Route 66
17 DAYS FROM £1679
Experience rugged deserts, cowboy towns and the thrills of Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon, as you follow 'America's Main Street' to its end in glamorous Los Angeles.
All this included
Chicago City sightseeing
Springfield Route 66 Museum, Abraham Lincoln's home and Presidential Museum
St Louis City sightseeing including Gateway Arch
Branson
Oklahoma City National Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Museum
Amarillo
Oklahoma Route 66 Museum
Santa Rosa Route 66 Auto Museum
Albuquerque City sightseeing
Acoma Sky City Pueblo Indian Dwelling
Grand Canyon National Park
Las Vegas
Barstow Route 66 Mother Road Museum
Los Angeles City sightseeing
Flights UK - Chicago; Los Angeles - UK
Accommodation on tour in a twin room with private facilities
Services of a tour director on tour and local representative at other times
Porterage at hotels during tour (for one suitcase per person)
Transfers between overseas airports and hotels
All local and airport taxes/service charges
Single share option no supplement to pay
Holiday Itinerary
DAY 1: UK - Chicago.
Fly to Chicago where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for two nights.
DAY 2: Chicago.
Known as the 'windy city', Chicago is home to the legend of Al Capone and countless jazz and blues clubs. This morning's sightseeing takes you to the heart of this ebullient metropolis on the banks of Lake Michigan. This afternoon there is free time to further explore Chicago, perhaps by climbing the soaring Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) or strolling along the waterside in Grant Park.
DAY 3: Chicago - Springfield.
Cross the farmlands of Illinois to Springfield, resting place of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th US president. Upon arrival, visit the popular Route 66 Gas Station Museum, charting the fascinating history and sights of Route 66. Later this afternoon, spend time exploring Lincoln's home as well as the new state-of-the-art Presidential Library and Museum, a unique museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Springfield's greatest citizen.
DAY 4: Springfield - St Louis.
This morning cross the mighty Mississippi River and continue to St Louis, located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, and dubbed the 'Gateway to the West'. On your morning tour, visit the towering Gateway Arch and ride to the top of the 630-foot-tall iconic structure for panoramic views of the city and river. The remainder of your day is at leisure.
DAY 5: St Louis - Branson.
Travel through Missouri, home to the Meramec Caverns, the hideout of notorious bank robber Jesse James, to Branson, one of America's biggest music centres. Join an optional evening out to Dick Clark's American Bandstand.
DAY 6: Branson - Oklahoma City.
Today, cross the cowboy country of Kansas into Oklahoma, once known as Indian Territory. After visiting the Will Rogers Memorial Museum with its artefacts from the famous cowboy-movie star's life, you'll arrive in Oklahoma City where you might enjoy the attractions of Bricktown, the old warehouse district now a warren of lively shopping, restaurant and nightclub-filled streets.
DAY 7: Oklahoma City - Amarillo.
An intriguing morning's sightseeing awaits, including visits to the National Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Museum, with its historic Native American and rodeo exhibits, and a recreation of a Wild West town. From here, travel to Clinton, Oklahoma where you will visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, home to vintage cars, neon signs, a 50's diner and drive-in theatre. Your adventure continues through rolling hill country into Texas, and Amarillo, the state's oil capital.
DAY 8: Amarillo - Tucumcari - Santa Rosa - Albuquerque.
Leaving Amarillo, watch for the Cadillac Ranch sculpture, crafted from real Cadillacs as you travel into New Mexico and reach Adrian, Route 66's halfway point. After passing through the old Indian town of Tucumcari, continue to Santa Rosa with its iconic Route 66 motels and drive-in grills, and call in at the quirky Route 66 Auto Museum with its 1950's fin-tailed vintage cars. Next, drive to Albuquerque and take a walking tour of this originally Spanish town, including a stroll around its quaint Old Town. Later, visit the city's original Route 66 section.
DAY 9: Albuquerque.
There is time to further explore this atmospheric city, or seize the chance to ride the aerial tramway up nearby Sandia Peak Mountain and witness spine-tingling views.
DAY 10: Albuquerque - Acoma Sky City - Gallup - Holbrook - Winslow - Flagstaff.
