Overview
On this trip down memory lane, you’ll travel to the major cities along Route 66, visit Route 66 museums, and step back in time to when the journey was part of the fun! Visit Pontiac’s Route...read more 66 Hall of Fame & Museum, which features memorabilia from the heyday of Route 66. In Springfield, visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, and in St. Louis, witness amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River from the top of the 630-foot-tall Gateway Arch. In Elk City, Oklahoma, stop at the National Route 66 Museum where antique cars and historic documents help you feel what it was like to travel Route 66. See more classic cars and memorabilia at Russell’s Car Museum in New Mexico. Overnight in Williams Arizona—listed in the National Register for Historic Places and where you’ll see neon signs of the intact circa 1940s “Motel Row.” Then deviate from Route 66 to see the breathtaking scenery at the Grand Canyon and the bright lights and excitement of Las Vegas.
Before arriving at the end of Route 66 in Santa Monica, California, visit the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville, which displays memories in such settings as a 50’s diner, VW Love Bus and the 1917 Model T Ford. These are just some of the many highlights of this Route 66 tour designed for value-minded travelers. So, sit back, relax, and let Cosmos handle the driving and details while you enjoy the ride!
On this trip down memory lane, you’ll travel to the major cities along Route 66, visit Route 66 museums, and step back in time to when the journey was part of the fun! Visit Pontiac’s Route...read more 66 Hall of Fame & Museum, which features memorabilia from the heyday of Route 66. In Springfield, visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, and in St. Louis, witness amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River from the top of the 630-foot-tall Gateway Arch. In Elk City, Oklahoma, stop at the National Route 66 Museum where antique cars and historic documents help you feel what it was like to travel Route 66. See more classic cars and memorabilia at Russell’s Car Museum in New Mexico. Overnight in Williams Arizona—listed in the National Register for Historic Places and where you’ll see neon signs of the intact circa 1940s “Motel Row.” Then deviate from Route 66 to see the breathtaking scenery at the Grand Canyon and the bright lights and excitement of Las Vegas.
Before arriving at the end of Route 66 in Santa Monica, California, visit the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville, which displays memories in such settings as a 50’s diner, VW Love Bus and the 1917 Model T Ford. These are just some of the many highlights of this Route 66 tour designed for value-minded travelers. So, sit back, relax, and let Cosmos handle the driving and details while you enjoy the ride!
Itinerary
Welcome to Chicago, the start of Route 66! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer questions.
Known as the “Windy City,” Chicago is home to iconic architecture, including one of America's tallest buildings, notorious gangster Al Capone, and countless jazz and blues clubs. Oh, and deep-dish pizza, of course! Get to know this exciting city on a morning sightseeing tour that includes the sign marking the start of historic Route 66. Spend a free afternoon exploring Chi Town—perhaps a visit to the 103rd-floor Skydeck of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), a walk along the Magnificent Mile, or an optional river cruise for a different view of the city's celebrated architecture. (CB)
This morning, immerse yourself in Route 66 memorabilia. Visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, housed in a historic fire station. See the large maps that will sketch out your Route 66 adventure for the coming days and enjoy the nostalgic photos and postcards from the “Mother Road's” heyday. Then on to Springfield, the capital of Illinois, where we will visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. (CB)
Cross the mighty Mississippi River and continue to St. Louis, “Gateway to the West.” Your orientation tour includes towering Gateway Arch National Park. Ascend to the top of the 630-foot-tall arch for a panoramic view of the city and river. Then drive along an original stretch of Route 66 and get the chance to savor some Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a Route 66 treat since 1929. (B)
Today, we travel through the Missouri countryside exploring interesting quaint towns and quirky roadside attractions along Route 66. Overnight in Joplin, a city where a couple of infamous outlaws named Bonnie and Clyde once hid out. (B)
After a quick drive through Kansas, enter Oklahoma, once known as Indian Territory and home to the Cherokee Nation. In Tulsa, see the “East Meets West” sculpture that pays tribute to Cyrus Avery, “The Father of Route 66.” Later today, arrive in Oklahoma City. (B)
Start the day with a sightseeing tour of Oklahoma City, the capital and largest city in Oklahoma. From here, travel to Elk City and visit the National Route 66 Museum for a journey through each of the eight states which Route 66 passes through. Continue into the Texas Panhandle en route to Amarillo, the Yellow Rose of Texas. (B)
On the way out of Amarillo, stop at Cadillac Ranch, a quirky art sculpture consisting of a collection of 10 colorful Cadillacs. Before crossing into New Mexico, reach Adrian, the halfway point on Route 66. Across the New Mexico border, visit Russell's Car Museum, featuring classic cars and memorabilia.
