The Best Route 66 Road Trip: Ultimate Guidebook for the Best Route 66 Road Trip

There’s something magical about hitting the open road on Route 66. The wind in your hair, classic diners on the horizon, and the promise of adventure around every bend. I’ve traveled this iconic highway multiple times, and I can tell you—having the right guidebook makes all the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable journey.

Join me as we explore the Best Route 66 Road Trip, sharing tips and insights for the ultimate journey.

Whether you’re planning your first Route 66 adventure or returning to discover hidden gems you missed before, choosing the perfect guidebook is crucial. It’s not just about directions; it’s about stories, secret spots, and the soul of America’s most famous highway.

The Best Route 66 Road Trip offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Why the Best Route 66 Road Trip is a Must-Do

Discover the enchanting stops along the Best Route 66 Road Trip.

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Check out these essentials for the best Route 66 road trip.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the best Route 66 road trip guidebook that matches your travel style. Buckle up—we’re about to take you on a journey through the pages of the best Route 66 companions out there!

What Makes a Great Route 66 Guidebook?

The Best Route 66 Road Trip Planning Tips

Before diving into specific recommendations, let’s talk about what separates an ordinary guidebook from one that will truly enhance your Mother Road experience.

A top-notch Route 66 travel guide should offer:

Detailed maps that help you navigate the sometimes confusing original alignments
Historical context that brings the route to life
Practical information about accommodations, gas stations, and restaurants
Hidden gems not found in generic travel guides
Day-by-day itinerary suggestions for different trip lengths
Visual appeal with photos that inspire your journey

I’ve found that the best guidebooks combine practical advice with storytelling, giving you both the information you need and the inspiration to make your trip special.

Top 5 Route 66 Road Trip Guidebooks

Top 5 Must-Have Guidebooks for the Best Route 66 Road Trip

1. EZ66 Guide for Travelers by Jerry McClanahan

Embark on the best Route 66 road trip with the EZ66 Guide for Travelers, a quintessential resource for navigation.

Experience the best Route 66 road trip with insider tips from Jerry McClanahan’s guide.

If there’s one Route 66 guidebook that has achieved legendary status among road trippers, it’s the EZ66 Guide. Jerry McClanahan, a Route 66 historian and artist, has created what many consider the bible of Route 66 travel.

What makes it special:

Turn-by-turn directions that help you stay on the historic alignments
Hand-drawn maps that are surprisingly easy to follow
Spiral binding that lays flat on your dashboard
Regular updates to keep information current
Insider tips from someone who has devoted his life to the Mother Road

I remember feeling completely lost in western Oklahoma until I pulled out my trusty EZ66 Guide. The clear directions pointed me to a stretch of original concrete pavement I would have otherwise missed completely.

Perfect for: Detail-oriented travelers who want to experience as much of the authentic Route 66 as possible.

2. Route 66: The Mother Road by Michael Wallis

This isn’t just a guidebook—it’s a cultural history of Route 66 that will transform how you see every mile of your journey. Michael Wallis, whose voice you might recognize as the Sheriff in Pixar’s “Cars,” brings the highway to life through stories and historical insights.

What makes it special:

Rich storytelling that connects you to the highway’s heritage
Profiles of iconic Route 66 personalities and places
Beautiful photography that captures the route’s essence
Historical context that helps you appreciate what you’re seeing
Regular updates to keep pace with changes along the route

For an immersive journey, consider how Michael Wallis’s book elevates the best Route 66 road trip.

While driving through Tucumcari, New Mexico, I recalled Wallis’s descriptions of the neon-lit town in its heyday, which made seeing those same (now restored) neon signs even more meaningful.

Perfect for: History buffs and those who want to understand the cultural significance of Route 66.

3. Route 66 Adventure Handbook by Drew Knowles

For travelers who want to venture beyond the standard Route 66 experience, Drew Knowles’ Adventure Handbook delivers exactly what the title promises—adventure!

What makes it special:

Focus on offbeat attractions and quirky roadside stops
Information about worthy detours and side trips
Details about ghost towns and abandoned places
Suggestions for photography spots with stunning views
Tips for traveling with specific interests (classic cars, architecture, etc.)

This book led me to the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, which became one of my favorite photo stops on the entire route.

