route 66 motorcycle road trip

Riding Historic Route 66 on Motorcycle

Route 66 was one of the United State's first continuous stretches of paved highway, and served as a major path for those who migrated west. Today, many choose to ride and tour the historic route by motorcycle.

In the early years many sections connected only one small town to the next, and had no official federal route number. However, in 1926 the route was formalized as a Federal Highway numbered as "U.S. 66".

It became known as "The Mother Road" and ultimately stretched 2,448 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles. The route was also called "The Main Street of America" and the "Will Rogers Highway".

From its beginning in Chicago, Route 66 headed south through Illinois and Missouri, and a small section of southeast Kansas.

From there it turned in a more westward direction through Oklahoma and Texas, with the final stretches in New Mexico and Arizona before its termination point in Los Angeles.

Alignments of the road changed often over the years, as improved sections of highway were constructed.

The passage of the Federal Highway Act of 1956 sounded the death knell for the old road, and gradually segments were replaced with new, safer superhighways.

Its final demise was the completion of the Interstate Highway System, and Route 66 was officially removed from the United States Highway System on June 27, 1985. Route 66 was replaced by five Interstates: I-55 from Chicago, I-44, I-40, I-15 and finally I-10 into Los Angeles.

We've had the pleasure of driving in all eight states along Route 66, The Main Street of America !

Included on this website are photographs, personal experiences, commentary and travel recommendations on the various segments of the Mother Road.

Touring Route 66

Get your motor running! Get out on the highway! Route 66 attracts a variety of tourists from across the United States and Canada, as well as many from European countries, and even far away locales like Australia and Japan.

There are many ways to see and experience Route 66, whether it be by private auto, RV, or tour bus. Trips along the entire 2,000 mile route can take 10-14 days, or more depending on the number of stops, and side trips to attractions like the Grand Canyon .

Many travelers on Route 66 also ride their own bikes or rent motorcycles to seek new open-air adventures on their USA road trip!

Renting Motorcycles for a Route 66 Trip

A variety of motorcycle rental plans and guided tours are available, such as those from Eaglerider Motorcycle Rentals . These are excellent plans for those traveling from Europe, Australia or other countries to ride on Route 66.

Groups in other countries such as JoyRides - Explorify Tours also provide services and tours related to Route 66 - It is one of the world’s largest car and motorcycle tour operators.

In Spain, a popular company arranging Route 66 trips, bike rentals, and guided tours is the Route66Experience.eu

Out West, your motorcycle can be picked up at a number of rental locations in Nevada, California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. If you are starting your Route 66 trip further north, motorcycle pickup locations in Illinois are available.

Model options are plentiful, and cycles from manufacturers such as Harley-Davidson and Indian are available. Trikes can also be rented.

If you don't want to ride independently, choose from one of many guided motorcycle tours. Self-drive tours often include rental of the motorcycle, hotel reservations and detailed tour route information.

Some companies offer one-way rentals, hotel pickups, luggage storage, helmets and other amenities.

Insurance, Licenses and More

Whether you are riding your own bike, or renting one, we highly recommend investigating all travel considerations, and then planning accordingly.

Make sure you have necessary travel insurance and health insurance, and coverage for lost passports, theft, damage to your bike, and travel disruptions. Consider mileage limitations from renters and roadside assistance before embarking on your trip. Also, be knowledgeable on motorcycle laws such as helmet usage and licenses in each state.

The Lore of Route 66: The Main Street of America

Route 66 became one of the most famous roads in the United States, outdistancing others such as the Lincoln Highway.

It is popular lore in movies, songs, books, and TV shows. The movie "Easy Rider" was filmed at several locations along Route 66.

The route was known far and wide for its variety of "mom and pop" motels, neon lights, drive-ins, quirky roadside attractions, flat tires, cars with no air conditioning, dangerous curves, steep hills, and narrow lanes.

The popularity stuck, and grew!

Route 66: The TV Show

A popular television show during the early 1960s bore the road's name: "Route 66". Starring George Maharis as Buz, and Martin Milner as Tod, the two young adventurers drove the road in their Corvette for 116 episodes.

Despite the name of the series, most episodes did NOT take place on the historic road, but in 25 different U.S. states.

The show was filmed mostly on location, and became known for its cinematography. A long list of well-known actors and actresses appeared on the series.

The show ran from October, 1960, through March, 1964, and created a huge following.

The interest in the show continues today by "Baby Boomers" who remember the original showings, and new generations of viewers fascinated by the show who watch it on DVD.

Read more about the Route 66 TV series ... and those Corvettes!

Route 66 Map from Chicago to Santa Monica

Road Trip Travel Guides for Various States Along Route 66

Planning a road trip on Route 66? Here are the travel guides and reviews by state...

Route 66 Today

Today, several states recognize the historical significance of the road, and have it marked with "66" in the state highway number.

The road is also a major tourist attraction, so many states openly market attractions and lodging along the old route.

The old road still traverses dozens of small towns with vintage gas stations, quirky tourist attractions, diners, "Mom & Pop" motels, historic sites, stunning vistas, and gift shops.

Photo Highlights from Road Trips Along Route 66

Included below are photo highlights of some of the more popular attractions and stops along Route 66. Hopefully the photographs will convey the type of sights you will experience riding your bike on the Mother Road!

Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum

The museum is a repository for thousands of pieces of historic memorabilia from the glory days of the Mother Road.

This is a great place to learn the history of Route 66 in Illinois, see images of the road's wonderful history, and hear a few great stories about life in America when Route 66 was the most important highway in the nation.

Located at 115 W. Howard Street in Pontiac, Illinois

A Texas Ghost Town

Sitting directly on the Texas - New Mexico border at Exit 0 is the abandoned ghost town of Glenrio .

The townsite still has noticeable traces of Route 66 and the motels and restaurants that used to thrive there before the arrival of I-40.

Today it includes the Glenrio Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. The district encompasses the Route 66 roadbed and 17 abandoned structures.

Remains can still be seen of an old motel, cafe, service station, the post office, and a few other buildings, as well as the old Route 66 roadbed.

Read more about the history and current status of Glenrio .

Standin' on the Corner Park in Winslow, Arizona

This area was dedicated on September 11, 1999, as a tribute to the memorable song of the 1970s that made Winslow , Arizona a town to sing about on famous Route 66.

The song "Take It Easy" includes the verse "Well, I'm a standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona and such a fine sight to see".

The park is located at the corner of Old Route 66 and North Kinsley Avenue.

Seligman ... Birth Place of Historic Route 66

One of the original U.S. Highways, Route 66 was established on November 11, 1926, stretching 2,448 miles.

Route 66 served as a major path for those who migrated west.

A favorite stopping place on Rouge 66 in Arizona is the town of Seligman .

Its earlier roots was as a railroad town. Originally Seligman was called “Prescott Junction” because it was the railroad stop on the Santa Fe Railroad mainline junction with the Prescott and Arizona Central Railway Company.

In 1886 it was renamed Seligman, after Jesse Seligman, one of the founders of J.W. Seligman Co. of New York, who helped finance the railroad lines in the area.

In 1987 Seligman became known as the “Birthplace of Historic Route 66” .

Today, Seligman is home to numerous gift shops, restaurants and several small motels. It is truly a step back in time!

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The Ultimate Route 66 Road Trip

From flashy neon to roadside kitsch, here’s everything you need to know about the Mother Road, complete with interactive maps.

Last updated October 11, 2021

Route 66 is the quintessential embodiment of the road and all its greatest promises: freedom and serendipity, kitsch and living history, and a case study of the very particular way Americans have moved and multiplied. You can certainly travel eastward on Route 66 (in fact, we highly recommend it), but there’s no denying the symbolic strength of at least one westward journey along its patchwork of asphalt.

Everything you need to know about Route 66

Route 66 map.

• Our favorite attractions

Route 66 history

Order Roadtrippers' Route 66 book

Our brand new Route 66 book will help you find every classic, quirky, and fun stop along the Mother Road.

Ready to get started? Don’t leave home without your trusty Route 66 map . It’s a good idea to bring a paper map of Route 66 as back-up in case you don’t have cell reception. But the Roadtrippers trip planner is going to be your best friend along the journey, with pre-made maps and guides ready to help make your trip a success.

Route 66 attractions

Here’s some of our favorite Route 66 attractions. Make sure you don’t miss them on your next trip down the Mother Road.

Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch National Park is so much more than just the iconic arch. There’s also a free museum with exhibits detailing America’s westward expansion and the building of the Gateway Arch, which is a good place to start if you’re waiting for your ride to the top (or if you’re scared of heights but still want the arch experience). A trip to the top of the Eero Saarinen-designed monument—the world’s tallest arch and the tallest man-made monument in the U.S.—offers great views of both sides of the Mississippi.

Blue Whale of Catoosa

The Blue Whale of Cartoosa is one of the most popular roadside attractions along Route 66. It was built by Hugh Davis in the early 1970s as a surprise anniversary gift for his wife Zelta, who loved whales and collected whale figurines. Take time to wander around the remnants of this famed roadside wonder, and have a snack at one of the picnic tables.

Cadillac Ranch

Ten Cadillacs stand along Interstate 40 , buried in the dirt at the same angles as the Great Pyramids of Giza. Visitors are encouraged to bring a can of spray paint and add their own mark to this unique roadside art installation. Spray painting the Cadillacs is a rite of passage for any true roadtripper, and the installation has gone through quite a few makeovers throughout the years. 

Oatman, Arizona

You’d be hard-pressed to find a ghost town more real—or more alive—than Oatman . Located at the edge of Arizona on Route 66 and perched 2,700 feet above sea level in the Black Mountains, Oatman is a strange place run by wild burros.

Santa Monica Pier

Whether you call it the starting or ending point of the Mother Road, the Santa Monica Pier is the perfect spot to stretch your legs or snap photos of the ocean before embarking on a 2,000-mile trip east. Sure it’s touristy, but that shouldn’t stop you from taking a ride on the 1922 carousel or grabbing something sweet from the soda fountain. From the roller coaster and Ferris wheel to the arcade and the sign noting that it is the official end of Route 66, there’s tons of fun to be had here.

Although it only existed as a unified, legally codified road for 59 years—between 1926 and 1985—Route 66 became a great symbolic trailway of human civilization. It will live forever as a route whose traffic reshaped the world of its time, transporting generations of adventurers, migrants, grifters, and dreamers toward untold opportunities.

Route 66 gave rise to new towns, new industries, and a new vernacular architecture. A great deal of it was lost when most cross-country travel migrated to the interstates, but today, a thriving community of people who live along the road—travelers, well-wishers, and preservationists—share news and stories, raise money to protect landmarks, maintain museums, and otherwise work hard to protect its legacy. The route’s future, thanks to roadtrippers like you, looks bright. 

Although it only existed as a unified, legally codified road for 59 years—between 1926 and 1985—Route 66 became a great symbolic trailway of human civilization.

The Mother Road has been firmly embedded in the American mythos for decades. In the 1940s, Bob Troup pounded out “(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66,” a catchy and enduring standard that has been covered by dozens of artists, from Nat King Cole to The Cramps. In the 1960s, CBS notched a major hit with Route 66, a series whose plot mostly amounted to two handsome guys rambling around the country in a Corvette roadster. Very few of the show’s episodes were actually set in towns anywhere near the road it was named for, making it clear that Route 66 had already become shorthand for the adventuresome American spirit, and for the open road itself. And since the Mother Road disappeared from official maps and its signage was removed in 1985, its mystique has only grown.

Route 66 by state

It’s time to hit the road, so hop in!

Use this guide for either westbound (Chicago to Santa Monica) or eastbound (Santa Monica to Chicago) travel along Route 66. For simplicity, this page is organized from east to west, as that’s the most popular way to experience the route. Should you venture from California to Illinois, just start by reading the section on California and work your way up the page.

Route 66 Illinois

Chicago, Illinois, is the eastern terminus of the Mother Road—depending on which way you travel, you will either start or end your trip across from Grant Park and Lake Michigan. After leaving the Windy City, the road takes you southwest through rural Midwestern towns full of classic motel neon, vintage filling stations, roadside giants, and historic bridges until you hit the Mississippi River and East St. Louis. 

The stretch of Route 66 from Chicago to St. Louis is home to aluminum-and-chrome diners, historic, family-owned cafes, bizarre attractions, and other reminders of the route’s charming past. You’ll also see plenty of cornfields and flat prairie land between the bustling cities and sleepy towns along this first leg. 

There are nearly 300 miles of Route 66 in Illinois. The state is also home to many of the country’s most famous Muffler Men , those fiberglass titans of retro roadside kitsch. A lot of the old route has been gobbled up by modern highways, in particular I-55, but there’s still plenty of neon, fiberglass, and chrome to keep any roadtripper happy. Traditionally, travelers begin their journey southwest near the shores of Lake Michigan, not spending too much time in Chicago. After all, the Mother Road is calling.

Route 66 Missouri

Many miles of Missouri’s Route 66 have been replaced over the years by larger highways, so what remains of the original road is a patchwork, especially in and around St. Louis. The Show-Me State contains several abandoned stretches of the Mother Road, but it’s still possible to travel on quite a bit of the original route. More than 300 miles of road takes you southwest from St. Louis to Joplin, a stretch packed with fantastic diners, classic roadside attractions, and classic photo ops. 

Few cities are lucky enough to have an architectural icon like the Gateway Arch overlooking the mighty Mississippi River, but there’s so much more to St. Louis. The city has a booming craft brewery scene, a rich history, and top-notch cultural institutions. Whether you’re eating at an old-school soda fountain or getting lost in a phantasmagorical wonderland, St. Louis is an excellent weekend destination.

The stretch of Route 66 from St. Louis to Tulsa is considered by some travelers to be the heart of Route 66. It’s where east meets west, linking up the Midwest with the West Coast. Much of this stretch is on I-44, which means lots of exits and county roads, but the scenery is often beautiful.

Springfield is known both as the “Queen City of the Ozarks” and the “Birthplace of Route 66.” Located in south-central Missouri at a strategic crossroads, Springfield was a railroad hub, home to a bloody Civil War battle, and played an important role in the birth of the Mother Road. Route 66 was aligned through the city in 1926, realigned in 1936, and funneled travelers to the many motels and businesses located along the way until I-44 bypassed the city in 1958.

