ROUTE 66

About the destination: Chicago, once a small trading post on Lake Michigan, has grown into one of the country’s most famous cities. Visit “The Windy City” and chow down on deep dish pizza for a truly unique vacation experience. Follow “The Loop,” the city’s primary business district, and marvel at its array of high-rise buildings, consulates, and universities. Shopping and fine dining abound in this area. If you’ve worn yourself out in the city proper, set a more sedate pace at the Riverwalk, a pedestrian path along the Chicago River, or visit the many museums and parks the city has to offer. You’ll never believe you’re actually downtown when you walk through the Garfield Park Conservatory, and the Art Institute of Chicago will allow you to appreciate creative works from around the world. The most important places to visit in Chicago are: the Willis Tower, an iconic symbol of the city, the Millennium Park, a great urban park, among the most famous landmarks of Chicago and a site for many major city events, the Shedd Aquarium, one of the world's largest aquariums. Called the front lawn of Chicago, the Grant Park is a wonderfully landscaped park and offers many sites for an urban escape, the Navy Pier, situated right on Lake Michigan, has a festive atmosphere with entertainment, shops and restaurants. No Chicago tour is complete without a mention of the nightlife, so close out your day at a jazz lounge and let the sweet sound of music carry you away.

About the destination: Springfield is the capital of the state of Illinois and also the administrative center of Sangamon County. The city was founded in 1819; it became an administrative center in 1823, and received its fuero in 1840. It became the capital of Illinois in 1837. The legislative assembly was convened here, for the first time, in 1839. According to the 2010 census, 111,454 inhabitants live in the city. Originally, around 1810 the city was named Calhoun, after South Carolina Sen. John C. Calhoun, but after the population had been unraveled with Calhoun, the city was renamed Springfield. Abraham Lincoln is one of the most important and prominent inhabitants of the city; moved to the area in 1831, but did not live in the city itself until 1837. U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant also maintained ties to Springfield.

About the destination: Saint Louis is a major midwestern metropolis and Missouri’s largest city. Located on the western bank of the Mississippi River, Saint Louis is a great American city to visit. The city has many interesting sites, both historic and modern, really great food, all types of music, architecture, museums and other attractions. The Gateway Arch is the most famous landmark in Saint Louis and it does dominate the skyline. It is set in the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial right along the Mississippi riverfront on the edge of downtown. There is an underground museum and at the top, the view is spectacular. The Old Courthouse is part of the National Park Service's Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, and in contrast with the straight skyscrapers that surround it, this classical building composes, with the arch in the background the best sight of town. Most of the museums in the city are world-class and free. Soulard is the pub district in Saint Louis, but there is free entertainment many nights of the week and all over the city, plus unique restaurants and bars with live music far into the night and live theatre and concert venues to entertain you, too. Saint Louis, Gateway to the West, offers visitors an all-American experience.

About the destination: Springfield is the third largest city in the State of Missouri and the County of Greene County seat. It is one of two major cities in the metropolitan area of Springfield-Branson, Dallas, Greene, Polk, Webster, stone and Taney. Springfields nickname is the Queen City of the Ozarks and is known as the birthplace of route 66. It is also home to several universities including University of Evangel, Missouri State University and Drury University.

About the destination: Tulsa is the second US state of Oklahoma largest city , and the number 46 of the United States. With a population of 391,906 inhabitants , What today is known as Tulsa was part of Indian territory which was created as part of the relocation of the Five Civilized Tribes , Choctaw , Cherokee , Creek ( muskogui ) , Chickasaw and Seminole . These tribes moved into the region after the adoption of the "Indian Removal Act " of 1830 when they were forced to surrender their lands east of the Mississippi River by the federal government, in exchange for land in Indian Territory .

About the destination: Oklahoma City is the capital of the state of Oklahoma. It is a cool city filled with warm hospitality. It's why they call Oklahoma City "Cool & Warm." Oklahoma City's hip, spirited environment blends with its deep western heritage, creating an exciting destination steeped in culture and adventure. Discover all of the things to do in Oklahoma City, including renowned festivals, national sporting events, and treasure-filled museums. Explore the variety that OKC's districts offer, including arts and entertainment, shopping, history and heritage and more. The possibilities for fun in Oklahoma City are endless. Don’t miss Crystal Bridge and Myriad Botanical Gardens.

