Route 66 California Map
If you’re planning a trip to California and looking for an adventure, Route 66 is one of the best routes to take. The iconic highway spans over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, with California being one of the most scenic parts of the journey. This travel guide will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports along the Route 66 California map.
Top Attractions
The top attractions along Route 66 in California include the Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest National Park, Mojave Desert, Joshua Tree National Park, and Santa Monica Pier. These attractions offer breathtaking views, unique experiences, and plenty of photo opportunities.
Hidden Gems
Some of the hidden gems along Route 66 in California include the Amboy Crater, a volcanic cinder cone that’s perfect for hiking, and the Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, a quirky art installation made from colorful bottles. Other hidden gems include the historic Route 66 Motel in Barstow and the Wigwam Motel in Rialto.
Food Scene
The food scene along Route 66 in California is diverse and delicious. Some of the must-try foods include In-N-Out Burger, a California staple, and pie from the famous Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner in Yermo. You can also find authentic Mexican food in Barstow and traditional American fare at the Summit Inn in Oak Hills.
Budget-Friendly Tips
To save money while traveling along Route 66 in California, consider camping instead of staying in hotels. There are plenty of campsites along the way, including the Mojave National Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park. You can also save money by packing your own food and snacks and taking advantage of free activities, such as hiking and exploring the historic sites.
Outdoor Adventures
Route 66 in California offers plenty of outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, and rock climbing. You can hike the Mojave Lava Tube in the Mojave National Preserve, bike through Joshua Tree National Park, or rock climb in the Granite Mountains near Barstow.
Historical Landmarks
The historical landmarks along Route 66 in California include the Wigwam Motel, the Route 66 Motel, and the historic Harvey House in Barstow. You can also visit the Calico Ghost Town, a former mining town that’s now a living history museum.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family-friendly activities along Route 66 in California, including visiting the Santa Monica Pier, exploring the Mojave Desert, and hiking in Joshua Tree National Park. You can also visit the Route 66 Museum in Victorville or take a vintage train ride on the Fillmore and Western Railway.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences along Route 66 in California, consider visiting the Integratron in Landers, a unique sound bath experience, or exploring the Kelso Depot Visitor Center in the Mojave National Preserve. You can also visit the historic Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs or take a self-guided tour of the Route 66 murals in Barstow.
Natural Wonders
The natural wonders along Route 66 in California include the Grand Canyon, Mojave Desert, and Joshua Tree National Park. You can also explore the Kelso Dunes, a unique sand dune system in the Mojave National Preserve, or visit the Amboy Crater, a volcanic cinder cone.
Vibrant Nightlife
The vibrant nightlife along Route 66 in California includes the bars and clubs in Santa Monica, as well as the local bars in Barstow and Victorville. You can also catch a movie at the historic Route 66 Drive-In in Barstow or visit the Pappy and Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace in Yucca Valley for live music.
Local Markets
The local markets along Route 66 in California include the Barstow Station, a popular shopping and dining destination, and the Old Town Victorville Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce and handmade crafts. You can also visit the Joshua Tree Farmers Market or the High Desert Farmers Market in Yucca Valley.
Beaches and Mountains
Route 66 in California offers both beaches and mountains, with the Santa Monica Mountains and the San Gabriel Mountains being popular destinations. You can also visit the Big Bear Lake area for hiking and skiing or explore the Angeles National Forest.
Cultural Immersion
The cultural immersion experiences along Route 66 in California include visiting the historic La Plaza Park in Barstow, which celebrates the Mexican-American culture, and exploring the Native American history and culture in the Mojave National Preserve. You can also visit the Route 66 Museum in Victorville or take a guided tour of the historic Harvey House in Barstow.
Art and Music Scene
The art and music scene along Route 66 in California is diverse and vibrant. You can visit the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum in Joshua Tree, which features sculptures made from found objects, or explore the galleries and studios in the High Desert. You can also catch a show at the historic Fox Theater in Barstow or attend a music festival in Yucca Valley.
Walking Tours
The walking tours along Route 66 in California include the Barstow Historic Route 66 Walk, which takes you through the historic downtown area, and the Joshua Tree Art Walk, which showcases local artists and galleries. You can also explore the murals and public art installations in Victorville or take a self-guided tour of the historic sites along Route 66.
Architectural Marvels
The architectural marvels along Route 66 in California include the Wigwam Motel, which features teepee-shaped rooms, and the historic Harvey House in Barstow, which showcases the Spanish Revival style. You can also visit the historic Route 66 Motel in Barstow or explore the mid-century modern architecture in Palm Springs.
Historical Sites
The historical sites along Route 66 in California include the Calico Ghost Town, the Route 66 Museum in Victorville, and the historic Harvey House in Barstow. You can also explore the history of the Mojave Desert by visiting the Kelso Depot Visitor Center or the Mojave National Preserve.
Biking Routes
The biking routes along Route 66 in California include the historic Route 66 in San Bernardino County, which offers scenic views and historic landmarks, and the Santa Ana River Trail, which runs along the Santa Ana River and offers plenty of outdoor activities. You can also bike through Joshua Tree National Park or explore the mountain biking trails in Big Bear Lake.
Wellness Retreats
The wellness retreats along Route 66 in California include the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, which offers workshops and retreats focused on personal growth and healing, and the Integratron in Landers, which offers sound baths and healing sessions. You can also visit the hot springs in the Mojave National Preserve or take a yoga class in Joshua Tree.
Adventure Sports
The adventure sports along Route 66 in California include rock climbing in the Granite Mountains near Barstow, hiking the Mojave Lava Tube, and skiing in the Big Bear Lake area. You can also go horseback riding in Joshua Tree National Park or take a hot air balloon ride over the desert.
Route 66 in California offers something for everyone, from stunning natural wonders to unique cultural experiences. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your own adventure on the iconic highway.