Visit Route 66
Drive Route 66
Route 66, the 2,451-mile route between Chicago and Los Angeles, is one of the world’s most iconic road trips. Crossing eight states and three time zones, the highway passes through wild, cactus-filled landscapes, dusty, middle-of-nowhere towns, rugged mountains and cities more than a little reminiscent of the Old West. You’ll need at least two weeks to do it justice, longer if you want to explore Chicago and LA too.
To start planning your Route 66 holiday give our USA Experts a call today on 0800 707 6010.
Get your kicks on Route 66! Starting in Chicago and ending in LA, or vice versa, this all-American highway has been capturing the imagination of road trippers for almost a century. Taking you through some of the Midwest’s most spectacular scenery, some vibrant cities and a whole lot of nothing in between, the original highway, which opened in 1926, has been shifted and diverted over the years, but don’t let that stop you: jump in your Corvette, grab a map and soak up the history and landscapes of this historic drive.
Did you know?
Route 66 crosses three time zones and eight US states, which are, from east to west, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California.
One of the more unusual stops on Route 66 is the Cadillac Ranch, an art installation featuring a row of Cadillacs buried nose first in the ground near Amarillo, Texas.
There are a number of abandoned gas stations located along Route 66. While the petrol has long since dried up, they’re an interesting insight into a time gone by.
The highest point on the route is at Continental Divide, New Mexico, at 2,209m. The lowest point is Santa Monica, California, which is at sea level.
How to get around
Get behind the wheel
Route 66 is a 2,400 mile highway stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, so turning it into a road trip is the ideal way to explore. Hiring a car at either end is possible, and gives you the freedom to stop as and when you choose. You can even take diversions – the Grand Canyon is a popular one – and choose your own route across the USA. All manner of cars are available, and you can even hire a motorbike. If driving isn’t possible then tours are available – speak to our USA Experts for further information.