Next, stop in Tucumcari and shop for souvenirs at Teepee Curios. See the iconic Blue Swallow Motel that has been serving travelers of Route 66 since 1939, along with many original signs from the town's heyday. Visit Central Avenue in Albuquerque, where many of the original Route 66 buildings and businesses still stand. Afterward, there's free time to enjoy Historic Old Town with its fine parish church and Spanish-style plaza. (CB)
Enjoy a day at leisure in this Southwestern city of diverse cultures, authentic art, and rich history. Take a short walk to Old Town, site of the city's original settlement, or visit one of the Albuquerque's fine museums, like the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, Albuquerque Museum, or the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Consider an optional open-air, narrated Albuquerque trolley ride tour of the city's famous spots.
Depart Albuquerque and cross the Continental Divide continuing to Gallup, sometimes called the “Indian Capital of the World.” It is the homeland of Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and many other tribes who comprise a large percentage of the population. Then we'll be “Standing on the Corner of Winslow, Arizona”, the sleepy Route 66 town made famous by The Eagles in their hit song “Take It Easy”.
The next two nights are in Williams, gateway to the Grand Canyon, and listed in the National Register for Historic Places. The Historic Downtown District covers six square blocks and boasts a heritage that features the Old West and Route 66.
Deviate from Route 66 to see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Grand Canyon National Park. Wander along the canyon rim for breathtaking views and wildlife with a chance to spot elk grazing in the forested areas on the South Rim. Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience on an optional helicopter flightseeing tour for an awe-inspiring bird's eye view from above the canyon.
Return to Williams where the evening is free to explore the historic Americana-style shops and restaurants dating back to the early 1900s. Be sure to take note of the neon signs of the preserved circa 1940s “Motel Row.” (CB)
Depart Williams for Seligman, home to the rebirth of Route 66. Detour once again from Route 66 to visit the bright lights of Las Vegas. An orientation tour upon arrival shows off many of the themed casino resorts along the glittering “Strip.” What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, including an optional night on the town featuring an extravagant dinner followed by a dazzling live show featuring top Vegas entertainment. (CB)
A day at leisure to relax by the pool or explore the legendary Las Vegas Strip. Float through a Venetian canal, visit jaw-dropping horticultural displays, or test your luck at one of the many world-famous casinos—it's all possible in Las Vegas!
Don't miss downtown Las Vegas, where you'll find the Fremont Street Experience, five city blocks enclosed in a glass atrium and filled with dazzling lights, sounds, and action. History and engineering buffs won't want to miss an optional excursion to nearby Hoover Dam. Learn about the massive undertaking in building this towering engineering marvel known as the “Greatest Dam in the World.”
Today, depart the man-made oasis of Las Vegas, and cross the natural beauty of Mojave Desert and the San Bernardino Mountains en route to Los Angeles. Visit the California Route 66 Museum, to see its nostalgic 50's diner, VW Love Bus and the 1917 Model T Ford exhibits. Overnight in Los Angeles, where you'll visit Santa Monica, the ending point of Route 66.
Explore the exciting “City of Angels” with a morning tour of legendary Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, and Hollywood, where you'll walk along the stars on Hollywood Boulevard, and get a photo of the iconic Hollywood sign. This afternoon is at leisure. Get a real taste of Hollywood on the optional Warner Bros. Studio tour where you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how TV and movies are made, including seeing famous sets from the big and small screen.
Your vacation ends this morning. You may choose to extend your vacation with extra nights and explore Los Angeles further.
Welcome to Chicago, the start of Route 66! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer questions.
