Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America, is one of the most famous highways in the world and offers a unique road trip experience through the diverse beauty and culture of the American West. Spanning over 2,400 miles, Route 66 starts in the bustling city of Chicago, Illinois and ends at the famous Santa Monica Pier in California.
Along the way, the road passes through eight states, each with its own unique landmarks, attractions, and history to explore. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun and scenic road trip, Route 66 is sure to provide a memorable experience. You may be wondering, “How many states does Route 66 go through?”, “What states does Route 66 start and end?”. In this blog post, I’ll take a closer look at the eight states that Route 66 passes through and some of the must-see sights along the way. So buckle up, grab a map, and let’s hit the road on Route 66!
How many states does Route 66 go through?
As you travel along Route 66, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the different landscapes and attractions of each state. Route 66 goes through eight states in the United States: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
What states does Route 66 start and end?
Route 66 starts in Chicago, Illinois and ends in Santa Monica, California. But you can also travel from Santa Monica, California to Chicago, Illinois.
What 8 States Does Route 66 Go Through?
Here is a more in-depth look at each state that Route 66 travels through:
1. Illinois, IL
Route 66 begins in Chicago and travels through the prairies of Illinois, passing by small towns and farmland. Illinois is home to several historic sites and landmarks along Route 66, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, the Chain of Rocks Bridge over the Mississippi River, and the Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum in Pontiac.
In the state of Illinois, Route 66 runs from Chicago to East St. Louis and passes through cities such as Cicero, Berwyn, Springfield, and Edwardsville. The highway covers a distance of around 300 miles (480 km) in Illinois and offers scenic views of the countryside as well as opportunities to explore historic sites, attractions, and local communities along the way. Some popular stops along Illinois Route 66 include the Gemini Giant statue in Wilmington, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, and the Chain of Rocks Bridge in Madison.
Check my post about Illinois best stops: Route 66 in Illinois – The TOP 5 BEST Stops in IL – What to Visit/See Along Mother Road in IL?
2. Missouri, MO
In Missouri, Route 66 passes through the Ozark Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the rolling hills and forests. This section of the road also takes you through the famous Gateway Arch in St. Louis, a 630-foot monument that symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States.
Route 66 in the state of Missouri runs from the Illinois state line near East St. Louis to the Oklahoma state line near Joplin. The highway covers a distance of approximately 300 miles (480 km) in Missouri and passes through several cities including St. Louis, Springfield, Rolla, and Waynesville. Missouri Route 66 offers a glimpse into the state’s rich history and natural beauty, with many opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor recreation along the way. Some popular stops along Missouri Route 66 include the St. Louis Gateway Arch, the Meramec Caverns, and the Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba.
You can check also this post: Route 66 in Missouri – The TOP 5 BEST Places, Attractions in MO – What to See Along Mother Road in MO?
3. Kansas, KS
Kansas is the flattest state on Route 66, with miles of open prairies and rolling farmlands. This section of the road is relatively short, but it offers a glimpse into the heartland of America and the rural lifestyle of the Midwest.
Route 66 in the state of Kansas runs from the Missouri state line near Joplin to the Oklahoma state line near Baxter Springs. The highway covers a distance of approximately 160 miles (257 km) in Kansas and passes through several cities including Galena, Riverton, and Baxter Springs. Kansas Route 66 offers a glimpse into the state’s rich history, with many opportunities to explore local communities and landmarks along the way.
4. Oklahoma, OK
Oklahoma is known for its scenic beauty and rich Native American history, and Route 66 takes you right through the heart of it all. The road passes by the Blue Whale of Catoosa, a quirky roadside attraction and the Tulsa Zoo, which is home to thousands of animals.
Route 66 in the state of Oklahoma runs from the Kansas state line near Baxter Springs to the Texas state line near Texola. The highway covers a distance of approximately 400 miles (644 km) in Oklahoma and passes through several cities including Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and El Reno. Oklahoma Route 66 offers a glimpse into the state’s rich history and diverse landscapes, with many opportunities for sightseeing, outdoor recreation, and exploring local communities along the way. Some popular stops along Oklahoma Route 66 include the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, and the Blue Whale of Catoosa.
