Commemorate the Centennial of America’s Most Famous Highway with a Family-Friendly Journey
Route 66 turns 100.
- CategoryTravel
The Gateway Arch, Missouri
Standing 630 feet tall, the Gateway Arch is an impressive monument celebrating America’s westward expansion. Visitors can ride a unique tram to the top for panoramic views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River. The museum beneath the arch features interactive exhibits that are engaging for both adults and children. It makes an excellent educational stop and offers a nice contrast to the many small roadside attractions found elsewhere on Route 66.
Meramec Caverns, Missouri
Meramec Caverns has been welcoming Route 66 travelers for decades and remains one of Missouri’s top family attractions. Guided tours take visitors through vast underground chambers filled with impressive stalactites, stalagmites and colorful mineral formations. Along the way, guides share stories about the cave’s history, including its connection to the legendary outlaw Jesse James. The cool temperatures inside also provide a refreshing escape during hot summer road trips.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is a beloved roadside attraction that perfectly captures the quirky spirit of Route 66. Built in the early 1970s as an anniversary gift, the giant smiling whale sits beside a small pond and picnic area. Families can enjoy a short break here to walk around the grounds and take pictures. Its cheerful appearance makes it especially popular with younger travelers.
Cadillac Ranch, Texas
Located just outside Amarillo, Cadillac Ranch is one of the most iconic and unusual sights along Route 66. Ten vintage Cadillacs are buried nose-first in the ground, creating a giant public art installation that has attracted visitors since 1974. Families are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their own colorful mark on the cars, making each visit unique. It is a fun and inexpensive stop that offers plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and a chance for kids to express their creativity.
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Petrified Forest National Park offers a fascinating combination of natural beauty and Route 66 history. Visitors can see ancient trees that turned to stone millions of years ago, explore the colorful Painted Desert and even find markers indicating the path of the original highway through the park. Several short trails and scenic overlooks make it easy for families with children to enjoy the landscape without committing to a long hike. It is one of the most rewarding outdoor stops on the entire route.
Wigwam Motel, Arizona
A stay at the Wigwam Motel is like stepping into a postcard from the golden age of American road travel. Guests spend the night in individual teepee-shaped rooms surrounded by classic automobiles parked throughout the property. The motel’s distinctive appearance has inspired generations of travelers and even served as inspiration for animated films. For families, it offers a chance to turn an overnight stop into a memorable part of the adventure.
The Grand Canyon Caverns, Arizona
The Grand Canyon Caverns are part of one of the largest dry cave systems in the U.S. They provide a unique underground experience for visitors of all ages. Guided tours descend deep below the desert floor, where families can learn about geology, prehistoric animals and the caves’ unusual history. One of the most talked-about features is an underground hotel suite, making it a particularly interesting stop for curious young explorers and anyone looking for something out of the ordinary.
