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“If you ever plan to motor west
Travel my way, take the highway that’s the best
Get your kicks on Route 66!
It winds from Chicago to L.A.
More than two thousand miles all the way.
Get your kicks on Route 66!
Now you go through St. Looey, Joplin, Missouri
And Oklahoma City looks mighty pretty.
You’ll see Amarillo, Gallup, New Mexico
Flagstaff, Arizona; don’t forget Winona,
Kingman, Barstow, San Bernardino.
Won’t you get hip to this timely tip
When you make that California trip.
Get your kicks on Route 66.”
When you make that California trip!
If any Joe tells you to go some other way, say nix!
Get your kicks on Route 66!
Bobby Troup, Copyright 1946, Londontown Music
Introduction
Are you looking for the real America? Do you want to
experience America during the days of “cool” when
television buddies Marty Milner and George Maharis drove their
“adventure bound” red corvette along Route 66 looking
for fun? Do you want to get out of the fast lane of fast food
and fast times and into the real heartland of the United States?
Welcome to the Mother Road, the route young men took from the
Midwest to discover the glitz and glamour of LA and a road that
still passes through small towns that haven’t changed a
lot since then. It was originally conceived to connect rural Oklahoma
with Los Angeles and Chicago. It was originally pulled together
using bits and pieces of existing roadways worked into a cohesive
cord connecting towns, cultures and regions of a vast country,
some of which had not had access before. You’ll be astounded
by the huge variety of places you experience between the steel
and glass canyons of the Miracle Mile in Chicago to Grand Canyon
National Park. The rich fields of the Midwest transform into red
rock desert and back again once you arrive in central California.
The road has tremendous American history. John Steinbeck observed
in The Grapes of Wrath, “they come into 66 from the tributary
side roads, from the wagon tracks and the rutted country roads,
66 is the mother road, the road of flight” as he witnessed
over 200,000 Dust Bowl farmers escaping to California.
By the time Route 66 had become America’s Main Street,
it was intended to be replaced entirely by the new Interstate
highway system. Some of it has. But Route 66 refused to die so
other places still have the wonderful old trading posts, filling
stations, motels, tourist traps, and diners that have been there
for decades. Preservation groups are working diligently to preserve
what remains of the authenticity and icons of America’s
golden age of road trips. As you travel you can enjoy the scents
of new mown hay and hickory smoke drifting from the pit barbeque
chimneys. Taste a real American hamburger and a rich creamy malt
prepared they way they used to be. Experience Sky City where Native
Americans live exactly like they did four hundred years ago. Pull
over along a deserted stretch in the Mojave and listen to the
hum of millions of wheels that have passed this way.
We invite you to take a once in a lifetime road trip and drive
a real piece of American history, while staying in a collection
of completely unique accommodations related to Route 66 lore.
Savor and enjoy this truly authentic American experience.
Itinerary Summary
With over 2400 miles to cover Route 66 involves some
substantial driving. For this reason we offer this program in
both a 14 night and 21 night version. The summarised stops for
each version are shown below. The extended program offers more
time in major locations and also includes 2 additional stops in
Santa Fe, New Mexico and Chinle, Arizona. Modified versions of
either itinerary to suit your own individual preferences can be
prepared on request.
Flights
We are very proud to work with British Airways and have
negotiated special inclusive tour rates exclusive to Complete
North America for this itinerary giving you a great deal on non-stop
flights with one of the finest carriers in the world. Should you
be interested we can also extend special reduced travel rates
in British Airways World Traveller Plus, Club World and FIRST.
You have a choice of non-stop flights between London and Chicago
and Los Angeles and London subject to availability and we can
offer discounted regional flights around the U.K. to connect with
these London departures.
Accommodation
The accommodations used in this itinerary were carefully
selected for their contribution to your experience and their relationship
with Route 66. Some are newly constructed. Others are newly restored
and include properties that have accommodated travelers on Route
66 for decades. If you wish to upgrade any of your stays to larger
full-service hotels, that type of property is available in most
locations. We would be glad to prepare a personalised quote for
you on request.
Financial Protection
By booking this complete package with Complete North
America you benefit from reduced rates on flights, accommodation
and car rental along with complete financial protection. We are
fully bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority and this package
is ATOL protected under ATOL No.5368.

