A Route 66 road trip is among the most famous and iconic journey in the world. This route is known as the “Main Street of America.” This historic routes connects Los Angeles with Chicago. It covers 8 states in the US. It is more over 2400 miles long. Small beautiful towns, open roads and a touch of authentic American life make it ideal journey for UK travelers. Here is all information you need to make your Route 66 road trip secure, easy and memorable.
1. Booking UK to USA flights
Booking the right and best UK to USA flights is the first step. The starting point is Chicago, Illinois from where mostly travelers begin their Route 66 road trip. You can fly from London, Manchester or Edinburgh to Chicago international airport. It takes usually 8 hours to fly there. Instead of flying from Chicago, book your return flights from Los Angeles in advance. This will allow you to start trip in Chicago and end in Los Angeles without driving back. You would not have to take same route twice. It saves your time and money.
2. Preparation before hit the road
After booking your flights, the next step is getting ready for the drive. You will have to rent a car in the US. There are many rental cars companies at Chicago O’Hare airport. These companies offers one-way trip. As you will be travelling long distances, pick a trustworthy and comfortable car. You will need international driving permit (IDP) and UK driving license to drive in the USA. Before Departing the UK, get your IDP. You can easily apply through post office. Ensure that you have travel insurance with driving coverage in the USA. This will help you if your car gets damages, you need emergency help on the road or if accident occurs. The problem is rare but having insurance keeps you tension free and secure while travelling.
3. Creating your Route 66 Road Trip
The classic Route 66 road trip begins in Chicago and ends in Santa Monica. It spreads through 8 states:
- Illinois
- Missouri
- Kansas
- Oklahoma
- Texas
- New Mexico
- Arizona
- California
You can finish your trip in 2 to 3 weeks, depending on how many stops you take. Some travelers take more time to stop at roadside attractions, restaurants and tiny beautiful villages along the route.
4. Top places along the route
There are a lot of fascinating locations along the route 66. Here are some spots that should not miss:
- Chicago, Illinois: In the downtown are, begin your journey at the official route 66 sign. Before you hit the road, come to Navy Pier to enjoy deep dish pizza.
- St. Louis, Missouri: Must visit the famous attraction in America which is the Gateway Arch.
- Tulsa, Oklahoma: Famous for friendly locals and historical route 66 hotels.
- Amarillo, Texas: Famous for Cadillac Ranch where cars are buried nose-first in the earth.
- Albuquerque, New Mexico: Enjoy the stunning desert surrounding while exploring old town.
- Flagstaff, Arizona: Before visiting the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff is the best place to relax. Just a short drive away.
- Santa Monica, California: Route 66 officially ends here. Take a picture near the famous End of the trail sign.
The trip is unforgettable as each stops gives rare blend of history, beauty and American culture.
5. Accommodations options
There are multiple options of accommodations along the route 66. Large hotels, cozy bed and breakfast inn and traditional hotels all are available there. Some prefer to stay at historic route 66 hotels for nostalgic atmosphere. Make reservations at lavish hotels in major cities if you want more comfort. Reservations in advance helps you a lot. Because these hotels are already booked especially in summer when a lot of people use this route. Try to book in advance online for affordable rates and good suitable deals. Many offers affordable deals for solo travelers or group tours.
6. Flavors of Route 66
A major aspect of route 66 road trip is food. You will enjoy your food at local roadside cafes, family run restaurants and traditional American cafes. Must try local foods such as burgers, milkshakes and barbecue. Many tourists like to stop at vintage restaurants that have been around for many years. These restaurants have friendly employees and nostalgic ambiance similar to 1950s. Take your time while eating because talking with locals and learning about their experiences is half of the fun.
7. Tips for safe travel
On any road trip, safety is always comes first. Route 66 is usually safe, but following tips help you to travel smoothly.
- Always keep you mobile phone fully charged. Carry power bank.
- Regularly fill up your gas tank because some roads are lengthy.
- E Adhere to speed limits.
- Take breaks when you are exhausted.
- Before starting your journey, make a list of your emergency numbers.
Do you want to travel alone? No issue. Rote 66 is the safest destination in the USA. You can meet with other travelers. You can share your adventurous experiences with them and enjoy their company.
According to many American travel UK fans, Route 66 is like entering into movie. Every miles offers something new to explore, from countless roadways to neon signs.
