In 2026, Route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary. Created in 1926 to link Chicago with Santa Monica, the "Mother Road" crosses eight states over nearly 4,000 km. Officially decommissioned in 1985, it remains the most legendary road in the United States, and a dream for every motorcyclist.
The itinerary, from Chicago to the Pacific
From Chicago, the road runs through Illinois and Missouri, crosses a short stretch of Kansas, then Oklahoma and Texas, home of the famous Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo. Next comes New Mexico, with Santa Fe and its pueblos, then Arizona and its best-preserved sections around Seligman and Kingman, and finally California and the Mojave Desert all the way to Santa Monica Pier.
Many travellers combine Route 66 with the great western parks: the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley and Las Vegas are only a few hours from the historic road.
How much time do you need?
Allow two to three weeks to enjoy Route 66 without rushing. Daily legs of 250 to 400 km leave time to stop at diners, neon-lit motels and small towns frozen in the 1950s, which are the real charm of the trip.
Our tips for riding it
- Go in spring or autumn: summer can be very hot in the Mojave Desert and Arizona.
- Ride early in the morning to enjoy the light and avoid the hottest hours.
- Follow the "Historic Route 66" signs: much of the original alignment still exists, sometimes alongside the interstate.
- Book your accommodation early in 2026: the centenary year brings crowds to the road.
Route 66 with Caribou Travel
We offer Route 66 by motorcycle, independently, and an exclusive escorted itinerary to celebrate the centenary, from Chicago to Los Angeles. Every tour adapts to your pace: contact our specialists to build your trip.
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