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14 Night itinerary
- Chicago, IL
1 night – Hilton Chicago
- St. Louis, MO
1 night – Lodge at Grant’s Trail
- Springfield, MO
1 night – Route 66 Rail Haven
- Oklahoma City, OK
1 night – Skirvin Hilton
- Amarillo, TX
1 night - Big Texan Hotel
- Tucumcari, NM
1 night – Historic Blue Swallow Inn
- Albuquerque, NM
2 nights – Route 66 Casino Hotel
- Holbrook, AZ
1 night – Heward House At Holbrook
- Grand Canyon, AZ
1 night – The Lodge on Route 66
- Las Vegas, NV
2 nights – Circus Circus Hotel
- Los Angeles, CA
2 nights – Hotel California
Total = 14 nights |
21 night variation includes
- 1 additional night in Chicago, IL
- 1 night - Springfield, IL –
Route 66 Hotel (Not to be confused with Springfield, MO
in 14 night itinerary)
- 1 additional night in St. Louis, MO
- 2 nights – Santa Fe, NM –
Eldorado Hotel
- No overnight in Holbrook, AZ
- 1 night – Chinle, AZ –
Holiday Inn
- 1 additional night at the Grand Canyon, AZ
- 1 additional night in Los Angeles, CA
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Flights
We are very proud to work with British Airways and have negotiated
special inclusive tour rates exclusive to Complete North America
for this itinerary giving you a great deal on non-stop flights
with one of the finest carriers in the world. Should you be interested
we can also extend special reduced travel rates in British Airways
World Traveller Plus, Club World and FIRST. You have a choice
of non-stop flights between London and Chicago and Los Angeles
and London subject to availability and we can offer discounted
regional flights around the U.K. to connect with these London
departures.
Accommodation
The accommodation used in this itinerary offers exceptional value
for money. In most cases the motels are located on the outskirts
of major towns. They are chosen as we have found them to be clean,
comfortable and welcoming, with good basic facilities and in most
cases free parking. If you wish to upgrade any of your stays to
more centrally located hotels then we would be glad to prepare
a personalised quote for you on request.
Financial Protection
By booking this complete package with Complete North America you
benefit from reduced rates on flights, accommodation and car rental
along with complete financial protection. We are fully bonded
with the Civil Aviation Authority and this package is ATOL protected
under ATOL No.5368.
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| Day 1 |
Arrival
Chicago
Depart London Heathrow – 1140
Arrive Chicago – 1355
Journey Time – 8 hours 30 minutes
Route 66 through Illinois was first used by Native Americans
as a trading path followed by fur trappers and traders who sought
a path to the Mississippi River to ship their goods downstream
to French New Orleans. Al Capone and the rumrunners kept the road
busy right after it became the first fully paved highway in Illinois
in the early 1920s. When the old Route 66 road signs came down
in 1977, the strong relationship of the road to the people who
travel it brought new Historic Route 66 signs back almost immediately.
When the highway department would not pay for them, bake sales,
auctions, festivals and other truly American events raised money
to bring them back.
After you take a taxi to the Old Chicago Inn, you can begin your
own historic “road trip” immediately since your innkeeper
is an antique car affectianado. After you get settled in, Chicago’s
famed Magnificent Mile, Michigan Avenue, Watertower Place, the
Navy Pier, the Merchandise Mart, Shedd Aquarium and the Field
Museum are not far away.
As you explore one or a selection of these world class attractions,
you can begin thinking about your upcoming journey on the Mother
Road. Although Route 66 virtually parallels the interstate anywhere
portions of the actual road exist, even today hundreds of men,
young and old (and women) take this trip every year from Chicago
to Los Angeles. America unfolds as you travel through the Ozarks,
authentic American towns in southwest and vast open deserts. You
can start your trip at Grant Park, the exact place where Route
66 begins.
Accommodations in Chicago
Hilton Chicago - Stay at the Hilton
Chicago overlooking Grant Park where Route 66 begins.
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| Day 2 |
Chicago
to St. Louis – 300 miles
Most of today will be spent traveling
through Illinois farmlands on your way to St. Louis, the crossroads
where highways from Chicago, Kansas City, Memphis, Nashville,
and Indianapolis meet. The city was originally the focal point
of Indian trails that ran all across the US and the jumping off
point for Lewis and Clark’s Expedition of Discovery to open
the West through the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase. It will
also be your jumping off point to points south and west, as you
begin your journey through the wide open spaces.
