Route 66 is packed with legendary roadside stops—but what about the places most travelers miss?
If you’re planning to cruise California’s stretch of the Mother Road, don’t just settle for the usual tourist photo ops.
From retro diners to eerie ghost towns and quirky art installations, this guide dives into the hidden gems along Route 66 in California that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or just love a good road trip photo, these unique stops will take your drive from ordinary to unforgettable.
Scroll on for local tips, beautiful photos, and map-friendly recommendations to help you explore Route 66 like a pro.
The History of Route 66
Route 66 was established in 1926 as one of the original highways in the U.S., designed to connect Chicago to Santa Monica and boost cross-country travel and commerce.
In California, it played a key role during the Dust Bowl migration and post-war travel boom.
The route was officially decommissioned in 1985, replaced by the modern interstate system.
Today, Route 66 lives on as a nostalgic road trip experience, with historic landmarks and retro stops attracting travelers from around the world.
How to Drive Route 66 Today
The best time to drive Route 66 in California is spring or fall, when temperatures are milder and crowds are smaller.
Most of the route is paved and suitable for any standard vehicle, though a reliable car with good air conditioning is recommended for the desert stretches.
While Route 66 signs are scattered along the way, they’re not always consistent—so it’s smart to use planning tools like paper maps, GPS apps, or Route 66 guidebooks to stay on track.
Apps like Roadtrippers or the Route 66 Navigation app can help you map out attractions, gas stations, and detours.
Route 66 in Sections
Part 1 – Needles to Barstow
- El Garces Hotel, Needles
- Fender’s River Resort, Needles
- Amboy & Roy’s Motel & Café
- Amboy Crater
Part 2 – Barstow to Victorville
- California Welcome Center – Barstow
- Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, Oro Grande
- Route 66 Mother Road Museum
- Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Café, Victorville
Part 3 – San Bernardino to Rancho Cucamonga
- Mitla Café, San Bernardino
- McDonald’s Museum, San Bernardino
- Wigwam Motel, San Bernardino
- Cucamonga Service Station
- Sycamore Inn, Rancho Cucamonga
Part 4 – Rancho Cucamonga to Santa Monica
- Aztec Hotel
- Colorado Street Bridge, Pasadena
- Clifton’s Republic, Los Angeles
- Santa Monica Pier & The End of the Trail Sign
Top 9 Must-See Stops on Route 66 in California
(Condensed summary list for quick reference)
- Roy’s Motel & Café – Amboy
- Bottle Tree Ranch – Oro Grande
- Wigwam Motel – San Bernardino
- Mitla Café – San Bernardino
- McDonald’s Museum – San Bernardino
- Cucamonga Service Station
- Colorado Street Bridge – Pasadena
- Clifton’s Republic – LA
- Santa Monica Pier – Santa Monica
Unique Attractions & Side Trips
- Mojave National Preserve
- Amboy Crater
- Cars Land – Disney homage to Route 66
- Muir Woods National Monument (bonus nature stop, not directly on 66)
Additional Resources
California Historic Route 66 Association – Offers maps, history, preservation efforts, and an events calendar to help you plan your trip and learn more about the route.
Route 66 Preservation Groups – Learn how organizations are preserving the history and character of Route 66.
San Bernardino County Museums – Explore exhibits on Route 66, regional history, and roadside culture.
The beauty of Route 66 in California isn’t just in the road itself—it’s in the unexpected.
The faded neon signs, roadside oddities, and family-owned spots offer a glimpse into a slower, more nostalgic era of American travel.
We hope this guide to the hidden gems along California’s Route 66 helps you craft an adventure full of character and charm.
Don’t forget to bring your camera, stay curious, and take the detours—they’re often where the best stories begin.
Have a favorite hidden stop we missed? Drop it in the comments below!
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