A 21-day Rockies, Southern California and Route 66 loop from northern Illinois
Estimated cost
$8,834estimated total
Stays
$2,620
Fuel
$930
Food
$3,164
Other
$2,120
Estimates generated at planning time — your actual costs may vary.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
415 km4h 12mDepart 08:00
Start
IL, USA
Drive 387 km in ~3h 38min from Round Lake Beach via I-88 W and I-80 W.
387 km3h 38m
1
Attraction
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
West Branch, United States
11:38–12:531h 15m here
Presidential birthplace and historic village
Park at the visitor center and collect the free site map; the compact grounds make a worthwhile historical break from I-80.
Drive 21 km in ~16 min via I-80 W, then park near downtown Iowa City.
21 km16m
2
Food
Pullman Bar & Diner
Iowa City, United States
13:09–14:091h here$48
Popular diner serving seasonal American fare
Use the Dubuque Street ramp and order the Pullman burger or seasonal grain bowl; lunchtime queues usually move quickly.
Walk 1 km in ~12min through downtown and the university campus.
1 km4m
3
Attraction
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
Iowa City, United States
14:15–15:301h 15m here
Iowa geology, wildlife and cultural exhibits
Enter through Macbride Hall and allow extra time for the giant sloth; admission is free and the wildlife displays suit this route.
Drive 2.7 km in ~6 min through northern Iowa City.
3 km6m
4
Activity
Hickory Hill Park
Iowa City, United States
16:00–17:151h 15m here
Woodland trails and spring wildflowers
Park at the Bloomington Street entrance and use the short woodland loop; May wildflowers provide the best photography.
Drive 2.2 km in ~5 min to downtown and use the nearby public ramp.
2 km5m
5
Food
the Webster
Iowa City, United States
18:15–19:451h 30m here$100
Acclaimed Midwestern cooking in a historic hall
Reserve a standard table and ask about the Iowa-sourced daily plates; portions are ideal for sharing after the trail walk.
Walk 1 km in ~10min through the pedestrian-friendly downtown.
1 km4m
6
Overnight
Graduate by Hilton Iowa City
Iowa City, United States
20:00–07:0011h here$165
Central hotel with covered parking nearby
Use the attached public garage after confirming SUV clearance; the central location avoids another drive after dinner.
Day 2
437 km4h 39mDepart 08:18
Check out after breakfast, then drive 163 km in ~1h 42min via I-80 W and IA-117 S.
163 km1h 42m
7
Attraction
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
Prairie City, United States
10:00–11:301h 30m here
Restored tallgrass prairie with bison and elk
Check out after hotel breakfast, then start at the Prairie Learning Center; scan the auto loop slowly for bison and elk.
Drive 7.2 km in ~9 min from the refuge to central Prairie City.
7 km9m
8
Food
Goldie's Ice Cream Shoppe
Prairie City, United States
11:40–12:401h here$34
Award-winning Iowa tenderloins and sandwiches
Order the hand-breaded pork tenderloin and save room for a small shake; this local favorite is busiest just after noon.
Drive 261 km in ~2h 33min via I-80 W to Omaha.
261 km2h 33m
9
Attraction
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
Omaha, United States
15:13–16:0350m here
Missouri River bridge and skyline viewpoint
Park in the RiverFront lot and walk to the state-line marker; afternoon light favors Omaha skyline photographs.
Drive 3 km in ~8min along Riverfront Drive and 10th Street.
2 km6m
10
Attraction
The Durham Museum
Omaha, United States
16:15–17:451h 30m here$30
Regional history inside an Art Deco station
Use the free museum lot and begin in the restored Great Hall; arrive before the final admission window on this Monday.
Drive 2 km in ~7min and park in a downtown surface lot.
1 km6m
11
Food
Block 16
Omaha, United States
18:15–19:151h here$42
Creative farm-to-table street food
Order the croque garcon burger or daily special and expect a short counter queue; portions are generous and informal.
Drive 2 km in ~6min through downtown Omaha.
2 km5m
12
Overnight
Cambria Hotel Omaha Downtown
Omaha, United States
19:30–07:1511h 45m here$155
Modern downtown hotel with convenient parking
Request a room away from the arena side and confirm on-site parking at check-in; the SUV spaces are easier than Old Market garages.
Day 3
337 km3h 28mDepart 08:34
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 9.2 km in ~11 min via 10th Street.
9 km11m
13
Attraction
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Omaha, United States
08:45–12:454h here$64
Major zoo with indoor rainforest and desert
Check out after breakfast, park in the main free lot and enter at opening; prioritize Desert Dome, Lied Jungle and gorillas.
Drive 26 km in ~20 min via I-80 W and I-680 N.
26 km20m
14
Food
Railcar Modern American Kitchen
Omaha, United States
13:10–14:101h here$50
Seasonal American lunch with regional ingredients
Reserve if possible and choose the seasonal sandwich or Nebraska beef plate; the restaurant has straightforward surface parking.
