Needles: Mojave Desert Crossroads
One of the last cities before you cross the California stateline, Needles is a scenic stop on Route 66 that showcases the rugged beauty of the Mojave Desert. The El Garces Hotel, a restored railroad station, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. While its no longer a functioning hotel, it is a nationally recognized Historic Place and is available to use for community events. Visit the Needles Regional Museum to learn about the region’s Native American and railroad history. The city’s location along the Colorado River makes it a perfect spot for water activities and picnics. Fun fact, Needles was the home of Peanuts creator, Charles M. Schulz, whose family moved to the city in the 1920s.
Ludlow: A Desert Oasis for Road Trippers
Ludlow offers a small, but memorable stop on Route 66, with its historic Ludlow Café serving as a favorite pit stop for travelers. Remnants of the mining era still stand in this secluded town, where the surrounding desert landscape provides stunning photo opportunities, particularly at sunrise or sunset. Ludlow’s quiet charm and historic significance make it a peaceful stop along the journey.
Amboy: Home of Roy’s Motel and Café
Amboy is a Route 66 icon, famous for Roy’s Motel and Café, a mid-century modern landmark with its striking neon sign. This remote desert stop offers a glimpse into the past with its preserved gas station and roadside diner. Amboy Crater, a nearby volcanic cinder cone, provides a unique hiking opportunity. The quiet, desolate beauty of Amboy makes it a must-visit for those seeking the authentic Route 66 experience.
Barstow: Gateway to the Desert
Barstow is a desert oasis filled with Route 66 charm. Explore Barstow Station, a roadside stop filled with gift shops and fast-food eateries housed in converted railcars. The nearby Harvey House, a restored train depot, is another historic landmark worth exploring. Travelers can also check out the quirky Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, a forest of recycled glass art along the highway. Just outside the city, Calico Ghost Town offers a glimpse into California’s Old West history.
Victorville: Roadside Americana
Victorville offers a step back in time with the California Route 66 Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and memorabilia from the highway’s heyday. Visitors can see vintage gas pumps, road signs and even a recreation of a retro diner. The museum’s quirky photo ops include a Volkswagen Love Bug and a “road tripping” set. Take a stroll down historic D Street, where classic motels and neon signs evoke the spirit of Route 66. Don’t forget to stop by Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Cafe for a bite before hitting the road.
San Bernardino: Retro Vibes and Tepees
San Bernardino is home to some of Route 66’s quirkiest landmarks. Sleep in a modern tepee at the Wigwam Motel, one of three remaining tepee-style motels in the U.S. Explore the Original McDonald’s Site and Museum for a nostalgic look at fast-food memorabilia where admission is free or visit Mitla Cafe, one of the oldest Mexican restaurants on Route 66 that inspired Taco Bell’s founder. For train enthusiasts, the San Bernardino History & Railroad Museum is a must-visit for the city’s railroad past. Don’t miss the Cajon Pass that leads into the 110-mile scenic Rim of the World Byway for stunning mountain views.
Rancho Cucamonga: Wine and Roadside Charm
Rancho Cucamonga is a surprising Route 66 stop known for its wine heritage, with vineyards like the Joseph Filippi Winery offering tastings and tours and the Thomas Winery Plaza, one of the oldest wineries in the region. Stop by the Route 66 Trailhead for scenic views and hiking opportunities. Historic sites like the Cucamonga Service Station capture the spirit of the highway’s golden era.
Monrovia: Small-Town Americana
Monrovia embodies small-town charm with its historic Old Town area featuring shops, restaurants and retro architecture. The Monrovia Historical Museum offers a deep dive into the city’s past, while nearby Route 66 landmarks preserve its ties to the highway. The city’s street Huntington Drive served as an active portion of Route 66 before major highways were developed.
Arcadia: A Route 66 Garden Escape
Arcadia offers a serene escape with attractions like the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden. This lush haven is perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic. Nearby, historic Route 66 landmarks like the Santa Anita Racetrack and Googie-style Denny’s (formerly Van de Kamp) add to the city’s appeal. Arcadia’s blend of nature and nostalgia makes it a tranquil stop along the journey.
Claremont: A Quaint College Town
Known for its tree-lined streets and college-town charm, Claremont offers a relaxing stop along Route 66. Stroll through the Claremont Village for boutique shopping and local eateries. History buffs can explore the California Botanic Garden or the Claremont Packing House, a restored citrus-packing plant now filled with shops and restaurants. The city’s art scene is also vibrant, with the Claremont Lewis Museum of Art showcasing local talent.
Pasadena: A Slice of History on Colorado Boulevard
Pasadena is rich with Route 66 history, from the Colorado Street Bridge to the charming Gamble House, a masterpiece of American Craftsman architecture. Explore Colorado Boulevard, once a key Route 66 thoroughfare and soon to mark 150 years in 2026, is now home to the world-famous Rose Parade and vintage neon signs like those at the Saga Motor Hotel. History enthusiasts can dive into Route 66 roots at the Pasadena Museum of History or stop by the original Foothill Bancroft Marker, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Art enthusiasts will like the Norton Simon Museum, while sports fans can tour the Rose Bowl Stadium. Pasadena is a timeless treasure for travelers.
Los Angeles: A Blend of Culture and History
In Los Angeles, Route 66 weaves through iconic neighborhoods, offering a mix of entertainment and history. In 1940, the city’s freeway system was established with the Arroyo Seco Parkway and Route 66 running alongside it, later including the Hollywood Freeway and other pathways. Fast-forward, stop by Mel’s Drive-In for a dose of Americana and grab a burger while admiring its retro decor. Detour to museums like The Broad or MOCA for contemporary art, or head to Griffith Observatory for panoramic city views. Hollywood Boulevard offers its own star-studded charm, while dining at Philippe the Original offers a taste of the city’s historic French Dip sandwich.
Santa Monica: Where Route 66 Meets the Ocean
Santa Monica marks the historic end of Route 66, where coastal vibes meet road-trip nostalgia. Visit the Santa Monica Pier to see the iconic “End of the Trail” sign and enjoy rides like the West Coaster, the only oceanfront steel roller coaster on the West Coast. Explore the Route 66-themed Last Stop Shop for souvenirs and memorabilia. Snap a photo with the Route 66 mural at Mel’s Drive-In and enjoy classic diner fare in a Googie-style landmark. Don’t forget to stop by the Santa Monica Visitor Center for a complimentary Route 66 completion certificate.