Today we explore the natural and cultural beauty of Albuquerque. Start with dramatic volcanic landscapes at Petroglyph National Monument. Then enjoy time in historic Old Town, with lunch on your own. In the afternoon, relax during a wine tasting at Casa Rondeña Winery. After a rest at the hotel, we gather for dinner. (B)

We begin with a stunning ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway, taking in panoramic mountain and desert views. Enjoy lunch and browsing in Old Town or Nob Hill before we depart Albuquerque. In Gallup, visit the Gallup Cultural Center and explore nearby trading posts before dinner at the historic El Rancho Hotel. (B, D)

Drive through the stunning Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park, where ancient trees have turned to stone in a rainbow of colors. A quick stop at the nostalgic Wigwam Motel offers a glimpse of classic Route 66 lodging. In Winslow, you’ll have time to explore, shop, or perhaps “stand on the corner” made famous by the Eagles’ song. By evening, arrive in Flagstaff for dinner at the lively Black Bart’s Steakhouse. (B, D)

We start with time in downtown Flagstaff and a visit to the Route 66 Visitor Center before heading west through high desert landscapes. Lunch is on your own in Seligman, a quirky Arizona town brimming with retro shops, Route 66 memorabilia, and vintage cars parked along the street. In Kingman, tour the Powerhouse Visitor Center to learn about the history of this iconic highway. (B, D)

Crossing into California, we stop at the iconic Roy’s Motel and Café in Amboy, a perfect roadside photo opportunity. After lunch in Ludlow, we step back into the Old West at the Calico Ghost Town, once a booming silver mining town. Stroll its historic streets and imagine life in the 1800s before continuing to Barstow for dinner and an overnight stay. (B, L, D)

Our last full day on Route 66 is filled with classic stops. Visit the whimsical Bottle Tree Ranch, tour the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville, and step inside the First McDonald’s Museum in San Bernardino. Arriving in Los Angeles, we head to Griffith Observatory for breathtaking views of the city and Hollywood sign. Tonight, we celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner and a great night’s rest. (B, L, D)

Our journey concludes where Route 66 ends—at the Pacific Ocean. Stroll along Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame, then enjoy free time at the Santa Monica Pier, with its iconic ferris wheel and sweeping ocean views. It’s the perfect finale to our Route 66 adventure before we transfer to the airport for our direct flight home. (B)