Route 66 in the United States: The Dream Ride

We all know there are different kinds of motorcycle riders. Some use the bike as a practical way to get around, others chase that feeling of freedom on two wheels… and then there are those who are drawn to the mystique of legendary roads.

For many of them, if there is one iconic journey that represents the ultimate motorcycle dream, it is undoubtedly Route 66, crossing the United States from east to west (or the other way around).

Chicago to Los Angeles: Almost 4,000 Kilometers of America

From Chicago to Los Angeles, Route 66 runs through nearly 4,000 kilometers and crosses nine states: California, Michigan, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Illinois.

Coast to coast, through the heart of deep America.

Planning the Adventure

There is endless material written about this legendary highway, and plenty of guides to help you prepare your motorcycle for such a trip .

But beyond all the practical advice, one question matters most: how and with whom will you do it?

Organized Tour or Going Solo?

Our recommendation is to consider professional agencies that organize Route 66 motorcycle tours. They will guide you through the stages according to your schedule and preferences.

And most importantly: if you have a mechanical problem, they solve it quickly, so you lose as little time as possible.

If you travel independently, those issues become your responsibility. We’re not saying one way is better than the other — just showing you the options.

Best Time of Year

The ideal season is between June and October. Yes, the heat can be intense, but it is also the driest time of year.

And if motorcyclists agree on one thing, it’s that rain is rarely welcome on a long road trip.

How Long Should It Take?

Ideally, plan for 15 days. That way you won’t need exhausting daily distances, and you’ll have time to enjoy the many quirky and beautiful places along the way.

Where to Sleep and Eat

The most authentic lodging option remains the classic roadside motel — the kind you’ve seen in countless American movies.

But of course, your choice depends on your budget. Booking ahead is advisable during busy travel seasons.

Food won’t be a problem — unless you have special dietary needs such as vegan or gluten-free, which can be harder to find in remote areas.

Estimated Budget

• Motels: €40–€60 per night
• Meals: €30–€50 per day per person
• Gasoline: around $0.83 per liter (about €0.75)

Keep in mind fuel is sold in gallons: 1 gallon = 3.8 liters.

On top of this, add motorcycle rental or tour costs, insurance, transportation, ESTA, souvenirs, laundry, and personal expenses.

Must-See Stops Along Route 66

And above all, don’t skip these unforgettable highlights:

• Hackberry General Store (Arizona) — like a living museum of Route 66: vintage signs, rusty cars, fuel pumps, pure nostalgia.
• Gemini Giant (Illinois) — a quirky 9-meter statue honoring NASA’s Gemini space project.
• The first McDonald’s (San Bernardino, near Los Angeles).
• Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas) — half-buried Cadillacs covered in graffiti, a surreal roadside landmark.
• Twin Arrows (Arizona) — another strange and iconic Route 66 stop.
• Elbow Inn Bar (Missouri) — a temple for Harley-Davidson lovers.

Add places like Jack Rabbit Trading Post, the bridges, the road signs, and countless small towns… everything becomes part of the magic.

Final Thought

Design your Route 66, lose yourself in the landscape, and live one of the greatest motorcycle journeys on Earth.

Enjoy the ride — and we’ll be waiting for your return.