Route 66 Kansas

The Kansas section of Route 66 is short but sweet, and manages to pack in several must-see stops in a little under 14 miles (13.2 to be exact). This small stretch passes through three towns—Galena, Riverton, and Baxter Springs—and can be driven in as little as 30 minutes. Kansas is the only state on your journey where the Mother Road isn’t interrupted by the interstate. Don’t miss the only remaining Marsh Arch Rainbow Bridge, several museums, and other small businesses—on Kansas’ stretch of Route 66, you’ll find quality over quantity.

Galena is one of the most well-preserved towns along Route 66. Home to the Kan-O-Tex gasoline station from Disney’s Cars , the Murals of Galena , and a 1952 Will Rogers Marker, Galena was once a successful mining town. The town was hit hard by the Depression and violent miner strikes. Later, when the town was bypassed by I-44, tourists stopped visiting, the mines closed down, and the population dropped. Today, several historic buildings around town offer a peek into Galena’s rocky past.

Route 66 Oklahoma

Oklahoma takes pride in, and embraces, most of its nearly 400 miles of Route 66. There are more driveable portions of the old Mother Road in Oklahoma than in any other state, and plenty of reasons to stop the car along the way. From Quapaw to Texola, this stretch is home to the Blue Whale of Catoosa , Art Deco gems of Tulsa, and two excellent museums filled with Route 66 history. Don’t forget to stop into the Sandhills Curiosity Shoppe in Erick and say hi to Harley Russell —if you’re lucky, he might just serenade you with a round of “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66,” or hand you a guitar so you can play along. 

In addition to Tulsa’s massive Golden Driller statue and the Tumbleweed Grill and Country Store , this stretch is home to some absolutely amazing retro Route 66 hotels (even if you aren’t staying, pull over for the vintage signage). A few of the more famous ones include the Desert Hills Motel in Tulsa, the Skyliner Motel in Stroud , and the Lincoln Motel in Chandler .

Take a moment to explore Stroud, a small town that is known as “Oklahoma’s Winery and Grape Capital.” Here you can also find unpaved segments of the original road, built in 1915 and incorporated into Route 66 in the 1920s. Don’t miss the dirt section of the original Ozark Trail road and stop for a photo—and a BLT—at the iconic Rock Cafe .

Oklahoma City is the state’s capital and the largest city you’ll pass through on Route 66 in Oklahoma. OKC is home to many museums, memorials, and motels, in addition to a few stops worth a detour from the main route.

Route 66 Texas

The Lone Star State has about 180 miles of old Route 66 road still remaining. It closely parallels Interstate 40, so it’s easy to hop on and off stretches of the Mother Road. The billboards along I-40 may not tell you this, but we will: Some of the very best roadside attractions in the U.S. are right here in the panhandle of Texas.

The town of Vega sits right on historic Route 66 and has several landmarks worth stopping for. Also worth checking out are Dot’s Mini Museum , Rooster’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina , the Hickory Inn Cafe , Bonanza Motel , Vega Motel (built in 1947), and a restored Magnolia service station . As one of the sunniest places in the U.S., Vega is sometimes referred to as the “Solar Capital of Texas.”

Route 66 New Mexico

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment, and for good reason. There is certainly something enchanting about the Southwest. Maybe it’s the combination of hot springs, forests, desert, and mountains, or the area’s rich history and strong, visceral ties to the past. Towns such as Santa Fe and Taos are full of art galleries, boutiques, innovative architecture , museums, great restaurants, and more. There are some gorgeous side trips you can enjoy, including the High Road to Taos or a drive down the Turquoise Trail , a scenic byway that connects Santa Fe to Albuquerque. The trail commemorates the state’s mining history as it passes through the stone-and-ore-laden mountains and former boom towns. 

Albuquerque is a high desert city with an artsy vibe. Admire the Pueblo architecture, explore Old Town, pop into the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center , and learn about the desert at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden .

The Laguna Pueblo is located 45 minutes west of Albuquerque, right on Route 66. When you pass the whitewashed St. Joseph church, you’ll know that you’ve arrived at the pueblo, which spans four counties and comprises six villages. Part of the pueblo dates back to the 1400s, but people have been settled in the area since at least the 1300s, and tribes have passed through since 3000 B.C. The Pueblo of Laguna is especially fun to visit during feast days: March 19, July 25 to 26, August 10, August 15, September 8, September 19, September 25, and October 17.

Gallup is the largest city between Albuquerque and Flagstaff along Route 66, and it’s full of motels, dining options, and classic neon signage. Don’t miss the Muffler Man cowboy located just off the route near downtown. If you’re staying overnight, you can’t get much better than the old Hollywood El Rancho Hotel and Motel . Gallup, which lies in the middle of a Navajo Reservation, is also home to an abundance of Native American crafts, artwork, and history.

Route 66 Arizona

You’ll know you’re crossing into Arizona when you spot the large, bright white Teepee Trading Post advertising “jewelry, pottery, kachinas, and southwest souvenirs.” The teepee-shaped souvenir shop is set against a striking backdrop of dramatic red rock cliffs and it’s a great place to pull over, grab a drink, use the restroom, and load up on souvenirs. With the exception of the Navajo Nation, most of Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time so be sure to confirm the time as you cross the Arizona/New Mexico border.

Sedona is one of those places you just have to experience in person—even the most spectacular photos don’t fully do it justice. Surrounded by majestic red rock canyons and pine forests, this small desert town is known for its vibrant art scene and mysterious healing forces. Yes, you read that right—Sedona is supposedly a hotbed of cosmic activity, sitting atop several energy vortexes that are easily accessible through hikes and tours. With its artsy vibe and comfortable climate, Sedona is also home to cute shops and restaurants, galleries, and lots of aging hippies. 

Words (and even pictures) simply cannot do Grand Canyon National Park justice—it’s one of those truly epic places you just have to see in person to believe. Officially designated as a national park in 1919, the Grand Canyon sees more than five million visitors annually. The massive canyon was formed by erosion from the Colorado River after the plateau was lifted due to seismic activity, revealing rock that’s more than a billion years old. Whether you take in the sweeping views from the top or hike into its depths, you’ll quickly discover why it’s one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a ghost town more real—or more alive—than Oatman. Located at the edge of Arizona on Route 66 and perched 2,700 feet above sea level in the Black Mountains, Oatman is a strange place run by wild burros .

Route 66 California

The California section of Route 66 will give you a proper taste of the Golden State’s diverse scenery, from tiny desert ghost towns to the urban sprawl of Los Angeles. This stretch is also packed with iconic roadside attractions. Take your time and meander through the glass forest at Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch or get your photo taken next to the freshly restored neon sign at Roy’s Motel and Cafe . Before you know it, you’ll be finishing this epic journey at the end of the Santa Monica pier , where the West Coast meets the Pacific Ocean.

You’ll know you’re at the end of your journey once you arrive at the Pacific Ocean. But to reach the official end point of Route 66—and take a photo of the iconic “End of the trail” sign—you’ll have to ditch the car and walk to the end of the Santa Monica Pier. The coastal city of Santa Monica is also home to the original Muscle Beach outdoor gym and the pier’s Pacific Park amusement park. 

Congratulations! You have reached the end of the Mother Road—and by now you know it’s not the destination that matters, it’s the journey. But whether the Santa Monica Pier is your ending or starting point, take some time to celebrate and reflect. With more than 2,000 miles of classic neon, motels, larger-than-life roadside attractions, museums, diners, and countless colorful characters, it should be obvious why the allure of Route 66 is as strong as ever. The road may look different today than it did decades ago—or even yesterday—but that’s all part of the fun.

Roadtrippers Magazine: Route 66

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8 iconic pop culture locations on a Route 66 road trip

At the country's last remaining Woolworth's lunch counter, burgers are served with a side of Civil Rights history

Route 66 is for everyone: Immigrant communities and Somalian cowboys are challenging stereotypes along the Mother Road

Route 66 goes electric: Meet the people and initiatives bringing the Mother Road into the future

The ultimate guide to riding Route 66 on a motorcycle

How should you pack for route 66.

An over-packed car can quickly turn into a disorganized mess, and you’re likely to forget about half the stuff you brought if they’re not easy to access. With that in mind, focus on accessibility and multi-functional items. 

A small overnight bag should contain everything you need after a long day of driving—think sleepwear, toiletries, and a good book. 

Your car should be packed according to what you’ll need first. Items specific to a destination further down the road, or gear for weather that might occur later in your trip, should be packed beneath items you’ll need regularly or right away.

Where does Route 66 start and end?

Route 66 starts in downtown Chicago and ends at the Santa Monica pier in California. Throughout the journey from Chicago to Santa Monica, you’ll discover sections where the original route diverges, seemingly shooting off in two directions and yet nowhere at once. It is a prime lesson in the art of the road trip: A sudden change in direction, an abrupt end to the pavement, and a few wrong turns are all welcome parts of the adventure rather than an inconvenience.

How long does it take to drive Route 66?

Typically, travelers will plan no less than two weeks for the entire Mother Road road trip. In that amount of time, you’ll be able to visit the major sites. But if you want to savor the entire experience—strolling historic downtowns, sipping a root beer float at a soda fountain, and sleeping at a retro motel with a blinking neon sign—you could spend up to a month or longer.

What is the best way to travel Route 66?

Will you go from Chicago to Los Angeles or vice versa? Travelers often chose the east-to-west direction as that’s the route originally taken by pioneers escaping the Dust Bowl in the 1920s. But you can’t go wrong either way.

How long does it take to drive the Route 66?

What is the best time to do route 66.

The best time to take a road trip on Route 66 is from late April to early October. Be prepared for remnants of ice and snow during the early spring and thunderstorms in late spring and early summer. During July and August—peak travel months—expect sometimes sweltering temperatures, over-crowded attractions, and higher rates for lodging. 

Come late October and into November, you might see snowfall on parts of the route. Winter is considered the off-season, and some places may be closed until spring, so it’s always best to call ahead if you’re venturing out onto Route 66 between late November and early April. Whatever time you travel, expect variations in climate as you’ll be traversing through many different states and terrains.

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Route 66: The complete motorcyclist’s guide

Route 66 is an iconic road, steeped in folklore, myths and mystery and it’s one that rightly sits on most rider’s bucket list. So, we asked someone who has ridden it to open up on the reality…

The truth of the matter is that it was the first major highway across America, running approximately 2,500 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, crossing eight states and three time zones. Its first incarnation was completed in 1927, since then there have been many revisions to the route. Each revision giving rise to a change in a part of the route, often where a town was bypassed. These route variations are called ‘alignments’. Route 66 was officially decommissioned in 1985 so no longer officially exists. Some parts of the old pavement have been ripped up or covered over by interstate; couple that with the many alignments that exist in some sections of the route and it becomes a challenge to follow!

It is worth persevering and following this old route though. No matter what your interests are you’ll find many things to enjoy along the ‘mother road’. Most Route 66 enthusiasts seem to focus on kitsch ‘attractions’ such as the ‘Blue Whale’, a giant concrete whale built on the side of a lake in Catoosa Oklahoma, or the forty-two foot high ‘Worlds Largest Rocking Chair’ in Fanning Missouri. Whilst I did stop and look at these ‘attractions’ they don’t really excite me. I’m much more into countryside, natural scenery and the people.

The overview

I was delighted by the scope and variety of the countryside along the way. Illinois and Missouri are quite green and pleasant in an English sort of way. Texas is flat cattle rearing country with big skies. The scenery becomes much more desert like in New Mexico and Arizona before crossing a ‘real’ desert, the Mojave desert in California. Finally there’s the Pacific Ocean waiting at the end of the road. Once I’d completed Route 66 I headed north on Highway 1, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), to San Francisco and saw the stunning coastline and sea views of Big Sur before entering the city of San Francisco.

If the natural scenery was great, the people I met were even better. An English accent in America is an open invitation for the locals to strike up a conversation and every time I stopped someone would come up and chat. The enthusiasm that many of the local people have for Route 66 is unbounded and infectious. Just outside Miami in Oklahoma I was taking pictures of some of the original single track concrete road and Charlie stopped for a chat. He lived just up the road on Route 66 and was on his way to work. We talked about the history of the road and the people who now ran businesses along the road. He was just so keen to share his enthusiasm. Gary at the ‘Gay Parita’ restored Sinclair Gas (petrol) Station just outside Springfield Illinois drew me a map on a bit of paper to help me round some road works. The guy at the Afton Station gave me a free drink, as did a guy in a pick-up truck at a petrol station in California, just because he thought I looked thirsty.

Then there were the four Norwegian rock stars I met at a bar just outside Winslow Arizona (remember the line from the Eagles song ‘Take it Easy’: “Standing on the corner in Winslow Arizona”?) who had shipped their choppers from Norway and were on a trip around America. Matt and Mark, two American bikers riding up the PCH to avoid the heat further inland told me about the Elephant Seals on Piedras Blancas beach.

I can’t not mention Angel Delgadillo, a barber from Seligman in Arizona, founder of the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona, and largely responsible for the Route 66 revival. He is just so enthusiastic, friendly and approachable. Lastly I should mention Jules from Flagstaff Arizona and Christie from Half Moon Bay in California and thank them for their wonderful company. These are just some of the people that made my trip so rewarding.

The reality

My typical day started early, normally around 7am for breakfast, either a continental breakfast in the hotel or a more substantial breakfast in a nearby café. In New Mexico I developed a liking for breakfast burritos; these are burritos containing bacon, sausage, scrambled egg, hash browns and chilli sauce. A perfect way to start the day in my opinion!

After breakfast I’d hit the road, stopping frequently to take pictures and visit roadside attractions. Petrol stops offered the opportunity for a quick snack and drink. As it was so hot I was freezing bottles of water overnight so I had cold water throughout the day as the bottle contents slowly melted. Petrol prices varied by state and how remote the station was. It was always much cheaper than in the UK though. You have to pre-pay and they’ll refund what doesn’t go in your tank.

