Why Road Trip Route 66 Through the Southern States
12/08/2025
Buckle up. Route 66 isn’t just a highway – it’s a ribbon of Americana, unrolling across eight states and three time zones, from Chicago’s soaring skyline to the sunburnt sands of Santa Monica. In this blog, we explore the must-see cities, quirky roadside stops, and scenic highlights along the way, with insider tips from our own Charlotte, who’s sharing her favourite discoveries from the drive. It’s the ultimate road trip – a journey that pulses with nostalgia, freedom, and the kind of scenery that makes you want to hit the brakes and take it all in.
Meet Charlotte!
This is our Social Media Assistant Manager, Charlotte! And she's ready to share the top tricks and all the lesser-known destinations. Here's why she loved Route 66:
"The journey itself became part of the adventure; our drive from Palm Springs to Las Vegas took us through the heart of the Mojave Desert, and we were able to stop off at classic roadside diners for a true slice of the American experience. In Las Vegas, having our own car meant we could discover beyond the Strip. A short drive took us to Red Rock Canyon and the Valley of Fire State Park, which offered a peaceful contrast to the bright lights of Las Vegas. And eventually led us to the Grand Canyon - an experience so stunning that words and photos can't do it justice."
One Holiday, Endless Destinations
Route 66 is more than a road; it’s the ultimate open-air itinerary. One holiday, endless destinations: from buzzing cities to blink-and-you''ll-miss-it towns, vast canyons to kitschy roadside diners. What makes it truly iconic is the freedom to see it all from behind the wheel, imagine hitting cruise control in a convertible, top down, wind in your hair, and the sun bouncing off polished chrome. This is travel that doesn’t just get you somewhere, it turns every mile into a memory.
Weird and Whacky Landmarks
This isn’t a trip for the straight and narrow. Along Route 66, the landscape is peppered with the weird and the wonderful: a giant blue whale lounging beside a pond in Catoosa, a leaning water tower in Groom that defies both gravity and logic, and Cadillac Ranch, half car graveyard, half graffiti gallery, sitting proudly in the Texas dust. These offbeat attractions are more than photo opportunities; they're the personality quirks of the Mother Road, each one a bumper sticker for your memory.
You Can Choose your Itinerary
Route 66 is a rare kind of road; it doesn’t just lead you somewhere; it lets you take the wheel on how you get there. You can ride it end-to-end, engine humming from Illinois to California, or steer off-road whenever the mood strikes. Go slow and soak in every small-town diner and neon motel, or put the pedal down and chase the open horizon. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all route, it’s a journey built for the curious, the restless, and the wild-at-heart.
Top 3 Cities and Towns Across Route 66
Route 66 goes through 8 states all together, so it can be over whelming to choose where to stop. But don't worry, because we've picked the top 3, so you don't have to.
Chicago, Illinois
Start your engines in Chicago, where Route 66 officially begins. This metropolis isn’t just a city, it’s a roaring launch pad of steel, jazz, and legendary deep-dish. Glide past architectural marvels like the John Hancock Center and the Tribune Tower, or fuel up with a hot dog. Then hit the road, your great American odyssey begins at the corner of Adams Street and head for Springfield in Illinois.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Cruise into Albuquerque and you’ll feel the rhythm shift, a city where colourful building and desert charm collide. The Sandia Mountains frame every sunset, while Old Town hums with handcrafted treasures. From vintage motels to roadside diners, this high-desert haven is a time capsule. Don’t miss a spin down Central Avenue, where the past remains prominent.
Amarillo, Texas
Amarillo, AKA “yellow city”, is well known for its mix of cowboy culture, unique attractions, and beautiful natural landscapes. If you’re an explorer, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the place to visit, with a range of landscapes creating that cowboy feeling for anyone who visits. Want to refuel before hitting the road? U-Drop Inn Café is a restored gas station turned diner and a must-visit.
Ready to Press Cruise Control and Hit the Break on Real Life?
Route 66 has something for everyone, whether you enjoy car trips with a good playlist, memorable moments, or love exploring new places. So, if you're ready Route 66 is waiting for you!