Table of Contents

• Route: Los Angeles to Santa Fe
• Highlights: Santa Monica Pier, Amboy Crater, Oatman Ghost Town, Painted Desert, Santa Fe Plaza
  ThemeThe Journey Through Time

---

Introduction

Route 66, often called the "Main Street of America," is more than just a highway - it's a time capsule of American history and culture. Stretching from Los Angeles to Santa Fe, this road trip traverses the heart of the American West, leading travelers through desert landscapes, ghost towns, and vibrant cities. This "Journey Through Time" explores the cultural evolution of the Southwest, where the echoes of old Hollywood, the charm of small towns, and the mystique of Native American heritage converge. From the glitz of Los Angeles to the artistic soul of Santa Fe, every stop along this route tells a story. Join William and Hui Cha Stanek as they guide you through this historic adventure, sharing personal insights, tips, and the best stops along the way.

Personal Insights from William Stanek:
"Route 66 from Los Angeles to Santa Fe is a journey through some of the most iconic and diverse landscapes in America. This stretch of the road takes you from the hustle and bustle of LA through the quiet desolation of the Mojave Desert and into the cultural richness of the Southwest. For me, this trip has always been about contrasts - between the bright lights of the city and the vast, open spaces of the desert, between the history of the Wild West and the creative energy of today's artists in Santa Fe. As you drive this route, you'll feel like you're traveling back in time, discovering the roots of modern America in the stories, landmarks, and people you encounter along the way."

---

Day 1: Los Angeles to Barstow, California

Morning: Departure from Los Angeles

• Overview: Start your Route 66 adventure in Los Angeles, the city where dreams are made. Spend the morning exploring some of LA's iconic attractions before heading out on the open road.
• Tips from William: "Los Angeles is a city that embodies the American dream - start your trip with a visit to the Santa Monica Pier, the official end of Route 66, and take a moment to reflect on the journey ahead. Then, head east towards Barstow, where the landscape begins to change from urban sprawl to desert wilderness."

Mid-Morning: Route to Pasadena and San Bernardino

• Overview: Head east through the suburbs of Los Angeles, passing through Pasadena and San Bernardino. These cities offer a mix of historic Route 66 landmarks and modern attractions.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: The Colorado Street Bridge in Pasadena (a historic bridge with stunning views), the Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino (a classic Route 66 motel with teepee-shaped rooms), and the original McDonald's site in San Bernardino (now a museum dedicated to the history of the fast-food chain).
• Photography Tips: "Capture the blend of old and new in Pasadena and San Bernardino - photograph the historic landmarks that stand as reminders of Route 66's heyday, against the backdrop of modern urban life."

Lunch Stop: San Bernardino

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. The Castaway Restaurant: Offering panoramic views of the San Bernardino Valley with a menu of classic American dishes.
  2. Mitla Cafe: A historic Mexican restaurant on Route 66, known for its tamales and enchiladas.
  3. Molly Brown's Country Cafe: A cozy diner offering hearty, homestyle meals in a relaxed setting.

Afternoon: Route to Barstow

• Overview: Continue your journey east, heading into the Mojave Desert towards Barstow. As the city lights fade in the rearview mirror, the landscape transforms into a stark, sun-baked desert, dotted with Joshua trees and distant mountains.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande (an eclectic art installation made from bottles and metal scraps), the Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow (featuring exhibits on the history of the highway), and the historic Harvey House Railroad Depot (a beautifully restored train station and museum).
• Evening: Arrive in Barstow, a desert town that has long been a key stop along Route 66. Explore the town's Route 66 landmarks, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the journey into the Mojave Desert the next day.
• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Idle Spurs Steakhouse: A local favorite offering steaks and classic American dishes in a Western-themed setting.
  2. Los Domingos Restaurant: A popular spot offering a menu of Mexican and American dishes in a casual setting.
  3. Jenny's Grill Steak & Mariscos: A casual restaurant offering a mix of Mexican seafood and steak dishes.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. Route 66 Motel: A budget-friendly option offering a retro Route 66 experience with basic, comfortable accommodations.
  2. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Barstow: A modern, comfortable hotel offering a range of amenities and easy access to Barstow's attractions.
  3. Best Western Desert Villa Inn: A comfortable, mid-range hotel offering modern accommodations with a touch of Western flair.