Drive 45 km in ~28 min via I-680 S and I-80 W.
45 km28m
15
Attraction
Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
Ashland, United States
14:38–16:382h here$34
Cold War aircraft and space-history collection
Park beside the hangars and allow a full two hours for the bombers and restoration bay; it is the corridor’s essential aviation stop.
16
Food
Alley Rose
Kearney, United States
19:45–21:001h 15m here$78
Long-running downtown steak and seafood restaurant
Book an evening table and choose Nebraska beef or the walleye special; public parking behind Central Avenue fits an SUV.
Drive 3.5 km in ~6 min via 2nd Avenue.
4 km6m
17
Overnight
Crowne Plaza Kearney by IHG
Kearney, United States
21:06–07:1510h here$165
Comfortable interstate hotel with ample parking
Park in the open hotel lot near the main entrance; this location gives a quick westbound departure without downtown traffic.
Day 4
505 km5hDepart 08:09
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 164 km in ~1h 36min via I-80 W.
164 km1h 36m
18
Attraction
Golden Spike Tower
North Platte, United States
09:45–11:001h 15m here$20
Panoramic view over the world’s largest rail yard
Check out after breakfast and take the elevator to both viewing levels; morning activity across Bailey Yard is usually strongest.
Drive 9 km in ~11 min around the north side of North Platte.
9 km11m
19
Food
Pals Brewing Company
North Platte, United States
11:30–12:301h here$44
Nebraska brewpub with pizzas and salads
Choose a wood-fired pizza and one driver-safe tasting pour; the spacious gravel lot is easy for a loaded SUV.
Drive 5.5 km in ~7 min to the I-80 commercial corridor.
6 km7m
20
Attraction
Fort Cody Trading Post
North Platte, United States
12:37–13:1740m here
Quirky roadside museum and miniature Wild West show
Park beside the giant Buffalo Bill sign and see the handmade miniature show; it adds classic roadside character without a detour.
Drive 327 km in ~3h 5min via I-80 W, I-76 W and CO-14 W.
327 km3h 5m
21
Activity
Pawnee National Grasslands Birding Tour
Briggsdale, United States
16:22–17:371h 15m here
Open prairie habitat for raptors and grassland birds
Keep to maintained gravel roads and scan fence posts for raptors; avoid driving onto soft tracks after spring rain.
Day 5
212 km2h 51mDepart 08:00
22
Food
Bluebird Cafe
Thornton, United States
09:23–10:0845m here$68
23
Attraction
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Morrison, United States
10:38–12:231h 45m here
Sandstone formations and landmark amphitheatre
Check out after breakfast and use the Upper North Lot; walk the amphitheatre stairs before midday heat and event closures.
Drive 5.4 km in ~9 min via Trading Post Road and US-285.
5 km9m
24
Food
The Fort
Morrison, United States
12:32–13:471h 15m here$82
Historic adobe restaurant serving regional game
Reserve lunch and try bison or the vegetarian pueblo plate; the broad surface lot avoids Denver garage constraints.
Drive 33 km in ~26 min via US-285 N and Speer Boulevard.
33 km26m
25
Attraction
History Colorado Center
Denver, United States
14:13–16:282h 15m here$34
Interactive museum covering Colorado history
Use the Cultural Center garage and start with the Colorado Stories galleries; allow time for the rotating regional exhibition.
Drive 3.5 km in ~8 min through Capitol Hill.
4 km8m
26
Attraction
Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver, United States
16:36–18:211h 45m here$32
Landscaped gardens with spring color
Prebook timed entry and use the parking complex on York Street; May tulips and alpine plants reward close-up photography.
Drive 3 km in ~10min and use legal street parking near 11th Avenue.
3 km6m
27
Food
Potager
Denver, United States
18:27–19:571h 30m here$105
Seasonal neighborhood restaurant with local produce
Reserve indoors and ask for the evening’s Colorado-grown dishes; arrive early because neighborhood parking fills quickly.
Drive 2 km in ~8min to the Civic Center district.
2 km8m
28
Overnight
Hyatt Place Denver/Downtown
Denver, United States
20:05–07:2011h 15m here$195
Central hotel near museums and Civic Center
Use valet or confirm garage height before entry; leaving the SUV parked overnight simplifies the next morning’s downtown walk.
Day 6
39 km45mDepart 09:57
Check out after hotel breakfast, leave luggage secured, then walk 1 km in ~12min to the museum.
1 km3m
29
Attraction
Denver Art Museum
Denver, United States
10:00–12:302h 30m here$44
Western American, Indigenous and global art
Check out after breakfast, leave the SUV in the hotel garage and enter at opening; prioritize Indigenous and Western collections.
Walk 1 km in ~10min along 12th Avenue.
0 km2m
30
Food
Leven Deli Co.
Denver, United States
12:40–13:401h here$42
Highly regarded deli near the museum district
Order the pastrami Reuben or roasted vegetable sandwich; counter service keeps lunch efficient without sacrificing quality.