I generally stopped for lunch around 12.30 – 1.00 pm at a roadside café, of which there are plenty, many of which have become Route 66 attractions. Cafés such as Joe and Aggies, Lucilles, Bagdad Café, Ariston Café, Midpoint Café and Roy’s Diner have become Route 66 ‘institutions’. The food on offer is typical American fare; burgers, tacos, steaks etc. All good value when compared to UK prices. After lunch it was back on the road until I started to look for a bed for the night around 4pm-5pm. Once settled into the hotel I’d find a local restaurant for dinner and then maybe explore the local area or have a drink in a bar before bedding down for the night.

Because of the length of the road, and the changes in elevation it’s wise to think about what time of year to make the trip. Too early or late and Chicago will be snow bound. In the height of summer the Mojave desert will be far too hot for comfort. Therefore the best times are likely to be around April / May or September/October. I made my trip in August and was too hot all of the time (50C at the hottest!). So much so that in Missouri I stopped and bought a mesh jacket and posted my ventilated leather jacket back home. Apart from that I wore boots and kevlar reinforced jeans. I always rode with summer gloves but gave up wearing my full face helmet in states where I didn’t need to after I got so hot wearing it I started to feel faint and dizzy. I didn’t really experience any rain but it can, and does, rain there, so take waterproofs!

My approach to trips is to research my destination so I know what to look out for when I’m there, but not to ‘over plan’ the trip. I calculate the duration by estimating how many miles I can cover in a day divided into the expected total distance. I don’t make firm plans about where to stop and, with a few exceptions, don’t book accommodation in advance. Accommodation in America is abundant and relatively cheap, and this holds true for the Mother Road. I stayed in motels with a few hotels thrown in where necessary. When I’d had enough of riding for the day I just kept my eyes open for a likely looking resting place and, if the price was right, checked in. I only had problems finding a room in one place: Pismo Beach California, and that was because the town was hosting its annual festival.

>>> 13 essential sights you need to see while riding Route 66

I soon found a room at Avila Beach ten miles up the road though. I did book hotels for the first couple of nights in Chicago, the last couple of nights in San Francisco and for the night I spent in the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, which is one of the Route’s iconic motels. If you want to stay in any of the famous Route 66 motels, such as the Wigwam, Blue Swallow, Wagon Wheel, or Munger Moss  it’s worth booking a day or so in advance. Rates vary and I paid between $30 (£18) per night to $200 (£125) per night, but they average out at around $60 (£36) per night. It’s worth remembering that most American motels and hotels don’t have restaurants, so you’ll need to find a restaurant for your evening meal. Bear this in mind when choosing your motel or hotel.

I made my 3,362 mile trip in eighteen days. I rode every day apart from one day’s rest at Avila Beach on the PCH. This gave me an average daily mileage of 188 miles for the seventeen days I was riding. The 2,451 miles of Route 66 took me fourteen days riding every day, though I actually covered a few more miles (2,880) as I made a side trip to the Grand Canyon and multiple navigational errors! Given the choice I’d have taken longer and ridden fewer miles each day to allow more time for stops and sightseeing.

A month would be ideal for this trip, but there’s enough to see and do to fill an even longer trip if you have the time. If I repeated the trip I’d take more time in Illinois and Missouri. These are the first states that the Route passes through and towns and ‘attractions’ are far closer together and more frequent than further west in Arizona and California so more stopping time is needed in these early states.

Finding Route 66 can be difficult as it is no longer an official road. In some states the Route is well signposted, but not so well in others, so a guide book is a good idea. The best is by Jerry McClanahan and is called Route 66: EZ Guide For Travellers . It’s spiral bound with directions and sightseeing information on each page and it fits well into the map pocket of a tank bag. The instructions on the top of the page are for west bound travellers and the instructions on the bottom of the page are for eastbound travellers. Jerry also has a website that he keeps up to date with changes along the route. The guide is not available from Amazon UK, but can be ordered from the US Amazon website.

The paperwork

The paperwork involved in entering many countries can be a real pain, fortunately American formalities are relatively simple for travellers from the UK (and 36 other countries) who have machine readable passports. For stays of less than 90 days eligible applicants can go to the US Visa Waiver Program Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) website, answer a few questions and pay the fee. One of the questions asks where the applicant will stay in the US, so it’s worth pre-booking a hotel for the first night and then using the address of that hotel. After a few days a quick check back on the website shows whether the application was successful. If so, that’s it, no further paperwork is necessary as the information is recorded on a computer which is accessed by the US Immigration people on arrival.

Other than ESTA approval all that is needed is a valid passport.

Useful Info: Motorcycle Rentals: Eagle Rider Motorcycle Shippers: James Cargo Jerry McClanahan’s EZ Guide Updates ESTA (US Visa Waiver Program)  Route 66 Forum (lots of useful, up to date, info) Helmet Laws By State

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Reuthers Route 66 Dream / USA Guided Motorcycle Tour

A real "Dream Tour" is our 15-day Route 66 Guided motorcycle tour, where you will be cruising on and along the legendary mother road Route 66. This road trip combines the best parts of Route 66 with popular highlights along the route. Discover the great freedom on the endless highways of the American west in the saddle of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Visit fascinating natural wonders like the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley with its bizarre rock formations, and the Petrified Forest. During the Route 66 motorcycle tour, cozy biker bars and owner-managed restaurants with delicious American specialties await you. Get to know the culture of the Native Americans for one night at a Navajo reservation, and try your luck at one of the casinos in the glittering metropolis of Las Vegas. This Route 66 Guided motorcycle tour by Reuthers fulfills all your dreams! ...get your kicks on Route 66 - from east to west = the historical direction!

Day 1: Chicago

Welcome to Chicago. After the individual arrivals and the transfer from the airport to the hotel we will start off with a welcome drink and dinner and set the mood for our shared motorcycle tour.

Day 2: Chicago > Springfield, IL

Early in the morning we will pick up our Harley-Davidson motorcycles at the rental station and after a few safety tips, our Route 66 adventure starts. Around midday we will reach Wilmington with the Gemini Giant, a large fiberglass figure of the 1960's era. After an obligatory stop at the Dixie Truckers Home, we will end our first day in Spingfield/Illinois which was for many years the chosen home city of Abraham Lincoln, the president of the United States during the civil war.

Day 3: Springfield, IL > St. Louis

Today we want to dedicate our day to the "Gateway to the West": the pioneer town St. Louis. The town's landmark is the more than 190 m high steel Gateway Arch. Inside, we will take trams to an observation platform to the top of the highest monument of the nation. The afternoon in St. Louis is free to your disposal, for dinner we will meet in downtown Lakelade's Landing.

Day 4: St. Louis > Springfield, MO

We deliberately want to do without the unnecessary challenges of confusing streets in the city, bad road conditions and misleading signs to the "Mother Road". We will travel some distances of the tour on the Route 66 and others on the Interstate. Today's highlight and absolute must are the Meramec Caverns. The famous limestone caves have been a tourist classic since the beginning of the Route 66 and served the outlaw Jesse James as a welcome hiding place from his pursuers.

Day 5: Springfield, MO > Oklahoma City

The motto of the day today is: ride, ride and ride namely through three states: Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma. The latter is known through countless thunderstorms, the particularly striking red earth and for all Route 66 fans the probably longest continuous route on the Highway 66.

Day 6: Oklahoma City > Amarillo

We will start our day with a real photo highlight: A bridge with 38(!) huge arches spanning the Canadian River. And the Route 66 museum in Clinton that we will visit is a memorial that is different to all others: each room is dedicated to a decade of the "Main Street of America". A further highlight on our tour is the next stop and overnight stay at the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo.

Day 7: Amarillo > Santa Fe

We continue our adventure tour on the Route 66 to the legendary Cadillac Ranch. As a reminder of the golden days of the Route 66 ten Cadillac's are buried vertically into the ground. Next stop is Adrian, the geo-mathematical center of the old Route 66. This is as important as crossing the equator. Brunch at Russell's Travel Center with its world class Car Museum rounds up the morning. At the end of our eventful day, we will spend the night in historic Santa Fe.

Day 8: Santa Fe

Today is free to relax in downtown Santa Fe, buying souvenirs and enjoying cafe's and restaurants. A must to see is the St. Francis Cathedral next to the Plaza.

Day 9: Santa Fe > Gallup

This morning we want to check out the original film location of Maggie's Diner from the cult movie "Wild Hogs" with John Travolta in Madrid. After taking a group picture our tour takes us past Mesas, cottonwood trees and continues on the gentle winding road to Laguna Pueblo where the Spaniards built the mission church, which we will visit. Just in time for dinner, we will reach the hotel El Rancho in Gallup after riding several more beautiful miles through Indian Territory. The heydays are gone, but there once was a time when famous Hollywood stars met up here. Ronald Reagan slept in room 103; Humphrey Bogart in room 213, Doris Day in room 109, Kirk Douglas stayed in 105, Gregory Peck in 111. The Marx brothers resided in room 118, John Wayne recovered in room 100 after a long days ride and for Hermann the German room 101 is regularly reserved for the night.

Day 10: Gallup > Chinle

After a hearty breakfast in the "El Rancho" we will drive the former Route 666 to the North, straight through Navajo country. After some 95 appealing miles, we will arrive after passing through Shiprock and Teec Nos Pos to the Four Corners, the single point in the United States, where the boundaries of four states come together: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona. Another highlight on this motorcycle tour is Monument Valley. We will spend the night appropriately in the Navajo reservation near the Canyon de Chelly in Chinle.

Day 11: Chinle > Flagstaff

Starting off in Chinle, the first stage leads us to the Petrified Forest National Park and the Painted Desert. The more interesting of the two natural wonders is the Petrified Forest, which was formed millions of years ago by a freak of nature. The northern part of the park, the Painted Desert, consists of sedimentary rocks that change color depending on the exposure to the sun going from red to orange to purple. On our journey towards the west ("Go West", is our phrase of the day!), we will pass the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook and cruise on to Winslow, Arizona to Winslow Corner, known from the song by the Eagles. Today's destination is Flagstaff which is located between the two Indian reservations of the Navajo and Hopi on the legendary Route 66. We will end the evening at the Museum Club that the locals call "The Zoo" and which is probably the best dance club between Oklahoma City and Los Angeles.

Day 12: Flagstaff > Seligman

Today's highlight is the gigantic Grand Canyon - if you wish, enjoy a spectacular helicopter flight. After lunch we will cruise over Williams to Seligman. Here the long loop of the old Route 66 begins right up to the Californian border. Even the very old street layout is navigable along this beautiful section. Arriving in Seligman, we will first visit the founder of the "Historic Route 66 Association" at the Route 66 Visitors Center. We will certainly have the opportunity to meet the "Guardian Angel", Angel Delgadillo and perhaps somebody might be in the mood to receive one of his famous barber shaves. By the way, in his barber shop, you can find many Route 66 souvenirs - a true paradise for bargain hunters. In the evening we will set up our sleeping quarters at a typical Route 66 motel in order to get to know something very simple and rustic.

Day 13: Seligman > Las Vegas

We will have breakfast today at Westside Lilo's Cafe, an original 66 restaurant owned by an expatriate German, who ensures that all the guests in Seligman are well fed. Through Kingman we continue on to Las Vegas / Nevada and directly on to the Las Vegas Boulevard. The accommodation is booked in the legendary The Mirage which is an ideal starting point for a stroll right on the Strip. Do whatever your heart desires: dine in the Hard Rock Cafe, visit one of the many world-class shows or dive into the nightlife of the city, the afternoon and evening are of course at your disposal.

Day 14: Las Vegas > Barstow

After a long night, we will start today our "Desert Tour". We will roll past exclusive hotels on the last leg of the Las Vegas Boulevard, and then head off to our day trip in the direction of Barstow. From Needles, California we head back to our Route 66, many refer to this as being the most beautiful part of the route. Other stops are the Sahara Oasis and Roy's Cafe in Amboy. Before we arrive in Barstow we will turn a few miles north - if time allows it - to visit an old silver mine in the Mojave Desert in the ghost town of Calico. In the still inhabited and lovingly renovated original Western town over a thousand adventurers once sought their fortune. If you want to you can pick up your very own personal Western photo. A beautiful day and a beautiful trip ends in Barstow. By the way in 1886, the town was named after the president of the Santa Fe railroad company. Barstow also managed to end up in the refrain of the Route 66 classic "Get your kicks".

Day 15: Barstow > Santa Monica

The last day "on the road" starts today. From Barstow we will cruise the last miles on the Route 66 to Victorville and then take the Interstate straight to Los Angeles. After we have dropped off our Harley-Davidson motorcycles at the rental station, we will be transferred to Santa Monica Boulevard. Our Route 66 motorcycle tour ends here at the Pier of Santa Monica, where we will spend our last night near the promenade. During our final dinner we will reminisce about our dream journey.

Learn more about this Guided Motorcycle Tour:

What's included - pricing - dates.

What's included: * The Original Tour - developed and organised by Reuthers * Reuthers Tour Guide - trained and multilingual * Rental Motorcycle for the Tour including third party and comprehensive insurance * Reuthers POMZEC© (Peace Of Mind Zero Excess Coverage) for the rental vehicle * 15x Accommodation Middleclass Hotels/Motels in shared Double Room * Reuthers Partner Vacation Program© (Escort Vehicle for Companions) * Luggage Transportation during the Tour * Secured Payment Certificate (Sicherungsschein) * Reuthers Tour Book with Itineraries and Tips * Reuthers Travel Lecture (in English) * Reuthers Welcome Drink * Welcome Dinner in Restaurant * Farewell Dinner in Restaurant * Fuel for the Tour * Transfers Airport > Hotel > Rental Station > Hotel > Airport * Entrance and Parking Fees * Reuthers Rewards"> Reuthers Rewards Best Value - NO Hidden Costs > Why Reuthers ?

