Oklahoma to Route 66 End of the Trail in California: A 9-Day Road Trip

There's no time like the present to head west with AAA along Route 66. As part of the road-tripping experience, you can create a curated road trip from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Santa Monica, California, or join AAA for a celebration called the AAA Road Fest. Although you can rent a car, consider traveling in style in a full-size motor coach, taking in the sights, sounds and experiences of one of the most popular, historic and iconic roadways in the country — Route 66. There’s the American landscape to enjoy, from the modern frontier of Oklahoma City to the Santa Monica Beach and Pier in California.

So pack your bags, and follow along on a trip that tells the story of American freedom, mobility and exploration. If interested in a group tour, phone a local AAA Travel Agent for reservations and other expert advice. If you can't travel now, add this itinerary and the 8-day Chicago to Oklahoma road trip to your bucket list. Route 66 has welcomed road-trippers for 100 years and remains one of the best American road trip routes for all ages.

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Oklahoma City offers a mix of history and modern attractions that will appeal to everyone in your party. Often called the crossroads of America, the destination sits at the heart of Route 66, making it an ideal starting point to discover the highway’s historic charm, unique roadside stops and spirit of adventure. Independent travelers can explore the lively Bricktown neighborhood, filled with restaurants, shops and waterfront views perfect for relaxing; meanwhile, AAA Route 66 Road Fest participants can meet their tour director in the city and then enjoy a welcome meal with the tour group.

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Enjoy a journey along historic Route 66 on your way to Chandler for a tour of the Route 66 Interpretive Center. Then, continue to Pops, an iconic stop along the old highway, for lunch on your own. Return to Oklahoma City, with time to explore local attractions, such as the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, before returning to your hotel.

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Is there anything fun to do in Oklahoma City? The Bricktown River Walk Park and Centennial Land Run Monument are both within walking distance of the Hilton Garden Inn Oklahoma City-Bricktown. Alternatively, hop on the hotel's shuttle to discover other attractions, including live music. However, if you're looking for fun things to do for a weekend getaway, consider other road trips in the South Central Region or Oklahoma's Music Trail. Whether you're venturing out for dining, attractions or entertainment, there's no shortage of excitement nearby.

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Depart Oklahoma City and continue your Route 66 road trip. Visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum and the National Route 66 Museum before you depart Elk City and continue west to Amarillo, Texas. There are plenty of sights to see in the Route 66 Historic District. If you have time, Palo Duro Canyon State Park, a stunning natural landmark in the Texas Panhandle, is just a short drive away and easily reached by car, motorhome or fifth wheel. Located 25 miles from Amarillo and 14 miles from Canyon, the destination impresses with vivid colors and dramatic landscapes. For a true Texas experience, enjoy a barbecue dinner and seasonal performances like the Texas Outdoor Musical (or Shakespeare in the Canyon) at the nearby Pioneer Amphitheatre, held rain or shine, for a memorable night under the stars.

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Our journey continues west on the Mother Road. One must-see stop is the Cadillac Ranch — a roadside attraction invented and built by a group of artists from San Francisco. Then, we will cross the border into “The Land of Enchantment” — New Mexico — and enjoy the Route 66 sights, such as the Blue Swallow Motel, Tee Pee Curios, La Cita Mexican Restaurant and a shining monument to the old road. Plan a meal at Joseph’s Bar & Grill in Santa Rosa, New Mexico. The remainder of the day is free to explore historic Old Town Albuquerque on your own.

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This morning, depart Albuquerque and make your way to Acoma Sky City for touring. Continue west, with a stop in Gallup at the El Rancho Hotel, a delightful old hotel, lovingly preserved in its 1930s glory. After lunch, enjoy a fun visit to Richardson’s Cash Pawn and Trading Post. Continue westward to enter Arizona and arrive at Petrified Forest National Park for sightseeing. Next, drive through Winslow, Arizona. After a full day on Historic Route 66, arrive in Flagstaff for dinner at a local restaurant.

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A short drive west of Flagstaff lies the small town of Seligman, Arizona, now known as “The Birthplace of Historic Route 66” — a must-see for Route 66 fans. From here, you will drive the longest remaining stretch of the original road through towns like Peach Springs and Hackberry on your way to Kingman, with a stop at Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner for lunch on your own. After a good meal, make your way to the old mining ghost town of Oatman. If a Colorado River cruise isn't in your itinerary already, you can book the self-drive 1-day Grand Canyon Whitewater Rafting Tour. There's also a Desert Wine, Distillery, Bistro or Brewery, Tasting Route 66 Tour that may add to the fun.

Courtesy of Santa Monica Convention and Visitors Bureau

Depart Laughlin and follow the Old Road into California and across the Mohave Desert, with a few photo stops on your way to Barstow. This afternoon, arrive in San Bernardino, California, to visit the Original McDonald’s Museum and check out the wonderfully preserved Wigwam Motel. Continue on Route 66 through Los Angeles to Santa Monica. If you’re a tour participant, toast this wonderful journey along America’s Mother Road during a farewell dinner with your group on the Santa Monica Pier.

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Before heading home, take time to explore the exciting city of Los Angeles, filled with activities for every interest. Indulge at restaurants offering breathtaking views, visit world-class attractions or simply soak in the energy of this dynamic city. When it's time to say goodbye, transfer to Los Angeles International Airport, taking with you memories of an iconic cross-country journey.