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Hello fellow adventurers! If you're thinking about embarking on a Route 66 adventure in a motorhome , you've come to the right place.

Throughout this article, I will tell you about our experience on this iconic Route 66, give you valuable tips, and guide you to have an unforgettable experience without fines or setbacks.

A route we took during our trip to the United States in a motorhome, just before venturing into the best viewpoints of the Grand Canyon, with all the necessary preparation and planning that you can see in our article on how to plan and organize a trip to the United States with the requirements and advice you need.

To travel to the USA and do Route 66, you should know things from this guide, such as that it is completely forbidden to camp and stay overnight in a motorhome without permission. You must always go to designated places like RV parks or RV camps, which are what you'll find most often along your Route 66 trip. Stay tuned, I'll tell you everything below!

About us

Route 66: history and basic description

Route 66 is a living legend that stretches across the United States from coast to coast. Known as the " Mother Road ," it has inspired songs, movies, and dreams of freedom. Connecting Chicago to Santa Monica , it was a vital route for those seeking a new life during the Great Depression of the 30s. Today, we could describe this route as an old highway that doesn't even appear on Google Maps and is like an open-air museum along its entire length. Everywhere it passes, buildings, shops, cars, and the atmosphere seem frozen in time, reminding us of what it was like between the 30s and 50s, when it began to decline.

The decline of Route 66

Route 66 began to lose its relevance in the 1950s with the construction of the Interstate Highway System . These new highways, with straighter stretches and higher speeds, offered faster and more efficient travel compared to Route 66, which was winding and passed through many small towns and cities. The gradual disappearance of Route 66 as a major highway was accelerated in 1985 when it was officially removed from the U.S. highway system . However, the route is still largely passable and has become an iconic "historic highway," with many sections preserved and signposted for travelers who wish to experience its rich history and culture.

Route 66 by motorhome: distance and days to travel it

Driving the entire length of Route 66 is a fascinating challenge. The distance is around 3,940 kilometers (2,448 miles) , so be prepared for a long journey if you want to complete it! While the ideal time to complete it can vary, it's generally estimated to take around 2 to 3 weeks to fully enjoy it.

The truth is, many people travel it in sections rather than all at once. Determining the most attractive section of Route 66 is subjective and depends on each traveler's interests and preferences.

Route 66 passes through a diversity of landscapes, cultures, and unique attractions, making it an all-around fascinating experience. However, some sections tend to stand out for different reasons.

The most attractive part of Route 66 in a motorhome

One of the most attractive sections is the one that crosses Arizona . This section is considered especially appealing due to the variety of stunning landscapes and unique experiences it offers.

1. Grand Canyon of the Colorado: This iconic natural area is an unmissable stop. The Grand Canyon is simply stunning, with its stunning cliffs and unique rock formations. It is a perfect place for lovers of nature and photography.
2. Monument Valley: With its famous reddish rock formations and desert landscapes, Monument Valley is an almost mystical experience. It is an emblematic destination that many recognize for having been the setting for numerous western films.
3. Oatman: This picturesque mining town makes you feel like you're in a bygone era. The wild donkeys that roam freely through its streets add a charming and unique touch.
4. Desert Landscapes: The stretch in Arizona takes you through vast desert landscapes with arid and majestic beauty. The changing colors of the desert and the sense of vastness are captivating.
5. History and Native Culture: The route in Arizona allows you to learn about and appreciate the rich history and culture of the Native American tribes, as it passes through areas inhabited by different indigenous communities.
6. Peggy's Sue Diner and Seligman: These stops take you back to the 50s and give you the authentic Route 66 experience, with its retro charm and lively atmosphere.

In summary:

In short, the Arizona section is considered attractive for its spectacular variety of landscapes, its connection to Native culture, the opportunity to explore famous natural attractions, and its retro charm that encapsulates the essence of Route 66. However, each section has its own unique charm, and the best thing to do is explore and discover it according to your own preferences and tastes.

Rent a motorhome or camper to do Route 66: what is better, prices, advice from our own experience

One of the biggest decisions you'll have to make is whether to rent a motorhome or campervan for your Route 66 adventure . From our experience, I can tell you that both options are great, but it all depends on your preferences and needs.

RV rentals on Route 66 can vary in price depending on the season and rental duration, so I recommend researching and comparing offers. For a detailed look at all the options, our experience renting RVs in the United States, current prices, and everything else, check out this very detailed post I wrote a few days ago:

Post: Rent a motorhome or camper in the United States: prices, experience and advice

Regulations on parking, overnight stays and camping in a motorhome in the United States to take into account on your Route 66

When traveling Route 66 in a motorhome , it is important to know the regulations regarding where you can park, stay overnight, and camp.