Pricing: Guided: Rider own Motorcycle = USD 4795 Guided: Rider Rental Motorcycle = USD 7995 Guided: Passenger Motorcycle = USD 4495 Guided: Passenger Escort Vehicle = USD 4615 Twin Room extra charge (2 separate beds instead of 1 common bed) = USD 235 Single Room extra charge (instead of shared Double Room) = USD 835

Optional Bookings: Additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = USD 95 Additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = USD 105 Additional Accommodation prior tour start in Single Room = USD 185 Additional Accommodation after the tour in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = USD 195 Additional Accommodation after the tour in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = USD 195 Additional Accommodation after the tour in Single Room = USD 375 Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = USD 315 Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = USD 345 Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in Single Room = USD 395 Chicago Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = USD 315 Chicago Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = USD 345 Chicago Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in Single Room = USD 395 Grand Canyon Helicopter Flight = USD 245

All pricing payable in US Dollar . 3% Early Bird Discount (booking more than 12 months prior tour start) 2% Golden Ager Discount (age at least 60 years prior tour start) 10% Group Discount (from 8 registrations made within one week, one common Payment of Balance) 2% Harley Owners Group Discount 2% BMW Motorcycle Owners Club Discount 2% Indian Motorcycle Riders Group Discount 2% Riders Association of Triumph Discount Please note: The Total Discount for all applicable Discounts is a maximum of 10%.

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Route 66 Motorcycle Tour™

Guided tour - 15 days/ 14 nights, 2807 mi 4491.2 km, summer, spring, fall, 55 - 105 °f 12.8 - 40.6 °c.

EagleRider's world-famous Route 66 motorcycle tour travels the original Route 66, known as the "Mainstreet of America" or the "Mother Road". Stretched over 2400 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, Route 66 crosses three time zones and 8 states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Route 66 has been the path of migrants, dreamers, desperadoes, and an entire generation of holidaymakers discovering the way west. The 1950s were the glory days of Route 66, when thousands of cars rode bumper to bumper to experience the Western frontier. Hotels, motels, service stations, classic restaurants, and the "New" America sprouted up everywhere. Much of Route 66's classic roads, restaurants, service stations, and nostalgic landmarks are preserved just as they were in the 1950s. The famous and nostalgic Route 66 is like a road created in heaven for motorcycle touring. In simple terms, this is the guided tour of America!

Turn your journey into an exhilarating Harley Tour by selecting one of our incredible Harley models, such as the Harley-Davidson Street Glide Touring Edition, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Harley-Davidson Road Glide, Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic, Harley-Davidson Street Bob, Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra, Harley-Davidson Road Glide Touring Edition, or for a different riding experience, choose from our sport touring models like the Yamaha FJR1300 and Yamaha Super Tenere 1200.

Show me how to save up to A$7,153.97 per person today!

Book Your Tour

Starting at a$6,479.63, bike selection, include bike, select tour package.

A$6,479.63/ person

A$8,770.95/ person

A$10,912.75/ person

Number of Tour Packages

Tour itinerary, 0 mi / 0 km, chicago, il - arrival.

Welcome to the Windy City! Nicknamed the 'Paris of the Prairie', Chicago is the biggest and most exciting of the Great Lake cities. It includes a stunning skyline along Lake Michigan, and a gamut of top-rated museums, restaurants and cafes, and innumerable bars and nightclubs that pay homage to the city’s strong jazz and blues heritage. Tonight you will get to meet your fellow riders and Tour Guides at an Orientation Meeting at the tour hotel, followed by a great Welcome Dinner to kick-off your dream Route 66 journey!

187 mi / 299.2 km

Chicago, il – springfield, il.

This morning you pick up your bike and are off to the ultimate American road trip. The legendary Route 66 begins at the doorstep of our EagleRider location, cutting through the state of Illinois before running all the way to the Pacific Coast. From Chicago you head south along the Pontiac Trail, the original name for this bit of the road here, passing through Joliet, stopping at the amazing RT 66 Museum in Pontiac and generally getting a feel for the rubber on the Mother Road.

116 mi / 185.6 km

Springfield, il – st. louis, mo.

Today we head towards St. Louis! We will stay primarily on the 2-lane sections of the Mother Road, traversing cornfields and small towns that represent the heartland of America. Our arrival into St. Louis will be over the Chain of Rocks Bridge, the original bridge where RT 66 crossed the Mississippi River. Enjoy the short ride today into the "Gateway to the West," St. Louis. This amazing city rests along the shores of the mighty Mississippi River and is home to some of the best live music and BBQ ribs in the country.

15 Days Guided Route 66 Motorcycle Tour™ Inclusions

Save a$7,153.97 /person, eaglerider tour price a$6,479.63, individual price a$13,633.60, late model motorcycle rental, a$3,276.46 /person, bike model guarantee, a$395.81 /person, grand canyon helicopter tour, 3 - 4 star motorcycle friendly hotels, a$4,353.96 /person, fuel on riding days, a$417.80 /person, custom armored riding jacket, breakfast on riding days, a$483.77 /person, hosted welcome dinner, half-shell helmet for rider and pillion, a$219.90 /person, eaglerider legendary farewell party, experienced multilingual tour guide, support vehicle equipped for luggage and spare bike, a$3,298.45 /person, support vehicle driver, door to door luggage service, eaglerider on-road concierge, custom tour completion patch, national park entrance fees, hotel parking fees, transportation between tour hotel and eaglerider locations, total tour value, a$13,633.60 per person, total tour price, a$6,479.63 per person, total savings, a$7,153.97 per person, not included.

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Tour experiences caught on camera.

EagleRider tour guide on his 66th tour of famous Route 66

EagleRider's Route 66 Guided Motorcycle Tour

Route 66 Guided Motorcycle Tour

Day 7 & 8

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THE BEST VACATION EVER. – Bill and Judy Gore, Australia View Reviews

ROUTE 66 GUIDED MOTORCYCLE TOUR

ROUTE 66 TOUR INFO     |     WHAT’S INCLUDED     |     MOTORCYCLE CHOICES     |     WHERE WE STAY    |     GUIDED TOUR FAQ’S     |     BOOK

ROUTE 66 TOUR INFO WHAT’S INCLUDED MOTORCYCLE CHOICES WHERE WE STAY GUIDED TOUR FAQ’S BOOK

Why Choose Our Guided Motorcycle Tour?

Talk to the owner anytime We care about your dream coming true Small family business, not corporate Every person is important to us READ MORE No Mass Production

Small group Stay in small local hotels Go to small local stops and restaurants Shorter riding days to experience more READ MORE Real American Experience

15 DAY ROUTE 66 TOUR

Sturgis Tour

"The Greatest Trip of my life!"

Hello Wil and Erin. Just a short note to thank you for the ‘BEST VACATION EVER’. Both Brian and Andy were exceptionally professional and it is fair to say that that trip would not have been as good without the professional and friendly banter between the group and the guides. They were well able to cater for the differences in the group and this aided the holiday. The locations, lodgings and roads traveled matched and, sometimes, exceeded our expectations. On at least two occasions the accommodations were part of our dreams. ( Log cabin on a lake ) Read More

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• Route 66 Self Guided Motorcycle

Route 66 Self Guided Motorcycle Tour

14 or 21 night self guided motorcycle tour from £3,796pp including flights, motorbike rental and accommodation, see iconic america at it’s best with a route 66 self guided motorcycle tour from complete north america. , the route is 2400 miles long from chicago to los angeles, and crosses three time zones and eight states: illinois, missouri, kansas, oklahoma, texas, new mexico, arizona and california..

DISCOVER ROUTE 66 YOUR WAY.

Take it as you see it or change it to suit. This Route 66 motorcycle holiday can be tailored to suit your own tastes & budget.

All our holidays offer complete financial protection and you will receive a uniquely personalised travelling pack to ensure you get the most from your adventure.

What you get

Explore route 66.

14 nights from £3,796  and 21 nights from £5,876

Day 1 Chicago Arrival

Depart London Heathrow – 11:50 Arrive Chicago – 13:55 Journey Time – 8 hours 30 minutes

Upon arrival into Chicago O’Hare airport proceed to your overnight hotel located in downtown Chicago, here you can begin your own historic ‘road trip’ after settling in. Chicago’s famed Magnificent Mile, Michigan Avenue, Watertower Place, the Navy Pier, the Merchandise Mart, Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum are not far away.

As you explore one or a selection of these world class attractions, you can begin thinking about your upcoming journey on the Mother Road. Although Route 66 virtually parallels the interstate anywhere portions of the actual road exist, even today hundreds of men & women, young and old, take this trip every year from Chicago to Los Angeles. America unfolds as you travel through the Ozarks, authentic American towns in southwest and vast open deserts. You can start your trip at Grant Park, the exact place where Route 66 begins.

Route 66 through Illinois was first used by Native Americans as a trading path followed by fur trappers and traders who sought a path to the Mississippi River to ship their goods downstream to French New Orleans. Al Capone and the rumrunners kept the road busy right after it became the first fully paved highway in Illinois in the early 1920s. When the old Route 66 road signs came down in 1977, the strong relationship of the road to the people who travel it brought new Historic Route 66 signs back almost immediately. When the highway department would not pay for them, bake sales, auctions, festivals and other truly American events raised money to bring them back.

Overnight – Chicago

Day 2 Chicago to St. Louis 300 miles

This morning you will collect your bike.

Most of today will be spent traveling through Illinois farmlands on your way to St. Louis, the crossroads where highways from Chicago, Kansas City, Memphis, Nashville, and Indianapolis meet. The city was originally the focal point of Indian trails that ran all across the US and the jumping off point for Lewis and Clark’s Expedition of Discovery to open the West through the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase. It will also be your jumping off point to points south and west, as you begin your journey through the wide open spaces.

Springfield, the Illinois State Capital, is Abraham Lincoln country. He left here to serve as President of the United States during the most awful period in American history, the Civil War and returned as a fallen hero, a casualty of the same war. New Salem where Lincoln lived and worked for six years has been reconstructed. Costumed interpreters bring the village alive. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is the centerpiece of a four block historic neighborhood. The President’s Tomb, Presidential Library and original law office are also open for touring.

As you cross from Illinois into Missouri you’ll be crossing the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge. Be sure to stop at Ted Drew’s Frozen Custard, serving Route 66 travelers since 1929. In St. Louis, the original Route 66 tracked through town very near the Gateway Arch and we definitely recommend riding the elevator inside Arch to the top of the 630 foot structure. Spectacular views of the Mississippi River await. In the evening, you can catch up with the St. Louie Blues, which were born right here and taste the fruits of Anheuser-Busch, the world’s largest brewer.

Overnight – St. Louis  

Day 3 St. Louis to Springfield 210 miles

Route 66 from St. Louis to Springfield, Missouri takes you through the lush rolling hills of the Missouri Ozark Mountains. The road follows the Great Osage Trail, a major Indian path across the state and a route used by Jess James, of famed James Gang fame, who locals knew as ‘just a nice Missouri boy!’ One of the most famous attractions on Route 66, Meramec Caverns was also used by the James Gang as a hideout when escaping the law. Lester Dill who owns Meramec Caverns started the American advertising institution, the bumper sticker, when he gave away portable advertising to all who stopped by to visit.

Much of the rural Ozark region, punctuated by the second oldest mountains in the world, looks much as it did when the first settlers arrived. Springfield has been bustling since the St. Louis-San Francisco railroad arrived in 1870. Even though most of Route 66 through here is now Interstate-44, remnants of the old road are everywhere just off the highway.

Interestingly, Springfield is considered the mother of the Mother Road itself. It was here that Cyrus Avery of Oklahoma who fought for a route through Oklahoma met with John Woodruff of Springfield, to plan and promote the idea of an interregional link that would bring trade and access to the area. In honor, Springfield has preserved much of the old highway frontage along St. Louis Street as well as the ‘Chestnut Expressway.’ If you’re a fan of western lore, delve into the ‘Wild’ Bill Hickock legend surrounding his fellow gambler Dave Tutt. There are so many different stories no one really knows what happened.

Overnight – Springfield

Day 4 Springfield to Tulsa to Oklahoma City 310 miles

Oklahoma was the home of Cyrus Avery, who came to be known as the ‘Father of Route 66.’ After he was appointed to head the commission that reviewed the routes of new national highways, he fought for several years to bring a major highway through his home state, knowing it would boost the economy. Ultimately, he was successful in the choice of a route that followed the National Old Trails Road in 1925, which just happened to cross right through the middle of Oklahoma.

‘Been on this road for a mighty long time, Ten million men like me, You drive us from you’ town We ramble around And got them 66 Highway Blues.’

Woody Guthrie of ‘This Land is Your Land’ fame who hailed from Oklahoma, illustrated the icon which Route 66 had already become in a song that told of the plight of the Okies fleeing to California. The Los Angeles police stationed themselves at the Arizona border in 1934 to stop the flood of Dust Bowlers looking for a better life.

Southwest of Springfield, you’ll begin to see why they would leave, as the landscape changes from the rich crop raising Midwest into the American southwest; red, dry and dusty. During the1930s, more than 15% of Oklahoma’s population took Route 66 to escape the constantly blowing sand. They picked up their belongings, their families, their hopes and their dreams and headed west.

After World War II, the pretty Oklahoma City referred to by the Nat King Cole in ‘Get Your Kicks on Route 66’ rose to new heights during the oil boom (the State Capitol is the only one in the country with an oil well on the grounds), only to suffer a dramatic decline at the end of the 1980s. Since then, the city has gone through an astounding transformation which continued during the re-building which followed the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995. The monument to the victims is very moving and an adjacent museum tells the story.

For nightlife, make sure you visit Bricktown, a former warehouse district that has been reinvigorated with restaurants, cafes, night clubs and a vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight – Oklahoma City

Day 5 Oklahoma City to Amarillo 260 miles

For the traveler going west on Route 66, Texas is Cowboy Country. It is here that some of the most wonderful icons of Route 66, those ‘functional simple buildings that were adorned with all manner of exterior signs promising all things larger than life, still exist. Two headed snakes, reptile farms, alligators, wondrous caves and petrified mummies all vied for the attention of the vacationer in a unique side show that would have made P. T. Barnum proud. The tales carried home from these vacations would entice and amaze the neighborhood for months.

Amarillo is one of the last places on earth where the Old West is just minutes away or depending on where you are, could be closer than that. The vast ranches of the Texas Panhandle, some numbering in the millions of acres are just outside of Amarillo. Shortly after being discovered by Spanish explorer Francisco Coronado in 1541, the area became a magnet for cattlemen and sheep herders from all points of the compass looking for fresh grazing grounds. As the Dust Bowl farmers headed to California, more cattlemen and cowhands moved in to claim the same territory for ranching. Step into ‘The Real Texas’ as the locals say.