Walk 1 km in ~12min through Civic Center.
1 km3m
31
Attraction
Colorado State Capitol
Denver, United States
13:55–15:051h 10m here
Historic capitol with mountain-view steps
Use the public entrance and join a free tour if available; the west steps frame one of Denver’s canonical mountain views.
Retrieve the SUV, then drive 26 km in ~25 min via US-6 W.
26 km25m
32
Activity
Clear Creek Trail
Golden, United States
16:00–17:301h 30m here
Creekside walking path beneath foothills
Park at the Clear Creek lot and walk west toward the canyon; stay on the paved path if spring runoff is running high.
Drive 2 km in ~7min into downtown Golden.
10 km10m
33
Food
Abejas Golden
Golden, United States
18:00–19:301h 30m here$110
Seasonal New American dining in historic Golden
Reserve ahead and choose the seasonal tasting plates; use the public lot near Washington Avenue rather than curb hunting.
Walk 1 km in ~8min along Washington Avenue.
0 km2m
34
Overnight
The Golden Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Golden, United States
19:40–07:2011h 40m here$147
Creekside hotel with convenient parking
Request creek-side lodging and confirm the included parking arrangement; the location makes an easy mountain-bound departure.
Day 7
263 km3h 12mDepart 08:16
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 60 km in ~44 min via I-70 W.
60 km44m
35
Attraction
Georgetown Loop Railroad
Georgetown, United States
09:00–11:002h here$70
Historic narrow-gauge railway in Clear Creek Canyon
Check out after breakfast and reserve the first morning train; bring a layer because open cars stay cold beside lingering snow.
Drive 3 km in ~8min to Georgetown’s historic center.
2 km4m
36
Food
Cooper's on the Creek
Georgetown, United States
11:20–12:201h here$48
Mountain lunch beside Clear Creek
Order trout, soup or the daily mountain special; park once near Sixth Street and avoid narrow residential lanes.
Drive 45 km in ~31 min via I-70 W through the Eisenhower Tunnel.
45 km31m
37
Attraction
Frisco Historic Park and Museum
Frisco, United States
13:05–14:201h 15m here
Free local-history museum and preserved cabins
Use the public lot off Second Avenue and tour the cabins in sequence; this is a concise introduction to Summit County history.
Drive 7.9 km in ~10 min via Swan Mountain Road.
8 km10m
38
Activity
Sapphire Point Overlook
Dillon, United States
14:45–15:451h here
Short trail overlooking Dillon Reservoir
Use the signed roadside lot and walk the short loop clockwise; carry traction if shaded sections retain spring snow.
Drive 147 km in ~1h 35min via I-70 W through Glenwood Canyon.
147 km1h 35m
39
Activity
Glenwood Hot Springs Pool
Glenwood Springs, United States
17:25–19:252h here$92
Historic mineral pools beneath canyon walls
Book an evening soak, bring sandals and use the main pool lot; the warm water provides deliberate recovery after mountain travel.
Walk 1 km in ~12min across the pedestrian bridge into downtown.
1 km4m
40
Food
The Pullman
Glenwood Springs, United States
19:40–20:551h 15m here$92
Creative Colorado comfort food downtown
Reserve a late table and choose shareable seasonal plates; leave the SUV at the pool or hotel if parking terms permit.
Walk 1 km in ~10min back across the Colorado River.
1 km3m
41
Overnight
Hotel Colorado
Glenwood Springs, United States
21:05–07:2010h 15m here$106
Landmark historic hotel opposite the hot springs
Use the hotel’s surface parking and request a renovated quiet room; the historic property reinforces the western rail-town story.
Day 8
396 km4h 6mDepart 08:17
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 161 km in ~1h 28min via I-70 W to the Fruita entrance.
161 km1h 28m
42
Activity
Colorado National Monument Sign
Fruita, United States
09:45–12:152h 30m here$25
Canyon overlooks and desert hiking trails
Check out after breakfast, enter at Fruita and hike Canyon Rim Trail; keep the receipt for all monument roads that day.
Drive 5.2 km in ~7 min down Monument Road and through Fruita.
5 km7m
43
Food
Hot Tomato Pizza
Fruita, United States
12:45–13:451h here$38
Popular cyclist-friendly pizzeria
Order a large specialty pizza to share and refill water bottles; the nearby public lot is simpler than curb parking.
Drive 2 km in ~5min along Jurassic Court.
1 km5m
44
Attraction
Dinosaur Journey Museum
Fruita, United States
14:00–15:151h 15m here$24
Fossils and regional paleontology exhibits
Use the museum lot and focus on local Jurassic fossils and the visible laboratory; it adds useful geology before Utah.
Drive 177 km in ~1h 44min via I-70 W, US-191 S and UT-313.
177 km1h 44m
45
Activity
Dead Horse Point State Park
Moab, United States
17:30–19:001h 30m here$20
High overlook above the Colorado River
Park at the main overlook and walk the East Rim segment; late light brings depth to the canyon without needing a technical trail.