Leave Albuquerque for Acoma Sky City, a 1000 year-old town on a towering sandstone rock. As the oldest continuously inhabited village in the US, it's still populated by the Acoma Pueblo Indians. Cross the Continental Divide to Gallup, the setting for many famous Hollywood films before passing Holbrook's Wigwam Village. On to Winslow, with time to explore its historic downtown district, home to 'the corner' immortalised by The Eagles in 'Take it Easy'. Continue to Flagstaff for an overnight stay.
DAY 11: Flagstaff - Grand Canyon.
Today's highlight is a visit to the spectacular Grand Canyon. Leaving Route 66, you'll have time to walk the canyon rim, soaking up the staggering vistas and watching the changing lights on the towering walls of this natural wonder. To truly experience the Canyon's magnificence, join the optional helicopter 'flightseeing' tour with thrilling aerial panoramas. Overnight in the Grand Canyon National Park.
DAY 12: Grand Canyon - Williams - Seligman - Las Vegas.
Returning to Route 66, you'll pass through historic Williams, viewing the legendary neon signs of its 1940's Motel Row. Next on to Seligman, home to the rebirth of 66, before deviating from the Route for two nights in Las Vegas.
DAY 13: Las Vegas.
A day at your leisure to explore this eye-popping, glittering desert city, dubbed 'Sin City' for its myriad of casinos, themed hotels and lavish shows. Don't miss the Fremont Street experience, where a glass atrium enclosing five city blocks comes alive with dazzling sounds and lights. Alternatively, choose from our optional excursions including an exhilarating raft trip along the dramatic Black Canyon.
DAY 14: Las Vegas - Los Angeles.
This morning traverse desert landscapes and the San Bernardino Mountains to Barstow. After stopping at the Route 66 Mother Road Museum, head for Los Angeles, America's 'Capital of Glamour'.
DAY 15: Los Angeles.
Savour the 'City of Angels' on your morning tour of glamorous Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, Hollywood and other legendary sights. Next head for Santa Monica Pier, the official endpoint of Route 66, to stroll the boardwalk, dip your toes in the Pacific and reflect on your journey along 'America's Main Street'. The rest of the day is yours to perhaps shop or relax, or alternatively, join our Inside Historic Hollywood tour to sample the excitement of this revered film district.
DAY 16: Los Angeles - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.
DAY 17: Home landing in the UK.
Maximum elevation on this tour is 6,905 ft.
Check prices and availability for this holiday
Accommodation on Tour
Chicago: Red Roof Inn; Springfield: Hilton Springfield; St Louis: Millennium; Branson: Comfort Inn Thousand Hills; Oklahoma City: Best Western Saddleback Inn; Amarillo: Holiday Inn; Albuquerque: Best Western Rio Grande Inn; Flagstaff: Drury Inn & Suites; Grand Canyon: Grand Canyon Park Lodges; Las Vegas: Tropicana; Los Angeles: Los Angeles Marriott Downtown.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival & Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Special Departure - 23 September
Be a part of the International Route 66 Festival in historic Springfield, where the streets come alive with the rumble of engines from hot cars, cool trucks and vintage motorcycles. There is free live entertainment featuring R&B, Motown and favourite tunes of the 50's and 60's. There are also exhibitors, vendors and dozens of speciality foods.
In Albuquerque, you'll be part of the International Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta - the largest in the world! Enjoy the unforgettable Mass Ascension where hundreds of hot air balloons take off, turning the sky into a virtual rainbow of colours.
Note: This departure includes all the activities on our regular departures, except the visit to Acoma Sky City. The Route 66 Festival will be held on: September 24-26 and the Balloon Fiesta will be held on: October 1-9.
Holiday Extensions
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Route 66 + Los Angeles - 2 Extra nights from £124
Extend your stay in the world's 'Capital of Glamour'.
On day 16 remain at your hotel, the Los Angeles Marriott for the next two nights before transferring to the airport on day 18 for your overnight flight home. -
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Route 66 + San Francisco - 3 Extra nights from £160
Why not take the opportunity to enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere, world famous sights, and sweeping panoramas of the 'City by the Bay' considered to be one of Americas most beautiful cities. On day 16 of your tour included transfer to the airport for your flight to San Francisco and your hotel for the next three nights. At the end of your stay transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home.
Accommodation on Extensions
Route 66 + Los Angeles - 2 Extra nights from £124
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Los Angeles Marriott Downtown