---

Day 2: Barstow to Kingman, Arizona

Morning: Departure from Barstow

• Overview: Begin your journey into the heart of the Mojave Desert, following Route 66 through one of the most desolate and beautiful landscapes in America. As you leave Barstow behind, the road stretches out before you, a ribbon of asphalt cutting through the vast desert.
• Tips from William: "The drive from Barstow to Kingman takes you through some of the most remote and untouched sections of Route 66. Take your time and enjoy the solitude of the desert - this is a place where you can really feel the spirit of the open road."

Mid-Morning: Route to Needles, California

• Overview: Continue east through the Mojave Desert, making your way towards Needles, a town on the banks of the Colorado River. This stretch of Route 66 is known for its stark beauty and historic roadside attractions.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Amboy Crater (a dormant volcanic crater that's a popular spot for hiking and photography), Roy's Motel and cafe in Amboy (a classic Route 66 stop with a retro neon sign), and the Mojave National Preserve (offering sweeping desert views and unique geological features).
• Photography Tips: "The Mojave Desert is a place of contrasts - capture the vast, empty landscapes, the dramatic skies, and the quirky roadside attractions that make this part of Route 66 so unique."

Lunch Stop: Needles

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Juicy's Famous River Cafe: A popular spot offering a menu of classic American comfort food and river views.
  2. Wagon Wheel Restaurant: A historic diner offering hearty meals and a nostalgic atmosphere.
  3. Burger Hut: A casual spot offering burgers, sandwiches, and classic diner fare.

Afternoon: Route to Kingman, Arizona

• Overview: Cross the Colorado River into Arizona and continue your journey east towards Kingman. This stretch of Route 66 takes you through the Black Mountains and into the heart of Arizona's high desert.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Oatman, Arizona (a former mining town turned Route 66 attraction, known for its wild burros and historic buildings), Sitgreaves Pass (offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and desert), and Cool Springs Station (a restored gas station and museum in the Black Mountains).
• Evening: Arrive in Kingman, a town that has long been a hub for travelers on Route 66. Explore Kingman's Route 66 landmarks, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the journey into the high desert the next day.
• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Dambar & Steak House: A local favorite offering steaks, ribs, and classic American dishes in a Western-themed setting.
  2. Mr. D'z Route 66 Diner: A retro diner offering burgers, shakes, and other classic American fare in a nostalgic setting.
  3. El Palacio: A popular spot offering a menu of Mexican dishes in a colorful, casual setting.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. Best Western Plus A Wayfarer's Inn and Suites: A modern, comfortable hotel offering a range of amenities and easy access to Kingman's attractions.
  2. Route 66 Motel: A budget-friendly option offering a retro Route 66 experience with basic, comfortable accommodations.
  3. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kingman: A modern, comfortable hotel offering a range of amenities and easy access to the city's attractions.

---

Day 3: Kingman to Flagstaff, Arizona

Morning: Departure from Kingman

• Overview: Begin your journey east through the Arizona high desert, following Route 66 as it winds through small towns and scenic landscapes. As you leave Kingman, the road begins to climb into the mountains, offering stunning views of the desert below.
• Tips from William: "The drive from Kingman to Flagstaff takes you through some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes on Route 66. From the desert to the mountains, this stretch of road offers a little bit of everything - take your time and enjoy the ride."

Mid-Morning: Route to Seligman, Arizona

• Overview: Continue east through the high desert, making your way to Seligman, a small town that has embraced its Route 66 heritage. This stretch of Route 66 is known for its well-preserved roadside attractions and nostalgic atmosphere.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Hackberry General Store (a classic Route 66 stop with vintage cars, signs, and memorabilia), Seligman's historic district (featuring Route 66-themed shops, diners, and motels), and Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In (a quirky, retro diner offering burgers, shakes, and other classic fare).
• Photography Tips: "Seligman is one of the best places to capture the nostalgia of Route 66 - photograph the vintage cars, neon signs, and retro architecture that give this town its unique character."

