Route 66 Map – Chicago to Santa Monica Route (2,448 Miles)
Route 66 Map: The Complete Chicago to Santa Monica Route Guide
Explore the full Route 66 map — America's most famous highway, stretching 2,448 miles (3,940 km) across 8 states from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. Use the interactive route map below to see the full journey, or calculate the distance and drive time for any stretch of the Mother Road yourself.
Interactive Route 66 Map & Distance Calculator
The map above is pre-loaded with the classic Route 66 route map — from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. Want to plan just one leg of the trip? Simply change the "From" and "To" fields above to any two cities along the route (for example, Tulsa to Amarillo) to get the exact driving distance, travel time, and a live map for that stretch.
Where Does Route 66 Begin and End?
Route 66 begins in Chicago, Illinois, at the intersection of Adams Street and Michigan Avenue, and ends in Santa Monica, California, at the Santa Monica Pier — right on the Pacific coast. Along the way, the highway passes through eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
Route 66 Map by State
Here is the full route 66 road map broken down state by state, with approximate mileage and the major cities you'll pass through on each stretch.
| State | Approx. Miles | Major Cities & Towns |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | ~301 mi (484 km) | Chicago, Joliet, Springfield, Litchfield |
| Missouri | ~317 mi (510 km) | St. Louis, Springfield, Joplin |
| Kansas | ~13 mi (21 km) | Galena, Baxter Springs |
| Oklahoma | ~432 mi (695 km) | Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Elk City |
| Texas | ~186 mi (300 km) | Amarillo, Shamrock, McLean |
| New Mexico | ~487 mi (784 km) | Tucumcari, Albuquerque, Gallup |
| Arizona | ~401 mi (645 km) | Holbrook, Winslow, Flagstaff, Kingman |
| California | ~314 mi (505 km) | Needles, Barstow, San Bernardino, Santa Monica |
* Oklahoma has more original, driveable Route 66 pavement than any other state, while New Mexico's stretch covers the greatest distance. Mileage figures are approximate, as the historic alignment changed several times between 1926 and 1985.
How Long Does It Take to Drive Route 66?
Driving the full 2,448-mile Route 66 map takes about 40–50 hours of pure driving time. Most travelers spread this over 10 to 14 days, allowing time to stop at historic diners, roadside attractions, and small towns along the way. If you're in a hurry, it's possible to drive it in about a week — but most Route 66 enthusiasts agree the journey is about the stops, not the speed.
🎉 Route 66's 100th Anniversary (1926–2026)
Route 66 was officially established on November 11, 1926, making 2026 its Centennial year. All eight states along the route are hosting celebrations, classic car shows, festivals, and commemorative events throughout the year — from Chicago's kickoff events to the Route 66 Fun Run in Arizona and centennial festivals in Oklahoma, Missouri, and California. If you've ever wanted to drive the Mother Road, 2026 is the year to do it.
Top Route 66 Attractions Along the Way
Chicago, IL
The official starting point — look for the "Route 66 Begin" sign on Adams Street.
Cadillac Ranch, TX
Ten spray-painted Cadillacs buried nose-first in a field near Amarillo.
Blue Whale of Catoosa, OK
A giant blue whale roadside attraction, a classic Route 66 photo stop.
Petrified Forest, AZ
The only national park with a section of historic Route 66 running through it.
Seligman, AZ
Widely credited as the birthplace of the Route 66 revival movement.
Santa Monica Pier, CA
The famous "End of the Trail" sign marks the finish of the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Route 66 Map
How long is the Route 66 map from start to finish?
The historic Route 66 map runs approximately 2,448 miles (3,940 km) from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, crossing eight states.
Where is Route 66 on the map today?
Route 66 was officially decommissioned in 1985, but most of the original road still exists as state highways, business loops, or "Historic Route 66" designated roads running roughly parallel to Interstate 55, I-44, I-40, and I-15.
What states does Route 66 pass through?
Route 66 passes through eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California — connecting Chicago to the Pacific coast.
How long does it take to drive Route 66 map start to finish?
Driving the entire route takes about 40–50 hours of driving, typically spread across 10 to 14 days for a relaxed road trip with stops at historic sites and attractions.
Is there a printable map of Route 66?
Yes — many Route 66 associations and tourism boards offer free printable and downloadable maps. You can also use the interactive map and calculator on this page to plan and print your own custom route between any two points along the highway.
What year did Route 66 turn 100 years old?
Route 66 was established on November 11, 1926, which means it celebrates its 100th anniversary (Centennial) in 2026 — with events happening all year long across all eight states.
Which state has the most miles of Route 66?
New Mexico has the longest stretch by distance (~487 miles), while Oklahoma has the most original, drivable historic pavement of any state along the route.