are loads to do in Arizona. What’s most striking about this state is the wide variety of interesting accommodation options which travellers have. What probably stands out more than anything else is the world renowned Wigwam Hotel. This has been especially popularized by the recent animated film, Cars. The tent shaped rooms make it most of the most recognised landmarks encountered on route 66 tours.  

California     California   is almost a country on its own. The charm of the inland areas is wonderfully complemented by the coastal sites.   Take a drive down Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood and end it all of at the Santa Monica Pier near Beverly Hills.

Even though it’s slightly off the route, you may wish to consider taking a drive to the Grand Canyon. People flock from all over the world for just this one site, so it’s definitely worthwhile to take some extra time to experience this natural wonder. Accommodation on a route 66 tour is easy– motels. There are many along the way and you’ll get away real cheap. At night, go to the local bar or diner, mix with the locals and experience a once in a lifetime true American experience.