One might ask, what's the best Route 66 state to travel?

I must admit, before embarking on my first magical Route 66 journey, I asked myself the same question: Do I really need to do the whole thing? It wasn’t until my first trip—from Oklahoma through Arizona—that the experience fully sank in. That journey made it clear: I needed to continue exploring the entirety of The Mother Road, even if it meant doing it in piecemeal trips. Revisiting old favorites for a new photo or a fresh experience only reinforced my conviction. Now, I can confidently tell others who haven’t yet traveled Historic Route 66: it’s worth every mile.

It’s impossible to pick a single favorite. Each of the eight Route 66 states offers something unique. The landscapes, climates, stops, attractions, and local culinary delights vary from region to region. Sure, you may have stretches that resonate more with you—as I do—but there isn’t a single part of Route 66 that isn’t worthy of the journey. Along the way, you’ll encounter local characters whose stories and legacies enrich the experience even further.

Illinois presents a striking contrast between the energy of the Windy City and the quaint charm of its small towns and serene farm country. The Ozarks boast rolling hills, picturesque towns, and plenty of quirky stops. Oklahoma’s prairies and legendary fried onion burger are unforgettable. The wide-open roads, big skies, and desert mesas of Texas and the western states offer landscapes unlike any other. And as the arid California desert gives way to Los Angeles, ending with a sunset at Santa Monica Pier—it’s magical that it’s all part of the same state.

If you fall in love with one stretch, you’ll fall in love with them all. Along the way, you can support small businesses, diners, motels, and shops that have kept Route 66 alive for generations. There’s nothing quite as healing as a road trip, exploring local favorites that vary so widely from one stop to the next. Clear your calendar, even if it takes more than one trip—you’ll find every mile worth it.