Springfield, the Illinois State Capital, is Abraham Lincoln country.
He left here to serve as President of the United States during
the most awful period in American history, the Civil War and returned
as a fallen hero, a casualty of the same war. New Salem where
Lincoln lived and worked for six years has been reconstructed.
Costumed interpreters bring the village alive. The Lincoln Home
National Historic Site is the centerpiece of a four block historic
neighborhood. The President’s Tomb, Presidential Library
and original law office are also open for touring.
As you cross from Illinois into Missouri you’ll be crossing
the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge. Be sure to stop at Ted Drew’s
Frozen Custard, serving Route 66 travelers since 1929. In St.
Louis, the original Route 66 tracked through town very near the
Gateway Arch and we definitely recommend riding the elevator inside
Arch to the top of the 630 foot structure. Spectacular views of
the Mississippi River await. In the evening, you can catch up
with the St. Louie Blues, which were born right here and taste
the fruits of Anheuser-Busch, the world’s largest brewer.
Accommodations in St. Louis
Lodge at Grant’s Trail - Select
a theme room at this new lodge right on Route 66 specifically
created as a relaxing Bed and Breakfast property.
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| Day 3 |
St. Louis
to Springfield 210 miles
Route 66 from St. Louis to Springfield, Missouri takes you through
the lush rolling hills of the Missouri Ozark Mountains. The road
follows the Great Osage Trail, a major Indian path across the
state and a route used by Jess James, of famed James Gang fame,
who locals knew as “just a nice Missouri boy!” One
of the most famous attractions on Route 66, Meramec Caverns was
also used by the James Gang as a hideout when escaping the law.
Lester Dill who owns Meramec Caverns started the American advertising
institution, the bumper sticker, when he gave away portable advertising
to all who stopped by to visit.
Much of the rural Ozark region, punctuated by the second oldest
mountains in the world, looks much as it did when the first settlers
arrived. Springfield has been bustling since the St. Louis-San
Francisco railroad arrived in 1870. Even though most of Route
66 through here is now Interstate-44, remnants of the old road
are everywhere just off the highway.
Interestingly, Springfield is considered the mother of the Mother
Road itself. It was here that Cyrus Avery of Oklahoma who fought
for a route through Oklahoma met with John Woodruff of Springfield,
to plan and promote the idea of an interregional link that would
bring trade and access to the area. In honor, Springfield has
preserved much of the old highway frontage along St. Louis Street
as well as the “Chestnut Expressway.” If you’re
a fan of western lore, delve into the “Wild” Bill
Hickock legend surrounding his fellow gambler Dave Tutt. There’s
so many different stories no one really knows what happened.
Accommodations in Springfield
Route 66 Rail Haven - Enjoy a Route
66 themed Best Western located in a restored historic building.
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| Day 4 |
Springfield
to Tulsa to Oklahoma City 310 miles
Oklahoma was the home of Cyrus Avery,
who came to be known as the “Father of Route 66.”
After he was appointed to head the commission that reviewed the
routes of new national highways, he fought for several years to
bring a major highway through his home state, knowing it would
boost the economy. Ultimately, he was successful in the choice
of a route that followed the National Old Trails Road in 1925,
which just happened to cross right through the middle of Oklahoma.
“Been on this road for a mighty
long time,
Ten million men like me,
You drive us from you’ town
We ramble around
And got them 66 Highway Blues.”
Woody Guthrie of “This Land
is Your Land” fame who hailed from Oklahoma, illustrated
the icon which Route 66 had already become in a song that told
of the plight of the Okies fleeing to California. The Los Angeles
police stationed themselves at the Arizona border in 1934 to stop
the flood of Dust Bowlers looking for a better life.
Southwest of Springfield, you’ll begin to see why they
would leave, as the landscape changes from the rich crop raising
Midwest into the American southwest; red, dry and dusty. During
the1930s, more than 15% of Oklahoma’s population took Route
66 to escape the constantly blowing sand. They picked up their
belongings, their families, their hopes and their dreams and headed
west.
