Route 66, the legendary “Mother Road,” stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, offering some of the most scenic and historic motorcycle rides in the country. Whether you're riding the full 2,448 miles or just tackling a section, there are plenty of unforgettable routes and hidden gems along the way. Here are some of the best motorcycle rides and must-visit detours along Route 66.
1. The Start: Chicago to St. Louis
Ride Highlights:
- Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant (Chicago, IL): Kick off your journey with a classic diner breakfast.
- Gemini Giant (Wilmington, IL): A quirky, oversized roadside statue perfect for a quick photo op.
- Chain of Rocks Bridge (St. Louis, MO): A historic bridge with an unusual 30-degree turn in the middle.
Detour: The Great River Road (IL & MO)
If you're up for a slight diversion, take the Great River Road along the Mississippi River for stunning views and smooth curves before rejoining Route 66.
2. The Ozarks & Oklahoma’s Open Roads
Ride Highlights:
- Devil’s Elbow (MO): A scenic twisty road over the Big Piney River, great for riders who love curves.
- 66 Drive-In Theatre (Carthage, MO): A nostalgic stop for a movie under the stars.
- Blue Whale of Catoosa (OK): An iconic roadside attraction that’s worth a stop.
Detour: Talimena Scenic Drive (OK & AR)
A short side trip east of Tulsa, the Talimena Scenic Drive offers sweeping mountain views and is a dream for motorcyclists.
3. The Texas Panhandle: Flat Roads & Big Skies
Ride Highlights:
- Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, TX): Bring a can of spray paint and leave your mark on the legendary car art installation.
- The Big Texan Steak Ranch (Amarillo, TX): Famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge.
- Midpoint Café (Adrian, TX): The official halfway point of Route 66, great for a pit stop.
Detour: Palo Duro Canyon (TX)
Just south of Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon (the second largest in the U.S.) provides stunning desert views and a great place to stretch your legs.
4. New Mexico’s High Desert & Historic Towns
Ride Highlights:
- Tucumcari Murals & Neon Signs (NM): A town filled with Route 66 nostalgia.
- Santa Fe Loop (NM): A detour off the main Route 66 path but worth it for the scenic mountain roads and historic adobe buildings.
- Continental Divide (NM): A great photo opportunity at the geographic divide where water flows either to the Atlantic or Pacific.
Detour: The Enchanted Circle (NM)
A breathtaking 80-mile loop near Taos, featuring mountain passes, forests, and open valleys—a motorcyclist’s paradise.
5. Arizona’s Desert & The Grand Canyon Side Trip
Ride Highlights:
- Petrified Forest National Park (AZ): Ride through a prehistoric landscape filled with fossilized trees.
- Meteor Crater (AZ): A massive impact site that’s a unique roadside attraction.
- Oatman (AZ): A wild west ghost town where burros (wild donkeys) roam freely.
Detour: Grand Canyon National Park (AZ)
The Grand Canyon National Park is a must-see natural wonder just an hour north of Route 66—perfect for an awe-inspiring scenic ride.
6. The Final Stretch: California & the Pacific Coast
Ride Highlights:
- Roy’s Motel & Café (Amboy, CA): A legendary Route 66 stop with an old-school vibe.
- Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch (CA): A quirky collection of bottle art installations.
- Santa Monica Pier (CA): The official end of Route 66, where you can dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean.
Detour: Angeles Crest Highway (CA)
Before reaching LA, take a thrilling ride through the San Gabriel Mountains for epic twisties and stunning vistas.
Riding Route 66 is more than just a road trip—it’s a journey through time, history, and some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're sticking to the traditional route or taking some scenic detours, every mile of the Mother Road is packed with adventure.
Ready to hit the Mother Road?
Pick your itinerary, fuel up, and start your Route 66 adventure today.