If you’re looking to explore Route 66, then a bus tour is the perfect way to do it. There are many different tours to choose from, so you can find one that fits your interests and budget. Here are 8 of the best Route 66 bus tours.
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Origin Of Route 66
Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in America. It runs from Chicago to Los Angeles, and for many years was one of the main routes used by westward-bound travelers.
The highway has been immortalized in song, literature, and film, and continues to hold a special place in the American imagination. But where did Route 66 come from?
The highway was first established in 1926 when the U.S. government created a system of numbered highways. Route 66 was assigned the number 66, and it quickly became one of the busiest routes in the country.
In 1938, the highway was paved from end to end, making it even more popular with cross-country travelers. During the height of its popularity in the 1950s, an estimated 200,000 people used Route 66 each year.
Although it has been largely overshadowed by newer interstate highways in recent years, Route 66 still holds a special place in American culture. In some parts of the country, the highway has been preserved as a historical landmark, and it continues to beckon travelers with its promise of adventure.
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What Destinations Can Be Visited On A Route 66 Bus Tour?
A Route 66 bus tour is the perfect way to see all the sights along America’s iconic highway. The tour takes travelers from Chicago to Los Angeles, with stops at some of the most popular destinations along the way.
In Chicago, travelers can visit the Field Museum or take a river cruise on the Chicago River. Further west, the tour makes stops in Springfield, Illinois, home of Abraham Lincoln, and in St. Louis, Missouri, where travelers can explore the Gateway Arch.
Other highlights of the tour include a stop in Oklahoma City to see the world’s largest collection of Western art at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum and a visit to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where travelers can explore ancient Pueblo dwellings at Bandelier National Monument.
The tour ends with a stop in Los Angeles, where travelers can explore Hollywood Boulevard or take a walk on Venice Beach. A Route 66 bus tour is the perfect way to see all the highlights of America’s iconic highway.
8 Best Route 66 Bus Tours
1. The Mother Road From Chicago To Los Angeles
This eight-day tour departs from Chicago and makes stops in Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona before ending in Los Angeles.
Along the way, passengers will learn about the history of Route 66 and see some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Cadillac Ranch and the Petrified Forest.
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2. The East Coast Explorer
This nine-day tour departs from New York City and makes stops in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona before ending in Los Angeles.
Along the way, passengers will learn about the history of Route 66 and see some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Cadillac Ranch and the Petrified Forest.
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3. The West Coast Wanderer
This eight-day tour departs from Los Angeles and makes stops in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania before ending in New York City.
Along the way, passengers will learn about the history of Route 66 and see some of its most iconic landmarks including the Cadillac Ranch and the Petrified Forest.
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4. The Southern Sojourn
This eight-day tour departs from Los Angeles and makes stops in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina before ending in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Along the way, passengers will learn about the history of Route 66 and see some of its most iconic landmarks including the Cadillac Ranch and the Petrified Forest.
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5. The Northern Explorer
This nine-day tour departs from Chicago and makes stops in Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, and California before ending in Los Angeles.
Along the way, passengers will learn about the history of Route 66 and see some of its most iconic landmarks including the Cadillac Ranch and the Petrified Forest.
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6. Tauck’s Route 66 Tour
This tour is nine days and eight nights and starts in Chicago. It covers all of the major Route 66 landmarks, as well as some lesser-known gems. Tauck is known for its small group sizes, luxury accommodations, and expert guides.
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7. Old Route 66 Tours
This tour is five days and four nights and starts in Chicago. It covers all of the major Route 66 landmarks, as well as some lesser-known gems. The tour is led by Saidel Perez, who has been driving Route 66 for over 20 years.
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8. Road Scholar’s Route 66 Adventure
This tour is eight days and seven nights and starts in Los Angeles. In addition to visiting all of the major Route 66 landmarks, Road Scholar offers a number of educational activities, such as lectures and seminars led by historians.
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What Is The Cost Of A Route 66 Bus Tour?
The cost of a bus tour along Route 66 can vary depending on the company you book with, the length of the tour, and the time of year you travel. However, most tours cost between $3,000 and $5,000 per person.
The price includes transportation, accommodation, and some meals. It does not cover the cost of activities or souvenirs.
A typical tour lasts two weeks and covers 2,448 miles. The route starts in Chicago, Illinois and ends in Los Angeles, California. Along the way, passengers will see iconic landmarks such as the Grand Canyon and the Painted Desert.
They will also have the opportunity to sample local cuisine and meet interesting people. For many people, a Route 66 bus tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is well worth the cost.
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Is Taking A Bus Tour To Route 66 Worth It?
Taking a bus tour to Route 66 is definitely worth it! Not only will you get to see some of the most iconic landmarks and scenery in America, but you’ll also learn about the history and culture of Mother Road.
The tour guide will share stories and insights about each stop on the route, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos and explore on your own. Plus, you’ll meet other travelers who are just as passionate about Route 66 as you are.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned road warrior, a bus tour is a perfect way to experience all that Route 66 has to offer.
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Conclusion
The 8 best bus tours along Route 66 are a great way to experience the history and culture of the iconic American highway. From Chicago to Los Angeles, these bus tours will take you on a journey through small towns and big cities, past natural wonders, and famous landmarks.
You’ll see why Route 66 is known as “The Mother Road” and get a true sense of America’s heritage and spirit. So what are you waiting for? Hop on board one of these amazing bus tours today!
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