About the destination: Amarillo, which means "yellow" in Spanish, is the center of the Texas Panhandle, located at the edge of the Great Plains. Amarillo offers a true Western heritage, a unique geographical area with wide open spaces and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. With its relatively mild climate, the city is rated as having some of the cleanest air in the country. Indians, conquistadors, buffalo hunters, settlers, cowboys, adventurers, lawmen, gunfighters, and the railroad all contributed in many ways to the development and growth of the area. That heritage is still felt here, where "cowboy" is still an honorable profession. Here you can enjoy the very best of the Old and New West! Today Amarillo is one of the dominant cities in the Panhandle Plains and is home to a variety of industries along with a number of places to interest tourists, especially those on the Route 66. Amarillo is also gateway to Palo Duro Canyon, America's second largest canyon. Palo Duro Canyon is unique with rock formations and a valley with wonderful views and pictures.

About the destination: Santa Fe, New Mexico is a magical, exuberant, colorful journey at any time of year. Its legendary history and culture will fascinate and inspire you. Its art galleries and diverse visual arts span ancient traditional techniques to the most contemporary and edgy. Santa Fe is home to more than a dozen fascinating museums that document the region's history, art and cultures. Here you'll find the country's sole museum devoted to a woman artist, Georgia O'Keeffe. Many visitors travel here to experience fascinating historic sites, including stunning remnants of ancient Native American communities near Santa Fe and pueblo communities still vibrant today.

About the destination: Monument Valley, straddling the border between Utah and Arizona, is one of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest. Towering sandstone buttes rise dramatically from a vast red desert floor, creating a cinematic backdrop that has appeared in countless Western films and commercials. The scenery is especially spectacular at sunrise and sunset, when the rocks glow in shades of orange, crimson, and purple under the changing light. Most visitors begin at the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, where an entrance fee grants access to the 17-mile Valley Drive, a rough dirt road that winds past many of the valley’s most famous formations, such as the Mittens and Merrick Butte. While self-driving is possible in suitable vehicles, hiring a Navajo guide is highly recommended. Guided tours, often in open-air 4x4s, not only reach viewpoints off-limits to private cars, but also offer insight into Navajo history, culture, and traditions tied to this sacred landscape. Accommodation ranges from simple motels in nearby Kayenta and Mexican Hat to the more atmospheric lodges and cabins around the park. Staying overnight allows you to experience the valley at its quietest, with dark skies full of stars and the silhouettes of buttes on the horizon. For a closer connection with the land, some local operators offer overnight experiences and traditional meals hosted by Navajo families. When planning your visit, keep in mind that this is Navajo Nation land, and local customs and rules should be respected. Distances in the region are long, services can be sparse, and temperatures swing from very hot in summer to freezing in winter. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and a full tank of gas, and consider combining Monument Valley with other nearby attractions such as the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, or Lake Powell to create a memorable Southwest road trip.

About the destination: Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic landscapes on the planet. Stretching 277 miles (446 km) across northern Arizona, its layered cliffs reveal a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and golds that change dramatically with the light. Standing at the rim, you’ll look down more than a mile to the river below, with panoramic views that are especially stunning at sunrise and sunset from popular lookout points like Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View. Most visitors base themselves on the South Rim, home to Grand Canyon Village, where you’ll find historic lodges, visitor centers, restaurants, and easy access to shuttle buses and hiking trails. The Rim Trail offers relatively flat, family‑friendly walks with spectacular views, while the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails descend into the canyon for more challenging hikes. For a different perspective, consider a guided bike ride, a mule trip, or a helicopter tour, all of which provide unforgettable ways to experience the vast scale of the canyon. The quieter North Rim, open seasonally from roughly mid‑May to mid‑October, offers a more secluded experience with cooler temperatures and dense forests. Here, scenic drives and viewpoints such as Bright Angel Point and Cape Royal showcase sweeping vistas without the crowds. Lodging and services are more limited, so reservations are essential, but the reward is a more tranquil connection with the landscape. A visit to the Grand Canyon is best planned with the desert climate in mind: summers can be extremely hot along the inner canyon, while winter brings snow and icy trails along the rims. Spring and fall offer milder conditions and fewer visitors. Whether you’re stopping for a day or staying longer to hike, raft, or explore nearby Native American sites, the Grand Canyon promises a powerful encounter with the natural world—and a highlight of any trip through the American Southwest.

