Route 66 begins in Illinois, stretching about 301 miles from downtown Chicago to the Mississippi River. Known as the “Birthplace of Route 66,” Illinois features iconic roadside diners, vintage gas stations, and the famous Gemini Giant in Wilmington. Travelers can still see the original “Begin Route 66” sign on Adams Street in Chicago before heading west on America’s most legendary highway.

Route 66 runs roughly 317 miles across Missouri, crossing through St. Louis and the scenic Ozarks. Missouri is home to the world’s largest rocking chair in Fanning and the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge near St. Louis. Caverns, classic motor courts, and neon signs make this stretch one of the most nostalgic sections of the Mother Road.

Though only about 13 miles long, Kansas has one of the shortest but most beloved stretches of Route 66. Passing through the small towns of Galena, Riverton, and Baxter Springs, this segment is packed with history. The restored Kan-O-Tex gas station and the famous tow truck that inspired Mater from Pixar’s Cars make Kansas a must-see stop despite its short distance.

Oklahoma boasts more Route 66 miles than any other state, with approximately 432 miles of the highway. The route winds through Tulsa and Oklahoma City and features iconic landmarks like the Blue Whale of Catoosa and vintage neon-filled main streets. Oklahoma proudly celebrates Route 66 culture with museums, restored diners, and annual festivals honoring the road’s rich history.

Route 66 cuts across the Texas Panhandle for about 186 miles through Texas. This stretch is famous for wide-open skies, quirky roadside attractions, and Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo, where visitors are encouraged to spray-paint the half-buried classic cars. Historic towns like Shamrock and Adrian — the midpoint of Route 66 — preserve the spirit of classic American road travel.

In New Mexico, Route 66 travels roughly 380 miles through desert landscapes, pueblos, and vibrant Southwestern towns. Cities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe became major Route 66 destinations filled with glowing neon motels and authentic regional cuisine. New Mexico’s colorful scenery and Native American influence give this section of the highway a unique cultural flavor unlike anywhere else along the route.

Arizona features around 401 miles of Route 66 and some of the best-preserved sections of the historic highway. Travelers can drive through classic towns like Seligman, often called the “Birthplace of Historic Route 66,” and visit landmarks near the Grand Canyon. Arizona’s desert scenery, vintage trading posts, and retro motels make it one of the most photographed stretches of the Mother Road.

Route 66 ends in California after approximately 315 miles, finishing at the Santa Monica Pier near Los Angeles. This final stretch crosses deserts, mountains, and bustling Southern California cities before reaching the Pacific Ocean. From old neon motels to the famous “End of the Trail” sign, California delivers a fitting finale to America’s most iconic highway adventure.