After World War II, the pretty Oklahoma City referred to by the
Nat King Cole in “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” rose
to new heights during the oil boom (the State Capitol is the only
one in the country with an oil well on the grounds), only to suffer
a dramatic decline at the end of the 1980s. Since then, the city
has gone through an astounding transformation which continued
during the re-building which followed the Oklahoma City bombing
in 1995. The monument to the victims is very moving and an adjacent
museum tells the story.
For nightlife, make sure you visit Bricktown, a former warehouse
district that has been reinvigorated with restaurants, cafes,
night clubs and a vibrant atmosphere.
Accommodations in Oklahoma City
Hilton Skirvin - Enjoy the historic
Skirvin Hotel that is a staunch supporter of Historic Route 66
with its own resident ghost. The property has recently undergone
a massive renovation.
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| Day 5 |
Oklahoma
City to Amarillo 260 miles
For the traveler going west on Route 66, Texas is Cowboy Country.
It is here that some of the most wonderful icons of Route 66,
those “functional simple buildings that were adorned with
all manner of exterior signs promising all things larger than
life, still exist. Two headed snakes, reptile farms, alligators,
wondrous caves and petrified mummies all vied for the attention
of the vacationer in a unique side show that would have made P.
T. Barnum proud. The tales carried home from these vacations would
entice and amaze the neighborhood for months.
Amarillo is one of the last places on earth where the Old West
is just minutes away or depending on where you are, could be closer
than that. The vast ranches of the Texas Panhandle, some numbering
in the millions of acres are just outside of Amarillo. Shortly
after being discovered by Spanish explorer Francisco Coronado
in 1541, the area became a magnet for cattlemen and sheep herders
from all points of the compass looking for fresh grazing grounds.
As the Dust Bowl farmers headed to California, more cattlemen
and cowhands moved in to claim the same territory for ranching.
Step into “The Real Texas” as the locals say.
Today, Amarillo and the surrounding Panhandle area is still a
unique blend of the Old West and the New West, populated by American
cowboys, roughnecks and self made millionaires and the ever present
oil derricks. Working ranches, essentially unchanged from the
day-to-day operations of the late nineteenth century peacefully
coexist with a vibrant twenty-first century economy powered by
petroleum. More than 2 million cattle are still shipped out of
Amarillo each year. Make sure to drive Amarillo Boulevard which
is the original Route 66 that is still lined with block after
block of strip shopping centers and roadside motels straight out
of the 1950s.
Accommodations in Amarillo
Big Texan Hotel - Steakhouse, hotel,
motel and destination all in one!
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| Day 6 |
Amarillo
to Tucumcari, NM 120 miles
For many people traveling the old Mother Road during its hey-day,
New Mexico presented their first glimpse of the more exotic cultures
of the Southwest. To people who had never left the Midwest before,
it was as if they had entered another country. Back then, the
Native American and Spanish cultures were much stronger, not having
been diluted as much with contemporary life. It was a fascinating
heritage of old Indian Pueblos that dated back to before European
colonization and Santa Fe and Albuquerque that looked like they
could have fallen straight out of Mexico with adobe buildings
and a Spanish plaza in the middle town. What adventure and discovery
these lands presented; a phenomenal contrast to middle America.
Unique to New Mexico also was the number of Mom and Pop businesses
that sprung up along Route 66. Some are still there. More amazing
are the materials used to create workable spaces for the businesses.
Crates left over from World War II became the walls of a motor
court. Oilcans became shingles used to roof a service station.
Cast away bottles and roadside trash became the material to create
a wondrous roadside attraction. Diners could be ordered from a
catalog and shipped by railroad to their destination. These are
the same icons we marvel at along the road that so represented
America’s love affair with the automobile. As a result,
New Mexico still has the most miles of original Route 66 that
can be driven today.
On you way between Amarillo and Tucumcari, New Mexico, be sure
to stop at Cadillac Ranch to see the ten tail- finned Cadillacs
buried in the sand.
Once nicknamed “Six-Shooter Siding,” Tucumcari, New
Mexico got its start in 1901 as a rowdy railroad camp filled with
saloons and outlaws. Soon, it became one of the many small railroad
towns in the southwest with a flagging economy and diminishing
population. Today, Route 66 is critically important, since it
was the new businesses that were established along Route 66 which
allowed Tucumcari to hang on, when other towns failed completely.
