15 Best Route 66 Attractions You Need to Visit

Looking for the best Route 66 attractions? You are in the right place.

Stretching more than 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, Route 66 is one of the world’s most famous road trips. Along the way, you’ll discover quirky roadside attractions, historic diners, vintage motels, ghost towns, natural wonders and iconic landmarks.

Whether you’re planning to drive the entire route or just explore a section, there are countless unforgettable stops waiting to be discovered. From the Blue Whale of Catoosa and Cadillac Ranch to the Petrified Forest National Park and the Gemini Giant there is so much to see. Each attraction offers a unique glimpse into the history, culture and nostalgia that have made Route 66 a bucket-list destination for generations.

This Route 66 travel guide highlights 15 of the best historic Route 66 sites, from famous roadside landmarks to hidden gems, helping you plan an unforgettable Route 66 itinerary.

Route 66 runs from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California. Along the way, it crosses into several Midwestern states.

A map of the United States with the states that Route 66 goes through highlighted in a pale yellow. Route 66 is also marked in a green line with red stopping points located along the way.

Route 66 Attractions by State

State	Route 66 Attraction	Best For	Time Needed
Illinois	Gemini Giant	Classic roadside landmark	15–30 mins
Illinois	Soulsby’s Service Station	Route 66 history	20–30 mins
Missouri	Meramec Caverns	Cave tours & families	2–3 hrs
Missouri	Route 66 Drive-In Theatre	Nostalgic movie night	3–4 hrs
Kansas	Historic Rainbow Bridge	Historic bridge	15–30 mins
Oklahoma	Blue Whale of Catoosa	Iconic photo stop	20–30 mins
Oklahoma	Pops 66 Soda Ranch	Food & unique sodas	1–2 hrs
Texas	Leaning Tower of Texas	Quirky roadside stop	15–20 mins
Texas	Cadillac Ranch	Interactive art installation	30–60 mins
New Mexico	Santa Rosa Blue Hole	Swimming & diving	1–2 hrs
New Mexico	Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway	Scenic views	2–3 hrs
Arizona	Petrified Forest National Park	National park	Half day
Arizona	Seligman	Historic Route 66 town	1–2 hrs
California	Calico Ghost Town	Wild West history	2–4 hrs
California	Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch	Outdoor art	30–60 mins

If you’re planning a wider adventure across America’s heartland, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in the Midwest for even more unforgettable destinations.

Quick Facts About Route 66

Length: Approximately 2,448 miles (3,940 km)

States: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California

Start: Chicago, Illinois

End: Santa Monica, California

Best time to drive: April to June and September to October

Recommended trip length: 10–14 days

15 Best Route 66 Attractions You Need to Visit

Gemini Giant: One of Route 66’s Most Iconic Roadside Attractions

One of the most popular stops on this route bu far is the Gemini Giant.

The Gemini Giant is a large Mid Century metal statue.You can find the Gemini Giant in Wilmington Illinois outside of the Launching Pad restaurant. After being saved through local preservation efforts in 2024, the Gemini Giant continues to stand as one of the most iconic and photographed landmarks along Route 66.

The restaurant is a lovingly restored Mid Century style diner that also has a small Americana Museum inside.

The Gemini Giant is one of the most iconic roadside attractions in Illinois and makes a fantastic stop if you’re exploring more of the state’s highlights.

Visitor Tip: Stop by the Launching Pad restaurant next door for a classic Route 66 diner experience. Visit early in the morning or around sunset for the best photos with fewer people.

A large vintage metal sculpture that looks like a moon man. He is wearing a green jumpsuit and a silver metal 'moon' helmet. The Gemini Man is holding a grey rocket with the words 'Launching Pad' written in green on it, with an American flag and another decal. He is also holding an American flag. There is the roof of a building and a large green tree in the background. Iconic route 66 attractions — Nicola Patterson / Shutterstock.com

Soulsby’s Service Station: A Preserved Piece of Route 66 History

In Mount Olive Illinois is the National Heritage Site, the Soulsby’s Service Station.

The service station was originally opened in 1926 by Henry Soulsby, before Route 66 even came to the area. Oil stations were working with architects to create service stations that would blend in to the towns that were being built up around Route 66. With this in mind, Soulsby designed the station himself, and it thrived.

It became an important part of the community, and a piece of Route 66 history.

The service station eventually closed and was sold in 1997. But in 2003, the local historical society started the painstaking process of preserving the property.

Now, people can come and admire this iconic piece of Route 66 history.

This would be a great day trip from Chicago as well.