Ready for some attractions in Oklahoma? Check it out: Route 66 in Oklahoma – The TOP 5 BEST Places Stops to visit Along Mother Road in OK – What to see?
5. Texas, TX
The state of Texas section of Route 66 is one of the most remote, with vast stretches of open prairies and deserts. Along the way, you’ll find the Cadillac Ranch, an art installation made of 10 vintage Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground, and the Midpoint Cafe, a classic Route 66 diner located in the town of Adrian.
Route 66 in the state of Texas runs from the Oklahoma state line near Texola to the end of the highway in Santa Monica, California. The highway covers a distance of approximately 60 miles (97 km) in Texas and passes through the town of Shamrock. Texas Route 66 offers a glimpse into the state’s rich history and unique landscapes, with several opportunities to explore local communities and landmarks along the way.
6. New Mexico, NM
New Mexico is a state of stark beauty, with deserts, mesas, and stunning natural landscapes. Route 66 takes you through the Petrified Forest National Park, which is home to some of the world’s largest and best-preserved petrified trees. You’ll also pass by the historic town of Santa Rosa, where you can explore the Santa Rosa Rims, a series of towering mesas that rise up from the desert floor.
Route 66 is a historic highway that runs through the state of New Mexico in the United States. It was one of the original highways in the U.S. Highway System and is also known as the “Main Street of America.” In New Mexico, Route 66 passes through cities such as Albuquerque, Santa Rosa, and Tucumcari, offering scenic views of the state’s deserts, mountains, and prairies. Today, much of Route 66 in New Mexico has been replaced by more modern highways, but parts of the original road still exist and are popular among tourists.
Check out the best things to do in New Mexico: Route 66 in New Mexico – The TOP 5 MUST-SEE Places in NM – What to visit along Mother Road in NM?
7. Arizona, AZ
Arizona is home to some of the most iconic attractions along Route 66. This section of the road takes you through the heart of the American Southwest, offering breathtaking views of the red rock formations and canyons.
Route 66 is a historic highway that runs through the state of Arizona in the United States. It was one of the original highways in the U.S. In Arizona, Route 66 passes through cities such as Flagstaff, Winslow, and Seligman, offering scenic views of the state’s deserts, mountains, and forests. Some notable landmarks along Route 66 in Arizona include the Petrified Forest National Park, and the historic Wigwam Motel.
What to do in Arizona on Route 66? Check it out: Route 66 in Arizona – The TOP 5 BEST Stops Places to visit Along Mother Road in AZ – What to see?
8. California, CA
The final stretch of Route 66 takes you through the deserts of California and into Los Angeles, where the road ends at the Santa Monica Pier. In California state, Route 66 passes through cities such as Barstow, San Bernardino, and Santa Monica, offering scenic views of the state’s deserts, mountains, and coastal areas. Some notable landmarks along Route 66 in California include the historic Wigwam Motel, the Afton Station Cafe, and the famous Santa Monica Pier.
California best places to visit along Mother Road: Route 66 in California – The TOP 5 BEST Stops Places to visit Along Mother Road in CA – What to see?
Driving Route 66 is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you through the heart of the American West. This iconic road trip offers a unique look into the history, culture, and natural beauty of the United States, and is a journey that should not be missed.
I hope you enjoy my list of “Route 66 – What 8 STATES Does Mother Road Go Through?” Have a great Route 66 trip and have fun!
👍 Find out more:
Discover the best stops along the Mother Road in my travel guide, “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places”, which is available on Amazon. This is the ultimate travel guide and pocket reference for anyone wishing to experience the nostalgia and wonder of America’s Route 66! MUST-HAVE for all Route 66 travelers. Visit 202 places on Route 66 with “Scan QR and go” for easy navigation.
Author:
Mark Watson is a California-based member of a Los Angeles Motorcycle Club and a keen traveler. He’s traveled the entirety of U. S. Route 66 seven times on his Harley-Davidson. He strives to interest others in the historic drive to keep the legendary Route 66 alive. He also traveled through the Alaska Highway. He is an author of bestseller books on Amazon: “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places” and “Alaska Highway – 202 Best Stops”.