Drive 50 km in ~38 min via UT-313 and US-191 S into Moab.
50 km38m
46
Food
Desert Bistro
Moab, United States
19:45–21:151h 30m here$120
Refined Southwestern dinner in Moab
Reserve well ahead and request the seasonal game or fish special; use the restaurant lot rather than roadside shoulder parking.
Drive 2.1 km in ~4 min north through Moab.
2 km4m
47
Overnight
Hyatt Place Moab
Moab, United States
21:25–07:159h 50m here$139
Modern hotel with pool and open parking
Park in the open lot and request a room away from US-191; fill water containers tonight for the desert start tomorrow.
Day 9
551 km5h 4mDepart 12:59
48
Food
98 Center Moab
Moab, United States
13:04–14:041h here$42
Fresh Vietnamese-inspired sandwiches and bowls
Order a banh mi or rice bowl and use the public lot behind Main Street; lighter food works well before the long Utah drive.
49
Food
Red Fort Cuisine of India
Cedar City, United States
18:18–19:331h 15m here$68
50
Overnight
Best Western Plus Abbey Inn
St. George, United States
20:19–07:2010h 20m here$62
Reliable mid-range hotel with large parking lot
Park in the open lot and request a room away from I-15; the included breakfast supports an early desert departure.
Day 10
78 km1h 32mDepart 08:00
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 16 km in ~15 min via Snow Canyon Parkway.
16 km15m
51
Activity
Snow Canyon State Park
Ivins, United States
08:15–11:153h here$15
Lava flows, red cliffs and short desert trails
Check out after breakfast and enter from the south; combine Petrified Dunes and Lava Flow trails before exposed rock becomes hot.
Drive 23 km in ~22 min to Kayenta Art Village.
23 km22m
52
Food
Xetava
Ivins, United States
11:37–12:371h here$44
Southwestern café overlooking red cliffs
Request a patio table if shaded and order the Navajo taco or seasonal salad; Kayenta’s lots offer easy SUV access.
Drive 8.7 km in ~12 min along Tuacahn Drive.
9 km12m
53
Attraction
Tuacahn Center for the Arts
Ivins, United States
12:50–13:501h here
Red-rock amphitheatre and cultural venue
Park in the upper paved lot and explore the plaza and canyon setting; check whether a daytime tour is operating before arrival.
Drive 19 km in ~23 min via Red Hills Parkway.
19 km23m
54
Attraction
St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm
St. George, United States
14:20–15:501h 30m here$24
In-place dinosaur tracks and fossils
Use the museum lot and watch the introductory film first; preserved trackways make this the area’s strongest indoor history stop.
Drive 5.8 km in ~8 min via Red Hills Parkway.
6 km8m
55
Activity
Red Hills Desert Garden
St. George, United States
16:10–17:251h 15m here
Free desert garden with red-rock views
Park beside the garden and follow the paved loop past native blooms; late afternoon light suits macro and landscape photography.
Drive 2.8 km in ~7 min to downtown St. George.
3 km7m
56
Food
Wood Ash Rye
St. George, United States
18:15–19:451h 30m here$100
Regional small plates and wood-fired cooking
Reserve and share several wood-fired plates, especially local vegetables; valet parking avoids tight downtown maneuvering.
Drive 2.4 km in ~4 min up Bluff Street and Airport Road.
2 km4m
57
Overnight
Inn on The Cliff St. George
St. George, United States
20:00–07:3011h 30m here$190
Clifftop hotel with broad valley views
Request a valley-facing room and use the open cliffside lot carefully after dark; sunrise views justify changing hotels tonight.
Day 11
302 km3h 45mDepart 08:00
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 157 km in ~1h 48min via I-15 S and Valley of Fire Highway.
157 km1h 48m
58
Attraction
Valley of Fire State Park
Moapa Valley, United States
09:48–12:483h here$15
Red sandstone formations and petroglyphs
Check out after breakfast, enter from the east and prioritize Mouse’s Tank Road; carry ample water and skip exposed hikes if hot.
Drive 28 km in ~30 min via NV-169 to Overton.
28 km30m
59
Food
The Inside Scoop
Moapa Valley, United States
13:18–14:181h here$34
Casual local café serving sandwiches and shakes
Order a sandwich and cold drink, then top up water; shaded parking is limited, so protect camera gear from cabin heat.
Drive 102 km in ~1h 3min via I-15 S to downtown Las Vegas.
102 km1h 3m
60
Attraction
The Neon Museum Las Vegas
Las Vegas, United States
15:30–16:451h 15m here$60
Historic casino signs and design archive
Prebook a late-afternoon guided slot and use the museum lot; daylight reveals craftsmanship before evening illumination.
Drive 2 km in ~7min and use the Mob Museum parking lot.
1 km4m
61
Attraction
The Mob Museum
Las Vegas, United States
17:00–19:002h here$70
Organized-crime and law-enforcement history
Book admission online and start on the third floor, working downward; allow extra time for the courtroom presentation.