The United States has specific regulations, and it is essential to respect them to avoid problems. As there are so many things that you must take into account and be clear about to avoid fines and make your trip a 10, you have everything detailed in this post that I also did a few days ago with everything you need to know to travel through the United States in a motorhome or camper.

Post: Guide to traveling to the United States by motorhome

The post details overnight parking options for RVs , including public campgrounds, private campgrounds, RV parks, and parking lots that allow free overnight stays. It also covers aspects related to driving in the United States, such as traffic regulations and how to refuel.

And it details many tips on how to use GPS there, how to get internet access, among other aspects that you might want to know before you go.

Basic tips on Route 66 in a motorhome

Although the post I mentioned earlier has more tips, here are some basic, valuable advice summarized to help make your Route 66 RV trip a success:

First basic tip

First, don't forget to get travel insurance . Breaking an arm, like what happened to a friend in the United States, cost him $185.000. I recommend getting Iati Estrella with this discount, like we did, which covers up to €1 million for peace of mind.

Summary table of basic tips

Council	Description
Legal documentation necessary to access the US	Make sure you have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure United States to your home. Depending on your country of origin, you may need authorization ESTA or a visa. If you are Spanish, only the ESTA. Post:Requirements to travel to the US.
Receive emergency alerts	Register as a traveler in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of your country to facilitate location in case of emergency or alert. Check that in your mobile phone you have emergency alerts activated.
Healthcare on Route 66	Keep in mind that health care in the United States is private and expensive. Make sure you have good travel insurance that covers possible medical expenses during your trip.
Internet on Route 66 in a motorhome	As I detail in the post that I told you before, it is important have internet for your GPS and travel, so if you want the best option, hire a Holafly prepaid card from Spain now, which is the cheapest option and with unlimited data.
Consider the environmental impact	Be aware of the environmental impact and minimize your ecological footprint. The United States is a large consumer of resources, so it is important to adopt responsible practices to reduce waste and energy consumption during your trip.
Variety of regulations by state	Get familiar with the specific regulations of each of the 50 states of the USA where you travel, as regulations may vary. It is essential to comply with the traffic and parking laws of each state and municipality to avoid penalties and legal problems. Pay close attention to the road.

Our trip and experience along Route 66 in a motorhome

Traveling Route 66 in a motorhome with my children has been an incredible adventure. We experienced unforgettable, movie-like moments.

The route we took along Route 66 was partial and part of a 3-week trip where we explored not only Route 66 in its Arizona section, which they say is the most beautiful, but also the main national parks and attractions of the West Coast of the United States in a motorhome.

We met fascinating people, we tried 100% American food and we discovered unique places that we had so much in our memory from movies and TV series. The flexibility and comfort of the motorhome made everything much easier sincerely and perhaps because of that or everything together I can tell you that our route here has been one of the best experiences we have had so far as a family.

If you want to know more about our experience and trip, the costs we had, prices and much more, you can find it all in the post "guide to the United States in a motorhome".

Our route through what they say is the most beautiful part of Route 66 in a motorhome as it passes through Arizona

During our trip, we discovered that one of the most beautiful sections of Route 66 is the one that crosses Arizona , the part of Route 66 we traveled the most on our route after doing a lot of research. The truth is, the route didn't disappoint; on the contrary, we loved it. Perhaps the worst part was the heat in the westernmost section, through the Mojave Desert, where we experienced temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). A dry, scorching heat. Otherwise, the route was as we expected, a living museum of the 1930s and 50s , with amazing moments, bucolic landscapes, and picture-perfect scenery. Here are some must-see places along the route we took:

Peggy's Sue Diner

This restaurant is a true retro gem that will transport you back to the 50s . Don't miss their delicious burgers and American breakfasts! The best part is that it's not expensive, and especially for breakfast, they have some spectacular combination plates.

Calico ghost town

A genuine Gold Rush ghost town that will make you feel like you're in a scene from the American Wild West. Ideal for exploring the history of the Old West. It was the hottest place we were, but I highly recommend visiting, especially if you're traveling with children. There's a small entrance fee to enter the town, but it's full of shops, restaurants, and attractions , such as the mine and the train , which require a small additional payment.

Oatman

Here you'll find wild donkeys roaming the streets . It's a unique and unforgettable experience, especially if you're traveling with children. It's a very small village, and be aware that everything closes around 17 pm , so if you arrive later you won't be able to buy carrots to feed the donkeys. Buy the carrots beforehand because feeding them is a really fun experience.

kingman

A perfect stop to enjoy an authentically American atmosphere with classic cars, classic motorcycles, and classic American restaurants. Kingman is considered the Route 66 capital and has a Route 66 museum worth visiting—an inexpensive three-in-one experience that also includes the Mojave Desert Museum and a tour of a period home.

