Route 66: An RV Adventure Along the Mother Road

Chicago, IL

Route 66 officially begins in the heart of Chicago at Grant Park. Stay in the outskirts of the Windy City to avoid navigating traffic in your RV (but note there are some places to park your rig in city limits) and be sure to spend time at your campground partaking in its amenities.

“Begin Route 66” Signs / 65 E Adams Street

It’s an important part of the Mother Road kickoff so grab your camera and snap a photo of your kickoff to RVing Route 66!

Millennium Park

This is a great lake-front park to have a picnic, view art, people-watch, stretch your legs, and see The Bean (or Cloud Gate), a famous 110-ton, silver-drop sculpture that reflects, making for a fun photo opportunity. Many of the activities are free at this stop and RV parking is available in the McCormick Place Lot B (a few miles away from the park).

Willis Tower

The famous tower that some still refer to as the Sears Tower is a 1400’ skyscraper and Chicago’s tallest building. If you’re into history and design, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for Willis Tower, and if you’re in for some adrenaline, take the elevator up 103 stories to stand on The Ledge–the highest observation deck in America.

The Art Institute of Chicago

One of the country’s most celebrated art museums, this Chicago icon lets RVers experience world-famous masterpieces from Impressionist classics to modern works all under one roof. It’s the perfect cultural kickoff to a Route 66 adventure before hitting the open road.

Museum of Science and Industry

Hands-on exhibits, historic aircraft, and even a real U-505 submarine make this museum a high-energy stop for families and curious travelers alike. RVers will appreciate spending a full day exploring interactive science experiences before settling in for the night nearby.

From Chicago, IL to St. Louis, MO

While this is generally a five-hour drive, we’re offering up some places to stop and take in this section of Route 66 before arriving in Missouri to settle into the campground for the evening.

Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum (Pontiac, IL)

Celebrate the legends of the Mother Road with memorabilia, historic signs, and quirky Route 66 artifacts. It’s a must-see stop that brings the road’s story to life for RV travelers and is a great place to check out at the beginning of your RV journey!

Railsplitter Covered Wagon (Lincoln, IL)

Stop for a photo beside the world’s largest covered wagon — a fun, oversize roadside attraction that captures the playful spirit of old-school highway travel. 

St. Louis, MO

A stop in St. Louis, especially for RVers interested in American history or those who love exploring urban destinations, offers travelers the chance to learn about the westward expansion of the United States in the 19th century. RVing in St. Louis can be tackled by pre-planning parking areas and carving out down time at your campground.

Gateway Arch National Park and Forest Park

Experience vast views from the top of the iconic Gateway Arch while learning about its role in the National Park Service. Then, enjoy a stroll through Forest Park’s zoo, museums, and gardens to stretch the legs and imagination. If driving in your rig to the park, check out parking at the Stadium East Parking Garage.

The City Museum

Not your ordinary museum — this whimsical playground of found objects is a hit with kids and adults alike, and worth setting aside a few hours on your Route 66 journey.

From St. Louis to Baxter Springs, KS

Keep the Mother Road magic alive with charming small towns and classic roadside stops as you make your way into Kansas. While this is generally a five-hour drive non-stop, RVing offers you the chance to slow down, go at your own pace, and stop often for breaks and (photo) snaps!

Cuba

Cuba, Missouri, proudly calls itself “Route 66 Mural City”, with over a dozen large, outdoor murals that bring local history and Americana to life right on the downtown streets — perfect for quick photo strolls for RV travelers.

(Formerly the) World’s Largest Rocking Chair (Fanning, MO)

Just west of Cuba you’ll find the Route 66 Rocker, a massive red rocking chair that once held the Guinness World Record and remains one of the most whimsical and Instagram-worthy stops on this stretch of the Mother Road. This roadside giant makes for a fun stretch break and a memorable photo opp as you roll through the Ozarks.

Route 66 Museum (Lebanon, MO)

The Route 66 Museum in Lebanon celebrates the highway’s heyday with vintage displays like a 1950s gas station, classic diner scenes, and automotive memorabilia, all providing a nostalgic look at the road that shaped American travel. RVers will appreciate the free, self-guided experience that helps put the Mother Road’s story and local history into context.

Cars On the Route (Galena, KS)

In tiny Galena, Cars on the Route brings the Pixar movie classic Cars to life — set in a restored 1930s Kan-O-Tex service station and featuring vintage vehicles including the real “Tow Tater” truck that inspired Tow Mater. It’s a playful, family-friendly stop along Kansas’ short stretch of historic Route 66 that offers souvenirs, snacks, and plenty of photo ops for RV travelers who love pop culture meets roadside nostalgia.

From Baxter Springs, KS to Oklahoma City, OK

Dive deeper into classic Route 66 lore and start to take in America’s Native American culture as you travel through Oklahoma’s playful and historic attractions before heading to set up camp and rest.

Blue Whale of Catoosa (Catoosa, OK)

One of the most beloved roadside icons on the Mother Road, this giant whale pond structure makes a fun photo stop and picnic break for RV travelers.

