Explore the legendary landmarks of Historic Route 66, America’s most famous road trip. Discover classic roadside attractions, vintage motels, neon signs, historic diners, quirky stops, and must-see destinations along the Mother Road from Chicago to Santa Monica.
Must-See Route 66 Landmarks
From neon-lit motels and classic roadside attractions to quirky works of art, Historic Route 66 is packed with unforgettable stops. These legendary landmarks help tell the story of the Mother Road and make the journey just as exciting as the destination.
Cadillac Ranch – Amarillo, Texas
Cadillac Ranch is one of the most iconic stops along Historic Route 66. Located just outside Amarillo, Texas, this famous roadside attraction features ten vintage Cadillacs buried nose-first in the Texas ground. Visitors from around the world stop to photograph the colorful cars and add their own spray-painted artwork, making Cadillac Ranch an ever-changing piece of Route 66 history.
Twin Arrows, Arizona
Once one of the most recognizable roadside stops along Route 66, Twin Arrows was famous for its two giant arrows rising from the Arizona desert. This photo captures the landmark during its later years, after decades of weather, abandonment and vandalism. The arrows have since disappeared, making photographs like this a glimpse into a piece of Route 66 history that continues to change.
Winslow, Arizona
Winslow, Arizona is one of the most famous stops along Historic Route 66. The town’s legendary “Standin’ on the Corner” attraction celebrates its connection to the Eagles song “Take It Easy” and has become a favorite photo stop for Route 66 travelers. Explore the historic downtown, classic Route 66 sights, shops, and the unmistakable small-town atmosphere that keeps travelers coming back to Winslow.
Wigwam Motel – Holbrook, Arizona
The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona is one of Route 66’s most memorable roadside landmarks. Built in the 1950s, its distinctive concrete teepee-shaped rooms and collection of vintage automobiles transport visitors back to the golden age of the Mother Road. Today, travelers can still spend the night here, making the Wigwam Motel more than a photo stop. It’s a chance to experience a piece of Route 66 history.
Leaning Water Tower – Groom, Texas
The Leaning Water Tower in Groom, Texas is one of Route 66’s classic roadside curiosities. Originally placed at an angle to attract travelers to a nearby truck stop, the tilted tower became a memorable landmark along the Mother Road. Its unusual appearance has made it a favorite photo stop for generations of Route 66 travelers and a reminder of the clever roadside attractions that once competed for motorists’ attention.
Route 66 End Of The Trail – Santa Monica, California
The Santa Monica Pier marks the legendary western end of Historic Route 66 and is the perfect place to celebrate completing America’s Mother Road. The famous “End of the Trail” sign has become a favorite photo stop for Route 66 travelers arriving at the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by the sights and energy of Santa Monica Pier, it provides a fitting finale to an unforgettable journey across America.