Route 66 info from Chicago to LA

Hi there, We're thinking of driving Route 66 from Chicago to LA in fall 2027 or spring 2028 for about a month. From what I've found, it doesn't exist everywhere anymore, but that's okay! We're happy to take detours along the way. We're open to visiting less touristy or even completely off-the-beaten-path spots. Are there any websites dedicated to this road trip? I'd love any tips and advice for this journey—accommodations, vehicle rental, the pros and cons. Thanks in advance!

Hi Christine, Route 66 isn’t what it used to be, but the trip is still really interesting if you venture off the beaten path a bit. Here’s a useful site to help you plan your journey: www.roadtrippin.fr/autres/route-66/route-66.php

Happy planning! Jérôme

Thanks. I’ll check out that site. I’d already seen a TV documentary and noticed there’s still a revival going on, plus we’re interested in passing through places that aren’t necessarily touristy. Christine

Hello, We’re thinking of driving Route 66 from Chicago to LA in autumn 2027 or spring 2028 for about a month. From what I’ve gathered, the original route isn’t continuous anymore, but that doesn’t matter! We’re happy to take detours and explore less touristy spots. Are there any dedicated websites for this road trip? I’d love any tips or advice for this journey—accommodation, vehicle rental, the pros and cons. Thanks in advance!

Hi, I drove part of Route 66 this summer—about 1,000 kilometers in total.

Between Albuquerque and Amarillo, it’s not what it used to be, and where it does exist, it’s barely used. The fun part starts when you pass through towns or villages along the Interstates. In Flagstaff, the Visitor Center keeps the spirit alive, and in Williams, it’s turned into a commercial street. If you explore the side roads, you’ll find some cool spots. Don’t forget there’s a loop that goes through Santa Fe.

If you take other backroads across the States, you’ll come across the same kind of isolated villages with abandoned gas stations and motels. On Highway 287, for example, between Amarillo and Dallas.

Driving the whole route means long stretches of road where you’ll need to stop often to see the same things over and over.

But it’s the history of the U.S. that’ll be right under your tires! And that’s totally worth it!

Thanks! I’ll read your travel journals. I also just signed up for a site recommended for this kind of road trip. Best, Christine

Hi,

It's all here, created by the late Durandale:

Durandale's Travels: ROUTE 66

Hi

Thanks for this valuable info. Between this site and Roadtrippin.fr, I should be able to get a clear idea of this future trip. Best, Christine

A month is a good amount of time to take Route 66 without rushing and to allow for a few detours. If I were you, I’d go for the small stops and the historic stretches instead of trying to follow the route down to the last kilometer. For the sites, there are plenty of resources dedicated to road trips; the experience-sharing posts on the forum are also super helpful for motels and rentals.

Hi, A nice spot on Route 66, a bit touristy but still—it's Seligman, Arizona. Have a good day

Hello,

Thanks for this valuable information. Between this site and Roadtrippin.fr, I should be able to get a clear idea of this future trip. Best regards, Christine

Hello,

I hate to disappoint you, but Route 66 is a French myth mixed with highways.

I can’t help but recommend the wonderful scenic roads of the American West. They’re so much more beautiful, shorter, and less time-consuming. But to each their own!

Hello,

Thanks for this valuable information. Between this site and Roadtrippin.fr, I should be able to get a clear idea of this future trip. Best regards, Christine

Hello,

I hate to disappoint you, but Route 66 is a French myth mixed with highways.

I can’t help but recommend the amazing scenic roads of the American West. They’re so much more beautiful, shorter, and less time-consuming. But to each their own!

😉 Absolutely!