Route 66: The ultimate USA roadtrip
2026 is a milestone year for road trip enthusiasts: Route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary! This legendary highway, often called the “Mother Road”, runs from Chicago to Santa Monica and is the ultimate journey for anyone wanting to experience the American Dream. In this guide, we’ll take you through the highlights, share practical tips, and help you choose the perfect starting and ending points for your trip.
A journey through time
Route 66 officially opened in 1926 and served for decades as the main connection between America’s East and West. It became a symbol of freedom, adventure, and American optimism. During the Great Depression, thousands of families traveled west on Route 66 in search of a better life. Thanks to Hollywood movies and classic road trip songs, the highway has become a mythical travel experience.
In 2026, Route 66 turns 100, and special events will be held all along the route to celebrate; from vintage car parades in Illinois to music festivals in Oklahoma and cultural exhibitions in New Mexico. This makes 2026 the year to drive all or part of this historic highway.
Where does Route 66 begin?
The classic Route 66 stretches from Chicago, Illinois (in the east) to Santa Monica, California (on the west coast). But you don’t have to drive the entire 2,448 miles (3,940 km) to enjoy it. Here are a few popular options:
Full Route
Start: Chicago, Illinois
End: Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles
Perfect for the ultimate experience—plan at least two to three weeks for this trip.
Halfway Start
Start: Oklahoma City or Amarillo
End: Santa Monica, Los Angeles
Great if you have less time but still want to live the American Dream. This section takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the West—deserts, red rock scenery, and Route 66 classics.
Western Route
Start: Albuquerque, New Mexico
End: Santa Monica, Los Angeles
Ideal for travelers with only a week who want to focus on the iconic sights of Arizona and California.
Eastern Route
Start: Chicago
End: Oklahoma City
Perfect for those interested in Midwestern cities and history, with limited time available.
💡 Tip: If you pick up your rental car in one city and drop it off in another, you’ll need to pay a one-way drop-off fee.
Highlights along Route 66
Chicago, Illinois – The Start of Your Adventure
Kick off with a deep-dish pizza, visit Millennium Park, then hit the road west.
Missouri – The Gateway to the West
St. Louis and the iconic Gateway Arch are must-see stops.
Oklahoma – The Heart of Route 66
Classic diners, vintage motels, and Route 66 museums transport you straight back to the 1950s.
New Mexico & Arizona – Red Rocks and Desert Sunsets
Discover ancient pueblos, the Painted Desert, and Petrified Forest National Park.
Santa Monica, California – The End of the Road
Celebrate your journey with a stroll along the pier and a sunset over the Pacific.
Practical tips for your Route 66 trip
Plan ahead: Hotels and rental cars can sell out quickly, especially if you’re booking a one-way trip.
Choose the right car: A comfortable SUV or convertible makes the journey even more memorable—book early to secure your preferred model.
Take your time: Plan at least three weeks for the full route, one to two weeks for the western half.
Follow the historic route: Not every stretch is clearly marked—bring a Route 66 guidebook or app.
Advice from our customer service team
Not sure where to start, which rental car to choose, or how much time you should set aside? Our customer service team is ready to help. They know the route inside and out and can assist with one-way rental bookings and insurance options. This way, you’ll start your trip fully prepared and can focus on enjoying the journey. Whether you drive the entire route or just the most scenic sections, you’ll experience a century of stories, dreams, and adventure. So start the engine, cue up your ultimate road trip playlist, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
