Route 66 Turns 100: Tips for Traveling the Mother Road

Whether you’re planning an action-packed itinerary or chasing the freedom of the open road, these resources can get you on your way to an unforgettable Route 66 adventure.

About Route 66

Route 66 was established in 1926, as part of the USA’s first federal highway system, linking the Midwest to the Pacific. This year, America will celebrate 100 years of the Mother Road. The original route stretched through eight states – Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California – delighting motorists with scenic views and unique roadside attractions.

Though it was officially decommissioned in 1985, the spirit of Route 66 lives on. You can explore its legendary culture along local roads, highways and intact stretches still bearing the Route 66 moniker. These segments connect vibrant cities, charming towns and captivating landscapes filled with quirky art installations and retro rest stops.

With so much to see and do along the fabled route, it’s best to plan ahead. Researching travel advisories and trip ideas before you hit the road will allow you to savor the journey and visit all the areas that interest you. Use the resources below to make the most of your Mother Road experience.

When to Go

The best times to travel Route 66 are late spring to early summer (May-June) and late summer to early fall (September-October). You’ll avoid the summer heat and potential winter hazards at higher elevations.

Key Gateway Airports

These travel hubs offer convenient flight options for end-to-end adventures and destination-specific trips. Rental cars, including electric vehicles (EVs), are available on-site.
Chicago O’Hare (ORD) in Illinois and Los Angeles (LAX) in California bookend the route. Major airports in between include:

• St. Louis Lambert (STL) in Missouri
• Denver International (DEN) in Colorado
• Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) in Texas
• Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) in Arizona
• Harry Reid (LAS) in Nevada

Road Trip Tips

From mapping your route to observing the rules of the road, these tips can help you cruise Route 66 with confidence.

• Trip time: Allow 2-3 weeks for the full Route 66 experience and build in extra time for the unexpected – whether that’s a flat tire or a spontaneous side trip.
• Rentals and driving in the USA: Major agencies (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National) all offer one-way rentals between Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL). Expect a one-way drop-off fee of roughly USD $150-300. Book early in summer; SUVs and convertibles sell out first. Minimum age is typically 21. Some agencies charge a young driver surcharge for ages 21–24. A valid driver’s license from your home country is accepted by rental car agencies and is legal to drive with for up to 90 days in most cases. Though exact requirements vary by state, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended. Responsible road-tripping involves respecting signage, including “private property” and “no trespassing” notices.
• EV travel: Going green? Consider your vehicle’s range and plan charging stops in advance. Infrastructure may be limited in rural areas. Download an EV travel app to find charging stations on the go.
• Accommodations: Roadside motels are a colorful part of Route 66 culture. Book early for the classic experience – complete with neon signs and nostalgic décor. Other places to stay include family-owned hotels, chain hotels and picturesque campgrounds. Lodging in larger cities like Chicago and St. Louis varies greatly in price depending on amenities available, time of year, and proximity to attractions — from luxury hotels or options within walking distance of popular areas to more budget-friendly choices. Staying overnight in smaller destinations like Springfield is generally less expensive, with a range of options from budget to higher-end properties. Vacation rental homes are available through platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, and can be a great option for larger traveling parties or those seeking more private accommodations than traditional hotels.
• Tipping:
  • Restaurants: Tip waitstaff 18–20% of the bill (not optional in the USA). 
  • Hotels: $1–2 per bag for porters; $2-5 per night for housekeeping. 
  • Tour guides: $5-10 per person for short tours.
  • Tipping is expected even when service has been only adequate.
    
• Precautions: Be prepared to navigate areas with limited cell phone service. Download offline maps in advance and consider a dedicated GPS device or app built for Route 66 to avoid being rerouted onto interstates. Be sure to and share your travel plans with someone.

What to Bring

Route 66 winds through a diverse range of climates. Pack the items you need to stay comfortable in changing conditions.

• Clothing to layer: Versatility is key, especially during prime travel periods in spring and fall. You’ll also want comfortable shoes for exploring cities, towns and scenic landscapes.
• Sun protection: Wear sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat to prevent sun damage.
• Route 66 playlist: Select your favorite songs or enjoy retro road trip tunes. “Get Your Kicks on Route 66!” is a Mother Road anthem with multiple recordings.
• Emergency kit: Travel with a map (printed and digital), first-aid kit, umbrella and other supplies, such as extra food and water.

More Ways to Travel Route 66

Look beyond the classic road trip to find Route 66 excursions tailored to groups, solo travelers and thrill seekers:

• Guided full-route and destination-focused tours: Group trips leave the logistics to the experts and feature curated local experiences. Shared transportation can reduce the environmental impact of your adventure.
• RVs, motorcycles and classic cars: Travel with all the comforts of home by renting a recreational vehicle, or reserve a muscle car for maximum Mother Road nostalgia. Experienced riders can rent a motorcycle to ride Route 66 on two wheels and with a sense of ultimate freedom.