Visitor Tip: While you can’t go inside every day, the station is well worth stopping to admire from the outside. Bring a camera, as it’s one of the most authentic surviving Route 66 service stations and makes a great photo stop.

Meramec Caverns: Missouri’s Famous Underground Wonder

The Meramec Caverns are in Stanton Missouri, just off of Route 66.

Known as ‘Missouri’s Buried Treasure’, the caverns are one of the best iconic roadside landmarks for families. And definitely an amazing Midwest hidden gem.

The caverns offer guided tours daily and feature some of the largest and rarest cave formations in the world. Many of the rock formations have fun names, like ‘The Wine Table’ and the ‘7-story Mansion’. There is even a fun lightshow where the caverns are lit up with different colored lights, which make it feel especially magical.

In addition to the guided cave tours, visitors can enjoy a range of family-friendly activities nearby, making it an easy place to spend several hours.

It’s a great detour if you’re driving on Route 66 and looking for some family fun. Meramec Caverns is one of Missouri’s most popular attractions and a great addition to any of our recommended Missouri road trips.

Visitor Tip: Guided tours are offered throughout the day, but they can fill up during the summer and on weekends. Arriving early gives you the best choice of tour times and more time to explore the surrounding attractions

The interior of a large cavern system in Missouri. The stalagmites and stalactites are lit up using red, purple, green, pink, and blue lights. It looks like there is water at the bottom that is reflecting some of the lights further

Route 66 Drive-In Theatre: A Classic American Movie Experience

The authentic Route 66 Drive-In Theater is located in Carthage, Missouri.

If you have never gotten to experience the classic American experience like a drive-in, then I highly suggest you add this stop to your Route 66 map. On the weekends, you can watch two movies for the price of one.

The movies are typically new releases, but every so often, they will also do older films.

There is nothing like grabbing dinner at the concession stand and enjoying a movie from the comfort of you own car.

The Route 66 Drive-In Theatre operates seasonally, with showings typically running from spring through early autumn.

Visitor Tip: Arrive before sunset to get a good parking spot and enjoy dinner from the concession stand before the movie begins. Double features are common, so plan to spend the evening here.

If you’re exploring Missouri beyond Route 66, this nostalgic drive-in also fits perfectly into one of our favourite Missouri road trips.

It is certainly a Midwest bucket list experience.

The ticket booth at a retro original route 66 drive in theater. It is made of glass bricks, has an overhang on all sides, and an American flag flying above it. It also has the ticket prices on the side on a white board with black lettering. In the background, you can see part of the drive in screen. One of the best route 66 attractions

Historic Rainbow Bridge: Kansas’ Last Remaining Marsh Arch Bridge

Route 66 just barely crosses into Kansas but where it does there is a little gem.

The Historic Rainbow Bridge is a single span concrete Marsh arch bridge. The bridge remains the only surviving Marsh Arch bridge on the original Route 66, making it an important historic stop.

Built in 1923, it at one point was covered in graffiti, but recently was painted a bright white.

The bridge has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is an interesting part of Kansas’ Route 66 history.

Although Route 66 only briefly passes through this state, there are plenty of other fascinating attractions in Kansas to discover throughout the state.

Visitor Tip: Park nearby and walk across the bridge to appreciate its unique design and history. Since it’s a quick stop, it’s easy to combine with other famous stops along Route 66 in southeast Kansas.

A bluish-white bridge that has an arch shape on both sides of the road. There is a river or stream running underneath it. Around the bridge there is a ton of greenery like shrubs, grasses, and trees

Blue Whale of Catoosa: Route 66’s Most Famous Roadside Landmark

The Blue Whale of Catoosa is an Oklahoma landmark attraction on Route 66.

You’ll find this kitschy fun whale on a map of Route 66 outside of the town of Catoosa.

This funky blue whale sculpture was built in the early 1970s by Hugh Davis as a surprise gift for his wife who loved whales.

It quickly became a popular swimming spot for locals and travelers driving on Route 66.

Now, it is an iconic Route 66 landmark that people still travel to see and take pictures with.

Visitor Tip: Bring a picnic and spend some time by the pond after taking your photos. The site is free to visit and makes a relaxing break from driving, especially on a long Route 66 road trip.

A large metal blue whale floating on the shores of a lake. On the side of the whale, a white slide comes out and there is also a ladder. The whale's mouth is open on the shore of the lake. There is grass and trees all around the lake. Its one of the best route 66 attractions — TLF Images / Shutterstock.com

Pops 66 Soda Ranch: A Route 66 Icon for Soda Lovers

In front of a Mid Century style shop, you can’t miss the 66 foot tall neon soda bottle, especially when it is all lit up.

