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One of the most popular ways to travel across the United States is a classic road trip on Route 66. Also known as the “Mother Road” this stretch of 4000 km, from Chicago to Los Angeles is packed with weird and wonderful rest stops, iconic landmarks and fantastic photo opportunities.
Although the legendary path is no longer recognised on official maps, it remains a popular trip for visitors to the States.
Amidst the hundreds of possible pit stops, here are six pit stops you won’t want to miss along the way.
The Skydeck at Willis Tower – Chicago, IL
The Windy City of Chicago is our first must-see stop on your cross-country journey. For a city this size, the best way to see all it has to offer is from 103 stories above at The Skydeck on Willis Tower. Open 365 days a year, this attraction features several exhibits and a breathtaking view that spans across four states.
For more daring travellers, don’t miss The Ledge, a glass balcony extending four feet outside the top floor of the tower.
(Willis Tower, 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606).
The Gateway Arch – St. Louis, Missouri
Next stop? St. Louis! As you make your way to Missouri, check out one of the most iconic landmarks in the country—The Gateway Arch. Constructed in 1965, this 630 ft. arch is the tallest man-made monument in the United States and offers spectacular views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River.
Take a 4-minute tram ride up to the top of the arch or explore the arch grounds from down below.
(11 North 4th Street, St. Louis, MO 63102).
POPS Arcadia, Oklahoma
No journey along Route 66 is complete without a stop at an old fashioned diner and gas station. With 700 types of drinks, you’re sure to find your favourite flavour at Pops Arcadia, from fruity sodas to classic colas and everything in between.
Its menu features American favourites like chicken bites, cheeseburgers and delicious milkshakes.
With its 20 metre colourful soda bottle sculpture covered in LED lights it’s hard to miss as you approach this historic stop.
(660 W Hwy 66 Arcadia, OK 73007).
Cadillac Ranch- Amarillo, Texas
Created in 1974 by members of The Art Farm, this roadside pop art collection features 10 colourful Cadillacs buried nose-down in concrete. Admission is free and travellers are welcome to channel their inner artist and spray paint the vehicles any way they please.
(The exhibit is located along I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124).
Singing Road – Tijeras, New Mexico
Created in 2014, this Musical Highway is one of the only attractions you won’t need to get out of your car to experience. As you pass through this stretch of road, prepare to be entertained by the tune “America the Beautiful”, but only if you obey the speed signs. It was created as a speed deterrent to keep drivers from exceeding 45 MPH.
Heads up though, you’ll only be able to hear the music if you’re heading eastbound, but it’s definitely worth turning back the detour if you’re not.
Santa Monica Pier – Santa Monica, California
The very last stop on Route 66, soak up the California sunshine at the Santa Monica Pier where you’ll find an array of rides and arcade games at Pacific Park, street performers, restaurants and shops. If you’ve made the 2448 mile trek you deserve to treat yourself to a souvenir from the Route 66 Last Stop Shop.
(Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401).
Hit the road and book your next holiday by contacting your personal travel manager, or find one near you here.
TravelManagers respects and honours the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the lands where we work and gather, and those we visit.
