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Highlights of Route 66 with Mother Road Festival & Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

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Highlights of Route 66 with Mother Road Festival & Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Our Price From 5,642 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 207 Per Person
 Trip Length
16 Days
 Trip Starts
Chicago
 Trip Finishes
Los Angeles
16 Day Highlights of Route 66 with Mother Road Festival & Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Itinerary (Cosmos)
Countries Explored: USA
Our Price From 5,642 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 207 Per Person
 Trip Length
16 Days
 Trip Starts
Chicago
 Trip Finishes
Los Angeles
16 Day Highlights of Route 66 with Mother Road Festival & Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Itinerary (Cosmos)
Countries Explored: USA
Trip Style
Regional Discovery
Departures
Accommodation
3 - 4 Star
Max. Group Size
50
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
8580
Trip Style
Regional Discovery
Departures
Accommodation
3 - 4 Star
Max. Group Size
50
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
8580

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Cosmos 16 Day Highlights of Route 66 with Mother Road Festival & Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Get your kicks on Route 66 with a legendary trip across America. This historic route, which was called the “Main Street of America” for more than 50 years before the advent of the US Interstate system, begins in Chicago, travels through eight states, and ends in Los Angeles. On this trip down memory lane, you’ll visit the major cities along Route 66, visit Route 66 museums, and step back in time to when the journey was part of the fun!

And you’ll be...read more just in time to experience two special events - the 20th Annual Mother Road Festival and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta! The annual Mother Road Festival in Springfield, Illinois, brings automobile and motorcycle enthusiasts with hot cars, cool trucks, and vintage bikes together to salute Route 66 and the tradition of the open road. Enjoy classic cars, live entertainment, and other scheduled activities.

Then on to St. Louis to witness amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River from the top of the 630-foot-tall Gateway Arch. Visit the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City to view antique cars and historic documents that help you feel what it was like to travel Route 66. In Albuquerque, watch the colorful spectacle of hundreds of balloons rising into the sky at the early morning Balloon Glow and the Mass Ascension at the International Balloon Fiesta, before continuing your journey. 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.”

Deviate from Route 66 to see breathtaking scenery at one of the Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon and then experience the excitement of Las Vegas where you can explore the Vegas Strip, take an optional trip to see Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel, or just relax by the pool. In Los Angeles, you’ll enjoy a tour of Hollywood, the Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, and finally Santa Monica, the ending point of Route 66. Discover vintage Americana, wide open spaces, and national treasures on this Route 66 tour designed for value-minded travel lovers.
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Cosmos 16 Day Highlights of Route 66 with Mother Road Festival & Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Get your kicks on Route 66 with a legendary trip across America. This historic route, which was called the “Main Street of America” for more than 50 years before the advent of the US Interstate system, begins in Chicago, travels through eight states, and ends in Los Angeles. On this trip down memory lane, you’ll visit the major cities along Route 66, visit Route 66 museums, and step back in time to when the journey was part of the fun!

And you’ll be...read more just in time to experience two special events - the 20th Annual Mother Road Festival and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta! The annual Mother Road Festival in Springfield, Illinois, brings automobile and motorcycle enthusiasts with hot cars, cool trucks, and vintage bikes together to salute Route 66 and the tradition of the open road. Enjoy classic cars, live entertainment, and other scheduled activities.

Then on to St. Louis to witness amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River from the top of the 630-foot-tall Gateway Arch. Visit the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City to view antique cars and historic documents that help you feel what it was like to travel Route 66. In Albuquerque, watch the colorful spectacle of hundreds of balloons rising into the sky at the early morning Balloon Glow and the Mass Ascension at the International Balloon Fiesta, before continuing your journey. 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.”

Deviate from Route 66 to see breathtaking scenery at one of the Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon and then experience the excitement of Las Vegas where you can explore the Vegas Strip, take an optional trip to see Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel, or just relax by the pool. In Los Angeles, you’ll enjoy a tour of Hollywood, the Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, and finally Santa Monica, the ending point of Route 66. Discover vintage Americana, wide open spaces, and national treasures on this Route 66 tour designed for value-minded travel lovers.