The shop is actually a diner and a gas station with hundreds of bottled sodas from around the world. Inside the shops, the walls are lined with the variety of sodas and you can peruse the selection while you are waiting to be seated. The diner serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Here you can enjoy classic diner meals like hamburgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches.

They also have a nice selection of desserts that you can enjoy while sipping on any of the wild, or traditional, flavors of soda.

Visitor Tip: Visit after dark if you can. The 66-foot neon soda bottle lights up in the evening, making it one of the most memorable photo stops along Route 66. Don’t leave without picking up a few unusual bottled sodas to enjoy later on your road trip.

A large multi colored soda bottle. The bottle is colored with rings of lights. The lights are shades of yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, blue, and green. Behind the bottle there is a Mid Century style building with lights and windows and a van parked in front of it. It is sunset and there is a large swatch of pink and purple clouds in the background. Route 66 attractions — Courtney Jenckes / Shutterstock.com

Leaning Tower of Texas: A Quirky Route 66 Landmark

Just off of the Route 66 map is the Leaning Tower of Texas.

The water tower leans at an uncomfortably close angle that makes you feel certain it’s going to topple over at any moment. But the tower is in no danger of falling over. In fact, it was purposefully designed to have it’s signature tilt.

The leaning water tower was actually created as a clever advertisement for those driving down Route 66.

It originally marked the spot of a large service station, where people would stop to check out the mysteriously leaning water tower, and fill up their tank or grab a snack while they were there.

Sadly, the service station burned down many years ago, but the quirky Leaning Water Tower of Texas still remains.

Visitor Tip: This is a short photo stop, so plan to spend around 15 to 20 minutes here. It’s easy to combine with other Route 66 attractions around Groom, including the nearby Cross of Our Lord, if you have extra time.

A white water tower leaning over at a serious angle over a field. In the field, a tractor is parked near the leaning tower and there is grass growing.

Cadillac Ranch: Route 66’s Famous Interactive Art Installation

The Cadillac Ranch, outside of Amarillo Texas, is an iconic Route 66 roadside attraction.

Built by hippies from San Francisco that called themselves the Ant Farm, it is a wild art installation in the middle of nowhere. The project was funded by billionaire Stan Marsh III.

Marsh wanted a unique artwork that would baffle Amarillo locals, so the Ant Farm came up with Cadillac Ranch, which is an ode to the evolution of the Cadillac tail fin. Marsh and the Ant Farm had ten Cadillacs driven out to the desert.

Originally, the Cadillacs were unaltered. But as people began to stop and look at the instillation, they also began defacing it.

If anything, this made Cadillac Ranch more popular. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their own artwork on the half-buried Cadillacs, making the installation a constantly changing piece of public art.

Visitor Tip: Bring a can of spray paint if you want to add your own artwork to the Cadillacs. Wear old clothes and sturdy shoes, as the field can become muddy after rain.

Several Cadillac's buried in the dirt about half way. They have been spray painted with graffiti in tons of different colors. It is a bright sunny day. — Erwin Widmer / Shutterstock.com

Santa Rosa Blue Hole: A Crystal-Clear Desert Oasis

The Santa Rosa Blue Hole looks like a mirage in the middle of the New Mexico desert, but it is real.

The oasis spot is actually a part of the Seven Sisters Lakes, which are a series of lakes that are connected via a vast underground water system. It is a seemingly magical blue oasis in the middle of the desert that has attracted visitors for years, long before Route 66. At one point, it was a popular watering hole for nomadic Native American tribes, traveling cowboys, and then eventually Route 66.

Today, visitors can swim, snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal-clear Blue Hole, where the water remains a constant 62°F (17°C) throughout the year.

You’ll quickly find the Blue Hole is one of the best Route 66 stops that is full of history and perfect for a sunny summer day.

Visitor Tip: Bring your swimsuit if you’re visiting in warmer months, but remember the water stays at around 62°F (17°C) year-round, so it can feel surprisingly cold even on a hot day.

A crystal blue lake with grass and shrubs around it. There is a stone wall along the side and stone steps that lead down to the lake. There is also a sign that says "Blue Hole" and lists different information about the lake.

Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway: Spectacular Views Above Albuquerque

In Albuquerque New Mexico you’ll find this unique roadside attraction on the Route 66 map.

The Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway is a unique pit stop on your Route 66 drive.

The tramway rises by cable up to the peak of the Sandia Mountains which is 10,738 feet. The tramway carries visitors high into the Sandia Mountains, offering spectacular panoramic views over Albuquerque and the surrounding desert.

