Embark on an unforgettable journey along the iconic Route 66, tailored for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking adventure, scenic views, and classic Americana. This 10-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of historic landmarks, local flavors, and comfortable stops , ensuring a memorable journey from Chicago to Flagstaff..
Day 1: Chicago → Springfield, IL (~200 miles, 4.5 hrs)
- Start 8:00 AM at Route 66 Begin Sign.
- Attractions:
- Route 66 Begin Sign (8:00 AM)
- Old Joliet Prison (9:00 AM)
- Historic Downtown Chicago (10:30 AM)
- Fuel Stops: Dwight (~90 mi), Lincoln (~160 mi).
- Lunch: Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket.
- Dinner: Cozy Dog Drive In.
- Overnight: Route 66 Hotel & Conference Center
- Book now →
Day 2: Springfield → St. Louis, MO (~100 miles, 2 hrs)
- Depart 9:00 AM.
- Attractions:
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library (9:30 AM)
- Gateway Arch (11:00 AM)
- Forest Park (12:30 PM)
- Fuel Stop: Litchfield (~50 mi).
- Lunch: Lambert's Cafe.
- Dinner: Pappy's Smokehouse.
- Overnight: Red Roof Inn St. Louis.
- Book now →
Day 3: St. Louis → Springfield, MO (~215 miles, 4.5 hrs)
- Attractions:
- St. Louis Zoo (9:00 AM)
- Missouri Botanical Garden (11:00 AM)
- Route 66 State Park (1:00 PM)
- Fuel Stops: Rolla (~110 mi), Lebanon (~180 mi).
- Lunch: Ted Drewes Frozen Custard.
- Dinner: The Order.
- Overnight: Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven.
Day 4: Springfield → Tulsa, OK (~180 miles, 4 hrs)
- Attractions:
- Route 66 Vintage Iron Motorcycle Museum (9:00 AM)
- Tulsa Art Deco District (11:00 AM)
- Fuel Stops: Miami (~110 mi), Claremore (~150 mi).
- Lunch: Burn Co BBQ.
- Dinner: The Tavern.
- Overnight: Route 66 Harley Motel.
Day 5: Tulsa → Oklahoma City (~105 miles, 2.5 hrs)
- Attractions:
- Oklahoma City National Memorial (9:00 AM)
- Bricktown Entertainment District (11:00 AM)
- Fuel Stop: Chandler (~60 mi).
- Lunch: Empire Slice House.
- Dinner: Cattlemen's Steakhouse.
- Overnight: Skirvin Hilton OKC.
Day 6: Oklahoma City → Amarillo, TX (~260 miles, 5 hrs)
- Attractions:
- Cadillac Ranch (9:00 AM)
- Amarillo Historic District (11:00 AM)
- Fuel Stops: Elk City (~110 mi), Shamrock (~190 mi).
- Lunch: The Big Texan Steak Ranch.
- Dinner: Tyler's Barbecue.
- Overnight: Big Texan Motel.
- Book now →
Day 7: Amarillo → Albuquerque, NM (~290 miles, 5.5 hrs)
- Attractions:
- Albuquerque Old Town (9:00 AM)
- Petroglyph National Monument (11:00 AM)
- Fuel Stops: Tucumcari (~115 mi), Santa Rosa (~190 mi).
- Lunch: The Ranch House.
- Dinner: Sadie's of New Mexico.
- Overnight: El Vado Motel.
Day 8: Albuquerque → Gallup (~140 miles, 3 hrs)
- Attractions:
- El Malpais National Monument (9:00 AM)
- Gallup Cultural Center (11:00 AM).
- Fuel Stop: Grants (~70 mi).
- Lunch: Sadie's of New Mexico
- Dinner: El Rancho Hotel Restaurant.
- Overnight: El Rancho Hotel.
- Book now →
Day 9: Gallup → Holbrook (~95 miles, 2 hrs)
- Attractions:
- Petrified Forest National Park (9:00 AM).
- Fuel Stop: Petrified Forest (~60 mi).
- Lunch: Joe & Aggie's Cafe
- Dinner: Kachina Lodge Restaurant.
- Overnight: Wigwam Motel.
Day 10: Holbrook → Flagstaff (~90 miles, 2 hrs)
- Attractions:
- Walnut Canyon National Monument (9:00 AM)
- Lowell Observatory (11:00 AM).
- Fuel Stop: Winslow (~60 mi).
- Lunch: Diablo Burger
- Dinner: Beaver Street Brewery.
- Overnight: Motel Du Beau Travelers Inn.
Travel Tips and Notes
- Emergency Contacts:
- Keep a list of emergency numbers and roadside assistance info.
- Prepare Your Motorcycle:
- Ensure your bike is in top condition before the trip. Check tires, brakes, oil, and lights.
- Pack Light and Smart:
- Bring essential gear including rain gear, layered clothing, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
- Plan Fuel Stops:
- Some stretches of Route 66 are remote; plan fuel stops carefully.
- Stay Hydrated and Rested:
- Riding can be tiring; take breaks and drink plenty of water.
- Respect Local Laws:
- Speed limits and helmet laws vary by state.
- Safety First:
- Wear protective gear and ride defensively.
- Weather Awareness:
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Navigation:
- Use both GPS and physical maps; cell service can be spotty.
- Accommodation Booking:
- Reserve lodging in advance, especially in popular towns.
- Local Culture:
- Take time to explore local diners, museums, and roadside attractions.
Ready to hit the Mother Road?
Pick your itinerary, fuel up, and start your Route 66 adventure today.