Realizing that they have one of a handful of authentic roadside
towns still intact and thriving has promoted a renaissance and
revival among the gentlemen and businesses who just refused to
let this wonderful piece of Americana and the American “road
trip” pass away entirely. Let the signs that read “Tucumcari
Tonight!” beckon you to this interesting place.
Accommodations in Tucumcari
Historic Blue Swallow Inn or Tucumcari Inn -
Go back to the 50s in one of the original Route 66 roadside
motels in Tucumcari that have been recently renovated and restored.
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| Day 7 |
Tucumcari
to Albuquerque 180 miles
Next up, Albuquerque, New Mexico’s capital city. Younger
than its more northerly counterpart, Santa Fe, Albuquerque was
founded in 1706 by a group of Spanish colonists who were granted
permission by the King of Spain to establish a new city on the
river. Old Town Plaza was the result of Spain’s Laws of
the Indies which required setting a plaza at the center of any
city. This Plaza still fronts the San Felipe Neri Church complex
built in 1793 and the El Camino Real, the main route through town
that connected Santa Fe and Albuquerque with Mexico City. The
Santa Fe Trail also criss-crossed the region in 1821. Today, both
routes are National Scenic Byways and All American Roads.
Historic neon signs still glow on the old Route 66 through Albuquerque
which is now Central Avenue. Alongside the vintage signs, you’ll
see new versions put up by businesses that are continuing the
aesthetic traditions of the old Route 66, adorning their shops
with bright buzzing neon. The famous Route 66 continues to guide
visitors through Albuquerque from the volcanoes on the city’s
far west side past the Rio Grande Botanical Garden and the Albuquerque
Aquarium through the historic Old Towns and Downtown business
districts and continuing eastward through the University of New
Mexico and trendy Nob Hill, where you’ll find many of the
city’s best restaurants, distinctive shops and boutiques.
Accommodations in Albuquerque
Route 66 Casino Hotel - Enjoy this just opened themed
casino and hotel just outside downtown Albuquerque.
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| Day 8 |
Explore
Albuquerque
As you complete the self-guided Historic Walking Tour from Plaza
to Plaza, you will be passing from Old “Villa Albuquerque”
in Old Town, to the Downtown Civic Plaza, created in 1972. In
between, you will witness 300 years of history.
It will be challenging to determine which other places to visit.
Sandia Peak Tramway takes you over 2.5 miles to the 10,000 foot
peak of the Sandia Mountains. Visit the New Mexico Museum of Natural
History and Science, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Albuquerque
Museum and the National Hispanic Cultural Center to learn more
about local culture and history. Petroglyphs at the Petroglyph
National Museum and El Morro National Monument reveal the life
of ancient peoples who inhabited the area. The National Atomic
Museum and Trinity Site, the exact spot where the first atomic
bomb was detonated tell the story of this momentous event in American
history.
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| Day 9 |
Albuquerque
to Holbrook 260 miles
On the way between Albuquerque and Holbrook, you’ll be
entering the dramatic lands of western New Mexico and ultimately
traveling through the Navajo Reservation. The New Mexico Mining
Museum at Grants has replicated an entire uranium mine. Natural
attractions include the El Malpais National Monument, the Continental
Divide. The excavated Pueblo at Inspiration Rock dates back to
AD 1200. Skirting the southern foothills of the Zuni Mountains,
the drive along Highway 53 is likely the most scenic in all of
New Mexico.
Staying with this route eventually brings you to Gallup, founded
in 1881 when the Santa Fe railroad began operation along the route,
This ‘Gateway To Indian Country’ is the largest town
close to the Navajo and other Indian Reservations of the Four
Corners Region. It still has some of the some of the Southwest’s
largest trading posts and one of the best strips of neon signs
you’ll see anywhere on old Route 66. A visit to Petrified
Forest National Park on the way is a must.
Holbrook is another railroad town, this one named after the after
the chief engineer of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad, which
came through in 1881. Soon Holbrook became known nationwide for
the “fightinest bunch of cowboys in the United States.”
Things have settled down a bit since then.
Accommodations in Holbrook
Heward House at Holbrook
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| Day 10 |
Holbrook to Grand Canyon National Park
180 miles
The Grand Canyon is not actually on Route 66, but you couldn’t
miss one of the seven wonders of the world when you’re
this close. On your way, stop in Winslow, Arizona made famous
by the Eagles song “Take it Easy,” which begins
with the line “Standing on the corner in Winslow, Arizona.”
