Day 1 – Arrival in Albuquerque, NM

Welcome to the Land of Enchantment! Upon arrival in Albuquerque, check into your comfortable hotel. This evening, enjoy a festive welcome dinner featuring authentic New Mexican cuisine while learning about the rich history of Route 66, which runs straight through the city along Central Avenue. You’ll quickly feel the blend of Southwestern charm and Route 66 nostalgia that sets the tone for your journey. (D)

Day 2 – Santa Fe Excursion

This morning we take a short drive north to Santa Fe, one of America’s oldest and most artistic cities. Stroll the historic plaza, browse world-class galleries, and soak in the adobe charm before enjoying lunch at a local café. On the return to Albuquerque, stop for a nostalgic meal at the 66 Diner, a classic Route 66 institution filled with neon and memorabilia. Back in Albuquerque, the evening is yours to explore Old Town or simply relax at the hotel after a day steeped in history and culture. (B, L) 

Day 3 – Albuquerque to Holbrook, AZ

We head west along Route 66 into New Mexico’s high desert, stopping in Gallup, known for its Native American trading posts and colorful murals. Crossing into Arizona, marvel at the beauty of Petrified Forest National Park and the surreal Painted Desert, both right along the Mother Road. Tonight, we stay in Holbrook, where quirky roadside Americana like the Wigwam Motel awaits. The desert landscapes and neon-lit small towns give you a true sense of traveling back in time. (B, D)

Day 4 – Holbrook to Flagstaff, AZ

Today’s drive highlights some of the most iconic Route 66 stops. We’ll pause in Winslow, Arizona, where you can “Stand on the Corner” made famous by the Eagles’ song. Visit Meteor Crater, one of the best-preserved impact sites on earth, before continuing into Flagstaff, a bustling hub of Route 66 history. The evening is free to explore this charming mountain town at your leisure. With its neon signs, cozy diners, and mountain air, Flagstaff captures the spirit of Route 66 perfectly. (B, L)

Day 5 – The Grand Canyon Railway Experience

No journey through Arizona is complete without the Grand Canyon. Today we take a full-day excursion on the Grand Canyon Scenic Railway to witness one of the world’s great natural wonders, with time for breathtaking overlooks, photo opportunities, and lunch on your own at the park. Return to Flagstaff for a relaxing group dinner and another night in town. This unforgettable day highlights the grandeur of the American West, adding natural wonder to the Route 66 story. (B)

Day 6 – Flagstaff to Kingman, AZ

Heading west, we travel through the legendary Route 66 town of Seligman, considered the birthplace of the highway’s modern revival, where retro diners and shops celebrate its quirky charm. Continue to Kingman, home of the Historic Route 66 Museum, which brings to life the road’s impact on American culture. Dinner is included tonight after settling into your hotel. As the day winds down, you’ll feel the enduring energy of travelers who kept the Mother Road alive. (B, L) 

Day 7 – Kingman to Barstow, CA via Oatman

Today we wind through the rugged Black Mountains to Oatman, Arizona, a former mining town where wild burros still roam the streets. Crossing into California, we stop in Needles before arriving in Barstow, home to the fascinating Route 66 Mother Road Museum. Dinner is included this evening. The day’s mix of desert landscapes, quirky characters, and roadside icons keeps the adventure lively and authentic. (B, D)

Day 8 – Barstow to Santa Monica, CA

Our final stretch of Route 66 carries us through San Bernardino, where the first McDonald’s opened its doors. Continue west through Pasadena and Los Angeles until we reach the Santa Monica Pier, the symbolic “End of the Trail.” Here, we celebrate with a memorable farewell dinner overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Standing at the pier, you’ll feel the thrill of completing the journey that has inspired travelers for nearly a century. (B, D)

Day 9 – Departure from Los Angeles

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Route 66. Transfers are provided to Los Angeles International Airport, or extend your stay and enjoy more of California’s coast. The friendships made and stories shared along America’s most famous highway will stay with you long after the tour ends. (B)