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 magnificent 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, take a spin through Route 66 memorabilia with a visit to the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac. Housed in a historic fire station, this collection of fascinating items includes large maps to sketch out your upcoming Route 66 adventure, as well as nostalgic photos and postcards from the Mother Road's” heyday.

Then on to Springfield, the capital of Illinois, to enjoy the International Route 66 Festival, where the streets come alive with the rumble of engines from hotrod cars, cool trucks, and vintage motorcycles. There is free live entertainment featuring R&B, Motown, and chart-topping tunes of the 50s and 60s. There are also various exhibitors, vendors, and dozens of specialty food stalls. (CB)

Cross the mighty Mississippi River and continue to St. Louis, “Gateway to the West.” Your orientation tour includes the 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)

Travel through the Missouri countryside, exploring interesting quaint towns and quirky roadside attractions along Route 66. Overnight in Joplin, a town 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 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. Consider spending time in Old Town, site of the city's original settlement or visit one of the city's fine museums, like the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, Albuquerque Museum, or the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Enjoy an unforgettable experience at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta's early morning Balloon Glow followed by the Mass Ascension, where hundreds of colorful hot-air balloons fill the morning sky. Then depart Albuquerque and continue 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 the chance to spot elk grazing in the forested areas on the South Rim. For an unforgettable experience, consider an optional helicopter flightseeing tour for an awe-inspiring bird's-eye-view of 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.” This evening, join 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. Consider extending your vacation with extra nights to 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 magnificent 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, take a spin through Route 66 memorabilia with a visit to the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac. Housed in a historic fire station, this collection of fascinating items includes large maps to sketch out your upcoming Route 66 adventure, as well as nostalgic photos and postcards from the Mother Road's” heyday.

Then on to Springfield, the capital of Illinois, to enjoy the International Route 66 Festival, where the streets come alive with the rumble of engines from hotrod cars, cool trucks, and vintage motorcycles. There is free live entertainment featuring R&B, Motown, and chart-topping tunes of the 50s and 60s. There are also various exhibitors, vendors, and dozens of specialty food stalls. (CB)

Cross the mighty Mississippi River and continue to St. Louis, “Gateway to the West.” Your orientation tour includes the 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)

Travel through the Missouri countryside, exploring interesting quaint towns and quirky roadside attractions along Route 66. Overnight in Joplin, a town 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 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. Consider spending time in Old Town, site of the city's original settlement or visit one of the city's fine museums, like the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, Albuquerque Museum, or the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Enjoy an unforgettable experience at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta's early morning Balloon Glow followed by the Mass Ascension, where hundreds of colorful hot-air balloons fill the morning sky. Then depart Albuquerque and continue 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 the chance to spot elk grazing in the forested areas on the South Rim. For an unforgettable experience, consider an optional helicopter flightseeing tour for an awe-inspiring bird's-eye-view of 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.” This evening, join 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. Consider extending your vacation with extra nights to 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: Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Uptown (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.
  • Guests should be prepared for sustained walking (approximately 1/2 mile) and standing while at the Balloon Fiesta.
  • 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: Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Uptown (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.
  • Guests should be prepared for sustained walking (approximately 1/2 mile) and standing while at the Balloon Fiesta.
  • 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
Why Travel with Cosmos?
Why Travel with Cosmos?

Enjoy inside visits to North America's must-see sites with a great mix of included excursions, free time and affordable value. Read more

Personalise Your Adventure
Personalise Your Adventure

Cosmos build free time into every one of their holidays, so you can eat, shop, and explore the way you want. Read more

Cosmos's Expert Guides
Cosmos's Expert Guides

Cosmos' easy going, fun-filled and multilingual Tour Directors and Local Guides love exploring as much as you do. Read more

Why Travel with Cosmos?
Why Travel with Cosmos?

Enjoy inside visits to North America's must-see sites with a great mix of included excursions, free time and affordable value. Read more

Personalise Your Adventure
Personalise Your Adventure

Cosmos build free time into every one of their holidays, so you can eat, shop, and explore the way you want. Read more

Cosmos's Expert Guides
Cosmos's Expert Guides

Cosmos' easy going, fun-filled and multilingual Tour Directors and Local Guides love exploring as much as you do. Read more

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Thursday 25 Sep 2025
Friday 10 Oct 2025
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Note
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'.
Note
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.

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