You’ll also find Winona, mentioned in “Get Your
Kicks on Route 66!”
Once you reach the Grand Canyon, you’ll soon discover
standing on the South Rim that it is absolutely awesome; a massive
and most dramatic natural wonder. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles
long, 6,000 feet deep at its deepest point and 15 miles wide
at its widest.
The Canyon is a geologic mosaic of five life zones and three
desert types. The higher elevations are covered by forests.
The canyon rim is only a short stroll from the Canyon View Information
Plaza. An eight-mile round trip on Hermit Road takes you to
views of the river at Hopi, Mohave and Pima Points, as well
as to Hermits Rest, a historic landmark with a great view of
the river. The 25-mile scenic Desert View Drive delivers views
of the canyon and the Colorado River at Moran Point, Lipan Point,
and Desert View. Take a 30 minute flight over the canyon for
the best view of all.
The newest attraction, the newly opened Grand Canyon Skywalk
is a unique horseshoe-shaped structure which extends 70 feet
beyond the edge of the Grand Canyon. Its glass-bottomed pathway
allows visitors an opportunity to peer thousands of feet straight
down into the Grand Canyon for a very unique perspective.
Accommodations at Grand Canyon
The Lodge on Route 66 - Enjoy the only luxury restored
motel on Route 66
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| Day 11 |
Grand Canyon National Park to Las Vegas 300 miles
Everybody has to visit Las Vegas once in a lifetime and today
is your day! It’s a city founded on entertainment, glitter
and fabulous night life. You can of course, try your hand at
gambling, or let your hair down, enjoy yourself, take in a show,
and otherwise let yourself be entertained! As they say in Las
Vegas, “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.” Las
Vegas has seen unbelievable expansion since it emerged from
the desert 100 years ago, with sights and sounds that are enjoyed
by over 38.9 million visitors every year. They stroll in some
of the most glamorous, unique hotels in the world, eat at five-star
restaurants and expansive buffets, play in pools, health spas
and golf courses. Sometimes (many times, actually) they even
marry each other. Enjoy whatever you choose to do!
Accommodations in Las Vegas
Circus Circus Hotel and Casino
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| Day 12 |
Explore Las Vegas
The Las Vegas Strip, now an All American Road and National Scenic
Byway, is a sparkling fantasyland at the heart of the city. Its
unique blend of exciting entertainment, scenic beauty, and lavishly
landscaped resorts take you to a wide variety of exotic realms
from a medieval castle to a Parisian sidewalk cafe, a lakeside
Italian village, or a pyramid in ancient Egypt. Once you arrive
on the Strip, however, you might be surprised to find that it's
also an enjoyable walking environment. Whether it's pirates plundering,
fiery volcanoes spouting or tropical gardens luring the weary,
the Las Vegas Strip offers a variety of fascinating visual experiences.
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| Day 13 |
Las Vegas to
Santa Monica/Los Angeles 290 miles
Finally, after a journey through the Mojave Desert today, you’ll
reach the bright lights of Hollywood. It may be hard to believe
that the area around Barstow was once covered by immense lakes
ringed with Native American villages. When silver was discovered
in Calico, the area became a mining center that included borax
mining. Route 66 is Main Street through Barstow. Just off Main
on First Street, you’ll discover the original Harvey House
which gave rise to hospitality complexes all over the southwest.
Rainbow Basin about 15 miles north of Barstow is one of the lakebeds
that existed between 10 and 30 million years ago. Calico Ghost
Town is California’s official Silver Rush Ghost Town, preserving
one of the few original mining camps in the Old West. One third
of the town is original with the rest constructed in the “spirit”
of Calico’s Old West past. Today’s destination, Santa
Monica is where the Mother Road meets the Pacific Ocean at the
Pier. Many a dream has begun and ended on those beaches.
Accommodations in Los Angeles
Hotel California/Santa Monica - Stay at the hip hotel
in Santa Monica made famous by the Eagles.
