Free Printable Route 66 Map
Top Attractions
Route 66 is known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Grand Canyon, Cadillac Ranch, and the Gateway Arch. Other must-visit attractions include the Petrified Forest National Park, Wigwam Motel, and the Route 66 Museum.
Hidden Gems
While the main attractions are worth checking out, don’t overlook the hidden gems along the way. Places like the Blue Swallow Motel in New Mexico, the ghost town of Oatman in Arizona, and the Chain of Rocks Bridge in Missouri offer unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Food Scene
From classic American diners to authentic Mexican cuisine, Route 66 has a diverse food scene. Don’t miss out on the famous pie at the Midpoint Cafe in Texas, the chili cheese fries at the Cozy Dog Drive-In in Illinois, or the green chile cheeseburgers at the Owl Cafe in New Mexico.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Consider camping at one of the many RV parks along the route, packing your own snacks and drinks, and visiting free attractions like the Meramec Caverns in Missouri or the Hackberry General Store in Arizona.
Outdoor Adventures
For those who love the great outdoors, Route 66 offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring. Check out the trails at the Grand Canyon, go rock climbing in Joshua Tree National Park, or take a scenic drive through the Ozarks.
Historical Landmarks
Route 66 is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore along the way. Visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Illinois, the Route 66 State Park in Missouri, or the El Rancho Hotel in New Mexico, which once housed Hollywood stars like John Wayne and Ronald Reagan.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? There are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy along Route 66. Stop by the Route 66 Drive-In Theater in Missouri, visit the Oklahoma City Zoo, or take a dip in the Blue Hole swimming hole in New Mexico.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Looking for something a little more unique? Check out the wigwam-shaped motel rooms at the Wigwam Village in Arizona, go ghost hunting at the haunted Hotel Monte Vista in Flagstaff, or visit the Cadillac Ranch sculpture park in Texas.
Natural Wonders
Route 66 is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the country. Don’t miss the Painted Desert in Arizona, the Red Rocks of Sedona, or the waterfalls at Big Sur in California.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Route 66 comes alive with vibrant nightlife. Check out the live music scene in Austin, Texas, grab a drink at the historic Sky Bar in Missouri, or hit up the clubs in Las Vegas.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, browse the markets and shops along Route 66. Check out the Native American jewelry at the Turquoise Trading Post in New Mexico, sample the homemade fudge at Gay Parita Sinclair Station in Missouri, or pick up some Route 66 souvenirs at the Hackberry General Store in Arizona.
Beaches and Mountains
Route 66 offers a diverse landscape, from the beaches of California to the mountains of New Mexico. Take a dip in the Pacific Ocean at Santa Monica Pier, go skiing in Flagstaff, or hike to the top of Sandia Peak in Albuquerque.
Cultural Immersion
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Route 66 by visiting local museums, galleries, and cultural centers. Check out the Lowell Observatory in Arizona, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma, or the Pueblo Indian Cultural Center in New Mexico.
Art and Music Scene
Route 66 has a thriving art and music scene, with galleries, theaters, and live music venues along the way. Don’t miss the Tivoli Theatre in Missouri, the Santa Fe Opera in New Mexico, or the historic Fox Theater in Arizona.
Walking Tours
Explore the history and architecture of Route 66 on foot with a walking tour. Check out the Art Deco buildings in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Victorian homes in Carthage, Missouri, or the Spanish Revival buildings in Albuquerque.
Architectural Marvels
Route 66 is home to some of the country’s most impressive architectural marvels, from the Hoover Dam to the Gateway Arch. Check out the Wrigley Mansion in Arizona, the Biltmore Hotel in Oklahoma, or the U-Drop Inn in Texas.
Historical Sites
Learn about the history of Route 66 by visiting the historical sites and markers along the way. Check out the Route 66 Museum in California, the Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza in Oklahoma, or the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum in Illinois.
Biking Routes
For those who prefer two wheels to four, Route 66 offers plenty of scenic biking routes. Check out the Katy Trail in Missouri, the Santa Fe Trail in Kansas, or the La Luz Trail in New Mexico.
Wellness Retreats
Looking for some rest and relaxation? Route 66 has plenty of wellness retreats and spas. Check out the Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa in New Mexico, the Red Mountain Resort in Utah, or the Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa.
Adventure Sports
For the adrenaline junkies, Route 66 offers plenty of adventure sports. Try white water rafting in the Grand Canyon, skydiving in Oklahoma, or bungee jumping in Las Vegas.
