Highlights of Route 66 Self-Drive Holiday

Day 1 UK to Oklahoma City

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international flight to Oklahoma City. On arrival you will collect your hire car from the airport and drive to your centrally located hotel. Oklahoma City is Wild West country and it’s certainly a fun place for you to start your Route 66 road trip. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the cultural activities that are influenced by the town’s Native American history and cowboy heritage. You might choose to visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum or stop by one of the local galleries showcasing traditional Western art. (N)

Accommodation in Oklahoma City: Best Western Plus Broadway Inn & Suites (or similar)

Day 2 Oklahoma City to Amarillo – 260 miles

Your road trip gets into full swing today. Jump in to your hire car and drive past small towns and quirky road signs dotted along the dusty roads that lead into the ‘Lone Star State’ and on to Amarillo. You might choose to make a detour to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second largest canyon in the country, located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle. It’s a beautiful park where you can enjoy hiking, biking and following nature trails. You’ll spend the night at the Big Texan Motel, which is situated right next to the iconic Big Texan Steak ranch that offers a free 72oz steak, if you can finish the whole meal in under an hour. (N)

Accommodation in Amarillo: Big Texan Motel (or similar)

Day 3 Amarillo to Albuquerque – 287 miles

Hop back in your car today and head to the artistic ‘Cadillac Ranch’, an iconic Route 66 stopping point that’s en route to Albuquerque. Enjoy stepping out of your car and breathing in the high desert air when you arrive at Albuquerque. Spend today exploring the Route 66 attractions, including the self-guided Route 66 Tour that starts in Nob Hill and takes you through to the Old Town, passing by De Anza Motor Lodge and the Kimo Theatre. You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about Albuquerque’s rich culture and heritage by visiting the town’s museums and living traditions shows. Take some time to enjoy a spot of alfresco dining along the Old Town’s cobbled streets as well this evening. (N)

Accommodation in Albuquerque: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Albuquerque (or similar)

Day 4 Albuquerque to Gallup – 140 miles

Today you will continue your journey through the Spanish-influenced towns of New Mexico until you reach Gallup. Gallup is a relatively quiet town that’s home to one of the best and brightest strips showcasing neon Route 66 signs, huge trading posts and the delightfully preserved El Rancho hotel where you will spend the night. (N)

Accommodation in Gallup: El Rancho Hotel (or similar)

Day 5 Gallup to Holbrook – 97 miles

You’ll notice a dramatic change in scenery as you cross the border into Arizona and drive through red desert plains to Holbrook. Just past the border you’ll come across the Petrified Forest National Park which offers spectacular views across vast areas of petrified trees. When you arrive into Holbrook, check into your Wigwam accommodation and immerse yourself into the Wild West culture by taking a tour of a working ranch or attending a rodeo this evening. (N)

Accommodation in Holbrook: Wigwam Motel Holbrook (or similar)

Day 6 Holbrook to Grand Canyon – 180 miles

Although the Grand Canyon isn’t a typical stop on Route 66, we think the detour is worth it. En route to the Grand Canyon you can visit the phenomenal 550 feet deep Meteor Crater that hit the earth approximately 50,000 years ago. When you arrive at the Grand Canyon, enjoy spending time marvelling at the impressive views across the Canyon, hiking on the well-trodden routes or booking a guided tour if you want to find out more information from a knowledgeable guide. (N)

Accommodation in Grand Canyon: Best Western Premier Squire Inn Grand Canyon (or similar)

Day 7 Grand Canyon to Las Vegas – 280 miles

Today you will drive to another location on your itinerary that isn’t on the typical route, but a popular addition that’s sure to keep you on your toes! When you arrive, swing by the Airport to drop off your hire car, you won't need a car whilst you're here. Your hotel is conveniently located on the bold and bright Las Vegas strip, ensuring you are in the centre of the action at all times. Champagne popping and cameras snapping; waltz in and out of the weird and wonderful hotels, lavish restaurants, casinos, glamorous shows and thrilling rides dotted all over this glitzy fantasyland. (N)

Accommodation in Las Vegas: Luxor (or similar)

Day 8 Las Vegas

Today is again free for you to continue exploring the city that never sleeps, Viva Las Vegas! (N)

Accommodation in Las Vegas: Luxor (or similar)

Day 9 Las Vegas to Los Angeles – 270 miles

Before leaving the bright lights of Vegas behind you, you’ll just need to collect your new hire car from Las Vegas International Airport for your final drive across the Mojave Desert to Los Angeles. Los Angeles is the home of television and movie productions, a place where the sun always shines and everyone has a great time. Spend today wandering along the Hollywood Boulevard admiring the walk of fame and viewing the iconic Hollywood sign atop the Griffith Observatory tower. (N)

Accommodation in Los Angeles: Dunes Inn Sunset (or similar)

Day 10 Los Angeles

Soak up the lush Californian sun on lively Venice beach or explore the surrounding areas of this vibrant city. You might choose to venture out to the American Riviera; the sophisticated Santa Barbara or visit the Santa Monica pier, the official ending point of Route 66. (N)

Accommodation in Los Angeles: Dunes Inn Sunset (or similar)

Day 11 Los Angeles to the UK

Enjoy spending today squeezing in some last minute sightseeing at leisure. Later on you will drive to Los Angeles International Airport where you will drop off your hire car and board your international flight back to the UK. (N)

Day 12 Arrive UK

Today you will arrive back into the UK, where you will continue your journey home. (N)

Self-Drive: Highlights of Route 66

12 days from £1735 per person

Itinerary Highlights

Itinerary: Self-Drive: Highlights of Route 66

What To Do Next?

What's included

What's not included

Guide to Price

What Is A Tailor-Made Holiday?

View On The Map

USA - Route 66 Holiday Review

Related Blog Posts

21 Top Things to See & Do on Route 66