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| Day 14 |
Explore Los Angeles/Santa
Monica
The sky’s the limit in Los Angeles. Take a go-behind-the
scenes tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, visit the UCLA Armand
Hammer Museum which presents the work of unprecedented artists,
the California Heritage Museum, the Autry National Center Museum
of the American West, the Aquarium of the Pacific, Los Angeles
Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Take a tour of Los Angeles and Movie
Stars Homes, the Hollywood Trolley Tour, the California Science
Center, the Music Center, the Japanese American National Museum,
the Museum of Contemporary Art Grand Avenue, the Simon Wiesenthal
Center and more. Be sure to visit the new Getty Center perched
high on a hill atop the city. The view doesn’t get much
better than that. Or if none of those things suit you, you can
always go to Disneyland!
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| Day 15 |
Depart Los Angeles
Make sure you take some time to relax in the California sunshine
before you catch your plane Savor your journey to the bright lights
of California all the way home.
Depart Los Angeles – 17:45
Arrive London Heathrow – 12:00*
Journey time – 10hr 20mins
Arrival time into the U.K is the following day
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*** Additional Stops for 21 Day Itinerary ***
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Chicago, Illinois – 1 extra night (2 in
total)
Springfield,
Illinois
(Not to be confused with Springfield Missouri
already included) – 1 night
In order to provide more time to explore the legacy
of Abraham Lincoln, one of the nights scheduled for Chicago has
been rescheduled to Springfield, Illinois.
Accommodations in Springfield
Route 66 Hotel
Take a nostalgic journey on Route 66 at the new themed
Route 66 Hotel and with its own Route 66 Museum
Santa
Fe, New Mexico
One of the original routings of Route 66 that was abandoned
went through Santa Fe, the capital city of New Mexico which was
established 13 years before Plymouth Colony was settled by the
Massachusetts Company. The city began with a handful of European
style dwellings constructed by Spanish settlers and soon became
the seat of power for the Spanish Empire north of the Rio Grande
River. It began to prosper when Don Pedro de Peralta settled in
1610, the same year that Hampton, Virginia, the oldest continuous
city on the East Coast, was settled. Santa Fe served as the capital
of the Spanish Kingdom of New Mexico, the Mexican province of
Nuevo Mejico, and the capital of the New Mexico Territory.
Once you arrive, it will be challenging to decide which locations
to visit. Everything is focused on the Plaza, the center of the
historic downtown. We suggest visiting the Palace of the Governors,
the oldest public building still in use in America, constructed
in 1610. It is now a southwestern history museum. The Museum of
Fine Arts, next to the Palace, is older than the state itself.
The extensive collection of southwestern art also includes paintings
by Georgia O’Keefe, who called Santa Fe home for many years.
There are cultural museums of many other varieties, including
the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, the Wheelwright Museum of
the American Indian, the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, the
Georgia O’Keefe Museum, and World Folk Art, with diverse
works from artisans all over the world. If that’s not enough,
there a huge list of art galleries, a myriad of restaurants and
other interesting shops. Enjoy whatever you choose to do, there
is more than enough to fill two days.
Accommodations in Santa Fe
El Dorado Hotel - Stay in an authentic adobe structure
enhanced with all the modern amenities
Chinle,
AZ
Located at the entrance to Canyon
de Chelly which covers 130 square miles surrounding three major
canyons. Many well preserved Anasazi ruins reveal the culture
of the ancient peoples who lived in the area, ancestors of the
present day Navajo who still farm the valley floor, a quite fascinating
visit awaits you.
Accommodations in Chinle
Holiday Inn Chinle
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Route 66 - Photo Album
We are pleased to be able to display
a selection of photographs taken of Route 66 Flydrive.
Prices (in Pounds Sterling)
The prices shown below are 'per person'.
| Departure
Date |
Single |
Double |
Triple |
Quad |
Child (2
- 11) |
01 April - 30 April 2008 |
2359 |
1489 |
1299 |
1139 |
479 |
01 May - 30 June 2008 |
2499 |
1629 |
1449 |
1289 |
559 |
01 July - 10 July 2008 |
2639 |
1769 |
1589 |
1419 |
639 |
11 July - 21 August 2008 |
2729 |
1829 |
1649 |
1479 |
669 |
22 August - 31st August 2008 |
2539 |
1649 |
1459 |
1329 |
559 |
01 September - 31 October 2008 |
2499 |
1629 |
1449 |
1289 |
559 |
| ** 21 Day Itinerary
Supplement ** |
750 |
375 |
250 |
210 |
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Cost Includes ....