Today, Amarillo and the surrounding Panhandle area is still a unique blend of the Old West and the New West, populated by American cowboys, roughnecks and self made millionaires and the ever present oil derricks. Working ranches, essentially unchanged from the day-to-day operations of the late nineteenth century peacefully coexist with a vibrant twenty-first century economy powered by petroleum. More than 2 million cattle are still shipped out of Amarillo each year. Make sure to drive Amarillo Boulevard which is the original Route 66 that is still lined with block after block of strip shopping centers and roadside motels straight out of the 1950s.

Overnight – Amarillo

Day 6 Amarillo to Tucumcari 120 miles

For many people traveling the old Mother Road during its hey-day, New Mexico presented their first glimpse of the more exotic cultures of the Southwest. To people who had never left the Midwest before, it was as if they had entered another country. Back then, the Native American and Spanish cultures were much stronger, not having been diluted as much with contemporary life. It was a fascinating heritage of old Indian Pueblos that dated back to before European colonization and Santa Fe and Albuquerque that looked like they could have fallen straight out of Mexico with adobe buildings and a Spanish plaza in the middle town. What adventure and discovery these lands presented; a phenomenal contrast to Middle America.

Unique to New Mexico also was the number of Mom and Pop businesses that sprung up along Route 66. Some are still there. More amazing are the materials used to create workable spaces for the businesses. Crates left over from World War II became the walls of a motor court. Oilcans became shingles used to roof a service station. Cast away bottles and roadside trash became the material to create a wondrous roadside attraction. Diners could be ordered from a catalog and shipped by railroad to their destination. These are the same icons we marvel at along the road that so represented America’s love affair with the automobile. As a result, New Mexico still has the most miles of original Route 66 that can be driven today.

On your way between Amarillo and Tucumcari, New Mexico, be sure to stop at Cadillac Ranch to see the ten tail- finned Cadillacs buried in the sand.

Once nicknamed ‘Six-Shooter Siding,’ Tucumcari, New Mexico got its start in 1901 as a rowdy railroad camp filled with saloons and outlaws. Soon, it became one of the many small railroad towns in the southwest with a flagging economy and diminishing population. Today, Route 66 is critically important, since it was the new businesses that were established along Route 66 which allowed Tucumcari to hang on, when other towns failed completely. Realizing that they have one of a handful of authentic roadside towns still intact and thriving has promoted a renaissance and revival among the gentlemen and businesses who just refused to let this wonderful piece of Americana and the American ‘road trip’ pass away entirely. Let the signs that read ‘Tucumcari Tonight!’ beckon you to this interesting place.

Overnight – Tucumcari

Day 7 Tucumcari to Albuquerque 180 miles

Next up, Albuquerque – New Mexico’s capital city. Younger than its more northerly counterpart, Santa Fe, Albuquerque was founded in 1706 by a group of Spanish colonists who were granted permission by the King of Spain to establish a new city on the river. Old Town Plaza was the result of Spain’s Laws of the Indies which required setting a plaza at the center of any city. This Plaza still fronts the San Felipe Neri Church complex built in 1793 and the El Camino Real, the main route through town that connected Santa Fe and Albuquerque with Mexico City. The Santa Fe Trail also criss-crossed the region in 1821. Today, both routes are National Scenic Byways and All American Roads.

Historic neon signs still glow on the old Route 66 through Albuquerque which is now Central Avenue. Alongside the vintage signs, you’ll see new versions put up by businesses that are continuing the aesthetic traditions of the old Route 66, adorning their shops with bright buzzing neon. The famous Route 66 continues to guide visitors through Albuquerque from the volcanoes on the city’s far west side past the Rio Grande Botanical Garden and the Albuquerque Aquarium through the historic Old Towns and Downtown business districts and continuing eastward through the University of New Mexico and trendy Nob Hill, where you’ll find many of the city’s best restaurants, distinctive shops and boutiques.

Overnight – Albuquerque

Day 8 Explore Albuquerque

As you complete the self-guided Historic Walking Tour from Plaza to Plaza, you will be passing from Old ‘Villa Albuquerque’ in Old Town, to the Downtown Civic Plaza, created in 1972. In between, you will witness 300 years of history.

It will be challenging to determine which other places to visit. Sandia Peak Tramway takes you over 2.5 miles to the 10,000 foot peak of the Sandia Mountains. Visit the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Albuquerque Museum and the National Hispanic Cultural Center to learn more about local culture and history. Petroglyphs at the Petroglyph National Museum and El Morro National Monument reveal the life of ancient peoples who inhabited the area. The National Atomic Museum and Trinity Site, the exact spot where the first atomic bomb was detonated tell the story of this momentous event in American history.

Alternatively take a drive North East (approx 64 miles/1 hour) along Highway 25 to historic & cultural Santa Fe.

Day 9 Albuquerque to Holbrook 230 miles

On the way between Albuquerque and Holbrook, you’ll be entering the dramatic lands of western New Mexico and ultimately traveling through the Navajo Reservation. The New Mexico Mining Museum at Grants has replicated an entire uranium mine. Natural attractions include the El Malpais National Monument, the Continental Divide. The excavated Pueblo at Inspiration Rock dates back to AD 1200. Skirting the southern foothills of the Zuni Mountains, the drive along Highway 53 is likely the most scenic in all of New Mexico.

Staying on this route brings you to Gallup, you can follow Hwy 40/Route 66 thru Gallup for about 9 miles until you reconnect with I-40. The Rex Museum in downtown Gallup offers local history including the WWII saga of the Navajo code talkers and Route 66 of course. Crossing into Arizona this part of the highway runs through a canyon with dramatic scenery. At Lupton you can see the Giant Tee Pee Trading Post whose Native American arts and crafts are made locally. Watch for the exits for Painted Desert and Petrified Forest before arriving to Holbrook. In Holbrook stop at the Wigwam Motel for a picture in front of the teepee motel rooms.

Overnight – Holbrook

Day 10 Holbrook to Williams 125 miles

Just outside Joseph City you finally reach the famous Jackrabbit Trading Post whose iconic billboards are plastered 1000 miles along Route 66. Take your picture beside of or on top of the giant jackrabbit! At Winslow see the “Standing on the Corner” statue dedicated to the Eagles song “Take it Easy”. Reaching Flagstaff you leave Highway 40 for the Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon is not actually on Route 66 but you couldn’t miss an opportunity to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World! After experiencing the grandeur of the Grand Canyon continue back to Route 66 and your overnight destination Williams. Williams is a beautiful mountainside town where soda fountains, quirky motels and diners line the mother road as it was back in the day. Williams is proud of their nightly (7:00 pm) gunfight with the world famous Cataract Creek Gang, known for their raucous, rambunctious behavior, as they shoot it out in the streets of Williams.

Overnight – Williams

Day 11 Williams to Las Vegas 216 miles

Ahead of you lays the longest unbroken portion of the “old road”. It runs from Seligman all the way to Topock, at the California border. Completely bypassed by I-40, it’s as unspoiled as any section of the road anywhere. The historic Route 66 runs North and curves back to the interstate in Kingman, where you can connect with Highway 93 to Las Vegas. The Route 66 detour is only about 15 miles / 24 kilometers longer, but it’s of course slower to drive than the interstate. The road passes through small towns like Peach Springs, Truxton and Hackberry in the Hulapai Indian reservation. As you approach Peach Springs, look to the north. There is a point where you can see all the way to the south rim of the Grand Canyon, which makes it closest approach to the highway in this area. Finish your day at Las Vegas, the neon oasis that never sleeps!

Overnight – Las Vegas

Day 12 Explore Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Strip, now an All American Road and National Scenic Byway, is a sparkling fantasyland at the heart of the city. Its unique blend of exciting entertainment, scenic beauty, and lavishly landscaped resorts take you to a wide variety of exotic realms from a medieval castle to a Parisian sidewalk cafe, a lakeside Italian village, or a pyramid in ancient Egypt. Once you arrive on the Strip, however, you might be surprised to find that it’s also an enjoyable walking environment. Whether it’s pirates plundering, fiery volcanoes spouting or tropical gardens luring the weary, the Las Vegas Strip offers a variety of fascinating visual experiences. Las Vegas is home to some of the most spectacular shopping in the world. The Forum Shops at Caesars is Las Vegas’ premier luxury retail destination offering top retail, dining, entertainment, location and thematic Roman ambiance. And with two distinct locations together featuring 290 designer and name-brand outlet stores, Las Vegas Premium Outlets® is a must stop for savvy shoppers.

Day 13 Las Vegas to Santa Monica / Los Angeles 290 miles

Finally, after a journey through the Mojave Desert today, you’ll reach the bright lights of Hollywood. It may be hard to believe that the area around Barstow was once covered by immense lakes ringed with Native American villages. When silver was discovered in Calico, the area became a mining center that included borax mining. Route 66 is Main Street through Barstow. Just off Main on First Street, you’ll discover the original Harvey House which gave rise to hospitality complexes all over the southwest.

Rainbow Basin about 15 miles north of Barstow is one of the lakebeds that existed between 10 and 30 million years ago. Calico Ghost Town is California’s official Silver Rush Ghost Town, preserving one of the few original mining camps in the Old West. One third of the town is original with the rest constructed in the ‘spirit’ of Calico’s Old West past. Today’s destination, Santa Monica is where the Mother Road meets the Pacific Ocean at the Pier. Many a dream has begun and ended on those beaches.

Overnight – Los Angeles

Day 14 Explore Los Angeles / Santa Monica

The sky’s the limit in Los Angeles. Take a go-behind-the scenes tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, visit the UCLA Armand Hammer Museum which presents the work of unprecedented artists, the California Heritage Museum, the Autry National Center Museum of the American West, the Aquarium of the Pacific, Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Be sure to visit the new Getty Center perched high on a hill atop the city. The view doesn’t get much better than that. Or if none of those things suit you, you can always go to Disneyland! But be sure to call in at The Outlets at Orange 40 minutes from Los Angeles Airport and less than four miles away from Disneyland, to bag some last-minute bargains!

Day 15 Depart Los Angeles

Make sure you take some time to relax in the California sunshine before you catch your plane Savor your journey to the bright lights of California all the way home.

Depart Los Angeles – 17:45 Arrive London Heathrow – 12:00 (Next Day) Journey time – 10 hours 20 minutes

Additional Stops for Route 66 motorcycle 21 night itinerary

Chicago, illinois – 1 extra night (2 in total).

There’s so much to see in this iconic city – famed Magnificent Mile, Michigan Avenue, Watertower Place, the Navy Pier, the Merchandise Mart, Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum to name but a few!

Springfield, Illinois – (Not to be confused with Springfield, Missouri already included) – 1 night

Explore the legacy of Abraham Lincoln.

St Louis, MO – 1 extra night (2 in total)

Try your hand at some science experiments, interact with butterflies or immerse yourself in a little arts and culture – it’s all in a day’s fun in St. Louis, Missouri. From sports and shopping – to tours and attractions.

Santa Fe, New Mexico – 2 nights

One of the original routings of Route 66 that was abandoned went through Santa Fe, the capital city of New Mexico which was established 13 years before Plymouth Colony was settled by the Massachusetts Company. The city began with a handful of European style dwellings constructed by Spanish settlers and soon became the seat of power for the Spanish Empire north of the Rio Grande River. It began to prosper when Don Pedro de Peralta settled in 1610, the same year that Hampton, Virginia, the oldest continuous city on the East Coast, was settled. Santa Fe served as the capital of the Spanish Kingdom of New Mexico, the Mexican province of Nuevo Mejico, and the capital of the New Mexico Territory.

Once you arrive, it will be challenging to decide which locations to visit. Everything is focused on the Plaza, the center of the historic downtown. We suggest visiting the Palace of the Governors, the oldest public building still in use in America, constructed in 1610. It is now a southwestern history museum. The Museum of Fine Arts, next to the Palace, is older than the state itself. The extensive collection of southwestern art also includes paintings by Georgia O’Keefe, who called Santa Fe home for many years.

There are cultural museums of many other varieties, including the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, the Georgia O’Keefe Museum, and World Folk Art, with diverse works from artisans all over the world. If that’s not enough, there a huge list of art galleries, a myriad of restaurants and other interesting shops. Enjoy whatever you choose to do, there is more than enough to fill two days.

Grand Canyon – 1 extra night (2 in total)

Take a full day to explore the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park. First stop should be the Visitor Centre located at the South Rim Village. Here you can pick up information on short hikes, special areas that you may wish to visit during the day and helicopter or airplane rides over the Grand Canyon. A visit to see the El Tovar Lodge if you are not staying there is a must, but we also suggest any of the scenic stops or even taking one of the guided coach tours that will explain the history and geology of the area. Another must is a visit to the IMAX Theatre located close to your hotel for a thrilling 3D show based around the Grand Canyon.

We strongly suggest you that spend one of your evenings and maybe even an early morning at the Grand Canyon Rim to experience the spectacular sunrise and sunset.

Los Angeles – 1 extra night (3 in total)

There’s so much to see and do in this amazing city… Take a tour of Los Angeles and Movie Stars Homes, the Hollywood Trolley Tour, the California Science Center, the Music Center, the Japanese American National Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Grand Avenue, the Simon Wiesenthal Center and more.  

Route 66 Motorcycle – 14 Night Itinerary:

Route 66 motorcycle – 21 night itinerary:, your route 66 motorcycle holiday includes.

• Scheduled flights
• UK & US Airport taxes
• Accommodation – 14 or 21 nights
• Eaglerider Class A Motorbike (model based on availability – models can be requested but not guaranteed – click for details)  to include 14 (or 21 day) rental, Unlimited Mileage, Tax, Environmental Surcharge
• Helmets provided for drivers and passengers
• Motorcycles come equipped with saddlebags for storage of personal items
• Client orientation which covers all aspects of safe motorcycle operation, the maintenance responsibilities, local and state laws.
• Exclusive travel documentation package including EZ-66 guide, personalised maps, itinerary and  driver directions along with all applicable tickets and vouchers

Additional Experiences

Our holidays are completely tailored to suit you. We would be happy to help you choose from a vast array of additional experiences that will enhance your North America holiday adventure.

