Route 66 in 2026 Adventure
What a Road Trip it will be!
My Route 66 Adventure: Exploring One State at a Time
In 2026, I’ll be hitting the road for the ultimate American road trip—traveling the entire length of Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica. To make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime journey, I’m breaking it down state by state, mapping out the stops I don’t want to miss, and sharing all the roadside gems I plan to explore along the way.
Each section of Route 66 has its own unique flavor, and Illinois is where it all begins. From the iconic “Begin Route 66” sign in Chicago to quirky attractions and small-town charm, this first leg of the road is packed with nostalgia and Americana. Scroll through to see the must-visit places I’m planning to stop in Illinois—and keep checking back as I add highlights from each state on the route!
This list of stops and stays matches my quirky personality perfectly—from vintage neon motels and roadside diners to Muffler Man sightings and offbeat roadside attractions. I love the history, the kitsch, and all the little surprises you find when you’re not in a hurry. There’s definitely a lot more to see than I could list here, but you get the picture! This journey is all about the experience—and I plan to soak in every mile of it.
As I prepare for my 2026 Route 66 road trip, I’m diving deep into all the places that make this journey unforgettable—from vintage motels and quirky roadside attractions to classic diners, historic landmarks, and hidden gems in every state. Below, you’ll find blog posts highlighting the must-see sights, one-of-a-kind places to stay, and delicious, offbeat spots to grab a bite along the way. Whether you’re planning your own adventure or just love the nostalgia of the Mother Road, these posts are packed with the spirit of Route 66 and everything I can’t wait to explore!
Quirky Giants on Route 66 -Muffler Men & More
Get ready for some larger-than-life fun! From the iconic Gemini Giant to quirky Muffler Men holding hot dogs and pies, Route 66 is full of giant statues that keep the Mother Road’s roadside spirit alive. Discover where to find these legendary landmarks, snap the ultimate photos, and add a little extra Americana to your next road trip adventure!
The Historic El Rancho Hotel One Stop You Can’t Miss
This is one stop I refuse to miss on my 2026 Route 66 road trip! The historic El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico, once hosted Hollywood’s biggest stars and now welcomes travelers with a perfect mix of Old West charm and fresh modern upgrades. From celebrity-themed rooms to a stunningly restored lobby and a revived restaurant, the El Rancho promises an unforgettable overnight stay right on the Mother Road. Come see why this piece of Route 66 history is still shining bright today!
Celebrating 100 Years of Route 66
In 2026, the legendary Route 66 turns 100 years old—marking a century of adventure, neon lights, and the spirit of the open road. From Chicago to Santa Monica, each of the eight states along the Mother Road is gearing up with special events, historic restorations, and community celebrations that promise to boost local economies and honor America’s Main Street like never before. Get ready to hit the highway and be part of this once-in-a-lifetime centennial celebration!
Illinois
Route 66 Hotel & CONFERENCE CENTER
The Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center is locally owned and operated in the heart of Springfield, Illinois on the historic Route 66 only hours from Chicago and St. Louis. The facility features a unique “mini museum” with an array of vehicles, signs and articles from the recent past for an authentic Route 66 experience. The hotel was the first Holiday Inn on the Route 66 and opened in the 1950s.
Website: https://www.rt66hotel.com/
MOTEL
COMING SOON
MOTEL
COMING SOON
Missouri
Boots - Carthage
107 S Garrison Ave, Carthage Missouri 64836
The historic 1939 Boots Court motel is located at the “Crossroads of America” in Carthage, Missouri, and remains one of the oldest operating motels along the iconic Route 66. The original structure was conceived by Arthur Boots in the Streamline Moderne style and designed specifically for the Route 66 tourist trade.
Wagon Wheel Motel - Cuba
901 E. Washington Blvd, Cuba Missouri 65453
One of the oldest motels on US Route 66, the Wagon Wheel Cabins consisted in 1938 of three stone lodging buildings. Set back from the road, these originally provided a few rooms each plus an office and garages for motorcar storage. This was at a time when cabins or cottages in most tourist courts were simple single-room structures. The restaurant, filling station and signage were located at roadside.
Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven -Springfield
203 S. Glenstone Ave. Springfield, Missouri 65802
Though the classic motel has been renovated many times through the years, it still maintains the vintage charm that made it a popular place to stay in its heyday. The L-shaped motel pays homage to its past with old-fashioned cars, retro gas pumps and classic neon signs on the property. But it also stays current by offering free high-speed internet, cable TV, free parking, and complimentary breakfast.
Kansas
Cars on the Route — Galena
Rt 66 Historic Byway Sign - Baxter
Rainbow Bridge — Riverton
Oklahoma
The Mayo Hotel - Tulsa
115 W 5th St, Tulsa, OK 74103
Located in the heart of Tulsa, the Mayo Hotel is one of the most iconic Route 66 Hotels and well worth a visit on your road trip. You’ll find the hotel in the Deco district, close to a wide variety of restaurants and shops, making it the perfect opportunity to spend a few nights in Tulsa.
Flamingo Inn- Elk City, OK
2000 West 3rd Street, Elk city, OK 73644
You won’t exactly be living in the lap of luxury when you stay at the Flamingo Inn, but you will be staying in a motel that has played host to countless Route 66 travelers over the years. A stay here will make you a part of the history of the Mother Road.
Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios
No Route 66 adventure through Tulsa is complete without meeting Buck Atom, the space cowboy muffler man! Standing proudly in front of Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on 66, this larger-than-life fiberglass figure is a modern twist on the classic roadside giant — complete with a shiny silver spacesuit and jetpack.
The shop itself is a must-stop for quirky Route 66 souvenirs, retro T-shirts, neon patches, and local Tulsa goodies. It’s a fun, kitschy photo op that perfectly captures Route 66’s love for all things big, bold, and a little bit weird.
Texas
Cadillac Ranch - Amarillo
No Route 66 trip is complete without seeing Cadillac Ranch. Just outside Amarillo, you’ll find ten vintage Cadillacs buried nose-first in the dirt. Bring a can of spray paint — it’s encouraged to leave your mark on these ever-changing works of art!
Big Texan Motel -Amarillo
7701 East Interstate 40, Amarillo, TX 79118
may not be as old as some of the other motels on this list, but that does not make it any less famous. In fact, the look of the Big Texan Ranch Motel is almost impossible to ignore. The outside of the motel has been designed to look like an old town from 1800s Texas. And, you know what? It works insanely well on Route 66.
U-Drop Inn Neon Tower - Shamrock
Dubbed "the Taj Mahal of Texas," the Tower Station and U Drop Inn is the ancestor of the modern gas station/mini-mart. It opened for Route 66 business on April 1, 1936, and was the brainstorm of John Lawson Nunn (1902-1957). According to Mother Road lore, Nunn used an old nail to sketch his vision for the three-building complex in the dirt of a nearby motor court driveway
New Mexico
Tucumcari’s Murals & Blue Swallow Motel
Tucumcari is Route 66 nostalgia at its finest. The town is famous for its neon signs, mid-century motor courts, and colorful murals that celebrate the Mother Road’s history. Stay overnight at the Blue Swallow Motel — its glowing neon and classic garages make it an icon.
Whiting Bros Service Station —Moriarty
The Whiting Bros. Service Station in Moriarty, New Mexico, located on Old Route 66, is a notable landmark. It's the only remaining Whiting Bros. station still operating with its original signage. Sal Lucero, a long-time employee of the chain, purchased the station in the 1980s and kept the Whiting Bros. name. While it no longer sells gas, it provides tire repairs and other automotive services,
Santa Rosa Blue Hole — Santa Rosa
The Santa Rosa Blue Hole is a famous natural swimming and diving destination in Santa Rosa, New Mexico, known for its clear, blue water and consistent temperature. It's a circular, bell-shaped pool fed by an artesian spring, with a depth of 80 feet and a widening diameter as it descends. The Blue Hole is a popular spot for scuba diving and training, and it's also a popular tourist attraction, particularly along historic Route 66.
Arizona
Wigwam Motel - Holbrook
This Wigwam Village was built in 1950. There is one in California - but we didn't stay there and reports say it's not as nice as the Holbrook one.
The motel is arranged as a square, with 15 concrete and steel wigwams on three sides and the main office on the fourth, flanked by two smaller sized wigwams; there was also originally a gas station on the complex. The individual units are called "wigwams," not "rooms" or "tepees" or "cabins." Behind the main room of each unit is a small bathroom with sink, toilet and shower. Current rooms contain the original restored hickory furniture, two double beds, cable TV and a window-mounted air conditioner. In keeping with the authenticity of the restoration, there are no telephones, Internet access or ice machine. Vintage restored automobiles from the 1960s and earlier are located throughout the parking area.
Website:
Brad's Desert Inn -
The outside is painted desert gold, and bedecked with all sorts of western paraphernalia. The rooms have thematic touches, such as full wall murals of trains or desert scenes, and cozy western blankets.
The Birthplace of Historic Rt 66
Is widely known as the "Birthplace of Historic Route 66". This designation stems from the town's pivotal role in preserving the legacy of the Mother Road after it was bypassed by Interstate 40. In 1987, a local barber, Angel Delgadillo, spearheaded efforts to recognize and preserve Route 66's cultural importance, leading to the state's official designation of the stretch from Seligman to Kingman as Historic Route 66.
California
Roy's Motel & Cafe -Amboy CA
87520 National Trails Hwy, Amboy, CA 92304
The Roy’s sign is famous along the route. Chances are that most people have considered snapping a photo of that big neon sign. In 1938, Roy’s was opened in a growing town looking to latch into the popularity of Route 66. It was a gas station, motel, and restaurant all rolled into one.
Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch — Oro Grande
One of the most magical stops on Route 66! Walk through a forest of metal “trees” adorned with colorful glass bottles, vintage signs, and welded oddities. It’s quirky, peaceful, and one-of-a-kind — bring your camera!
Route 66 Mother Road Museum
Located in the historic Harvey House, this small museum is packed with vintage signs, photos, and memorabilia. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and learn a bit more about the road’s history.
Motels along Route 66
your ultimate guide to the most iconic motels lining Route 66. From teepee-shaped rooms and neon-lit signs to Hollywood-themed suites and mid-century motor courts, these vintage motels are more than places to sleep—they’re time machines.
Tastes of Route 66
Your ultimate guide to the most iconic diners and roadside eateries along America’s legendary highway. From neon-lit burger joints to vintage soda fountains, this page features must-visit spots where the coffee is strong, the jukebox is playing, and the pie is always homemade. Whether you’re planning your own cross-country trip or just dreaming of one, these Route 66 diners offer a delicious bite of nostalgia with every stop.