- Roundtrip scheduled non-stop flights with British Airways
- Airport taxes
- Fuel surcharges as at time of going to print
- 14 or 21 nights accommodation as detailed.
- Breakfast - Lodge on Grants Trail, Route 66 Rail Haven, Heward
House, Lodge on Route 66
- 14 days compact car rental based on Alamo ‘Gold Rate’
(Intermediate for Triple/Quad Rates)
- Exclusive travel documentation portfolio including personalised
maps, itinerary and driver directions along with all applicable
tickets and vouchers.
Weather
As you are travelling from north to south across three
quarters of America you can expect dramatically varying weather
particularly as your elevation will also vary considerably as
you travel across the plains, through the mountains and into the
canyons. Layered clothing will make adjusting to these changes
much easier for you and you should always look to consume water
on a regular basis particularly at high elevations.
Hotel Availability
Sometimes the hotels named in this itinerary are not
available at the time of booking. Under these circumstances Complete
North America will book alternative accommodation of a similar
standard. Such changes will be confirmed in writing to you at
the time of booking confirmation. If you are not completely happy
with the alternative hotel we will happily discuss other possibilities
with you in the same location.
Hotel Upgrades
In truth along much of Route 66 motels are the most
cost effective and convenient way to travel. That said our team
can offer upgraded hotel options throughout should you wish to
be closer to the centre of towns, or staying at the National Park
Lodges at the Grand Canyon for example. Please call to discuss
your requirements and budget with a member of our team should
you wish to consider upgrades.
Best days to travel, seat assignments, special requests
and flight upgrades
- British Airways operate non-stop flights daily to/from Chicago
and Los Angeles so subject to availability you can select the
travel date that best suits you. Should you wish to fly with
an alternative carrier we would also be happy to prepare a quote
for you.
- Where available we will be delighted to take care of any
special meal requests according to your preference at the time
of booking.
- We have exceptional deals on upgrades with British Airways
to World Traveller Plus, Club World and FIRST.
- We have discounted prices for British Airways regional flights
to Heathrow, please ask for details and if you are flying from
Northern Ireland or Republic of Ireland? Read
about special deals for connecting flights here.
Car Rental in America
The car rental included in this package is based on the Alamo
'Gold' rate which represents the mose inclusive rate you can buy.
For a full breakdown of just exactly what this rate includes,
a full explanation of all inclusions and information on cars please
visit our car rental section by clicking on the link below.
As part of our agreement with Alamo we are able to offer you
GPS Satellite Navigation as an optional extra that must be pre-booked.
For more information on this click the link below.
Travel Insurance
Whilst it is not compulsory to take our travel insurance, it's
imperative that you do not travel without comprehensive travel
insurance. Our adult premium is £49 per person for 2 weeks
(Age restrictions do apply), however we do have rates for family
policies and annual travel insurance, please call for details.
In all cases taking our travel insurance will require acceptance
of the medical health declaration and all pre-existing conditions
should be declared to the insurance company.
All travellers must hold a full 10 year machine readable
British Passport and have no criminal convictions to travel to
the United States without the need for a visa. For more details
on passport requirements please visit www.usembassy.org.uk
Ready to book?
Call our booking
line on 0845 263 7100
(Mon-Fri. 09.00-18.00 or Sat 10.00-17.00)
A member of our team will be happy to answer any
questions you have before processing your booking and the initial
non-refundable deposit payment of £150.00 per person. We
will endeavour to secure your flights and take care of any special
meal requests during this call. The remaining components of your
holiday will be put in place and a written 'Confirmation/Invoice'
detailing everything we have confirmed on your behalf will be
sent by regular mail along with a receipt for the deposit to your
nominated contact address. We try to complete this whole process
within 7- 10 working days of accepting your order and deposit
, however meeting this target is very much dependant on the speed
of response from our hotel and tour partners in North America.
Please note - By agreeing to pay a
deposit you are instructing us to commence with the booking of
your holiday arrangements and as such you enter into an agreement
with Complete North America Limited. This agreement is governed
by our standard booking conditions a copy of which is available
to you at anytime and included with your written holiday confirmation.
Click here to view our Booking
Conditions & Promise of Fair Trading |
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For more information, call
0845 263 7100
Complete North America Limited,
Colwick Quays Business Park, Private Road No.2, Colwick, Nottingham. NG4 2JY |
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