These might include:

• Helicopter flights
• Sporting event tickets
• Horseback riding
• Restaurant reservations

There are many more, often quite unique to your chosen destination so please do ask.

Personalised Documentation

We prepare every travel pack individually. We want this to be the perfect travelling companion for your adventure and to offer you all the information you need. Your personally prepared ring-bound travel itinerary booklet is detailed and is designed to serve as a wonderful reminder of your experiences for years to come when you return.

Route 66 Motorcycle – Guided

Guided by a professional tour leader this Route 66 motorcycle tour is different to the self-guided itinerary but equally as amazing.

EXPLORE TOUR »

Route 66 Fly Drive

The classic way to experience Route 66, here you will follow the route that still passes through small towns offering a wonderful taste of a simpler time.

10 Reasons to do Route 66

This post was written by our client Emma Clarke who travelled with Complete North America on a Route 66 trip in January 2014.

READ MORE »

Route 66 Facts & FAQs

Over 30 questions regarding general Route 66 facts and Complete North America quirks and what you get booking through us!

Ultimate Route 66 Photo Gallery

This photo gallery includes over 100 photos taken by our clients and staff alike along their travels on the Mother Road!

The Mother Road – Day by Day Route 66 Blog

Our client Sue Wright has written a Route 66 blog detailing her day to day movements on her Route 66 holiday booked through Complete North America. You can read Part 2 here and Part 3 here

By the time Route 66 had become America’s Main Street, it was intended to be replaced entirely by the new Interstate highway system. Some of it has. But Route 66 refused to die so other places still have the wonderful old trading posts, filling stations, motels, tourist traps, and diners that have been there for decades. Preservation groups are working diligently to preserve what remains of the authenticity and icons of America’s golden age of road trips. As you travel you can enjoy the scents of new mown hay and hickory smoke drifting from the pit barbeque chimneys. Taste a real American hamburger and a rich creamy malt prepared they way they used to be. Experience Sky City where Native Americans live exactly like they did four hundred years ago. Pull over along a deserted stretch in the Mojave and listen to the hum of millions of wheels that have passed this way.

We invite you to take a once in a lifetime road trip and drive a real piece of American history, while staying in a collection of completely unique accommodations related to Route 66 lore. Savour and enjoy this truly authentic American experience.

Below is a video detailing what you will see in Illinois from Chicago to Springfield 

• Eaglerider Class A Motorbike (model based on availability – models can be requested but not guaranteed) to include 14 (or 21 day) rental, Unlimited Mileage, Tax, Environmental Surcharge

Motorcycle Hire USA & Canada

Check out all the vital information for our USA & Canada rental motorcycles below. Everything from classic Harley Davidson’s to Slingshots.

Click on the motorcycle you would like to complete the enquiry form & tell us where you’d like to ride.

Comprehensive support from start to finish, ride the dream, feel the wind in your face and live for adventure.

North America Motorcycles

HARLEY DAVIDSON ELECTRA GLIDE

HARLEY DAVIDSON STREET GLIDE

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE CHIEFTAIN

INDIAN ROADMASTER MOTORCYCLE

HARLEY DAVIDSON DYNA LOW RIDER

HARLEY DAVIDSON HERITAGE SOFTAIL

HARLEY DAVIDSON ROAD KING

HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE SCOUT

YAMAHA XV250

TRIUMPH BONNEVILE T100

HONDA GOLDWING GL 1800

TRIUMP TIGER EXPLORER 1200

TRIUMPH TIGER 800

BWM R1200GS

HARLEY DAVIDSON TRIKE

“Thank you and your team for your support with the logistics for our Route 66 Road Trip. 

We had an absolutely wonderful time and are so grateful for the opportunity.  The flights and car hire you arranged provided a seamless way of our getting on the road and seeing some amazing things – a trip of a lifetime.

Thank you again.  We are already planning another trip – this time to the Southern States and we shall not hesitate to use your services once more.”

The trip itself was beyond our wildest dreams , everything was absolutely superb. All the accommodation was first class and everywhere was truly original . It was great when we arrived at each hotel/motel which all had great facilities.

I just wanted to thank you and the Complete North America team for your work in arranging our Route 66 Holiday in the USA. I could not have asked for a more efficient and well-organised plan which worked perfectly for us. The itinerary booklet was and excellent baseline to work from and everything just clicked into place.

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0333 234 0922

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Route 66 Motorcycle Tour

15 day guided motorcycle tour – from £4399, with flights from £5049.

With an experienced guide, ride the original Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles on your choice of motorcycle. The ultimate American road trip.

Highlights:

• Check out legendary Route 66 sights and landmarks
• Visit Amarillo and stay overnight in Santa Fa and Las Vegas
• Soar above the Grand Canyon in a helicopter, included in the tour
• Grab a selfie at the ‘End of the Trail’ sign on the Santa Monica Pier
• Enjoy an epic farewell dinner in Los Angeles with your fellow riders

Your Itinerary

You can customise your holiday by adding extra nights or activities before or after your guided Route 66 motorcycle tour. Just let us know what you would like to do.

Day 1 – Welcome to Chicago

Welcome to the Windy City! Nicknamed the ‘Paris of the Prairie’, Chicago is the biggest and most exciting of the Great Lake cities. It includes a stunning skyline along Lake Michigan, and an array of top-rated museums, restaurants, cafes and innumerable bars and nightclubs that pay homage to the city’s strong jazz and blues heritage. Tonight, you will get to meet your fellow riders and Tour Guides at an orientation meeting held in your hotel, followed by a great welcome dinner to kick-off your dream Route 66 journey!

Your chosen Chicago hotel

Day 2 – Springfield

This morning you will be picking up your bike and then you’re off on the ultimate American road trip. The legendary Route 66 begins at the doorstep of the depot and cuts through the state of Illinois before running all the way to the Pacific Coast. From Chicago you head south along the Pontiac Trail, passing through Joliet, checking out the famous Launching Pad Giant, stopping at the amazing Route 66 Museum in Pontiac and generally getting a feel for the ‘Mother Road’.

Your chosen Springfield hotel

Day 3 – St. Louis

Today you’ll head towards St. Louis! Staying primarily on the 2-lane sections of the Mother Road, you’ll be traversing cornfields and small towns that represent the heartland of America. Your arrival in St. Louis will be over the Chain of Rocks Bridge, the original bridge where Route 66 crossed the Mississippi River. Enjoy the short ride today into the ‘Gateway to the West’, St. Louis. This amazing city rests along the shores of the mighty Mississippi River and is home to some of the best live music and BBQ ribs in the country.

Your chosen St. Louis hotel

Day 4 – Joplin

It’s worth getting up early this morning to enjoy an early view of the St. Louis Arch and the Mississippi River before it’s time to hit the road again. Leaving the city in your mirrors, settle in to enjoy the rolling Missouri hills that make this area so beautiful and fun to ride in. You will stop and see the famous World’s Largest Rocking Chair in Fanning, wind your way on the twisting roads of Devil’s Elbow and stop at other Route 66 icons throughout the day. Tonight, enjoy a stay in Joplin, a city that was hit very hard in 2011 by a tornado. Maybe tonight you’ll get the chance to hang with the locals and hear some amazing stories about what it was like to be in the eye of the storm!

Your chosen Joplin hotel

Day 5 – Oklahoma City

From Joplin, you’ll be heading west through the hills and horse country of Oklahoma. You’ll be crossing Miami, Claremore and Catoosa, home of the legendary Blue Whale before passing through Tulsa. On the ride today you’ll also be travelling through the reservations of several Native American tribes. In the 1830s, much of this land was considered ‘unusable’ by the Federal Government, so various Indian tribes were ‘settled’ thereafter colonisation, including the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Seminole, Creek and Cherokee. This evening will be spent in Oklahoma City, the heart and soul of Route 66!

Your chosen Oklahoma City hotel

Day 6 – Amarillo

This morning you will travel along some of the oldest stretches of Oklahoma’s Route 66. Once the land of vast buffalo herds, this section of 66 traverses some of the great cattle trails that were used in the 1860s to drive herds of cattle from Texas up to the railhead in Abilene, Kansas. You will ride along a section of the Chisholm Trail, which passes through Yukon and El Reno and stop at the amazing Route 66 Museum in Clinton. After lunch, cross the border into the Texas Panhandle, the southernmost portion of the Great Plains. At the Big Texan Steakhouse in Amarillo, you have the opportunity to enjoy the best steaks in Texas, guaranteed!

Your chosen Amarillo hotel

Day 7 – Santa Fe

Today you leave Texas and are on your way into ‘The Land of Enchantment’, New Mexico. After passing through the world-famous Cadillac Ranch, you’ll stop at the midway point of Route 66 in Adrian, Texas! From here you enter the land of the Comanche Indians, where mesas, mountains, cactus and pines define the landscape as you rise up into the High Plains of Santa Fe in central New Mexico. Santa Fe is one of America’s oldest and most beautiful cities and will be your base for the next two nights.

Your chosen Santa Fe hotel

Day 8 – Santa Fe

Today is yours to rest and enjoy the distinctive flavour of this nearly 400-year-old city. The blend of cultures here becomes evident in the southwestern architectural style so closely associated with New Mexico’s capital city. Perhaps you would like to take a ride along the river valley to the old Native American Indian town of Taos, enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon ride, or maybe play cowboy for a day on a horse ride along a mountain or canyon trail. Santa Fe provides all these opportunities and more.

Day 9 – Gallup

This morning you head south, down to Albuquerque, New Mexico’s largest city. Albuquerque is sprawling at the heart of New Mexico, where the main east-west road and rail routes cross both the Rio Grande and the old road south to Mexico. After crossing the Rio Grande, head west out into the open country and the hues of the Navajo wilderness. You are skirting mesas and bluffs on your way into Laguna. Further on, ride through Grants and along Cibola National Forest towards the famous Route 66 town of Gallup – an old railroad town and Indian stronghold. Enjoy your stay tonight with a host of fellow riders from around the world at one of the many biker friendly hotels in Gallup.

Your chosen Gallup hotel

Day 10 – Grand Canyon

From Gallup it’s only about half an hour to the Arizona border. Once you enter Arizona enjoy a very scenic ride through the Petrified Forest, a fossilized prehistoric forest of giant trees that has been unearthed by erosion. Just west of Petrified National Forest you get to Holbrook and Winslow, two old Route 66 towns that are kept alive by transcontinental truckers. Tonight you will stay in Flagstaff, the northern Arizona community on historic Route 66 and is the regions hub for visits to the Grand Canyon.

Your chosen Grand Canyon hotel

Day 11 – Laughlin

For those looking to get a real ‘Bird’s Eye View’ of the Grand Canyon, a morning helicopter ride over the heart of the South Rim can be arranged for you. Leaving the Grand Canyon, you will pick up Route 66 again in Williams, Arizona before heading to stops in the famous Route 66 towns of Seligman, Hackberry and Kingman as well as Oatman, before arriving at your Laughlin hotel on the shores of the Colorado River.

Your chosen Laughlin hotel

Day 12 – Las Vegas

Today is a quick ride for a little detour to take in the incredible sights and sounds of Las Vegas! The journey this morning will take you through your first real taste of the Mojave Desert and across the famous Hoover Dam. Although Las Vegas is a 24-hour city, it’s worth trying to get a little bit of sleep because you’ll pick up Route 66 tomorrow right where you left it.

Your chosen Las Vegas hotel

Day 13 – Victorville

Cross the border into your final State on Route 66 – California! One thing is for sure – today is a day like no other as you traverse the Mojave Desert which offers some of the most dramatic scenery in Southern California. You can imagine what it must have been like for early Route 66 travellers making their way across this huge expanse of desert, dotted with Joshua Trees, cactus, volcanic rock and sand as you stop in the tiny ‘waystations’ of Amboy and Ludlow. Tonight, you will get the chance to celebrate your last night on the Mother Road.

Your chosen Victorville hotel

Day 14 – Los Angeles

Today you’ll head off for your final destination – the end of the road on the Santa Monica Pier! To get there, however, you first get to ride the 66 miles of the Angeles Crest Highway through the mountainous terrain of the Angeles National Forest. This highway is considered one of the top motorcycle rides in southern California and rises to over 2300 metres. Next, you descend the Crest into the Los Angeles Basin and head towards the Pacific Ocean. Riders always have mixed emotions as they stand at the ‘End of the Trail’ sign on the Santa Monica Pier. There is a sense of joy and elation at having completed a journey most people only dream about and a sense of sadness at the thought of the ride having come to an end. Tonight, you can celebrate the miles you’ve ridden and the friends you’ve made as you all party together at a farewell dinner!

Your chosen Los Angeles hotel

Day 15 – Farewell from Los Angeles

Today your exciting Route 66 trip will conclude in Los Angeles. You could of course choose to stay here a little longer if want to, or you could even move on to another exciting adventure, the choice is yours! However, if it is homeward bound for you, make your way to the airport for your scheduled flight back to the UK.

Welcome to Chicago

Springfield, oklahoma city, grand canyon, victorville, los angeles, farewell from los angeles, this motorcycle tour includes, departure dates, flights & more.

Ask your FREEDOM Consultant to include Economy, Premium or Business Class flights for a complete ABTA and ATOL protected package.

They can also add extra nights and experiences in places you choose, to create the exact holiday you are looking for. Popular options include:

• Extra nights in Chicago or Los Angeles
• Inclusive insurance and roadside assistance

Please get in touch with our America Experts to start planning your holiday. You’ll have a single point of contact from your first enquiry through booking.

All prices are per person based on two people sharing a motorcycle and a twin/double room, and include meals where shown. Please call Freedom Destinations to confirm departure dates and availability. Seasonal variations may apply.

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• Route 66 Motorcycle (guided), 15 days
• Route 66 Motorcycle (self-guide), 15 days
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• The Fascinating Journey on Route 66: An Iconic American Road Trip
• The Fun of Riding Route 66 - A Journey of Adventure and Nostalgia

Route 66 tours: travel the most famous highway of the world! Get your kicks of 2,448 miles (by motorcycle, car, bus) from Chicago to LA...guided or self-guide...

