The timeless allure of the great American road trip pulses with life and fervor. Few adventures ignite the spirit of freedom, spark the thrill of discovery, and stir the heart with nostalgia quite like a journey along a two-lane highway.

And when it comes to the quintessential great American road trip, Route 66 shines like a beacon of freedom and adventure! Dubbed the “Mother Road” by John Steinbeck and promoted as the “Main Street of America” by the US Highway 66 Association in 1927, this iconic highway stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the relentless pursuit of dreams. It encapsulates the essence of resilience, inviting all who travel its storied paths to embrace the journey of a lifetime.

Whether you’re a history buff, a roadside attraction enthusiast, or simply yearning for an unforgettable journey, Route 66 offers an unparalleled experience.

Planning Your Route 66 Adventure

As with any memory making road trip, a successful Route 66 adventure requires a bit of planning. As the old road winds from Chicago to Santa Monica, and was realigned countless times, you’ll want to map out key stops, accommodations, and must-see attractions.

The key is to plan but don’t over plan! You can’t see it all on one trip. And key to savoring the Route 66 experience is taking time to slow the pace and visit with folks met along the way. After all, they are what infuses legendary Route 66 with its magic.

Here are some essential tools that we recommend for planning your journey, andideas to ensure that your adventure is worry free:

• EZ66 Guide for Travelers by Jerry McClanahan – This guide is considered the bible for Route 66 travelers. It provides detailed maps, insider tips, and historical tidbits that ensure you won’t miss any iconic sights.
• RouteTrip USA – If you’re dreaming of an epic road trip adventure in the US or Canada, then you’ve got to check out RouteTrip USA. They’re like your one-stop shop for all things travel! With pre-planned itineraries, awesome travel tips, and guys like Jim Hinckley from Jim Hinckley’s America on their team, they even do custom travel planning for those who want to make their adventure truly unique. These adventure-loving pros are ready to help you create some unforgettable memories on the road!
• Route 66 Navigation App – The Route 66 Navigation app has become the must-have item for Route 66 road warriors. This app offers turn-by-turn directions, historical insights, event information, and updated business listings to enhance your journey.
• Two Lane America – Austin Coop, a road trip expert and guest on Coffee With Jim, the weekly podcast on Podbean from Jim Hinckley’s America, curates guided driving and coach tours on the Mother Road and beyond.

Route 66 Centennial Celebrations and Festivals

The countdown is on for the 2026 Route 66 Centennial, and communities all along the highway are gearing up for an unforgettable series of events. Travelers hitting the road will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a host of celebrations that pay homage to the road’s rich history.

• Route 66 Centennial Festival in Tulsa (June 2026) – Tulsa, Oklahoma, a city deeply intertwined with Route 66 history, is planning a series of grand events including something special for the annual AAA Route 66 Road Fest.
• Springfield, Illinois Route 66 Mother Road Festival (September 2025) – A classic car show, music, and family-friendly festivities make this a can’t-miss event.
• The Kingman Route 66 Fest (October 2025) – Kingman, Arizona, a key stop along the route, hosts an annual festival featuring classic cars, live music, and a celebration of Route 66 history.

Where to Stay and Who to Trust Along Route 66

At Jim Hinckley’s America, we are absolutely thrilled to partner with incredible businesses that share our fervor for history, hospitality, and adventure! If you’re embarking on an exhilarating journey down Route 66, don’t miss out on these remarkable, traveler-approved havens where you can unwind and recharge, or discover the magic of a legendary road trip!

• Roadrunner Lodge Motel (Tucumcari, New Mexico) – A lovingly restored 1960s retro motel offering an authentic mid-century Route 66 experience. The attention to detail ensures your visit is a bit of time travel.
• Enchanted Trails Trading Post & RV Park (Albuquerque, New Mexico) – Blurring the line between past and present, this 1940s trading post and full service RV Park is a treat. An RV isn’t required to check out the gift shop, or the display of vintage travel trailers, and grab a picture with the towering Christmas tree made of hubcaps.
• Cactus Inn Motel (McLean, Texas) – A welcoming mid 1950s roadside retreat preserving the small-town charm that makes Route 66 so special. As an added bonus the winderful Red River Steakhouse is next door!
• Wagon Wheel Motel (Cuba, Missouri) – The oldest continuously operating motel on Route 66, exuding history and character. This isn’t a motel. It is a destination.
• Gilligan’s Route 66 Tours – Ideal for travelers looking for expertly guided tours packed with hidden gems and classic attractions. Self drive caravans or single tour options allow for a degree of customization. They also offer one of the best driving trips along the Mississippi River from Minneapolis to New Orleans availble.

Each of these supporters reflect our commitment to keeping the road trip experience authentic, memorable, and accessible to travelers from all walks of life. They embody the spirit of hospitality that makes the Mother Road a welcoming adventure for all.

Coffee With Jim: Your Gateway to Road Trip Inspiration

Every week, Coffee With Jim on Podbean brings listeners engaging conversations with tourism experts, historians, and Route 66 enthusiasts. Recent episodes have featured:

• Joel Baker of the American Giants Museum – Discussing the preservation of roadside giants and their cultural significance.
• Marlo Anderson of the National Day Calendar – Exploring quirky and fun celebrations that can add excitement to any road trip.
• Sarah Elizabeth of Kingman Main Street – Highlighting community revitalization efforts that make historic districts a must-visit.

Through Coffee With Jim, we share stories, insights, and expert advice that fuel your passion for the open road and community development.

Join the Journey – Become a Jim Hinckley’s America Partner

If you love the stories we tell and the adventures we inspire, consider becoming a Jim Hinckley’s America partner through our Patreon crowdfunding initiative. Your support helps us continue sharing America’s story, providing travel insights, and advocating for historic preservation. Together, we can ensure that the magic of Route 66 and the road trip experience endures for future generations.

And if your business can use a promotional boost, and you have a passion for providing folks with memory making road trip adventures, drop us a note. a cornerstone for Jim Hinckley’s America is a network of like minded partners.

So, pack your bags, fuel up the car, and hit the road. The Mother Road is calling, and an adventure of a lifetime awaits!