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Route 66: The Mother Road Part I
Taking on the "Mother Road" is the ultimate American rite of passage. Since we're sticking to a comfortable pace over 5 days, we’re going to focus on the historic eastern half—stretching from the neon signs of Chicago through the rolling hills of Missouri and into the rugged heart of Oklahoma. This isn't just a drive; it's a time capsule of diners, drive-ins, and kitschy roadside Americana.
5days
20stops
Day 1: Chicago Beginnings to Central Illinois
4 stops
Historic Route 66 Begin Sign
09:00
Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket
11:30
Gemini Giant
14:30
Pontiac
16:30
Day 2: Lincoln History & Giant Statues
4 stops
Cozy Dog Drive In
09:00
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
11:00
Pink Elephant Antique Mall
14:00
Chain of Rocks Bridge
16:30
Day 3: The Gateway & Missouri Ozarks
4 stops
Gateway Arch
09:00
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
12:00
Meramec Caverns
14:30
Cuba
17:00
Day 4: Viaducts & Vintage Gas Stations
4 stops
Gary's Gay Parita
10:00
Cars on the Route
13:00
Blue Whale of Catoosa
15:30
Tulsa
17:30
Day 5: The Heart of Oklahoma
4 stops
Rock Cafe
09:00
POPS 66 Soda Ranch
12:00
Oklahoma City National Memorial
14:00
Lucille's Service Station
16:30
Heads Up
- 1. Download the "Route 66 Navigation" app or buy a physical EZ-66 Guide. The historic road often diverges from the modern I-55 and I-44, and it's easy to accidentally end up on the boring interstate!
- 2. Day 1: 14h 4m driving — plan rest stops
- 3. Day 4: 5h 4m driving — plan rest stops















