Route 66 with a rental car

Would you like to drive one of the world’s most iconic road trips? With a rental car via Alamo.nl, you can discover Route 66 at your own pace. The route runs from Chicago to Santa Monica and takes you through eight states, each with its own landscapes and character. Pick up your car at one of the airports or city locations along the route and start your American road trip right away. You can also find more tips in our blog.

Illinois

Your road trip starts in Chicago, the starting point of Route 66. This city is known for its impressive skyline, museums, and lively atmosphere. From here, you drive through the heart of America past small towns, classic diners, and historic stops that immediately immerse you in the Route 66 spirit. The first part of the route gives you a great introduction to American road trip culture.

Missouri

In Missouri, you drive through rolling landscapes and pass cities such as St. Louis, where you can visit the famous Gateway Arch. Springfield is another important stop along the route, featuring several classic Route 66 attractions. Route 66 officially originated in Springfield in 1926. The route passes through the Ozarks, along the Mississippi River, and through charming towns such as Cuba, Carthage, and Joplin. Along the way, you will encounter Route 66 State Park, Neon Park, and many other classic Route 66 attractions.

Kansas

Route 66 only passes briefly through Kansas, but this section is definitely worth visiting. In Galena, you will find attractions such as “Cars on the Route” and an authentic gas station. You can also easily start your road trip in Wichita or Kansas City. It is a short but characterful addition that completes your Route 66 adventure.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma has one of the longest stretches of Route 66. Here, you drive through wide-open plains and past historic landmarks. Cities such as Tulsa and Oklahoma City are major stops along the route. Along the way, you experience the true space and tranquility of the American Midwest while discovering the history of Route 66. Highlights include “Pops” in Arcadia, famous for its hundreds of soda varieties, and the Rock Cafe in Stroud.

Texas

In Texas, you drive through the vast landscapes of the Panhandle. Here, you will find iconic stops such as Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo, where old cars are buried halfway in the ground. The long straight roads give you the true feeling of freedom that belongs to an American road trip. This part of the route is ideal for covering longer distances.

New Mexico

New Mexico introduces you to a completely different landscape filled with deserts, red rocks, and Native American influences. Cities such as Albuquerque are important stops along the route. The atmosphere and architecture here differ greatly from the other states, making this part of the trip especially unique.

Arizona

Arizona is one of the highlights of Route 66. Here, you drive past breathtaking scenery and famous places such as the Grand Canyon. Cities like Flagstaff are popular bases during your road trip. This part of the route offers many opportunities for short excursions into nature.

California

You end your journey in California, where Route 66 finishes in Santa Monica by the coast. Along the way, you pass desert landscapes and major cities such as Los Angeles. End your road trip at the Pacific Ocean and enjoy the view from the Santa Monica Pier. It is the perfect ending to a remarkable journey.

Route 66