Route 66, also known as the "Mother Road", is one of the most iconic highways in the United States, spanning from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. Along this historic route, travelers can explore a variety of tourist attractions, landmarks, and nostalgic roadside stops. Here are some must-visit places on Route 66:
1. Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois: Start your journey at the eastern terminus of Route 66 in Grant Park, home to landmarks like Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Buckingham Fountain.
2. The Gemini Giant, Wilmington, Illinois: Pose for a photo with this towering fiberglass statue of a spaceman, one of many quirky roadside attractions along Route 66.
3. The Old Joliet Prison, Joliet, Illinois: Take a guided tour of this historic prison, featured in movies like "The Blues Brothers" and "Prison Break."
4. The Chain of Rocks Bridge, St. Louis, Missouri: Walk or bike across this historic bridge spanning the Mississippi River, offering panoramic views of the river and skyline.
5. Meramec Caverns, Stanton, Missouri: Explore these spectacular limestone caves, featuring guided tours, underground lakes, and colorful rock formations.
6. Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri: Ride to the top of the Gateway Arch for stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River.
7. Blue Whale of Catoosa, Catoosa, Oklahoma: Visit this giant blue whale statue, originally built as a roadside attraction and now a beloved landmark along Route 66.
8. Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, Texas: Marvel at this unique art installation featuring a row of brightly painted Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground.
9. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Canyon, Texas: Explore the second-largest canyon in the United States, offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities amid stunning desert scenery.
10. The Big Texan Steak Ranch, Amarillo, Texas: Indulge in a hearty steak dinner and watch brave souls attempt the "72 oz. Steak Challenge" at this iconic Texas eatery.
11. Wigwam Motel, Holbrook, Arizona: Spend the night in a cozy wigwam-shaped cabin at this historic Route 66 motel, one of the few remaining Wigwam Villages in the country.
12. Meteor Crater, Winslow, Arizona: Visit one of the best-preserved meteorite impact sites on Earth, where a massive crater was formed approximately 50,000 years ago.
13. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona: Discover ancient petrified wood, colorful badlands, and archaeological sites in this unique national park along Route 66.
14. Standin' on the Corner Park, Winslow, Arizona: Take a photo next to the famous bronze statue commemorating the Eagles' song "Take It Easy" at this charming downtown park.
15. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: Take a detour to visit one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, offering breathtaking views of the majestic canyon.
16. Wigwam Village Motel No. 6, Holbrook, Arizona: Spend the night in another iconic Wigwam Village motel, offering cozy accommodations in teepee-shaped cabins.
17. Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, California: Reach the western terminus of Route 66 at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, featuring an amusement park, arcade, and stunning ocean views.
18. Route 66 Museum, Santa Monica, California: Learn about the history and culture of Route 66 at this museum located near the end of the route.
19. Pacific Coast Highway (California State Route 1): Continue your journey along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, offering breathtaking ocean views and coastal attractions.
20. Venice Beach, Los Angeles, California: Conclude your Route 66 adventure with a visit to this iconic beachfront neighborhood known for its vibrant boardwalk, street performers, and eclectic atmosphere.
These are just a few of the many memorable attractions and landmarks to discover along the historic Route 66, offering travelers a nostalgic journey through America's heartland.