About the destination: Welcome to Seligman, Arizona – A Quintessential Slice of Americana! Nestled in the heart of the American Southwest, Seligman, Arizona, is a charming town that offers a nostalgic journey back to the golden days of Route 66. Often referred to as the "Birthplace of Historic Route 66," this delightful destination is a treasure trove of classic Americana and a must-visit for road trip enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking to experience a slice of vintage America. Begin your adventure at the iconic Seligman Sundries, where the walls are lined with memorabilia that tells the story of the Mother Road. This historic establishment is not just a gift shop but a time capsule that captures the essence of a bygone era. After picking up some souvenirs, take a leisurely stroll down the main street and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. You'll encounter an array of colorful, retro-themed establishments, including the famous Snow Cap Drive-In, known for its quirky decor and deliciously indulgent burgers and shakes. Don't forget to snap a photo with the vintage cars and humorous signs that add to the town's whimsical charm. For a deeper dive into history, the Route 66 Roadkill Cafe offers a mix of humor with its "you kill it, we grill it" motto, while serving up hearty American fare that will fuel your journey. The Historic Seligman Garage is another must-see, featuring an incredible collection of vintage cars and Route 66 memorabilia that will transport you back in time. The town's dedication to preserving its Route 66 heritage is evident in every corner, from the well-maintained neon signs to the murals that adorn the walls of local businesses, depicting scenes from Seligman's storied past. As the sun sets over the Arizona desert, Seligman's charm doesn't fade. The town's laid-back vibe and friendly locals make it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Whether you're staying overnight or just passing through, Seligman offers a warm welcome and an unforgettable experience. So grab your map, put on your favorite classic tunes, and head to Seligman, AZ – where the spirit of Route 66 lives on!

About the destination: Las Vegas is the largest city in the U.S. state of Nevada. Nicknamed the Entertainment Capital of the World or Sin City, it is situated in the Mojave Desert and is surrounded by dry mountains. Las Vegas is famous worldwide for its consolidated casino–hotels and associated entertainment. The city houses many mega-hotel complexes decorated with lavish care and attention to detail creating a fantasy-like environment. All hotels have a unique style, there are special sights everywhere, and every hotel has its own casino. Most of the hotel casinos are in the city's downtown area, along The Las Vegas Strip. The Strip is a world of its own. Where else can you go to visit Egypt, New York, Venice, Disneyland, Hollywood, and much more all on one street? The fact is that all the action that Las Vegas is famous for is happening on this one and only street. Bellagio could be considered unofficial centre of the Strip, one of the reasons being the free displays of musical fountains which go off at every half an hour with different choreography accompanied by different music. Bellagio is one of the more stylish venues with a superb flower garden and for those with gourmet inclinations, it offers arguably one of the best buffets in town. The Venetian is another point where one might linger longer due to its fabulous attempt of recreating Venice in the desert. The main square of Venice is filled with gondolas ply the waters channels and opera singers entertain their captive audience on board. The opposite end of the Strip is closest to the airport starting with the funny rendition of Egypt with its Luxor casino despite the fact that there are no pyramids in Luxor, but everything is possible in Las Vegas.

About the destination: Nicknamed the City of Angels, Los Angeles is a leading world centre of business, international trade, entertainment, culture, media, fashion, science, sports, technology, and education. Los Angeles is architecturally diverse and its attractions are spread over a large area. Downtown is a thriving urban centre, a business district and home to the Grand Avenue cultural corridor. Everyone knows about Hollywood and you have got to visit the Hollywood sign, when in Los Angeles, as well as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where Hollywood celebrates its contribution to entertainment through these celebrity stars. Experience the colourful lifestyle of the West Coast on the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Here, you will find a festive atmosphere, eclectic entertainers and funky shops. By the scene at Santa Monica Beach, is the famous Pier with a perennial carnival like setting. Draws locals, as well as visitors from around the world. Located in Griffith Park on Mt. Hollywood is the Griffith Observatory. This great public observatory has state of the art facilities and excellent views of Los Angeles. If you are a shopping buff, you will love Rodeo Drive. A glamorous shopping District, Rodeo Drive is full of upscale and fashionable shops. Take a walk around Beverly Hills, you might even spot a celebrity in this neighbourhood. This city offers great weather, good shopping, lots of diversity, great cultural events, excellent dining, and friendly people. Los Angeles is cool, fake, stylized, vast and never boring.