Shawnee Tribe Cultural Center Information (Miami, OK)

The Shawnee Tribe Cultural Center is Oklahoma’s newest Route 66 attraction and is a self-guided museum featuring rotating and permanent exhibits and art. Dedicated to sharing Shawnee culture, the center hosts a variety of events that allow visitors to take part in, and experience, the vibrant Shawnee heritage.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (Tulsa, OK)

Take a break from the road and test your luck or skill while learning about the Cherokee tribe and checking out some music history and memorabilia. There is security-patroled overnight RV parking available with access to basic RVing amenities. 

Enjoy and Explore Oklahoma City

While driving your rig allows you to cover lots of ground and see from the seat, spending time outside the RV is also important. Oklahoma City is a must-see city and offers rich cultural learnings to everyone who visits. If you’re RVing into the city, please be sure to plan your parking using the city’s downtown parking resource.

Oklahoma National Memorial & Museum (downtown Oklahoma City, OK)

This museum offers a deeply moving and educational stop that honors those killed, those who survived, and all who were touched by the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. RVers can spend time reflecting on resilience and hope while exploring interactive displays and exhibits, outdoor memorial spaces, personal stories, and artifacts that bring this pivotal moment in American history to life.

Myriad Botanical Gardens (downtown Oklahoma City, OK)

If you like blooms and you’re itching to increase your step count, you’ll love this stop on the road trip! Offering free admission to all, you can enjoy 15 acres of ornamental gardens and grounds in downtown Oklahoma City within walking distance to lots of other historical and cultural attractions. The grounds are also pet-friendly and there’s a dog park onsite making this a perfect stop for RVers traveling with their furry friends.

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum (downtown Oklahoma City, OK)

To truly understand the history of the formation of the American West, this museum brings you into the fold through engaging and interactive exhibits and programs. Visitors will learn about the history of the American cowboy, rodeo, Native American culture, and the frontier military.

First Americans Museum (downtown Oklahoma City, OK)

Located in downtown Oklahoma City, this dynamic cultural center promotes awareness and education about the rich histories, diversity, resilience, and modern contributions of First American Nations across the state. RVers can explore immersive, state-of-the-art exhibits, enjoy Native-inspired cuisine, shop authentic handmade art, and experience family-friendly programming that brings Indigenous culture vividly to life.

Pops 66 (Arcadia, OK)

Famous for its giant, LED-lit soda bottle sculpture and hundreds of flavors, Pops is a whimsical stop where RVers can fuel up with unique sodas and snacks.

Oklahoma City, OK, to Amarillo, TX

As you cross into the Lone Star state, be on the lookout for the Leaning Tower of Texas and be sure to save some room in your RV’s refrigerator and your belly for some renowned BBQ. Break this would-be five-hour drive into manageable chunks with some quirky roadside stops and cultural history.

Leaning Tower of Texas and Giant Cross (Groom, TX)

Two fun and famous roadside attractions that offer a perfect pull-over stop for photos, chuckles, or a moment of prayer: the tilted water tower, known as the Leaning Tower of Texas, is a tribute to Pisa’s famous tower and the Giant Cross is one of the world’s largest crosses standing at 190’ tall and can be seen from over 20 miles away. Be sure to fill up on fuel at one of the famous vintage gas stations while passing through Groom, TX! 

Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, TX)

Ready for an art break while traveling the Mother Road? Enjoy colorful half-buried Cadillacs in a field where you can add your own spray-paint artwork. There’s plenty of parking for your rig and space to enjoy a roadside snack or meal.

The Big Texan (Amarillo, TX)

Home of the legendary 72-ounce steak challenge, The Big Texan is pure Route 66 fun with hearty meals and Texas-sized personality. RVers can park, feast, and soak in the neon-lit roadside nostalgia that defines this stretch of the Mother Road…and it’s likely only a few steps from your RV!

Amarillo, TX to Albuquerque, NM

Experience the wide open West with neon neon signs, historic motels, and refreshing natural stops.

MidPoint Cafe (Adrian, TX)

If you like pie you’ll love this sweet stop! Mark the exact halfway point of Route 66 with a slice of homemade pie at this classic small-town diner. It’s a must-stop photo op and a sweet reward for RVers cruising the long Texas plains.

Tucumcari & Blue Swallow Motel (Tucumcari, NM)

While your RV is the perfect lodging, this hotel is purely a stop to take in more Route 66 charm. Tucumcari dazzles with vintage neon signs and beautifully preserved Route 66 nostalgia, making it a dream stop for road-trip photographers. The historic Blue Swallow Motel embodies the golden age of highway travel and gives RVers a glimpse into classic roadside Americana.

Blue Hole (Santa Rosa, NM)

This crystal-clear natural swimming hole is a refreshing oasis in the New Mexico desert. RVers can cool off, picnic nearby, and enjoy a unique roadside natural wonder just minutes off Route 66…complete with plenty of space to park your rig while you take a dip.