While you’re in the tramway, you’ll gradually get amazing views of Albuquerque, the Sandia Mountains, and the desert around the two. You’ll be able to get out and walk along the mountains and enjoy fresh air surrounded by fir and aspen trees.

The tramway also has a restaurant where you can enjoy delicious food and amazing views before you head back out onto the road.

Visitor Tip: Check the weather before you visit, as temperatures at the summit are often much cooler than in Albuquerque. Arrive early or book ahead during peak seasons to avoid long queues.

The Sandia Peak Tramway, which is a suspended shuttle over the side of the Sandia Peak Mountain in New Mexico. On the mountain there are trees and rocky cliffs Route 66 attractions.

Petrified Forest National Park: Where Route 66 Meets Ancient Landscapes

If you are looking for a super unique national park while you drive on Route 66, then stop at Petrified Forest National Park, in Arizona.

If you don’t have the time to stop, you can drive through the national park. While you drive through, there are several outlooks you can stop at to admire the view. If you do have the time, there are several hiking trails you can explore. For those who only have a few hours to spare, there are shorter trails.

You can easily spend a half-day at the national park though, exploring longer trails, speaking to Rangers, and learning about the area at the Paleo Lab.

The Petrified Forest National Park is a great Route 66 attraction for the whole family.

The park also preserves a section of the original Route 66, complete with a historic 1932 Studebaker marking the old alignment, making it a must-visit for both nature lovers and Route 66 enthusiasts

Visitor Tip: Allow at least half a day to explore the park. Don’t miss the Painted Desert overlooks, and remember that removing petrified wood from the park is strictly prohibited.

A stack of petrified wood laying on the sand at the Petrified Forest National Park. The petrified wood is very colorful with red, brown, yellow, and orange coloring throughout. It is a very blue sky with clouds Route 66 attractions

Seligman: The Birthplace of Historic Route 66

Seligman Arizona is a city that has been preserved to resemble what it looked like during the heyday of Route 66.

It started out as a railroad junction encampment in the days of the Wild West, but with the addition of Route 66, it became a popular stopping point along the highway. Sadly, the town started to decline in popularity when traffic from Route 66 began to divert to other newer highways. In recent years, historical societies and the community have lovingly restored this Route 66 town to most of it’s former glory.

Seligman is widely believed to have been one of the inspirations for Radiator Springs in Pixar’s Cars, thanks in large part to local barber and Route 66 advocate Angel Delgadillo.

Now, visitors can come to the town and see an authentic Route 66 town.

Visitor Tip: Give yourself at least an hour to wander through Seligman’s quirky gift shops, vintage diners and classic neon signs. It’s one of the best places on Route 66 to experience the nostalgia of America’s Mother Road.

The Welcome sign when you enter Seligman Arizona. It is on the side of a road with tall grass around it and in the very far distance there are mountains. The sign has dark blue, yellow, and red lettering. Down the front it has information on each individual historic site in the town. One of the best route 66 roadside attractions

Calico Ghost Town: Step Back into California’s Mining Past

The Calico Ghost Town is a Regional Park in San Bernardino County California.

The town is a former silver mining town that was originally built in 1881. However, in the mid 1890’s, silver lost its value, and the town was abandoned.

There is an admission fee to enter the town, with some attractions and activities available for an additional charge.

You can ride a mining train, go on a ghost tour, and more. The park even has a restaurant and shops to find souvineers.

If you have the time, to stay the night, you can stay in one of the bunkhouse and cabins. If you bring your own tent, you can camp on the grounds and do your own ghost hunting.

One thing is for sure, Calico Ghost Town is a really unique Route 66 attraction you won’t forget.

Visitor Tip: Plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the town. If you’re visiting in summer, arrive early in the day to avoid the desert heat and wear plenty of sunscreen.

A view of the Calico Ghost Town in the desert of California. There are several old buildings scattered around the desert and walkways to get to them. In the distance you can see some mountains. Route 66 attractions

Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch: Route 66’s Most Unique Outdoor Art Installation

If you are looking for Route 66 roadside attractions that are a bit more artistic, make a stop at Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, in Oro Grande California.

The Ranch was designed by a local man named Elmer Long who wanted to create a quirky and fun artistic space for Route 66 travelers to enjoy. Although creator Elmer Long passed away in 2019, Bottle Tree Ranch continues to welcome visitors and remains one of Route 66’s most unique roadside art installations.

Made up of thousands of bottle sculptures, the Ranch is full of thousands of glass bottles, many of which were donated over the years by travelers.

