Arrive at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Head to Santa Monica, the official western terminus of Route 66.

Explore the Santa Monica Pier, take photos at the “End of the Trail” sign, and enjoy the beach and Pacific Park amusement park.

Stroll along Third Street Promenade for shopping and dining.

Overnight in Santa Monica. 

 Depart Santa Monica, driving through Los Angeles.

Consider stops in Beverly Hills or Hollywood for sightseeing en route.

Arrive in Pasadena.

Explore Old Pasadena, a vibrant historic district with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

Visit the Norton Simon Museum, renowned for its private art collection.

Optional: Tour the Gamble House (Arts and Crafts architecture) or stroll through the Huntington Library and Gardens.

Overnight in Pasadena. 

 Depart Pasadena, traveling east along Route 66.

Optional stops: Upland (see the Madonna of the Trail statue) or Rancho Cucamonga (historic Sycamore Inn).

Arrive in San Bernardino.

Visit the Original McDonald’s Site and Museum for Route 66 nostalgia and memorabilia.

See the iconic Wigwam Motel for classic roadside Americana.

Explore Glen Helen Regional Park or the San Bernardino County Museum for local history and nature.

Overnight in San Bernardino. 

 Drive through the Cajon Pass, stopping at the Summit Inn or Blue Cut Trail Marker for Route 66 history.

Visit Victorville’s California Route 66 Museum and Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Cafe for a classic diner experience.

Stop at Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, a quirky art installation.

Arrive in Barstow.

Explore the Route 66 Mother Road Museum and the historic Casa del Desierto Harvey House.

Optional: Visit Calico Ghost Town for Old West history.

Overnight in Barstow. 

 Continue east through the Mojave Desert, passing through Ludlow, Newberry Springs (Bagdad Café), and Amboy (Roy’s Motel & Café, Amboy Crater).

Arrive in Needles at the Colorado River, the eastern gateway to California on Route 66.

Visit the historic El Garces Harvey House and enjoy the desert scenery.

Trip concludes in Needles.