Welcome to historic route 66: drive the "the mother road".

enjoyed going to the diners and soaking up the atmosphere of the Mother Road

Route 66 standard tours

15 day/14 night itinerary, both self-guide and fully guided versions, german, french, italian and spanish.

Route 66 Small Group Tour

17 day/16 night itinerary, small group and route 66.

Route 66 half-way tour: East (8 days)

Designed to ride from the illinois.

Route 66 half-way tour: West (9 days)

Original route tour offers, self-guide and fully guided versions.

Route 66 + the best natural wonders of the WEST (8 beautiful days)

Los angeles and las vegas.

Experience the Wild West(16 days)

Deserts, canyons, mountains, unforgettable sights, join a guided version.

Travel Route 66 in a minivan/minibus

Two nights in las vegas included.

Rent a Harley

Smaller sections of the mother road.

Rent a convertible car on Route 66!

Start in new york, #1 pacific highway drive.

Route 66 bus tours

Americans traveled from the 1920s through the 1960s, visit many of the route 66 museums.

We do organize custom tours

Have you got your own dates.

Maps of Route 66

Chicago to los angeles, download a route 66 app.

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Rediscovering the mother road: Route 66 road trip

A Route 66 road trip is a unique adventure where each turn reveals a new chapter in the tale of the Mother Road. When you travel this ribbon of asphalt that connects Chicago to Santa Monica, your journey through the heart of America is also a trip through American history.

Embarking on a Route 66 road trip is like flipping through the pages of an American storybook, where each mile marker is a sentence and every town a chapter of history and culture. This journey begins in the bustling streets of Chicago, where the towering skyscrapers and pulsating energy of the Windy City set the stage for an adventure across the heart of America. As you venture along the Mother Road, you’ll see golden plains, snow-capped mountains and barren deserts. And you’ll see a combination of historical gems, quirky roadside attractions and dilapidated icons.

Starting point: Chicago

The Windy City is where the legendary Route 66 begins. As a beacon of commerce and industry in the early 20th century, Chicago mirrors the spirit of Route 66. Its towering skyscrapers, like the Willis Tower, are architectural marvels that symbolize the American dream.

Start your Route 66 road trip with a selfie at the Begin sign outside the Art Institute of Chicago. At this historic spot, you’re not just starting an epic road trip —  you’re standing at the threshold of an important piece of American history.

Route 66 in Illinois

As the Chicago skyline fades in your rearview mirror, the historic route will take you southwest from Chicago to St. Louis , winding historical sites and quirky roadside attractions. Be sure to stop at the Route 66 Hall of Fame in Pontiac, where you can explore exhibits and artifacts that celebrate the history of the highway. In Collinsville, you’ll find the world’s largest catsup bottle that doubles as a water tower. And watch for the Muffler Men, larger-than-life fiberglass statues, as you travel throughout the state.

“When you’re passing through Springfield, the Old State Capitol, Lincoln’s Grave and Lincoln’s Home are obligatory stops for history buffs. The Capitol and Home offer tours, while the monument is something you can easily explore on your own.” — Michelle Price, Honest and Truly

When motoring through the Land of Lincoln on Route 66, take some time to explore the capital city of Springfield , where history intertwines with the road trip culture of the famed highway. Be sure to visit Lincoln’s home and final resting place at the Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Route 66 in Missouri

In the Show Me State, your Route 66 road trip will begin in St. Louis and end in Joplin. Stop at the Chain of Rocks Bridge as you start this portion of your journey. Now a pedestrian bridge, it offers fantastic views and a sense of the original Route 66 spirit.

In Stanton, the Meramec Caverns are famed as a hideout for Jesse James. The Route 66 Car Museum in Springfield showcases over 100 vintage cars, and you can admire a delightful recreation of a 1930s Sinclair gas station in Ash Grove.

For a unique cinematic experience, the Route 66 Drive-In Theatre in Carthage is a throwback to simpler times. Enjoy a movie under the stars in this nostalgic setting. And, as you approach Joplin, the Route 66 Mural Park offers a perfect backdrop for a memorable photo, capturing the spirit of your Missouri Route 66 adventure.

Route 66 in Kansas

Route 66 barely nicks Kansas’s southeastern corner, running just under 13 miles through the Sunflower State. But in that distance, it runs through three towns rich with cattle, mining and Route 66 history. Stop at the Brush Creek Bridge just north of Baxter Springs. It’s the last remaining fixed marsh rainbow arch bridge left on Kansas Route 66.

Route 66 in Oklahoma

Beginning in Miami and ending just west of Sayre, the Sooner State is home to the longest driveable stretch of Route 66. As your Route 66 road trip continues through Oklahoma, notable stops include the Coleman Theatre, a beautifully restored vaudeville and movie palace, and the Route 66 Vintage Iron Motorcycle Museum, filled with classic bikes and memorabilia.

Your next vacation is just one bite away with these 27 recipes

“Whether you’re traveling the Mother Road or just exploring the city, Tulsa has a number of Route 66 gems you won’t want to miss. A stop at Buck Atoms Cosmic Curios is a must when shopping for souvenirs, and the Route 66 Historical Village offers a way to learn about this piece of local history in an open-air museum setting.” — Megan Bannister, Olio in Iowa

In Catoosa, you’ll see a blue whale that begs you to stop for a photo you can share with a clever Route 66 caption . Just a few miles later, Tulsa is packed with can’t miss sights along Route 66 , including murals, statues, museums and other experiences that capture the spirit of the Mother Road.

Route 66 in Texas

As Route 66 carves its way through the Texas Panhandle, it blends iconic landmarks and unique Texan charm. One of the most famous sights is Cadillac Ranch . Near Amarillo, you’ll find this quirky art installation. It invites visitors to leave their mark on ten Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground and add to its colorful history. Then head to The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge. Not only is Amarillo the largest city on the stretch of Route 66 that runs through Texas, but the size of its steaks helps prove that everything is bigger in Texas.

As you motor through Adrian, don’t miss the Route 66 Midpoint sign directly opposite the Midpoint Cafe. This fantastic photo op indicates that you are halfway between Chicago and Los Angeles on your Route 66 road trip.

Route 66 in New Mexico

Route 66 enters New Mexico just east of San Jon and exits just west of Gallup. One of the most notable stops in the Land of Enchantment is the town of Tucumcari. It’s known for its iconic Route 66 murals and neon signs, the Blue Swallow Motel and decaying landmarks from long ago.

Further along, in Santa Rosa, the Route 66 Auto Museum is a paradise for car enthusiasts, showcasing a collection of classic and vintage cars in pristine condition. The town’s Blue Hole, a stunning natural artesian spring, offers a refreshing break from the road.

Route 66 in Arizona

Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 is a mesmerizing journey through landscapes that blend natural wonders with historic charm. The Petrified Forest National Park and Painted Desert present a stunning panorama of colors and geological marvels, showcasing one of the most scenic stretches of a Route 66 road trip. These ancient landscapes, where petrified wood and unique rock formations tell a story millions of years old, are a testament to nature’s artistry.

In Winslow, the famous corner immortalized in the Eagles’ song “Take It Easy” is a must-visit, along with the beautifully restored La Posada Hotel , offering a glimpse into the luxurious past of rail travel. You’ll also travel through the historic towns of Oatman and Seligman, where the spirit of the Old West and the Mother Road’s golden age are still alive.

Route 66 in California

The roughly 300 miles of Route 66 meandering through California may be the most diverse as it begins in the Mojave Desert and weaves through the bustling streets of Los Angeles. On the state’s eastern side, the Amboy Crater and the quirky Bottle Tree Ranch in Helendale provide unique photo opportunities amidst stark landscapes. The ghost town of Calico, once a thriving mining town, now stands as a fascinating historical site.

As you approach Los Angeles and make your way to the Santa Monica Pier, take the chance to visit the Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino, a classic example of Route 66 kitsch. Hollywood and its famous landmarks await in the heart of LA, offering a stark contrast to the quiet desert towns. California’s Route 66 is a journey through contrasting worlds, from desolate beauty to urban glamour, encapsulating the diverse spirit of the Golden State.

End point: Santa Monica

America’s Main Street ends in Santa Monica, where the legendary road meets the Pacific Ocean. When you stand at the End of the Trail sign on the Santa Monica Pier, take a moment to reflect on the rich history of Route 66, from its Dust Bowl-era beginnings to its role in American pop culture. On this spot, your great American road trip meets the ocean’s expanse, providing a perfect photo opportunity to commemorate the completion of an epic road trip.

Sage Scott was bitten by the travel bug as a preschooler when her family moved abroad for the first time. Now settled in America’s Heartland, Sage is a travel writer, world wanderer and photographer whose favorite color is golden hour.

The post Rediscovering the mother road: Route 66 road trip appeared first on Food Drink Life .

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U.S. Highway 66 -- popularly known as Route 66 or the Mother Road -- holds an elevated place in American consciousness and tells diverse stories of a mobile nation on the road. Discover this shared heritage through historic places you can still experience today, which are reminders of our past and the influence the automobile has had on our lives and nation today.    There are more than 250 buildings, bridges, road alignments and other sites along Route 66 that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This travel itinerary highlights over 100 of those sites, and is part of the National Park Service's  Share Our Heritage Travel Itineray series. Enjoy your trip and visiting these special places along historic Route 66!

Discover the historic hotels, filling stations, restaurants, and more that line this iconic roadway.

Read essays about the history of Route 66.

This National Park Service program provides preservation information including technical and financial resources about Route 66.

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A Highway 1 Road Trip Needs to Be on Your Biking Bucket List

California’s coast-hugging Highway 1 is an essential road trip. I took a breathtaking ride to nowhere on the latest Harley-Davidson Street Glide

The Harley’s TFT screen temperature reads 42 degrees Celsius, confirmed by a shimmering heat haze rising from the asphalt. Up ahead, a Chinook helicopter is dumping water onto a roadside blaze and the resulting ash is falling like snow.

A weather emergency has been declared in California and I’m stationary on the latest Harley-Davidson Street Glide with no gaps to filter. It’s proper sweltering. If ever there was a moment to consider a Rollie Free-style ride in my underpants to the nearest air-conditioned bar, this is it.

Of course, there was a time when just the heat from a Street Glide’s iconic V-twin would burn more leg hair than a tube of Immac. Not anymore. The updated Milwaukee-Eight 117 features a new cooling system that ‘optimises thermal comfort’, or put more crudely, doesn’t singe your nuts off.

Ducting from the radiator now funnels air away from the rider, a welcome source of heat for UK bikers in the winter months but not here in the Golden State. Even with the wheels turning, the temperature today is debilitating – just imagine standing behind a jet engine at full throttle.

If that sounds like a first-world problem then there’s a bigger one ahead. I’m here to ride one of the world’s most famous road routes but Mother Nature has decided to toss a whopping spanner in the works. The illuminated ‘Rock slide ahead’ sign beside Highway 1 is an understatement. Earlier this year, a winter storm in Monterey County severed the bucket list route from riders when 300,000 cubic yards of rock cascaded across the road on the Big Sur and into the Pacific.

Regent’s Slide, 40 miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, is the latest in a series of storms to damage sections of the popular route. The repair work was due to be completed by November but fears of continued movement means it could be the New Year before the road is finally reopened to traffic.

Cut into steep hillsides, this iconic section of Highway 1 opened in the 1930s and is a ‘must ride’ for bikers who revel in the sweeping bends and dramatic vistas. The ongoing closure has seriously damaged visitor numbers, so is now the moment to beat the traffic and take a Californian road trip?

Work on the Pacific Coast Highway began in 1919, detonating more than 70,000 pounds of dynamite to cut a routeway that is now as famous as Route 66. The roaring 20s and 30s also marked the beginning of a golden age of hospitality in California, with hotels quickly springing up along its path.

My starting point is The Georgian in Santa Monica, a beachfront masterpiece that became the go-to destination for Hollywood’s finest, from Clark Gable to Fatty Arbuckle. The art deco hotel dates back to 1933 and fits perfectly with both the Highway 1 zeitgeist and Harley-Davidson ’s old-school appeal.

Photographer Ben is straddling a sibling Road Glide, mechanically identical but 13kg heavier than the Street Glide and equipped with ape handlebars. The ‘new’ look Street sports more traditional styling and a Batwing fairing but now it’s a sleeker shape and carries an LED headlight and daytime running strips.

The latest 1,917cc version of Harley’s liquid/air-cooled engine is heavily chromed up on the Street Glide, while Ben’s steed offers a more contemporary look. Both pack twin panniers but annoyingly, the shape doesn’t lend itself to conventional baggage.

One of LA’s oldest hotels, the Georgian’s Ocean Avenue address is catnip for Instagrammers. If you can’t bag a table in the basement-level Georgian Room steakhouse, a veranda seat in Sirena restaurant is a great place to watch people watching you admiring your bike.

I set out to the next morning to explore the coastline north of Santa Monica, famous for A-list celebrities and surfers alike. Everybody from Larry Ellison to Cher has a beachfront condo here. Turn inland for the Santa Monica Mountains and Rock Store cafe – a mecca for hungry bikers enjoying the twisties.

Before pulling on a helmet to head north on Highway 1, I stop at Primo Passo Coffee Roasters in Montana Avenue to check my bike is ready for the trip. The Street Glide is equipped with a (pointless) 200w sound system and satellite navigation – although it’s painfully slow to load up on the 12.3-inch screen.

Not that there’s much navigating to be done on Highway 1. Turn right at the beach and keep riding should direct me all the way to a first stop in Santa Barbara. The Harley’s a big old beast at 367kg and although a low 28-inch seat height helps, I’d rather be riding it on a six-lane freeway than manoeuvring around LA.

It’s late summer but the Pacific breeze and some classic Californian tunes in my helmet help take my mind off the searing heatwave. The real estate grows more impressive by the mile as I skirt by Malibu. Further on is Neptune’s Net, another favourite eatery for bikers.

Highway 1 then joins Route 101 for a fast stretch into Santa Barbara. A rail track still runs through the heart of the town’s vibrant Funk Zone and if you’re not riding afterwards, pop in to nearby Validation Ale, a brewery-cum-restaurant where drinkers vote for their favourite ales of the week displayed live on a screen above the bar. Puppy Paws hazy IPA and Kevin du Blonde are my top tipples.