It is a colorful and enchanting stop that deserves to be on any Route 66 map.

Visitor Tip: Visit on a sunny or breezy day to see the colourful glass bottles sparkle and gently chime in the wind. The changing light makes this one of the most photogenic stops along Route 66.

Large metal poles with bottles of all different colors attached to them. The sun shines through them and it is a clear blue sky.

Planning Your Route 66 Itinerary

Driving Route 66 is about much more than getting from Chicago to Santa Monica. The journey is full of historic towns, quirky roadside attractions, national parks and local diners, so giving yourself plenty of time to explore is key.

How Long Does It Take to Drive Route 66?

Driving the entire 2,400-mile route without stopping takes around 40 hours, but most travellers spend 10 to 14 days exploring the highway. This allows enough time to enjoy major attractions, visit museums, dine at historic restaurants and take scenic detours.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are generally the best times to drive Route 66. Temperatures are more comfortable, especially in the desert sections of Arizona, New Mexico and California, while attractions are typically open and less crowded than during the peak summer months.

Plan for Short and Long Stops

Some Route 66 attractions, such as the Gemini Giant or the Blue Whale of Catoosa, only take 15 to 30 minutes to visit. Others, including Petrified Forest National Park, Meramec Caverns and the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, can easily fill half a day or more. Planning a mix of quick photo stops and longer experiences will help you make the most of your road trip.

Book Accommodation in Advance

If you’re travelling during summer or on weekends, it’s worth booking accommodation ahead of time, particularly in popular Route 66 towns. Staying in a restored vintage motel is one of the best ways to experience the nostalgia of America’s Mother Road.

Don’t Forget the Journey

Some of Route 66’s best memories come from the unexpected discoveries between the famous landmarks. Leave time in your itinerary to stop at roadside diners, browse antique shops, admire vintage neon signs and explore the small towns that give the highway its unique character.

old historic Route 66 and "Roy's" gas station, Americana. Article is about Route 66 attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-see Route 66 attractions?

Some of the most iconic Route 66 landmarks include the Gemini Giant in Illinois, Meramec Caverns in Missouri, the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, Cadillac Ranch in Texas, Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona and Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in California.

How long does it take to drive Route 66?

Driving the entire length of Route 66 takes around 40 hours without stopping. However, most travellers allow 10 to 14 days to explore the route’s historic towns, roadside attractions and national parks.

Where does Route 66 start and end?

Historic Route 66 begins in Chicago, Illinois, and ends at the Santa Monica Pier in California, covering more than 2,400 miles across eight states.

What is the most famous attraction on Route 66?

Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo, Texas, is often considered the most famous Route 66 attraction. Other iconic stops include the Blue Whale of Catoosa, the Gemini Giant and the Santa Monica Pier.

Is Route 66 worth driving today?

Yes. Although parts of the original highway have been replaced by modern interstates, many sections remain drivable and are packed with historic diners, vintage motels, quirky roadside attractions and beautiful scenery, making Route 66 one of America’s greatest road trips.

Can you drive the original Route 66?

Much of the original Route 66 can still be driven, although some sections have been bypassed or replaced over the years. Following a dedicated Route 66 map or guide is the best way to stay on the historic route and experience its most famous attractions.

Route 66 sign by a fence in the desert. The article is about route 66 attractions.

From quirky roadside attractions and vintage diners to breathtaking natural wonders and historic landmarks, Route 66 is one of the most unforgettable road trips in America. Whether you’re stopping to photograph the Gemini Giant, explore Meramec Caverns, admire Cadillac Ranch or wander through the Petrified Forest National Park, every destination along the Mother Road offers a glimpse into the history, culture and nostalgia that have made this legendary highway famous around the world.

Whether you’re driving the entire route or exploring just a small section, these 15 famous Route 66 attractions should be on every Route 66 bucket list.these. Use this guide to plan your journey, take your time discovering the hidden gems along the way and experience why Route 66 remains one of America’s greatest bucket-list adventures.

If this guide has inspired your next adventure, be sure to explore our favourite Midwest road trips and discover even more unforgettable destinations across America’s heartland.

Packing List For Visiting Route 66 Attractions

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to the Midwest, here are some tips on how to pack lightly.

A concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring along when taking Route 66 road trips. It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

his unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your hiking clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an external charging battery. This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies when staying in one of the best Airbnbs in Illinois.

Hydration is so important when traveling. You want to remain hydrated throughout your travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels.

You will want to bring your own refillable water bottle with you.

I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

You can find filter replacements here.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.

You will want a backpack or daypack with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. when hiking This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.