Walk 1 km in ~8min through downtown Las Vegas.
1 km4m
62
Food
Carson Kitchen
Las Vegas, United States
19:15–20:451h 30m here$100
Inventive downtown small plates
Reserve downstairs and share bacon jam, vegetables and one larger plate; use a nearby surface lot rather than low garages.
Drive 13 km in ~15 min via Las Vegas Boulevard and Frank Sinatra Drive.
13 km15m
63
Overnight
Park MGM Las Vegas
Las Vegas, United States
21:10–07:4010h 30m here$190
Smoke-free Strip resort with structured parking
Use self-parking and note the SUV’s level and bay; confirm resort fees, then avoid moving the vehicle again tonight.
Day 12
532 km5h 30mDepart 08:00
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 33 km in ~26 min via I-15 S.
33 km26m
64
Attraction
Seven Magic Mountains
Las Vegas, United States
08:26–09:0135m here
Colorful desert art installation
Check out after breakfast and park only in the signed lot; morning light and fewer visitors make the stacked forms easier to photograph.
Drive 111 km in ~1h 12min via I-15 S, Nipton Road and Kelso Cima Road.
111 km1h 12m
65
Attraction
Kelso Depot Visitor Center
Kelso, United States
10:13–11:281h 15m here
Restored desert railway depot and exhibits
Verify visitor-center opening status before departure and park beside the depot; exterior architecture remains worthwhile if closed.
Drive 209 km in ~2h 1min via Kelbaker Road, I-40 W and National Trails Highway.
209 km2h 1m
66
Food
Emma Jean's Holland Burger Cafe
Victorville, United States
13:30–14:301h here$34
Historic Route 66 roadside diner
Order the Brian burger or classic breakfast plate and carry cash as backup; parking is open but dusty beside old Route 66.
67
Attraction
Mission San Juan Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano, United States
15:59–17:291h 30m here$36
Historic mission, gardens and preserved ruins
Use the Los Rios parking structure after checking SUV clearance; arrive before final entry and prioritize the Great Stone Church ruins.
Walk 1 km in ~8min through the historic Los Rios district.
68
Food
Heritage Barbecue
San Juan Capistrano, United States
19:00–20:151h 15m here$62
Acclaimed live-fire California barbecue
Share brisket, ribs and seasonal sides; popular cuts can sell out, so accept the staff’s best remaining recommendation.
Drive 25 km in ~22 min via I-5 N and Oso Parkway.
25 km22m
69
Overnight
Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo - Lake Forest
Mission Viejo, United States
20:37–07:3010h 50m here$86
Comfortable spa hotel with open parking
Use the broad surface lot and request a quiet room away from the toll road; this is a practical base near Rancho Santa Margarita.
Day 13
95 km1h 32mDepart 08:00
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 11 km in ~12 min via Santa Margarita Parkway.
11 km12m
70
Activity
O'Neill Regional Park
Trabuco Canyon, United States
08:12–10:122h here$5
Oak woodland trails and bird habitat
Check out after breakfast and park near the nature center; hike the Live Oak Trail early while birds are active and temperatures mild.
Drive 5 km in ~8 min via Antonio Parkway.
5 km8m
71
Activity
Rancho Santa Margarita Lake
Rancho Santa Margarita, United States
10:20–11:351h 15m here
Easy lakeside walk with mountain views
Use the public spaces near Mercado del Lago and walk the full loop; reflections are best before midday wind roughens the water.
Walk 1 km in ~10min along the lakefront commercial area.
3 km5m
72
Food
Hanna's
Rancho Santa Margarita, United States
11:45–13:001h 15m here$74
Popular local restaurant with California cuisine
Reserve a patio table and choose the seasonal fish or steak salad; the shopping-center lot has comfortable SUV spaces.
Drive 46 km in ~30 min via CA-241 N, accounting for electronic tolling.
46 km30m
73
Attraction
Richard Nixon Presidential Library & Museum
Yorba Linda, United States
13:45–16:453h here$58
Presidential museum, birthplace and helicopter
Buy timed tickets and begin with the orientation film; leave time for the birthplace, gardens and Marine One outside.
Drive 6.7 km in ~12 min via Yorba Linda Boulevard.
7 km12m
74
Activity
Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton
Fullerton, United States
17:05–18:201h 15m here$10
Botanical paths with native and desert plants
Use the arboretum’s designated parking and walk the California native section; golden light is good around the lake.
Drive 2 km in ~5 min up State College Boulevard.
2 km5m
75
Food
Summit House Restaurant
Fullerton, United States
18:45–20:151h 30m here$125
Hilltop prime rib restaurant with city views
Reserve a window table and order the signature prime rib or salmon; arrive before dusk for broad Orange County views.
Drive 22 km in ~19 min via CA-91 E.
22 km19m
76
Overnight
Ayres Suites Yorba Linda
Yorba Linda, United States
20:35–07:3010h 55m here$75
Quiet suburban hotel with surface parking
Park near the main entrance and request a room facing away from the freeway; the location starts the eastbound return efficiently.