Perfect for: Adventurous souls who want to explore beyond the main attractions.

4. Route 66 Road Trip by Moon Travel Guides

Fuel your adventure on the best Route 66 road trip with Drew Knowles’ insights on offbeat locations.

Moon’s Route 66 guide takes a modern approach to the historic highway, with practical information for today’s travelers while still honoring the route’s heritage.

What makes it special:

Clean, contemporary layout with excellent maps
Budget-friendly accommodation and dining recommendations
Flexible itineraries for different trip lengths (weekend getaways to full-route adventures)
Practical driving tips and car rental advice
Digital resources and app recommendations

The suggested 14-day itinerary in this guide helped me pace my trip perfectly, ensuring I had enough time to both drive and explore.

Perfect for: First-time Route 66 travelers who want a straightforward, practical guide.

5. Route 66 Dining & Lodging Guide by the National Historic Route 66 Federation

This specialized guide focuses exclusively on where to eat and sleep along Route 66, with an emphasis on historic and authentic establishments.

What makes it special:

Comprehensive listings of classic motels, historic hotels, and local diners
Information about which places have preserved their vintage charm
Price ranges to help with budgeting
Special sections highlighting classic neon signs
Updates on newly restored properties

Thanks to this guide, I discovered the historic El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico, where I slept in the same room once used by John Wayne during western film shoots.

Explore the modern side of the best Route 66 road trip with Moon’s contemporary guide.

Perfect for: Travelers who prioritize authentic dining and lodging experiences on their Route 66 journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Route 66 Guidebooks

What is the best Route 66 guidebook for first-time travelers?

For first-timers, I highly recommend starting with the EZ66 Guide for Travelers. Its clear directions and focus on keeping you on the historic alignments will ensure you don’t miss the authentic Route 66 experience. Pair it with the Moon Route 66 Road Trip guide for additional practical information about accommodations and dining.

How long does it take to drive the entire Route 66?

While you could technically drive the 2,448 miles of Route 66 in about 8 days of straight driving, you’d miss the whole point of the journey! Most guidebooks recommend at least 2 weeks to properly experience the route. I spent 3 weeks on my first trip and still wished I had more time.

Different guidebooks offer varied itineraries:

1-2 weeks: Focus on highlights only
2-3 weeks: Comfortable pace with time to explore major attractions
3+ weeks: Leisurely journey with side trips and in-depth exploration

What are the must-see attractions along Route 66?

Every guidebook will highlight these essential stops, though each with their own perspective:

Experience the cultural richness of the best Route 66 road trip in your travels.

Chicago’s Begin Route 66 sign
Gateway Arch in St. Louis
Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo
Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma
Petrified Forest National Park
Wigwam Motels in Holbrook, AZ and San Bernardino, CA
Santa Monica Pier at the route’s end

The Adventure Handbook tends to include more quirky attractions, while historical guides like Wallis’s emphasize places with cultural significance.

Can I customize my Route 66 road trip itinerary?

Absolutely! The best guidebooks provide framework itineraries that you can adapt to your interests. The Moon guide offers several itinerary options, while the EZ66 Guide breaks the route into manageable sections that you can mix and match.

I’ve found it helpful to use one guidebook for the basic route and another for specialized interests (like historic architecture or classic diners).

What is the best time of year to travel Route 66?

Most guidebooks suggest spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for ideal weather conditions. Summer brings higher temperatures, especially in the desert sections of Arizona and California, while winter can bring snow and ice in the Midwest portions.

Your guidebook should include seasonal considerations for different sections of the route. The Moon guide is particularly good at highlighting seasonal events and festivals worth planning around.

Are there detailed maps included in Route 66 guidebooks?

Map quality varies significantly between guidebooks. The EZ66 Guide features hand-drawn maps that many travelers swear by. The Moon guide includes more conventional maps with clear markings. Some older guidebooks may have outdated maps, so check the publication date.

Planning Your Best Route 66 Road Trip Adventure

Maximize your experience on the best Route 66 road trip by using these travel tips.

I recommend supplementing any guidebook with a dedicated Route 66 map, GPS, or mapping app specifically designed for the historic route.

Learn about the timeline for the best Route 66 road trip to make the most of your journey.

How do I find authentic local experiences on Route 66?