Lunch Stop: Seligman

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In: A quirky, retro diner offering burgers, shakes, and other classic American fare.
  2. Roadkill cafe: A themed restaurant offering a menu of classic American dishes with a humorous twist.
  3. Westside Lilo's cafe: A local favorite offering hearty, homestyle meals in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Afternoon: Route to Flagstaff, Arizona

• Overview: Continue your journey east towards Flagstaff, a historic city nestled in the mountains of northern Arizona. This stretch of Route 66 takes you through a variety of landscapes, from the high desert to the ponderosa pine forests that surround Flagstaff.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Williams, Arizona (a historic town known as the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon"), the Grand Canyon Railway Depot (offering train rides to the Grand Canyon), and the Lowell Observatory (a historic observatory in Flagstaff known for its astronomical discoveries).
• Evening: Arrive in Flagstaff, a city known for its historic downtown, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural surroundings. Explore Flagstaff's Route 66 landmarks, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the journey to the Grand Canyon the next day.
• Dining Recommendations:
  1. The Cottage Place Restaurant: A fine dining restaurant offering a menu of contemporary American dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
  2. Black Barts Steakhouse, Saloon, & Musical Revue: A unique dining experience offering steaks, barbecue, and live musical performances in a Western-themed setting.
  3. MartAnne's Burrito Palace: A popular spot offering a menu of Mexican and Southwestern dishes in a colorful, casual setting.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. Little America Hotel: A modern, comfortable hotel offering a range of amenities and easy access to Flagstaff's attractions.
  2. Hotel Monte Vista: A historic hotel located in downtown Flagstaff, offering elegant accommodations with a touch of old-world charm.
  3. Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff: A modern, comfortable hotel offering a range of amenities and easy access to the city's attractions.

---

Day 4: Flagstaff to Grand Canyon and Back

Morning: Departure from Flagstaff

• Overview: Take a day trip from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon, one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world. This drive takes you through the forests and high desert of northern Arizona, offering stunning views of the canyon as you approach.
• Tips from William: "The Grand Canyon is one of those places that takes your breath away no matter how many times you see it. Take your time exploring the rim, and don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path to find your own special spot to take in the view."

Mid-Morning: Explore the Grand Canyon

• Overview: Spend the day exploring the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, with its dramatic viewpoints, hiking trails, and visitor centers. Whether you're taking in the views from the rim or hiking down into the canyon, there's no shortage of things to see and do.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Mather Point (offering panoramic views of the canyon), Bright Angel Trail (a popular hiking trail that descends into the canyon), and Desert View Watchtower (a historic stone tower offering stunning views of the canyon and the Colorado River).
• Photography Tips: "The Grand Canyon is a photographer's dream - capture the changing light and shadows as the sun moves across the sky, and use a wide-angle lens to take in the full scope of the canyon's vastness."

Lunch Stop: Grand Canyon Village

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. El Tovar Dining Room: A historic restaurant offering a menu of Southwestern-inspired dishes with stunning views of the canyon.
  2. Bright Angel Lodge Restaurant: A casual spot offering a menu of classic American dishes in a historic setting.
  3. Canyon cafe: A casual cafe offering a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, perfect for a quick and easy lunch.

Afternoon: Return to Flagstaff

• Overview: After a day of exploring the Grand Canyon, return to Flagstaff for a relaxing evening. Enjoy dinner at one of the city's many excellent restaurants and take in the sights of this vibrant mountain town.
• Evening: Spend your final evening in Flagstaff, reflecting on your journey along Route 66 and preparing for the next leg of your trip to Santa Fe.
• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar: A fine dining restaurant offering a menu of contemporary American dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
  2. Pizzicletta: A popular spot offering wood-fired pizzas and a selection of craft beers and wines.
  3. Diablo Burger: A local favorite offering gourmet burgers made with local, grass-fed beef in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. Little America Hotel: A modern, comfortable hotel offering a range of amenities and easy access to Flagstaff's attractions.
  2. Hotel Monte Vista: A historic hotel located in downtown Flagstaff, offering elegant accommodations with a touch of old-world charm.
  3. Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff: A modern, comfortable hotel offering a range of amenities and easy access to the city's attractions.