Known as the “Windy City,” Chicago is home to iconic architecture, including one of America's tallest buildings, notorious gangster Al Capone, and countless jazz and blues clubs. Oh, and deep-dish pizza, of course! Get to know this exciting city on a morning sightseeing tour that includes the sign marking the start of historic Route 66. Spend a free afternoon exploring Chi Town—perhaps a visit to the 103rd-floor Skydeck of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), a walk along the Magnificent Mile, or an optional river cruise for a different view of the city's celebrated architecture. (CB)
This morning, immerse yourself in Route 66 memorabilia. Visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, housed in a historic fire station. See the large maps that will sketch out your Route 66 adventure for the coming days and enjoy the nostalgic photos and postcards from the “Mother Road's” heyday. Then on to Springfield, the capital of Illinois, where we will visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. (CB)
Cross the mighty Mississippi River and continue to St. Louis, “Gateway to the West.” Your orientation tour includes towering Gateway Arch National Park. Ascend to the top of the 630-foot-tall arch for a panoramic view of the city and river. Then drive along an original stretch of Route 66 and get the chance to savor some Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a Route 66 treat since 1929. (B)
Today, we travel through the Missouri countryside exploring interesting quaint towns and quirky roadside attractions along Route 66. Overnight in Joplin, a city where a couple of infamous outlaws named Bonnie and Clyde once hid out. (B)
After a quick drive through Kansas, enter Oklahoma, once known as Indian Territory and home to the Cherokee Nation. In Tulsa, see the “East Meets West” sculpture that pays tribute to Cyrus Avery, “The Father of Route 66.” Later today, arrive in Oklahoma City. (B)
Start the day with a sightseeing tour of Oklahoma City, the capital and largest city in Oklahoma. From here, travel to Elk City and visit the National Route 66 Museum for a journey through each of the eight states which Route 66 passes through. Continue into the Texas Panhandle en route to Amarillo, the Yellow Rose of Texas. (B)
On the way out of Amarillo, stop at Cadillac Ranch, a quirky art sculpture consisting of a collection of 10 colorful Cadillacs. Before crossing into New Mexico, reach Adrian, the halfway point on Route 66. Across the New Mexico border, visit Russell's Car Museum, featuring classic cars and memorabilia.
Next, stop in Tucumcari and shop for souvenirs at Teepee Curios. See the iconic Blue Swallow Motel that has been serving travelers of Route 66 since 1939, along with many original signs from the town's heyday. Visit Central Avenue in Albuquerque, where many of the original Route 66 buildings and businesses still stand. Afterward, there's free time to enjoy Historic Old Town with its fine parish church and Spanish-style plaza. (CB)
Enjoy a day at leisure in this Southwestern city of diverse cultures, authentic art, and rich history. Take a short walk to Old Town, site of the city's original settlement, or visit one of the Albuquerque's fine museums, like the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, Albuquerque Museum, or the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Consider an optional open-air, narrated Albuquerque trolley ride tour of the city's famous spots.
Depart Albuquerque and cross the Continental Divide continuing to Gallup, sometimes called the “Indian Capital of the World.” It is the homeland of Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and many other tribes who comprise a large percentage of the population. Then we'll be “Standing on the Corner of Winslow, Arizona”, the sleepy Route 66 town made famous by The Eagles in their hit song “Take It Easy”.
The next two nights are in Williams, gateway to the Grand Canyon, and listed in the National Register for Historic Places. The Historic Downtown District covers six square blocks and boasts a heritage that features the Old West and Route 66.
Deviate from Route 66 to see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Grand Canyon National Park. Wander along the canyon rim for breathtaking views and wildlife with a chance to spot elk grazing in the forested areas on the South Rim. Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience on an optional helicopter flightseeing tour for an awe-inspiring bird's eye view from above the canyon.
Return to Williams where the evening is free to explore the historic Americana-style shops and restaurants dating back to the early 1900s. Be sure to take note of the neon signs of the preserved circa 1940s “Motel Row.” (CB)
Depart Williams for Seligman, home to the rebirth of Route 66. Detour once again from Route 66 to visit the bright lights of Las Vegas. An orientation tour upon arrival shows off many of the themed casino resorts along the glittering “Strip.” What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, including an optional night on the town featuring an extravagant dinner followed by a dazzling live show featuring top Vegas entertainment. (CB)
A day at leisure to relax by the pool or explore the legendary Las Vegas Strip. Float through a Venetian canal, visit jaw-dropping horticultural displays, or test your luck at one of the many world-famous casinos—it's all possible in Las Vegas!
Don't miss downtown Las Vegas, where you'll find the Fremont Street Experience, five city blocks enclosed in a glass atrium and filled with dazzling lights, sounds, and action. History and engineering buffs won't want to miss an optional excursion to nearby Hoover Dam. Learn about the massive undertaking in building this towering engineering marvel known as the “Greatest Dam in the World.”
Today, depart the man-made oasis of Las Vegas, and cross the natural beauty of Mojave Desert and the San Bernardino Mountains en route to Los Angeles. Visit the California Route 66 Museum, to see its nostalgic 50's diner, VW Love Bus and the 1917 Model T Ford exhibits. Overnight in Los Angeles, where you'll visit Santa Monica, the ending point of Route 66.
