How Long Will It Take You to Drive Route 66?
Route 66 is one of the most famous road trips in America. Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, this historic highway covers roughly 2,448 miles and passes through eight states filled with small towns, classic diners, desert landscapes, and iconic roadside attractions.
But one of the most common questions travelers ask is: How long does it actually take to drive Route 66?
The answer depends on how much of the experience you want to enjoy along the way.
The Quick Answer
If you drive Route 66 with very few stops, it can take:
- About 38 to 45 hours of driving time
- Roughly 5 to 7 days if you drive long hours each day
However, most travelers choose to turn Route 66 into a true road trip adventure, which usually takes:
- 10 to 14 days for a comfortable experience
- 3 weeks or more for a relaxed, sightseeing-focused journey
Where Does Route 66 Start and End?
Historic Route 66 begins in downtown Chicago and ends at the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica.
The route passes through:
- Illinois
- Missouri
- Kansas
- Oklahoma
- Texas
- New Mexico
- Arizona
- California
Each state offers a completely different experience, from bustling cities to open desert highways.
Driving Route 66 in 5 to 7 Days
A one-week Route 66 trip is possible if you are mainly focused on driving.
What to Expect
- Long driving days
- Limited sightseeing
- Quick overnight stops
- Fast-paced schedule
This option works best for travelers who:
- Have limited vacation time
- Want to experience the road itself
- Prefer covering large distances quickly
Average Daily Driving
You may need to drive:
- 350 to 500 miles per day
- 6 to 9 hours daily
While possible, many travelers feel rushed with this schedule.
Driving Route 66 in 10 to 14 Days
This is the most popular option.
A two-week road trip gives you enough time to:
- Visit famous attractions
- Explore small towns
- Enjoy local food
- Take photos
- Relax without feeling rushed
Recommended Stops
Popular stops include:
- St. Louis
- Oklahoma City
- Amarillo
- Albuquerque
- Flagstaff
- Grand Canyon
- Los Angeles
This timeline allows you to truly enjoy the spirit of Route 66.
Best Route 66 Attractions Along the Way
One reason Route 66 takes longer than expected is because there are so many famous roadside attractions.
Illinois
- Route 66 Begin Sign
- Classic diners
- Vintage gas stations
Missouri
- Gateway Arch in St. Louis
- Meramec Caverns
Texas
- Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo
- Historic motels
Arizona
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Wigwam Motel
- Historic towns like Winslow
California
- Mojave Desert
- Santa Monica Pier ending sign
Many travelers end up spending extra time because they stop frequently for photos, food, and sightseeing.
Can You Still Drive the Original Route 66?
Yes — but not every section remains intact.
Route 66 was officially removed from the U.S. Highway System in 1985, but many parts are still drivable today as “Historic Route 66.”
Some sections have:
- Been replaced by interstate highways
- Changed names
- Become local roads
Modern GPS apps can help guide travelers along surviving portions of the original highway.
Best Time of Year to Drive Route 66
The best months are usually:
- April
- May
- September
- October
These seasons offer:
- Milder temperatures
- Less extreme desert heat
- Comfortable driving conditions
Summer can be very hot in states like Arizona and California, while winter may bring snow in parts of the Midwest.
How Much Does a Route 66 Trip Cost?
Your budget depends on:
- Fuel prices
- Hotels
- Food
- Attractions
- Vehicle type
Typical Costs for Two Weeks
- Gas: $400–$900
- Hotels: $800–$2,000
- Food: $300–$800
- Attractions & extras: $100–$500
Budget travelers can save money with camping or budget motels, while others may choose classic Route 66 hotels and restaurants for the full experience.
Tips for Driving Route 66
Plan Your Stops
Some small towns and attractions have limited hours.
Don’t Rush
The best memories often come from unexpected roadside stops.
Check Road Conditions
Some original sections are older roads with rough pavement.
Bring Offline Maps
Cell service can be limited in remote desert areas.
Stay Flexible
Part of Route 66’s charm is discovering hidden gems along the way.
Is Route 66 Worth Driving?
Absolutely.
Driving Route 66 is less about reaching the destination and more about enjoying the journey. It is a road trip filled with:
- American history
- Nostalgic roadside attractions
- Unique small towns
- Scenic landscapes
- Classic diners and motels
Whether you complete it in a week or spend a month exploring, Route 66 remains one of the greatest road trips in the world.
Final Thoughts
So, how long will it take you to drive Route 66?
- 5–7 days for a fast-paced trip
- 10–14 days for the ideal experience
- 3 weeks or more for a relaxed adventure
No matter how long you take, Route 66 offers a memorable journey through the heart of America. From Chicago to Santa Monica, every mile tells a story.
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