Day 14
462 km5h 25mDepart 08:10
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 182 km in ~2h 5min via CA-91 E, I-10 E and CA-62 E.
182 km2h 5m
77
Activity
Hidden Valley Nature Trailhead
Twentynine Palms, United States
10:15–11:451h 30m here$30
Short loop among boulders and Joshua trees
Check out after breakfast, park at the trailhead and walk clockwise; arrive before holiday-weekend lots become congested.
78
Attraction
Keys View
Riverside County, United States
12:00–12:4545m here
High panorama across the Coachella Valley
Use the paved overlook lot and secure hats against strong wind; haze varies, but the fault-line geography remains impressive.
79
Food
JT Country Kitchen
Joshua Tree, United States
13:21–14:211h here$68
80
Food
Wagon Wheel Restaurant
Needles, United States
18:40–19:551h 15m here$40
Classic Route 66-style American diner
Choose the chicken-fried steak or grilled fish and hydrate well; the open lot accommodates an SUV and luggage discreetly.
Drive 2 km in ~5min along Broadway Street.
0 km1m
81
Overnight
Best Western Colorado River Inn
Needles, United States
19:56–07:2011h 15m here$145
Reliable roadside hotel with pool and parking
Park near the room, remove visible valuables and use the pool only after checking seasonal hours; tomorrow begins historic Route 66.
Day 15
328 km3h 58mDepart 08:27
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 37 km in ~33 min via historic Route 66 and Oatman Highway.
37 km33m
82
Attraction
Oatman AZ
Oatman, United States
09:00–10:301h 30m here$5
Mining town, Route 66 buildings and wild burros
Check out after breakfast, park at the edge of town and never feed burros carrots; protect mirrors from curious animals.
Drive 46 km in ~48 min over Sitgreaves Pass; use low gears on steep curves.
46 km48m
83
Attraction
Arizona Route 66 Museum
Kingman, United States
11:18–12:331h 15m here$10
Migration and highway history in a power station
Use the museum lot and start with the Dust Bowl migration gallery; the exhibits explain the road followed over the next several days.
Walk 1 km in ~6min across the historic powerhouse complex.
1 km3m
84
Food
Mr D'z Route 66 Diner & Gift Shop
Kingman, United States
12:45–13:451h here$36
Colorful Route 66 diner with classic fare
Order a burger and house-made root beer; photograph the neon after eating rather than blocking the busy entrance.
Drive 119 km in ~1h 11min via I-40 E and old Route 66.
119 km1h 11m
85
Attraction
Seligman Commercial Historic District
Seligman, United States
14:56–15:561h here
Preserved Route 66 storefronts and neon
Park once near Angel Delgadillo’s shop and walk the main strip; avoid buying fuel at the busiest central pumps.
86
Food
Josephine's Restaurant
Flagstaff, United States
19:00–20:301h 30m here$100
Seasonal bistro in a historic cottage
Reserve and choose trout, game or the seasonal vegetarian entrée; use the restaurant lot rather than downtown garages.
Drive 4 km in ~8 min via Historic Route 66.
4 km8m
87
Overnight
Little America Hotel
Flagstaff, United States
20:38–07:3010h 45m here$81
Woodland hotel with spacious surface parking
Request a forest-facing room and park in the broad exterior lot; temperatures can fall sharply overnight at this elevation.
Day 16
176 km2h 2mDepart 08:17
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 16 km in ~13 min via I-40 E and Walnut Canyon Road.
16 km13m
88
Attraction
Walnut Canyon National Monument
Coconino County, United States
08:30–10:302h here$25
Cliff dwellings and canyon-rim trails
Check out after breakfast and descend Island Trail only if comfortable with 736 steps; Rim Trail offers an easier archaeological view.
Drive 61 km in ~37 min via I-40 E and Meteor Crater Road.
61 km37m
89
Attraction
Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
Winslow, United States
11:07–12:371h 30m here$58
Preserved impact crater with guided rim access
Buy tickets online and join the rim tour if wind permits; the indoor displays are the fallback when exposed paths close.
Drive 42 km in ~29 min via I-40 E to La Posada.
42 km29m
90
Food
Turquoise Room
Winslow, United States
13:06–14:211h 15m here$68
Regional Southwestern dining at La Posada
Reserve lunch and try the Hopi piki bread or regional entrée; walk through La Posada’s public rooms after paying.
Drive 2 km in ~5min along Second Street.
1 km3m
91
Attraction
Standin' on the Corner Park
Winslow, United States
14:24–14:4925m here
Route 66 landmark and public art corner
Park on a side street and take the classic corner photograph quickly; nearby murals add more substance than the sign alone.
92
Food
Butterfield Stage Co. Steak House
Holbrook, United States
18:35–19:501h 15m here$72
Local steakhouse near historic Route 66
Order steak, chicken or the salad bar and confirm holiday hours; parking is easy in the adjacent roadside lot.
