ates and nearly 2,500 miles of history, culture, and quirky America. For RVers, Route 66 isn't just a road trip, it’s a rite of passage. But with so many nostalgic stops, small towns, and photo ops along the way, how do you know where to pull over?
We’ve mapped out the ultimate Route 66 experience tailored for RV travelers. From vintage diners and giant neon signs to natural wonders and lesser-known gems, this guide will help you get the most out of your journey comfortably, conveniently, and with a sense of adventure.
Kickoff Point: Chicago, Illinois
Your journey begins in downtown Chicago, where the iconic Route 66 sign stands at Adams Street and Michigan Avenue. Before hitting the highway, grab a deep-dish pizza or explore Millennium Park. While downtown isn’t RV-friendly, nearby suburbs like Joliet or Bolingbrook offer campgrounds and easier parking for RVs.
Once you're ready to roll, make your first pit stop at Lou Mitchell's, a breakfast and lunch place that’s fed travelers since the 1920s. They even give out Milk Duds which is a quirky tradition that marks the start of your Route 66 adventure.
Illinois: Lincoln Must-Sees and Corn Dogs
As you head southwest, stop by Atlanta, Illinois, where a towering statue of a man holds a hot dog in front of an old-fashioned diner. It's a fun photo opportunity and a throwback to mid-century roadside marketing.
Further down the route is Springfield, Illinois, the hometown of Abraham Lincoln. For RVers, Springfield offers ample parking at KOA campgrounds and an enriching visit to the Lincoln Presidential Library as well as other famous Lincoln spots. Don’t miss Cozy Dog Drive-In, the birthplace of the corn dog on a stick, a Route 66 culinary must-try.
Missouri: Caves, Cadillacs, and Nostalgia
Once you hit Missouri, things get more adventurous. Near St. Louis, detour to Meramec Caverns, a popular cave system once rumored to be a hideout for Jesse James. The site offers RV parking and makes for a cool escape from the summer heat.
In Cuba, Missouri, you'll find “Mural City,” where historic buildings are covered in hand-painted scenes of Route 66 life. It’s a great stop to stretch your legs and snap a few photos.
And then there’s Uranus, Missouri and it leans into the humor with the Uranus Fudge Factory, billed as a "must-stop" for laughs and snacks.
Kansas: Small but Mighty
Only 13 miles of Route 66 pass through Kansas, but don’t skip it. This short stretch features Galena, a town that inspired Disney’s “Cars.” Visit the Cars on the Route shop and meet “Tow Tater,” the real-life inspiration for Mater.
This part of the drive is ideal for smaller RVs, as some roads are narrow. But rest assured, there are RV parks in nearby Baxter Springs.
Oklahoma: Vintage Motels and More
Oklahoma claims the longest stretch of Route 66 and some of the most authentic stops. Tulsa and Oklahoma City both offer RV-friendly campgrounds close to key attractions.
In Arcadia, stop at Pop’s Soda Ranch, where you’ll find hundreds of soda varieties and a 66-foot soda bottle glowing with neon at night. There's RV parking out back and great photo ops at sunset.
For a dose of history, visit the Route 66 Museum in Clinton, where you can walk through decade-themed exhibits and explore the evolution of the American road trip.
Texas: Big Skies and Bigger Attractions
Once in Texas, the landscape opens up into wide plains which is perfect for cruising with your windows down and the stereo up.
Amarillo is home to the legendary Cadillac Ranch, where half-buried Cadillacs rise from the desert like art. Bring a can of spray paint, it's encouraged! Just outside town, The Big Texan Steak Ranch is famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge. Even if you're not up for it, the experience alone is worth a stop.
Need a place to rest? Amarillo KOA is well-equipped for big rigs and offers easy access to downtown and the Cadillac Ranch.
New Mexico: Culture, Color, and Hot Air
In Tucumcari, you'll find a treasure trove of neon signs and motels straight out of a time capsule. The Blue Swallow Motel, with its vintage garages, is a favorite among photographers and retro travelers alike.
Santa Fe offers stunning architecture and lots of artisan shopping. The Santa Fe Skies RV Park offers scenic views and easy access to town.
Arizona: Deserts, Dinosaurs, and the Grand Canyon
Arizona cranks up the scenery. Your first can’t-miss stop is the Petrified Forest National Park, where ancient trees turned to stone line the desert floor. The park accommodates RVs and includes designated pull-offs along the scenic drive.
Further west is Winslow, immortalized by the Eagles’ song. Snap a picture at the “Standin’ on the Corner” statue and enjoy a bite at the nearby diner.
Don't miss Meteor Crater near Flagstaff, a mile-wide impact site that feels like another planet. RV parking is available, and there’s a visitor center with incredible views.
And of course, take a detour to the Grand Canyon. It’s only an hour north of Route 66 and offers several RV-accessible campgrounds.
California: The Final Stretch
Crossing into California, the vibe shifts to sun-soaked and surreal. In Needles, prepare for the desert heat, summer RV travelers should time this leg wisely.
In Barstow, check out the Route 66 Mother Road Museum, which offers a well-curated history of America’s most famous highway. Heading west, you'll pass through Victorville and San Bernardino, where vintage diners and motels pop up like mirages.
Your journey ends in Santa Monica, where Route 66 famously concludes at the pier. There's no better way to cap off your trip than by walking to the edge of the Pacific Ocean, watching the sun dip into the waves, and maybe grabbing some seafood nearby.
RV Travel Tips for Route 66
Plan for mixed road conditions because some original stretches of Route 66 are narrow, bumpy, or poorly maintained. Using GPS apps geared toward RVers can help you avoid tight turns or low-clearance bridges. And be sure to book key RV parks in advance during peak seasons, especially in Arizona and California.
Ready to start your Route 66 Adventure? Apply Now to get pre-approved for the RV of your dream