Explore the exciting “City of Angels” with a morning tour of legendary Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, and Hollywood, where you'll walk along the stars on Hollywood Boulevard, and get a photo of the iconic Hollywood sign. This afternoon is at leisure. Get a real taste of Hollywood on the optional Warner Bros. Studio tour where you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how TV and movies are made, including seeing famous sets from the big and small screen.
Your vacation ends this morning. You may choose to extend your vacation with extra nights and explore Los Angeles further.
Trip Inclusions
- The world is within reach with everything you need for perfectly affordable touring. Cosmos includes hand-selected accommodations, guided sightseeing, and seamless transportation between destinations—with value-minded travel lovers in mind. Explore with expert Cosmos Tour Directors and Local Guides, and private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi (where available).
- 9 Breakfasts
- Chicago: Hotel Saint Clair (Superior Tourist-Class)
- Springfield: Drury Inn & Suites Springfield (Moderate First-Class)
- St Louis: Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Convention Center (Moderate First-Class)
- Joplin: Drury Inn & Suites Joplin (Moderate First-Class)
- Oklahoma City: Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel (Superior First-Class)
- Amarillo: Country Inn & Suites Amarillo West (Superior Tourist-Class)
- Albuquerque: Best Western Plus Rio Grande Albuquerque (Moderate First-Class)
- Williams: La Quinta Inn and Suites-Grand Canyon Area (Superior Tourist-Class)
- Las Vegas: Sahara Las Vegas (Moderate Deluxe)
- Los Angeles: Westin Bonaventure (Superior First-Class)
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- On vacations that include an overnight stay in Las Vegas, at least one member of the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older.
- Maximum elevation on tour: 7,262 ft
- The world is within reach with everything you need for perfectly affordable touring. Cosmos includes hand-selected accommodations, guided sightseeing, and seamless transportation between destinations—with value-minded travel lovers in mind. Explore with expert Cosmos Tour Directors and Local Guides, and private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi (where available).
- 9 Breakfasts
- Chicago: Hotel Saint Clair (Superior Tourist-Class)
- Springfield: Drury Inn & Suites Springfield (Moderate First-Class)
- St Louis: Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Convention Center (Moderate First-Class)
- Joplin: Drury Inn & Suites Joplin (Moderate First-Class)
- Oklahoma City: Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel (Superior First-Class)
- Amarillo: Country Inn & Suites Amarillo West (Superior Tourist-Class)
- Albuquerque: Best Western Plus Rio Grande Albuquerque (Moderate First-Class)
- Williams: La Quinta Inn and Suites-Grand Canyon Area (Superior Tourist-Class)
- Las Vegas: Sahara Las Vegas (Moderate Deluxe)
- Los Angeles: Westin Bonaventure (Superior First-Class)
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- On vacations that include an overnight stay in Las Vegas, at least one member of the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older.
- Maximum elevation on tour: 7,262 ft
Enjoy inside visits to North America's must-see sites with a great mix of included excursions, free time and affordable value. Read more
Cosmos build free time into every one of their vacations, so you can eat, shop, and explore the way you want. Read more
Cosmos' easy going, fun-filled and multilingual Tour Directors and Local Guides love exploring as much as you do. Read more
Enjoy inside visits to North America's must-see sites with a great mix of included excursions, free time and affordable value. Read more
Cosmos build free time into every one of their vacations, so you can eat, shop, and explore the way you want. Read more
Cosmos' easy going, fun-filled and multilingual Tour Directors and Local Guides love exploring as much as you do. Read more
Trip Reviews (17) View All Most Recent 'Highlights of Route 66' Reviews
what we did not like was the spiel about giving tips and how much we should give to the driver and tour director.
The add on tours that were offered were generally good value and catered for different tastes and budgets. Only one concern/disappointment for us and many other folk on the tour was the very long "free" time at the Grand Canyon, after we had been shown the highlights, we had to endure nearly four hours waiting for the Coach to return from other duties to pick us up. We recommend that the gratitudes/tips for driver & tour director be prepaid before leaving, in our case Australia, that would be much more cost effective than running the tipping gauntlet/con in the US while on tour.
Brochure
Cosmos Worldwide (2025-26)
Brochure
Cosmos Worldwide (2025-26)
Availability
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. For all itineraries that include a cruise, Cosmos may apply a surcharge depending on the cabin categories available on your selected departure. Your Travel Advisor will provide this information in your quote if applicable. Your Travel Advisor will also apply any appropriate discounts automatically and detail any currently applicable 'Exclusive Specials'.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Cosmos. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Cosmos. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