Drive 3 km in ~6min along Navajo Boulevard.
6 km8m
93
Overnight
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Holbrook Petrified Forest
Holbrook, United States
19:58–07:1511h 15m here$59
Modern roadside hotel with open parking
Park near the entrance and remove visible camera bags; the interstate-side location allows a prompt New Mexico departure.
Day 17
417 km4hDepart 08:01
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 151 km in ~1h 24min via I-40 E.
151 km1h 24m
94
Attraction
George Galanis Multi Cultural Center
Gallup, United States
09:25–10:401h 15m here
Native arts and regional railway history
Check out after breakfast, park near the historic depot and verify Tuesday gallery hours; browse only clearly attributed Native art.
Drive 102 km in ~57 min via I-40 E to Grants.
102 km57m
95
Attraction
El Malpais National Monument Visitor Center
Grants, United States
11:37–12:371h here
Lava-field geology and hiking information
Ask rangers about current cave permits and road conditions; use the short interpretive paths rather than entering lava tubes unprepared.
Drive 4 km in ~5 min into central Grants.
4 km5m
96
Food
El Cafecito
Grants, United States
12:45–13:451h here$34
Family-run New Mexican café
Order enchiladas Christmas-style or a stuffed sopapilla; confirm chile heat before committing and carry cash as backup.
97
Food
El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina
Albuquerque, United States
18:20–19:501h 30m here$76
Landmark New Mexican restaurant and patios
Reserve a patio table and order red-chile ribs or stacked enchiladas; the large surface lot comfortably handles an SUV.
Drive 20 km in ~16 min via Rio Grande Boulevard.
20 km16m
98
Overnight
Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town
Albuquerque, United States
20:06–07:3011h 20m here$91
Southwestern hotel beside historic Old Town
Use the hotel surface lot and request a room away from event spaces; Old Town can be explored without moving the SUV.
Day 18
299 km3h 7mDepart 08:55
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 2.9 km in ~5 min via 12th Street.
3 km5m
99
Attraction
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Albuquerque, United States
09:00–11:002h here$24
Pueblo history, art and living cultures
Check out after breakfast and enter at opening; prioritize Pueblo history galleries and buy art only from identified makers.
Drive 4.4 km in ~8 min to Central Avenue.
4 km8m
100
Food
Range Cafe Downtown
Albuquerque, United States
11:30–12:301h here$40
New Mexican comfort food and baked goods
Order blue-corn enchiladas or a green-chile burger; use a downtown surface lot and avoid leaving luggage visible.
Drive 133 km in ~1h 16min via I-25 N.
133 km1h 16m
101
Attraction
Pecos National Historical Park
Pecos, United States
14:00–15:451h 45m here
Pueblo ruins and Santa Fe Trail history
Park at the visitor center and walk the Ancestral Sites Trail; afternoon clouds can add drama but exposed ruins lack shelter.
Drive 155 km in ~1h 28min via US-84 S and I-40 E.
155 km1h 28m
102
Attraction
Blue Hole
Santa Rosa, United States
17:15–17:5540m here$5
Deep artesian spring with vivid blue water
Use the municipal lot and photograph from designated edges; swim only if staffing and conditions permit, as water stays cold.
Drive 3 km in ~7min along Historic Route 66.
2 km4m
103
Food
Joseph's Bar & Grill
Santa Rosa, United States
18:15–19:301h 15m here$48
Historic Route 66 New Mexican restaurant
Choose enchiladas or the Route 66 plate and confirm spice level; the roadside lot is broad and well suited to the SUV.
Drive 3 km in ~7min to the interstate hotel district.
2 km4m
104
Overnight
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa, United States
19:45–07:2511h 40m here$135
Interstate hotel with practical parking
Park under lighting near the lobby and request a room away from I-40; fuel tonight because the next leg begins across open plains.
Day 19
575 km5h 35mDepart 08:00
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 94 km in ~55 min via I-40 E.
94 km55m
105
Attraction
Tucumcari Historical Museum
Tucumcari, United States
08:55–10:101h 15m here$10
Local history inside a 1903 schoolhouse
Check out after breakfast and verify opening time; the Route 66, ranching and military rooms reward a focused visit.
Drive 165 km in ~1h 32min via I-40 E across the Texas line.
165 km1h 32m
106
Attraction
Cadillac Ranch
Amarillo, United States
11:42–12:1735m here
Iconic roadside art installation in a field
Park completely off the frontage road and wear shoes for mud; strong plains wind can carry spray paint toward cameras and clothing.
Drive 18 km in ~13 min along I-40 frontage roads.
18 km13m
107
Food
Coyote Bluff Cafe
Amarillo, United States
12:45–13:451h here$36
Tiny local institution for burgers and green chile
Order the Burger from Hell only if comfortable with heat; arrive before the second lunch rush because seating is limited.
Drive 1.9 km in ~4 min via Quarter Horse Drive.