---

Day 5: Flagstaff to Santa Fe, New Mexico

Morning: Departure from Flagstaff

• Overview: Begin the final leg of your Route 66 journey, heading east from Flagstaff through the high desert and mountains of northern Arizona and New Mexico. This stretch of road takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful landscapes on Route 66, offering stunning views and a sense of solitude.
• Tips from William: "The drive from Flagstaff to Santa Fe takes you through some of the most diverse landscapes in the Southwest, from the red rocks of Arizona to the mountains of New Mexico. This is a day to really soak in the beauty of the open road."

Mid-Morning: Route to Holbrook, Arizona

• Overview: Continue east through the high desert, making your way to Holbrook, a small town known for its quirky Route 66 attractions and its proximity to the Petrified Forest National Park.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook (a classic Route 66 motel with teepee-shaped rooms), Petrified Forest National Park (featuring stunning landscapes and ancient petrified wood), and the Painted Desert (a colorful desert landscape located within the park).
• Photography Tips: "The Petrified Forest and Painted Desert offer some of the most unique landscapes on Route 66 - capture the vibrant colors and otherworldly shapes of the petrified wood and the desert formations."

Lunch Stop: Holbrook

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Joe & Aggie's cafe: A classic Route 66 diner offering a menu of Mexican and American dishes in a nostalgic setting.
  2. Butterfield Stage Co. Steakhouse: A historic steakhouse offering a menu of steaks, burgers, and classic American dishes.
  3. Romos cafe: A casual spot offering a mix of Mexican and American dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and burgers.

Afternoon: Route to Santa Fe

• Overview: Continue your journey east, crossing into New Mexico and following Route 66 through the wide-open spaces and small towns of the Southwest. As you approach Santa Fe, the landscape begins to change, with the high desert giving way to the mountains and forests of northern New Mexico.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Gallup, New Mexico (a historic town known for its Native American art and culture), El Malpais National Monument (featuring stunning volcanic landscapes), and the historic town of Las Vegas, New Mexico (featuring well-preserved Victorian architecture).
• Evening: Arrive in Santa Fe, a city known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and unique blend of cultures. Explore Santa Fe's historic downtown, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and reflect on your journey along Route 66.
• Dining Recommendations:
  1. The Shed: A Santa Fe institution offering classic New Mexican dishes, including blue corn enchiladas and red chile stew.
  2. Geronimo: An upscale restaurant offering a menu of contemporary American dishes with a Southwestern flair.
  3. Cafe Pasqual's: A popular spot offering a menu of organic, farm-to-table dishes with a focus on Southwestern flavors.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. La Fonda on the Plaza: A historic hotel located on Santa Fe's Plaza, offering luxurious accommodations and a rich history dating back to the early 20th century.
  2. Inn of the Five Graces: A boutique hotel offering beautifully decorated suites with a mix of Southwestern and global influences.
  3. Drury Plaza Hotel in Santa Fe: A modern hotel offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to Santa Fe's downtown attractions.

---

Conclusion

Reflections from William Stanek:
"Driving Route 66 from Los Angeles to Santa Fe is like traveling through a living history book - a journey through the landscapes, cultures, and stories that have shaped America. From the glitz and glamour of LA to the quiet solitude of the desert, and finally to the artistic heart of Santa Fe, this road trip has taken us through some of the most iconic and diverse parts of the country. As Hui Cha and I drove into Santa Fe, we couldn't help but reflect on the incredible journey we've just completed - the people we've met, the places we've explored, and the memories we've made along the way. Route 66 is more than just a road - it's a symbol of the American spirit, a reminder of the dreams and adventures that have driven this nation forward. I hope this journey has inspired you to explore Route 66 for yourself, to discover the stories it holds, and to create your own memories along this historic road."