Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America, is one of the most iconic road trip routes in the world. This legendary highway stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, covering a distance of 2,448 miles.
Many people dream of taking a road trip on Route 66, but often wonder just how long it takes to complete this epic journey. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to that question and give you some tips on how to make the most of your Route 66 adventure.
The Length of Route 66
As mentioned earlier, Route 66 is a long stretch of highway that covers a distance of 2,448 miles. This means that if you were to drive straight through without stopping at any attractions or taking any detours, it would take you around 36 hours to complete the journey. However, this is not recommended as there are so many interesting things to see and do along the way.
How Long Does It Take To Drive Route 66?
The amount of time it takes to complete a Route 66 road trip really depends on how much time you have available and how much time you want to spend exploring each destination along the way. Generally speaking though, most people take between two weeks and one month to drive the entire length of Route 66.
If you have limited time available or prefer to move quickly through each destination, it’s possible to complete Route 66 in as little as seven days. However, this will require long days on the road and minimal stops along the way.
On the other hand, if you have more time available or want to take things at a slower pace, it’s recommended that you allow at least two weeks for your journey. This will give you enough time to explore each destination in depth and really immerse yourself in all that Route 66 has to offer.
Factors That Affect the Duration of Your Road Trip
There are several factors that can affect the duration of your Route 66 road trip. These include:
- Your travel style – whether you prefer to move quickly or take things slowly
- The number of attractions you want to visit along the way
- The time of year you’re traveling – certain seasons can be busier than others, affecting travel times
- Traffic and road conditions – these can vary depending on the time of day and weather conditions
Tips for Making the Most of Your Route 66 Adventure
To make the most of your Route 66 adventure, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Plan your route in advance and decide which attractions you want to visit along the way
- Allow yourself plenty of time to explore each destination, especially if you’re interested in history or culture
- Be flexible with your itinerary – unexpected detours or attractions may pop up along the way that you don’t want to miss out on
- Take advantage of local knowledge – talk to locals along the way and ask for their recommendations on what to see and do in their area
- Bring a good camera – there are plenty of opportunities for amazing photos along Route 66!
In Conclusion:
In summary, how long a Route 66 road trip takes really depends on your personal travel style and how much time you have available. While it’s possible to complete the journey in as little as seven days, it’s recommended that you allow at least two weeks to really make the most of this iconic American road trip. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just the thrill of the open road, Route 66 is an unforgettable adventure that’s sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.