Route 66: A Journey Through American History
U.S. Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, is more than just a highway; it is a ribbon of asphalt that ties together eight states and nearly a century of American history. Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, its original 2,448-mile (3,940 km) path became a symbol of hope and migration. Today, driving segments of Historic Route 66 offers a nostalgic glimpse into the past, with its classic motels, neon signs, quirky roadside attractions, and the enduring spirit of small-town America.
While the original Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985, having been replaced by the modern Interstate Highway System, dedicated communities and travelers have preserved much of its character. A journey here is less about speed and efficiency and more about embracing the detours and discovering the stories along the way.
The History of Route 66
The history of Route 66 is a reflection of 20th-century America. Commissioned in 1926, it was one of the nation’s first original highways. It was not a modern superhighway but a collection of existing local roads linked together. In the 1930s, during the Dust Bowl environmental disaster, it became the primary path for families migrating west from the drought-stricken plains in search of work and a better life in California, an experience immortalized in John Steinbeck’s novel The Grapes of Wrath.
After World War II, the highway fueled a new era of optimism and the rise of American car culture. Families took to the road for vacation, and a vibrant economy of motor courts (motels), diners, and gas stations sprang up to serve them. The road’s famous quirky attractions, from giant ketchup bottles to reptile farms, were born from this era. However, with the passage of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, the construction of larger, faster interstates began. Over the next three decades, Route 66 was slowly bypassed, section by section, until its official removal from the U.S. Highway System. Its revival as a historic and scenic route ensures its legacy continues.
Planning a Modern Route 66 Adventure
Driving Route 66 today requires a bit of an adventurous spirit. The route is no longer a continuous, clearly marked road. It often weaves on and off the interstate, sometimes becoming a quiet small-town main street or a forgotten strip of asphalt.
When to Go & Weather: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the ideal times for this cross-country journey. The weather is generally pleasant across all eight states. Summer can be brutally hot, especially through the desert sections of Arizona and California, where temperatures regularly exceed 100°F (38°C). Winter can bring snow and ice to the Midwest portions in Illinois, Missouri, and Oklahoma, making driving conditions hazardous.
Getting There & Around: Few people drive the entire route in one go. A more practical approach is to choose a segment that interests you most. For example, you could focus on the Midwest portion from Chicago to Oklahoma City, or the iconic Southwest stretch from Albuquerque to Santa Monica. You will need a reliable rental car. Be prepared for high one-way rental fees if you drop the car in a different city. A good, modern guidebook or a dedicated Route 66 navigation app is essential, as following the old alignments can be tricky. A paper map is a wise backup, as cell service can be unreliable in rural areas.
Accessibility: Accessibility along Route 66 is highly variable. Many of the preserved historic motels and diners were built long before the ADA and may have steps, narrow doorways, and non-compliant restrooms. However, most towns along the route also have modern, chain hotels located near the interstate exits that offer fully accessible rooms. Many of the classic roadside attractions are visible from your car or a paved parking area. When in doubt, call ahead to inquire about specific accessibility needs.
Costs & Passes: Route 66 can be a relatively affordable road trip. Classic, restored motels often cost between $80 and $150 per night. A meal at a historic diner will typically run $15–$25. Fuel will be your largest variable cost. Many of the best attractions are free to see from the roadside. Museums and specific tours will have admission fees, usually in the $10–$20 range. Unlike trips focused on national parks, you will not need special passes for this journey.
Safety & Etiquette: Be vigilant about your vehicle’s condition. Have your tires, fluids, and air conditioning checked before you go. In the desert Southwest, always carry several gallons of extra water in your car. Some old sections of the road are poorly maintained or unpaved; be cautious and turn back if you are uncomfortable. When stopping for photos, be respectful of private property. Many old gas stations or motels are now private homes or businesses. Support the small towns along the route by shopping at local stores and eating at local diners.
A Simple Budget Example for One Week on Route 66
Here is a practical budget for two people driving a segment of Route 66, for example, from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Kingman, Arizona. This sample budget excludes the cost of flights and the car rental itself, which can vary widely.
For a seven-night trip, accommodations in a mix of classic motels and budget-friendly chain hotels could average $120 per night, for a total of $840. Fuel for a mid-size sedan covering approximately 1,000 miles (1,600 km) might cost around $300 to $400, depending on your vehicle’s efficiency and current gas prices. A food budget of $80 per person per day is a comfortable estimate, allowing for diner breakfasts, simple lunches, and sit-down dinners. This comes to $1,120 for two people. Finally, setting aside about $250 for attraction fees, small museums, and souvenirs is a good idea. This brings the estimated total for the week to approximately $2,510, or about $1,255 per person.