The Los Angeles Marriott Downtown is a high-rise complex, located within the financial district and offering panoramic views of LA.
Location: In close proximity of many attractions including Staples Centre, LA Convention Centre, Music Centre, and the Dodger Stadium.
Facilities: 3 restaurants; outdoor pool; health club; room service; coffee shop; cocktail lounge; concierge services; gift shop/newstand; safety deposit boxes.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; coffee maker; iron/ironing board; hairdryer; telephone; voice mail; cable/satellite TV.
Route 66 + San Francisco - 3 Extra nights from £160
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Carlton



The charming 163-room Hotel Carlton is an historic and stately building originally constructed in 1927. The international vintage ambiance of the hotel features eclectic and exotic touches from around the world that celebrate the joy of travel.
Location: Situated in downtown, 5 blocks from the Union Square and the Theatre district, and 2 blocks from the California Street cable car.
Facilities: Restaurant; concierge services; lobby; laundry and valet services; internet access.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; cable TV; coffee-maker; iron/ironing board; hairdryer; ceiling fan; radio alarm clock. -
Best Western Americania



The Best Western Americania is a 143-room boutique hotel in downtown San Francisco. Each newly renovated guestroom features retro-style furnishings and board games.
Location: Conveniently located south of Market Street in the trendy SOMA district, notable for its museums, shopping, dining and entertainment. Close to Union Square and cable car stops.
Facilities: Restaurant; cocktail lounge; 'Custom Burger & Lounge'; swimming pool; fitness centre; high speed internet access; games room; safe deposit box; laundry service; lifts.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; flat screen cable TV; tea/coffee maker; hairdryer. -
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Galleria Park



This stylish San Francisco boutique hotel was completely renovated in early 2007 and offers beautifully appointed rooms and a sense of the glamour of the 40's.
Location: In the heart of downtown, adjacent to Crocker Galleria Shopping & Dining centre and just a few blocks from Union Square, Chinatown and the historic cable cars.
Facilities: Brasserie-style restaurant; fitness studio; outdoor terrace and walking track; laundry service; wifi internet access; safety deposit box in bedrooms.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; mini-fridge; flat screen TV; hairdryer; CD player; iron/ironing board. -
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Sir Francis Drake




A superb, classically elegant hotel whose decor and service are matched by its excellent location. You'll be welcomed by a lobby with crystal chandeliers, gilded ceilings, and a curved marble staircase.
Location: On Powell Street just off Union Square near the heart of downtown. Close to the Financial District, Nob Hill, Chinatown, and the Theatre District.
Facilities: Mezzanine lounge; 'Scala's Bistro'; 'Drake' lobby bar; 21st floor 1930's style nightclub; fitness room; concierge; room service; safety deposit boxes in reception; minibar in bedrooms.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; cable TV with complimentary film channel; iron/ironing board and hairdryer. -
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Grand Hyatt




Situated in San Francisco's Union Square, the sophisticated Grand Hyatt offers luxurious modern style accommodation with spacious and well-equipped guestrooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning city views. Pampering touches for guests include a rich décor, deluxe bath products, high-speed internet access and a daily newspaper.
Location: Enjoying a convenient downtown location on Union Square, this premier hotel is close to world-class shopping, Chinatown, museums, the theatre and a whole range of famous landmarks in San Francisco.
Facilities: Restaurant; bar; state-of-the-art fitness centre; room service; concierge service; safe in bedrooms.
Price includes: Rooms with private facilities; flatscreen cable TV, internet access (fee payable); air-conditioning, hairdryer; coffee-maker; deluxe bath products; an iHome stereo with ipod dock; iron and ironing board. -
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Triton



Part of the contemporary styled Kimpton Hotel Group, this modern designed boutique hotel features a colourful décor inspired by modern art and photography. The bright and vibrant guestrooms are well appointed with all the comforts from home, and it prides itself on being eco-friendly.
Location: In an enviable location, just steps from San Francisco's Union Square and the city's top theatres, clubs and restaurants as well as the famous Chinatown area. The city's renowned museums are also easily reachable as well as boutiques and department stores.
Facilities: Fitness centre; concierge service; 24-hour room service from the adjacent Café de la Presse; in-room spa services and safe.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; complimentary Wi-Fi access in guestrooms and public areas; complimentary morning tea and coffee; 32" flat-screen TV with Nintendo, cable and movies on demand; hairdryer; iron and ironing board; bathrobe.
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