From Santa Barbara, Highway 1 meanders north, past the eerily quiet Vandenberg Space Force Base, the pristine white beaches of Pismo and on to the perfectly named dairy town of Harmony, a former pit-stop for guests travelling to William Randolph Hearst’s nearby castle.  Often bypassed by road trippers, the town is best described as quirky – it once displayed a toilet memorial planted with roses and a sign proclaiming that Rudolph Valentino had used the facility in 1926.

After a cooling ice cream at the Harmony Creamery truck, there’s a decision to be made. Continue 55 miles north up the coast on Highway 1 to the Regent Slide blockage on the Big Sur – effectively a ride to nowhere and the longest cul-de-sac in the state – or turn inland on Highway 46 and pick up the 101 to Monterey.

It’s a frustrating two-and-a-half hours detour in motorway conditions but also a no-brainer. The no-nonsense 101 can’t compete with the majestic beauty of the epic coastal route but I plan to ride the 45 miles back south from Monterey to the Regent Slide block the following day, through some of the Big Sur’s finest scenery.

The newly refurbished Monterey Beach Hotel has just reopened. The only hotel on the beach offers incredible sunsets across Monterey Bay, with outdoor decking to relax, stretch aching backs and legs and listen to the sound of waves crashing on the sand.

The next morning I’m up early for breakfast at LouLou’s Griddle in the Middle, on the town’s commercial pier. The pancake stack should keep me topped up until supper but before that I ride south on the final leg of my journey, past Monterey’s famous Cannery Row, the setting for John Steinbeck’s novel.

Nearby, 17-Mile Drive from Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach carries a $11.25 entry charge but should be included on every road trip itinerary. Then head due south again on Highway 1, through swanky Carmel (of Clint Eastwood fame), keeping the ocean to the right and admiring the rocky outcrops and tumbling waves at every turn.

The Street Glide’s lengthened rear travel shocks – upped to three inches – enhance the comfort, while four selectable rider modes make for a more engaging ride.  That said, this is one route where it’s almost impossible to keep your eyes off the astonishing scenery.

Bixby Bridge is the Big Sur’s version of the Golden Gate but arrive early to beat crowds of selfie-takers. However, few travellers venture much further south as the Regent Slide site at Lucia blocks their path. As the traffic thins and eventually disappears, we finally have one of the world’s greatest roads all to ourselves.

The Harley is purring through the Redwood forests as my nostrils scent a salty spray from the beaches below. Stretches of the rugged coastline are often topped with an atmospheric wisp of mist, while an occasional seal pops its head up above the waterline.

All that’s missing from my two-wheeled adventure is a movie actress perched behind on the pillion seat.

Unfortunately, there’s a growing sense of inevitability as the ‘road closed’ signs become more frequent. The highway ends abruptly with an innocuous line of traffic cones. I stop and join a handful of other curious travellers who stand and crane their necks in the hope of seeing the dramatic landslip just around the corner.

The classic, all-American road trip is especially dramatic along this section of the west coast of California. With epic views, fantastic biking and beautiful seaside hotels, even with a temporary landslide blocking the way, this is one of the best scenic rides on the planet. And whatever your riding style, there’s still only one make of machine to keep you company.

• For further information visit www.santamonica.com ; www.santabarbaraca.com ; www.seemonterey.com and www.visitcalifornia.com

Photography by Ben Akin-Smith

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Route 66 Motorcycle Tours

Starting at

Ways to explore Route 66

There are many ways to experience the Route 66 with EagleRider, and here’s how they compare!

Guided Route 66 Motorcycle Tours

The ultimate experience, route 66 motorcycle tour™.

Chicago, IL

15 Days/ 14 Nights

Starting At

Route 66 Motorcycle Tour - Albuquerque to Los Angeles

Albuquerque, NM

9 Days/ 8 Nights

Route 66 Motorcycle Tour - Chicago to Albuquerque

8 Days/ 7 Nights

Route 66 Motorcycle Tour - Harley-Davidson VIP Experience

Milwaukee, WI

17 Days/ 16 Nights

Route 66 Motorcycle Tour - Harley-Davidson VIP Experience - 10 Day

10 Days/ 9 Nights

Coast to Coast Guided Motorcycle Tour - Los Angeles to Orlando

Los Angeles, CA

Southwest Canyon Country Motorcycle Tour

Las Vegas, NV

Wild West Motorcycle Tour™

16 Days/ 15 Nights

Wild West 1 Motorbike Tour™

Self guided route 66 motorcycle tours, you dream it - we plan it, route 66 self-guided motorcycle tour.

Self-Guided

Western Highlights Motorcycle Tour - 2

Southwest motorcycle tour - 1, route 66 self guided motorcycle tour - albuquerque to los angeles, route 66 self guided motorcycle tour - chicago to albuquerque, route 66 self guided motorcycle tour - los angeles to albuquerque, route 66 self guided motorcycle tour - harley-davidson museum, pacific coast highway motorcycle tour, pacific coast highway motorcycle tour - san francisco to los angeles.

San Francisco, CA

3 Days/ 2 Nights

Route 66 Self Guided Motorcycle Tour - Albuquerque to Chicago

Texas motorcycle tour, midwest motorcycle tour - 8 day, washington d.c. motorcycle tour.

Washington DC, Virginia

Arizona and Grand Canyon Motorcycle Tour - 8 day

Phoenix, AZ

San Diego - Phoenix Motorcycle Tour

San Diego, CA

Zion and Grand Canyon National Park Motorcycle Tour

Texas 3 day motorcycle tour, arizona and grand canyon motorcycle tour - 3 day, las vegas to death valley motorcycle tour, las vegas and national parks motorcycle tour, western highlights motorcycle tour - 1, california and las vegas motorcycle tour, las vegas and grand canyon motorcycle tour.

5 Days/ 4 Nights

Route 66 Motorcycle Rentals

19 models available to rent for Route 66

Heritage Softail® Classic

Street Glide®

Road Glide®

Street Glide® Touring Edition

Road Glide® Touring Edition

Road Glide® Ultra

Electra Glide®

Tri Glide® Ultra

Street Bob®

Pan America™ 1250 Special

Super Tenere 1200

XL750 Transalp

Route 66 Motorcycle trips

Enjoy an unforgettable motorcycle trip on Route 66 with EagleRider, the world’s largest motorcycle experience company. Join us on this classic American adventure and explore what generations of dreamers have experienced before you. Ride the 2,400 miles of Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles in 15 days, or pick your favorite stretch of Route 66 if you have less time. EagleRider offers more than 15 tour routes, over 76 destinations, explorable in 4 tour types with extraordinary features, on the best late model Motorcycle Rentals. Scroll down to learn more about how you can enjoy and experience Route 66. Now is the time to make Route 66 your summer adventure! Whether you participate in one of our tours or just rent a bike from us, now is the time to make Route 66 your summer adventure.

Transform your journey into an exhilarating Harley Tour by selecting one of our incredible Harley models such as the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic, Harley-Davidson Road Glide, Harley-Davidson Street Glide Touring Edition, Harley-Davidson Road Glide Touring Edition, Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra, or for a different riding experience, choose from our sport touring models like the BMW R 1250 GS, BMW R 1250 RT, BMW R nineT Urban G/S, Yamaha Super Tenere 1200, and Yamaha FJR1300.

Route 66 Motorcycle tour gallery

• A 48 Hour Guide To...

A 48 Hour Guide to Astrakhan, Russia

Travellers who venture into Astrakhan will enjoy the historical charm and cultural vibrancy of this old Silk Route town. The otherworldly Lake Baskunchak and extensive Delta wetlands are just a day trip away.

Astrakhan lies close to the Kazakhstan border where the Volga River flows into the Caspian Sea. It used to be a town on the old Silk Route and is built on more than 10 islands. Meander along canals and over bridges to soak up ancient Tatar, Christian and Islamic history. Venture into the surrounding countryside to enjoy the splendour of the Volga Delta wetlands and the region’s natural beauty.

Day one – Acquaint yourself with the city

Morning – Explore local history

Start the day by taking a walk through the Kryusha Quarter. It’s the city’s former Tatar and Persian area, and it remains a predominantly Muslim area. As such, there are clusters of mosques in various states of neglect and repair.

Starting at Ulitsa Kirova, walk along Kazanskaya Ulitsa until you reach a Lenin bust. If you cross over the canal, you’ll come across a well-kept park, complete with sculptures and a lake. Continue past it, and you’ll end up at the foot of the hill where the city’s Kremlin sits on top. A UNESCO World Heritage site with inviting gardens and temporary exhibitions, the Kremlin is not to be missed.

Pro tip: The Kryusha Quarter is fascinating to walk through, but it is still a little rough. It is fine to walk through during the day, but it is best to avoid it at night.

Afternoon – Discover Astrakhan’s cool hidey-holes

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Once you’re finished at the Kremlin, cut through the Fraternal Gardens to the city’s hipster hangout, Rozmarin Cafe , and fill up on freshly cooked meals and refuel with strong coffee. Once revived, take a peek at the Museum of Military Glory, which is as patriotic as the name suggests. However, despite the museum’s nationalistic slant, it is a good place to learn about historical battles.

Afterwards, it is worth walking over to Moloko, a hip, modern canteen-style café, which is run by the same people as Rozmarin Cafe. Even if you’re still full from lunch, they are licensed. So, why not have a cheeky afternoon drink and a snack?

From Moloko , it’s another lazy stroll along the banks of the Kutum River to the banks of the Volga – the manicured riverfront is the city’s crowning glory. There are people to watch, sculptures to see, and sunsets to enjoy.

Evening – Enjoy riverside views

After all of that walking about, treat yourself to a delicious meal. Right on the waterfront, Yamato is an indulgent, top-notch Japanese restaurant. The menu offers Japanese dishes, sushi, pan-Asian and Asian-fusion meals, as well as a lot of classic European and Russian cuisine. And it’s not just the food that is good here – so is the decor, inspired by Japanese minimalism and traditional aesthetics.

Pro tip: Yamato is popular. Book a reservation or be prepared to wait for a little while.

Night – Embrace the local culture

For those who want to sample some high-brow culture, why not check out what ballet is showing? The Astrakhan State Theatre of Opera and Ballet may not have the same clout as other regional theatres, but like most ballet and opera in Russia, they are still done to an outstanding standard.

For those who want to kick on, take the short stroll over to Kul’tovyy Bar (Cult Bar) for dim lighting, live music and boozy drinks. It also serves reasonably priced food. After loading up on positive vibes, belt out a few tunes with new friends at any of the many karaoke bars in town, such as Chicago House.

Whatever time the night ends, rest your well-worn legs at the luxurious Novomoskovskaya Hotel , a 10-minute walk away from Kul’tovyy Bar. Sleeping options are limited in Astrakhan, but they are also affordable, which means this five-star hotel comes with a bargain price tag. It’s also right in the heart of the city, so the Kremlin and the central sights are all within walking distance.

Day two – Soak up the Astrakhan region’s beauty

Morning – Venture out to the great outdoors

Although the city still has plenty to offer, a trip to the surrounding countryside is a must. Around Astrakhan , the Volga River splinters off into thousands of streams and rivers, known as the Volga Delta Wetlands. The wetlands, filled with birds and animals, are lush and an adventure to explore.

Roads eventually peter out and make way for rivers and marshes. The further you explore the wetlands, the more likely you’ll need a boat. A trip into the wetlands is a day trip in itself, so don’t plan to cram too many countryside sights into your itinerary.

Pro tip: Many tour companies offer trips into the wetlands, so shop around to find a deal that you like. Parts of the area are protected, so tourists need a permit. Tourist agencies in Astrakhan can help you organise these. Procosta is a tour company that offers trips into the delta with a guide, and only Procosta tours can be taken without one of these permits.

Afternoon – Float in salty water

An alternative day trip is to Lake Baskunchak, near the Kazakhstan border. One of Russia’s major salt basins, it supplies the nation with approximately 80 percent of its salt. Back in the day, people used to flock here to reap the health benefits of the salty water and the clay, and legend has it that it is a place of healing. Despite, or because of, its otherworldly appearance and its far-flung locale, it remains a popular tourist destination, albeit an unusual one.

A swim in the lake is comparable to a dip in the Dead Sea , although many swimmers bring shoes because prickly salt covers the bottom of the lake-bed. The lake used to be an important stop on the Silk Route, as its seemingly endless supply of salt has long been a precious commodity.

Pro tip: Make sure you pack a picnic, plenty of fresh water and sunscreen because there aren’t any trees around the lake.

Evening – Feast on traditional dishes

All that country air will induce hunger that must be satiated. So, head straight to Mindal (which translates to Almond) to feast on steaming hot Georgian khachapuri and Uzbek pilaf and other drool-inducing dishes. A top restaurant in town, Mindal serves up hearty central Asian and Caucasian dishes in a casual, yet stylish setting – a perfect treat to end a long day spent on the road and in the great outdoors.

Night – Relax with a beer

Mindal has a licensed bar that also serves up hookahs, so if you are suffering from a post-pigout food coma, and are exhausted from the day, hang around and enjoy yourself for a little bit longer. But if you want a change of scenery, visit Akademiya Piva, (Beer Academy). This restaurant and brewery is not only a stumble away from the hotel, but it is an opportunity to try a local brew or two. Of their five house-made beers, one is brewed in the style of the iconic Soviet beer, Zhigulevskoye.

Pro tip: If you want to relax after dinner at Mindal, book a booth table and make yourself comfortable. Also, for those on a budget, Akademiya Piva serves pub grub at a reasonable price.

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Astrakhan Oblast

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Things to do in Astrakhan Oblast

Astrakhan Kremlin

Astrakhan Embankment

Fraternal garden

Heydar Aliyev Square

Monument to Peter I

Bol'shoye Kino

Astrakhanskiy Dramaticheskiy Teatr

Petrovsky fountain

Kinoostrov Na Magistral'noy

What to eat.

Cafe Gourmet Galleria

Smartcafe 3/7

Kulinariya №1

Volga-Strit

Piratskaya Pristan

Poplavok Restaurant

Orange Cafe

Other recommended cities.

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