Albuquerque, NM

Take a day off of driving and enjoy ABQ sights and experiences while also enjoying some downtime at your RV campground. The featured campgrounds offer a variety of unique amenities like a vintage RV trailer exhibit, pull-through sites, trading post, and swimming pools.

Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway

Take an aerial tram ride up to 10,378’ above sea level for sweeping desert, canyon, and mountain views — a great mix of adventure and relaxation. This is the Americas’ longest tram ride taking you over 2.7 miles.

Petroglyph National Monument

Explore volcanic rock landscapes etched with thousands of ancient petroglyphs created by Indigenous peoples centuries ago. Easy walking trails and expansive desert views make this an unforgettable cultural and outdoor stop for RV travelers.

Albuquerque Balloon Museum

Celebrate the spirit of flight and ballooning history at this unique roadside attraction with interactive exhibits. Consider booking a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective of the area.

Gateway to the 19 Pueblos/Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

A must-visit stop in Albuquerque, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center offers an introduction to New Mexico’s landscape, history, and living Pueblo cultures on the historic grounds of the former Albuquerque Indian School. RVers can explore renowned Pueblo pottery, striking murals, and year-round traditional dances, then walk through the immersive We Are of This Place: The Pueblo Story exhibit, which shares generations of resilience and connection to the land in the voices of Pueblo people.

Albuquerque, NM to Williams, AZ

Take in the colorful mesas and classic desert before beginning to reach higher elevations where you’ll view pine forests while enjoying a gradual, steady climb. This five-hour stretch offers plenty of chances to sightsee, learn about Native American culture, and stop for fuel.

Petrified Forest National Park

Explore fossilized trees turned gemstones and scenic vistas that elevate your road trip into nature’s gallery.

Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, AZ)

RVers should visit the Wigwam Motel not only because of its classic Route 66 quirkiness but stepping inside of a concrete teepee isn’t something you can do off every highway! This playful, nostalgic motel is a classic stop for Route 66 lovers and photographers alike and offers a great stretch of the legs.

Acoma Pueblo

Perched 365 feet above the desert floor, Acoma Pueblo—also known as Sky City—has stood atop Acoma Rock for more than 900 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America. RVers can take a guided tour from the Sky City Cultural Center to explore centuries-old adobe homes and the striking San Esteban del Rey Mission, while learning firsthand about Acoma history, resilience, and world-renowned pottery traditions.

Painted Desert Indian Center

Stop by to browse an impressive collection of authentic Native American art, jewelry, pottery, and petrified wood — perfect for finding meaningful souvenirs and supporting local craftsmanship. The fun exterior displays, friendly staff, and easy stretch-and-shop break right off historic Route 66 make it a memorable part of your road trip.

Grand Canyon National Park and the South Rim

Take a day to explore the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Visit Grand Canyon Village and drive Desert View Drive. Enjoy an easy hike along the Rim Trail for breathtaking views. Bike rentals are also available for those who want a more active way to explore this iconic destination. Stay for sunset to capture stunning photos. 

To continue learning about Native American heritage and culture, plan to visit Walnut Canyon National Monument and Wupatki National Monument on your way to the Grand Canyon.

Walnut Canyon National Monument

Just east of Flagstaff, Walnut Canyon preserves ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people over 700 years ago. RVers can take short, scenic hikes along the canyon rim or descend the Island Trail to explore the well-preserved homes, marvel at the unique architecture, and stretch their legs while connecting with Arizona’s rich Indigenous history.

Wupatki National Monument

Wupatki protects multiple pueblos that showcase the ingenuity and community life of ancestral Pueblo peoples. Accessible by car and with short walking trails from the parking areas, it’s a great stop for RV travelers to wander through historic ruins, admire expansive desert vistas, and imagine life in this high desert centuries ago.

Williams, AZ to Barstow, CA

Before passing through California’s Mojave Desert, enjoy the final high alpine pine forest views and classic desert scenes that you’ve explored in New Mexico and Arizona. This six-hour drive is a very scenic stretch of Route 66 with plenty of side trip opportunities.

Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In (Seligman, AZ)

This beloved, decades-old diner serves smiles and burgers with a side of humor — a classic Route 66 pick-me-up stop.

Oatman, AZ

Don’t be surprised if wild burros saunter through town — this Old West former mining village delights RVers with rustic charm and memorable animal encounters. You’ll learn about the gold mining history that drove settlement across the west through staged gunfights and preserved architecture and cultural shops.

Barstow to Santa Monica, CA

You’re almost there! Cruise through quirky stops then celebrate your completed journey at the Pacific Ocean! 

Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch (Oro Grande, CA)

A whimsical forest of colorful bottle “trees” that shine in the California sun — an artistic and joyful stop before the final stretch.

Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, CA)

Officially the end of Route 66! Walk the pier, ride the Ferris wheel, and toast your epic journey where the Mother Road meets the Pacific Ocean. The end of this grand route offers easy RV parking, too, in Beach Parking Lot 3 North.