2 km4m
108
Attraction
American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum
Amarillo, United States
13:49–15:191h 30m here$24
Western horse history, art and bloodlines
Use the museum’s broad lot and begin upstairs with breed history; western art and tack displays add visual variety.
109
Food
White Dog Hill Restaurant
Clinton, United States
19:20–20:351h 15m here$76
Hilltop regional restaurant in a historic building
Reserve near a window and choose the steak or seasonal special; the hilltop access road is paved but dim after dark.
Drive 11 km in ~14 min back toward I-40.
11 km14m
110
Overnight
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Clinton Historic Route 66
Clinton, United States
20:49–07:1010h 20m here$55
Modern Route 66 hotel with open parking
Use the well-lit surface lot and request an upper-floor room away from I-40; tomorrow’s drive begins immediately eastbound.
Day 20
408 km4h 23mDepart 08:00
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 141 km in ~1h 24min via I-40 E.
141 km1h 24m
111
Attraction
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
Oklahoma City, United States
09:24–11:542h 30m here$36
Powerful memorial and documented civic history
Check out after breakfast, use the museum garage after checking clearance and begin outdoors at the Field of Empty Chairs.
Drive 5 km in ~10 min via Reno Avenue and Agnew Avenue.
5 km10m
112
Food
Cattlemen's Steakhouse
Oklahoma City, United States
12:05–13:201h 15m here$70
Historic Stockyards City steakhouse
Order the lunch steak or lamb fries if adventurous; use the Stockyards surface lot rather than downtown structured parking.
Drive 176 km in ~1h 41min via I-44 E to Tulsa.
176 km1h 41m
113
Attraction
Philbrook Museum of Art
Tulsa, United States
15:01–17:012h here$36
Art museum and gardens in an Italianate villa
Use the museum lot and split time between Native art and formal gardens; late afternoon light suits the villa’s terraces.
114
Food
Living Kitchen Farm and Dairy
Depew, United States
19:00–21:002h here$190
Farm-based Oklahoma tasting experience
Reserve months ahead for the fixed farm dinner; if unavailable, use Mother Road Market in Tulsa before leaving the city.
Drive 17 km in ~17 min via OK-66 W and I-44 W.
17 km17m
115
Overnight
Hampton Inn & Suites Stroud
Stroud, United States
21:17–07:3010h 10m here$135
Route 66 hotel with easy exterior parking
Park close to the lobby and ask for a quiet room away from the interstate; the base prevents an excessive final Oklahoma leg.
Day 21
1,262 km12h 3mDepart 08:00
Check out after hotel breakfast, then drive 672 km in ~6h 6min via I-44 E, with a fuel and stretch break near Springfield.
672 km6h 6m
116
Attraction
Route 66 State Park
Eureka, United States
14:06–15:211h 15m here
Highway museum and Meramec River trails
Check out after breakfast and start in the former Bridgehead Inn visitor center; confirm Saturday museum hours before leaving Stroud.
Drive 38 km in ~33 min via I-44 E and I-270 N to Clayton.
38 km33m
117
Food
The Crossing
Clayton, United States
15:54–17:091h 15m here$82
Seasonal St. Louis-area lunch restaurant
Reserve lunch and select the seasonal two-course option; use the nearby public garage only after confirming SUV clearance.
Drive 31 km in ~28 min via I-64 E and IL-111 N.
31 km28m
118
Attraction
Cahokia Mounds UNESCO World Heritage Site
Collinsville, United States
17:37–19:071h 30m here
Pre-Columbian city and monumental earthworks
Park near Monks Mound and verify interpretive-center status; climb the signed stairs for the essential view over the ancient city.
521 km4h 55m
Finish
IL, USA
Before you go
Local tips
- 1Reserve Arches timed entry as soon as the May 2027 booking window opens.
- 2Book Georgetown Loop Railroad, Sandia Peak Tramway and Neon Museum timed tickets before departure.
- 3Start Utah and California desert hikes before 09:00; late-May temperatures can rise quickly.
- 4Fill the SUV before crossing Mojave National Preserve and again before long New Mexico plains sections.
- 5Use hotel or surface parking in Denver, Las Vegas and historic districts rather than assuming garage clearance.
- 6Check Memorial Day weekend crowd notices for Joshua Tree, Flagstaff and Petrified Forest.
Good to know
- 1Colorado high-country roads and trails may retain snow; UT-153 to Eagle Point can remain seasonally inaccessible.
- 2CA-241 in Orange County uses electronic tolling; register the SUV plate or arrange payment promptly.
- 3Nevada and California desert heat can exceed seasonal averages, and parked-vehicle temperatures endanger camera batteries.
- 4Oatman Highway has steep, narrow curves over Sitgreaves Pass; descend in a lower gear and watch for burros.
- 5Thunderstorms can produce hail and sudden crosswinds across Nebraska, eastern Colorado, Texas and Oklahoma.
- 6Holiday traffic may delay I-15, Joshua Tree entrances and Flagstaff approaches over Memorial Day weekend.
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