Top Things to See and Do on a Route 66 Holiday

A Route 66 road trip is a once-in-a-lifetime overland adventure along what is probably the most famous road in the world. With its quirky roadside dinners, charming towns and avant-garde roadside architecture, Route 66 is a symbol of the American dream. America’s 'Mother Road' bisects the heart of the country, linking Chicago with Los Angeles, and provides a glimpse into the soul of the nation making this iconic journey a must for those wishing to experience true Americana.

Here's a lowdown on the highlights and key places to visit on Route 66:

Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas):

Cadillac Ranch is a roadside attraction in Texas featuring ten cars half buried in the soil, evoking the traditional structure of a "curb" street. Visitors are encouraged to create art pieces by spray painting and using other paint supplies to make their impressions of the Cadillacs.

The Painted Desert (Indian Wells, Arizona):

Located in northern Arizona, this region comprises several distinctive geologic formations and is home to nine distinct ecosystems, including the Sonoran Desert. The vast and beautiful landscape is known for its kaleidoscope of colours and layers. A short detour from Route 66 allows travellers to experience the amazing sunset over the Painted Desert, where the sky and rocks light up together in rich shades of red, orange, and purple.

The Milk Bottle Grocery (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma):

A famous photo stop along the Mother Road in Oklahoma City, the Milk Bottle Grocery is one of the quintessential landmarks of Route 66. Once a grocery and milk store, today it is home to a café. For ideas and inspiration on Route 66 holidays speak to us today.

St Louis and the Gateway Arch (St Louis, Missouri):

St Louis is generally the first or second stop after commencing a Route 66 journey in Chicago. The Gateway Arch one of the first iconic structures of the road and serves as a ‘Gateway to the West’. A symbol of St Louis, it is possible to ascend to the summit of the arch for spectacular views of the city below.

Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum (Pontiac, Illinois):

The Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum, located 100 miles from the start of the road, is dedicated to the famous Mother Road and features memorabilia, artefacts and historic items. The museum is a must for those interested in the history of Route 66 and what life was like in America during the road’s heyday. Contact us for the best Route 66 driving holidays today!

Petrified Forest (Holbrook, Arizona):

The Petrified Forest National Park, located in northeastern Arizona close to Holbrook, is home to the best-preserved sequence of petrified wood found anywhere in the world. With scenic vistas, caves and fascinating geology as well as Native American archaeology and history there is plenty to see and do.

Santa Monica Pier (LA, California):

The traditional end-point of Route 66, the pier at Santa Monica is a fitting place to reminisce on the epic overland road-trip you have just completed. With its iconic Ferris wheel and amusement park overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the pier is an icon of the United States and draws thousands of visitors each year.

Additionally, the Blue Whale (Catoosa, Oklahoma), Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, Arizona), Palo Duro Canyon State Park (Amarillo, Texas), Lou Mitchell's Diner (Chicago, Illinois), Tee Pee Curios Shop (Tucumcari, New Mexico), Meramec Caverns (Stanton, Missouri), Gemini Giant (Wilmington, Illinois) and historic Seligman (Arizona) are amongst many of the other popular attractions worth visiting.

Lauren Curd - Head of Leisure Travel. Pettitts Travel is an independent tour operator and travel agency that specialises in arranging private and unique tours.