The best guidebooks go beyond tourist traps to highlight authentic experiences. Look for:

Wallis’s Mother Road for historical context
The Adventure Handbook for off-the-beaten-path suggestions
The Dining & Lodging Guide for authentic local eateries

I’ve found that the personal anecdotes in these guides often lead to the most memorable experiences. One story in the Adventure Handbook led me to a tiny museum in Gallup where I spent two hours chatting with the owner about Route 66 history.

What are the best places to eat along Route 66?

The Route 66 Dining & Lodging Guide specializes in this information, but most good guidebooks include restaurant recommendations. Look for guides that highlight:

When planning your best Route 66 road trip, use these tips for optimal stops.

Historic diners with original fixtures
Local specialties unique to each region
Family-owned establishments vs. chains
Budget-friendly options alongside splurge-worthy experiences

The Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman, Arizona, recommended in several guidebooks, provided not just great food but also a memorable encounter with the owner’s famous humor.

Can I rent a convertible or classic car for the Route 66 trip?

Several guidebooks address this popular question. The Moon guide includes practical information about specialty car rentals, while others might mention classic car rental agencies in major cities along the route.

Be aware that specialty rentals usually come with mileage restrictions and higher deposits. My Route 66 dream of driving a convertible Mustang came true thanks to rental information from the Moon guide, though it did require advance planning.

Are there budget-friendly options for traveling Route 66?

Yes! Every good Route 66 guidebook includes options for different budgets. The Dining & Lodging Guide clearly marks budget-friendly motels and eateries, while the Moon guide offers money-saving tips throughout.

Some budget-conscious strategies recommended in these guides include:

For your best Route 66 road trip, consider how to customize your itinerary.

Traveling in shoulder seasons (early spring or late fall)
Mixing historic motels with occasional chain hotels
Looking for motels with kitchenettes for self-catering options
Taking advantage of free attractions and roadside photo ops

Digital vs. Print Route 66 Guidebooks

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While traditional print guidebooks remain the standard for Route 66 travel, digital options are increasingly available.

Experience the best Route 66 road trip and the excitement of local culture.

Benefits of Print Guidebooks:

Work without cell service (which can be spotty in rural areas)
Easy to make notes and highlight
Tangible souvenir of your journey
Often include fold-out maps
No battery concerns

Benefits of Digital Guidebooks:

Searchable content
Regular updates
Interactive maps that can link to GPS
Lighter to carry
Can include audio or video content

I personally use a hybrid approach—a print copy of the EZ66 Guide for navigation and a digital version of a more comprehensive guide like Wallis’s for background reading in the evenings.

Route 66 Apps and Supplementary Resources

While a good guidebook forms the foundation of your Route 66 planning, consider these supplementary resources:

Route 66 Navigation App – Turns your smartphone into a specialized Route 66 GPS
Roadside America App – Highlights quirky attractions near your location
Historic Route 66 Facebook Groups – Connect with experienced travelers for advice
Route 66 Passport – Get stamps at participating attractions along the way
State Tourism Websites – For additional local information as you cross state lines

These digital tools complement your guidebook rather than replace it. I’ve found the combination of a reliable guidebook and these supplementary resources creates the perfect Route 66 travel toolkit.

Top 20 Must-Visit Locations Along Route 66

While choosing your guidebook, make sure it covers these essential stops that showcase the diversity and wonder of Route 66:

Chicago, Illinois – Begin your journey at the official starting point, taking time to explore the vibrant city life and iconic architecture before hitting the road.
Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri – This impressive 630-foot monument symbolizes America’s westward expansion and offers spectacular views from its observation deck.
Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma – This quirky roadside attraction was built as a surprise anniversary gift and has become one of Route 66’s most beloved photo stops.
Cadillac Ranch, Texas – Express your creativity at this unique art installation featuring ten Cadillacs half-buried in the ground, where visitors are encouraged to leave their mark with spray paint.
Oatman, Arizona – Step back in time in this authentic mining town where wild burros roam freely through streets lined with historic buildings.
Santa Monica Pier, California – Celebrate completing your journey at the official end of Route 66, enjoying the amusement rides and Pacific Ocean views.
Galena, Kansas – Explore this well-preserved town featuring the Kan-O-Tex gas station that inspired the character Tow Mater in the movie “Cars.”
Williams, Arizona – Use this charming town as your gateway to the Grand Canyon, taking the historic Grand Canyon Railway for a memorable side trip.
Albuquerque, New Mexico – Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this city where Route 66 is celebrated with preserved neon signs and historic districts.
Tucumcari, New Mexico – Experience the heyday of Route 66 through this town’s remarkably preserved neon signs and classic motor courts.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona – Take a worthwhile detour to witness one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.
Kingman, Arizona – Dive into Route 66 history at the excellent museums and classic diners in this Arizona hub.
Seligman, Arizona – Thank Angel Delgadillo, the town barber who helped spark the Route 66 revival movement, by visiting his original barbershop and gift store.
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona – Marvel at ancient fossilized trees and the striking landscapes of the Painted Desert within this national park.
Clinton, Oklahoma – Deepen your Route 66 knowledge at the outstanding Oklahoma Route 66 Museum with its decade-by-decade exhibits.
Tulsa, Oklahoma – Explore this city’s Route 66 heritage while enjoying its vibrant arts scene and the exceptional Gathering Place park.
Stroud, Oklahoma – Stop at the historic Rock Cafe, built in 1939 and featuring stones collected during the highway’s original construction.
Santa Fe, New Mexico – Take the pre-1937 alignment to visit this historic city with stunning adobe architecture and rich cultural sites.
Painted Desert, Arizona – Witness the breathtaking colors of this natural landscape that shifts hues throughout the day as the sun moves across the sky.
El Rancho Hotel, Gallup, New Mexico – Stay where the stars stayed in this historic hotel that hosted Hollywood royalty during the golden age of Western films.

A quality guidebook should provide context and practical information for each of these stops, with the best guides offering insights beyond what you’ll find in general travel resources.

Choosing the Right Guidebook for Your Travel Style

Not all Route 66 travelers are alike, so the “best” guidebook depends on your personal travel style:

For the History Buff

Wallis’s Route 66: The Mother Road offers the most in-depth historical context and cultural significance.

For the Practical Planner

The EZ66 Guide provides the clearest directions and logistical information.

For the Foodie

The Route 66 Dining & Lodging Guide highlights the best authentic eating experiences.

For the Photographer

The Adventure Handbook points out the most photogenic spots and unusual angles.

For the Family Trip

Moon’s Route 66 Road Trip guide includes family-friendly options and activities for kids.

I recommend choosing a primary guidebook that matches your main interest and supplementing with one that covers other aspects of your journey.

Creating Your Personal Route 66 Travel Planning Checklist

Once you’ve selected your guidebook, use it to create a personalized Route 66 travel planning checklist:

Determine your available time frame
Decide whether to travel eastbound or westbound
Identify must-see attractions from your guidebook
Book accommodations for key stops (especially in peak season)
Note locations of gas stations in remote stretches
Plan for detours to nearby attractions
Create a playlist of Route 66-themed music
Download offline maps for areas with poor cell service
Make reservations for any specialty car rentals
Join online Route 66 communities for last-minute advice

Good guidebooks will help with many of these steps, particularly identifying the must-see attractions that align with your interests.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Route 66 Companion Awaits

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The perfect Route 66 guidebook isn’t just a collection of maps and information—it’s your trusted companion on an epic American adventure. It should inform you, inspire you, and occasionally surprise you with hidden gems you might have otherwise missed.

Whether you choose the meticulous directions of the EZ66 Guide, the rich storytelling of Wallis’s Mother Road, or the practical approach of the Moon guide, the right guidebook will enhance every mile of your journey.

I still keep my dog-eared, note-filled Route 66 guidebooks on my bookshelf, not just as references for future trips but as souvenirs that capture memories of diners, motels, and roadside wonders. They’ve become as much a part of my Route 66 experience as the road itself.

Ready to hit the Mother Road? Pick up one of these guidebooks, start planning, and prepare for the road trip of a lifetime. The open road is calling, and with the right guide in hand, you’re ready to answer.

Have you traveled Route 66 before? Which guidebook did you use? Share your experiences in the comments below!

The best Route 66 road trip awaits those who are prepared with the right resources.

Embrace the thrill of the best Route 66 road trip and create lasting memories.