Hackberry General Store

This iconic spot is a treasure trove of Route 66 memorabilia . It's definitely worth stopping to snap some photos. It's like the perfect photo booth. It was an old roadside gas station and store, and it's been preserved exactly as it was—an open-air museum where you can enjoy an ice cream, like we did, or buy a souvenir between photos.

Seligman

A small town with a big heart, especially if you're traveling with kids, steeped in Route 66 history . It's ideal for a relaxing break and enjoying the authenticity of the place. If you're with children, the biggest surprise is that it's the town that inspired Lightning McQueen, and you'll find Mater and many of his characters wandering its streets, among cool shops and restaurants.

Williams

The " gateway to the Grand Canyon ." A vibrant place with activities for everyone. If you're looking for a place with good restaurants, accommodations, and souvenir shops, Williams will definitely not disappoint. Plus, from here you can access the South Rim of the Grand Canyon on its historic train or by car.

Summary table of the proposed route

Place	Description
Peggy's Sue Diner	Retro restaurant from the 50s that offers delicious burgers and milkshakes, providing an authentic and nostalgic experience.
Calico ghost town	Ghost town that transports you to the time of the Wild West, allowing you to explore the history and atmosphere of the American Old West.
Oatman	Picturesque town where you can find wild donkeys wandering the streets, creating a unique and picturesque experience.
kingman	Town with an authentic American atmosphere, famous for its delicious chili and its charm as a historic city on Route 66.
Hackberry General Store	Iconic store filled with Route 66 memorabilia, offering a stop to capture photos and explore the essence of the route.
Seligman	Small town that encapsulates the authenticity of Route 66, full of history and a charm that reflects the spirit of the route.
Williams	Known as the “gateway to the Grand Canyon,” this city offers a unique energy and variety of activities for everyone.

Other visits that you can add to the previous route that are more than interesting during the previous section of Route 66 by motorhome

Aside from Route 66 in Arizona , there are other equally fascinating stops near the route I recommended earlier. Here are a few you shouldn't miss on a road trip along the US West Coast in a campervan or car:

Las Vegas

Known as "Sin City ," Las Vegas is a vibrant and exciting place that deserves a stop on your Route 66 trip. Its dazzling lights, casinos, shows, and endless entertainment make it a must-see destination. Take the opportunity to try your luck at the famous casinos on the Strip!

Grand Canyon of the Colorado

One of the highlights of your Route 66 trip is undoubtedly the Grand Canyon . This majestic canyon, sculpted by millions of years of erosion, is simply breathtaking. You can explore its towering cliffs and enjoy panoramic views that will leave you speechless. If you love nature and hiking, this place is paradise.

Monument Valley

Another natural treasure on your Route 66 journey is Monument Valley . This place is famous for its monumental rock formations and for being the setting of countless Western films. An off-road vehicle tour will allow you to explore this unique landscape and feel like a true cowboy of the Wild West.

Antelope Canyon

If you're a photography enthusiast, Antelope Canyon is a must-see. This canyon is famous for its rock formations sculpted by water and sand over millennia. The sun's rays filtering through the canyon's openings create incredible light effects, making this place a true paradise for photography lovers.

Bryce Canyon

Another national park you absolutely must visit is Bryce Canyon . This area is known for its "hoodoos," unique rock formations that resemble columns. Hike along the trails and discover the magic of this place while enjoying the panoramic views.

Conclusions: Route 66 in a motorhome, an unforgettable adventure!

Travelling Route 66 and the West Coast of the USA in a motorhome has been one of the most exciting experiences of my life as a mother and adventurous traveler.

This trip allowed us to experience the real America: its history, its culture, its breathtaking landscapes, and its diversity. The freedom to travel in your own RV and explore at your own pace is invaluable on this route.

Renting a motorhome on Route 66 gives you the flexibility to stop whenever you want, enjoy the beautiful scenery, or sample local cuisine in a quaint town. Route 66 is especially RV-friendly, with numerous rest stops and interesting places to explore along the way.

Always remember to respect the regulations, stay overnight and camp in designated areas, take care of the environment, and enjoy every moment to the fullest.

Route 66 in a motorhome is an adventure that will remain etched in your memory forever. So, if you are thinking about a getaway along the West Coast of the United States and Route 66 in a motorhome, don't hesitate.

Prepare your trip, live the experience and enjoy every mile traveled on this legendary road!

Have a good trip, fellow travelers, and may the road take you to incredible destinations! I read you below in comments!