Follow the final stretch of the Mother Road through California, where classic diners, quirky roadside stops, and desert landmarks mark Route 66’s legendary journey to the Pacific.
Western America Railroad Museum
Housed inside the historic Harvey House, the Western America Railroad Museum explores the railroad’s lasting impact on the American West. Exhibits feature everything from vintage uniforms and tools to full locomotives and rolling stock, spread across indoor galleries and outdoor displays. It is an engaging stop for all ages. Whether you are a dedicated rail fan or simply passing through, the museum offers a compelling look at how railroads helped shape Southern California.
Route 66 Mother Road Museum
The Route 66 Mother Road Museum delves into the Mother Road and its lasting impact on American travel and pop culture. Inside, you will find classic cars, vintage photos, old maps, road signs, and memorabilia that trace the story of Route 66 from boom years to present-day nostalgia. Admission is free, though donations are always appreciated to help keep the history alive.
Cucamonga Service Station
Museum or gas station? At the Cucamonga Service Station, it is both. Built in 1915 in classic Spanish Colonial style, this Route 66 original has lived many lives, from Richfield Oil outpost to near demolition before being saved by Route 66 Inland Empire California. Today, the restored station operates as a small museum packed with vintage maps, memorabilia, and a gift shop full of fun finds. Bonus points, it is also known for having some of the best maintained restrooms along the Mother Road.
Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch
Cruising Route 66 through the Mojave, you might do a double take when a forest of glass appears. Bottle Tree Ranch is the life’s work of Elmer Long, who spent decades welding scavenged bottles onto metal frames to create shimmering “trees” that glow against the desert’s muted tones. Spread across two acres with more than 200 installations, it feels like a sprawling outdoor studio. The ranch is generally open from dawn to dusk, and there is no admission fee.
Mitla Cafe
A San Bernardino staple since 1937, Mitla Cafe has been serving classic Mexican American comfort food along Route 66 for nearly nine decades. Founded by Lucia Rodriguez and Vicente Montaño, this family-run café became a neighborhood favorite and even helped inspire modern taco culture, including Taco Bell. The space is warm, colorful, and filled with regulars who have been coming for years. Order the carne asada tacos, cheesy enchiladas, or stop in early for eggs with chorizo.
California Botanic Garden
Spread across 86 acres in Claremont, the California Botanic Garden is dedicated entirely to the state’s native plants. This living museum features collections of more than 22,000 California species, including rare and endangered varieties. It also highlights a surprising fact: nearly every palm tree associated with California is not native. Visit for a self-guided walk through distinct plant communities or sign up for activities like seed propagation workshops and family story hour.
Gold Bug
Gold Bug is one of Pasadena’s most memorable shops, blending a gallery atmosphere with a seriously cool retail experience. This family-owned space champions more than 100 local artists, showcasing quirky, vintage-inspired jewelry, offbeat artwork, and distinctive decor you won’t find anywhere else. The collection changes often, so there is always something new to discover. If you love statement pieces, unusual collectibles, and gifts with real personality, this is your spot.
Neon Retro Arcade
Feel like a kid again at Neon Retro Arcade in Old Town Pasadena, a neon-soaked throwback packed with over 40 classic arcade games and pinball machines from the 80s and 90s, plus a few newer games, too! Chase high scores, relive button-mashing glory days, and reconnect with friends over friendly competition along Route 66.
The Hollywood Roosevelt
Cap off your trip with a stay, or at least a peek, inside the Hollywood Roosevelt on Hollywood Boulevard. Opened in 1927, this storied hotel hosted the very first Academy Awards and welcomed generations of stars, many honored just outside on the Walk of Fame. Expect classic Spanish Colonial architecture, stylish dining, and a pool that has seen its share of legends. It is easily one of the most glamorous stops along Route 66.
The Formosa
Since 1939, Formosa Cafe has served classic Chinese dishes with a side of Hollywood history. This West Hollywood icon welcomed the likes of Frank Sinatra, James Dean, and Elvis Presley, and today it still glows with old-school glamour. Slide into a red booth, scan the walls lined with celebrity photos, and order sweet and sticky orange chicken, short rib sesame noodles, or Chinese BBQ pork. Save room for fried sesame balls or taro ice cream, then toast the night with a Green Tea Martini.
Barney’s Beanery
A West Hollywood favorite since 1920 and once the end of Route 66, Barney’s Beanery still carries pieces of its past, including license plates from diners who couldn’t pay for their bowl of beans (Barney’s famous chili) and signatures from legends like Janis Joplin. Today, it’s all about games, pool tables, and delicious eats. The menu covers burgers, pizza, and more, with 40+ beers on draft and a full bar.
Santa Monica Pier
Take Route 66 to its true finale at the Santa Monica Pier, where the road ends at the Pacific. Check out the “End of the Trail” sign and hit up the dedicated 66-to-Cali stand for information, selfies and memorabilia. The pier packs in Pacific Park’s amusement park rides, classic carnival games, street musicians, face painters, caricature artists, and sweeping ocean views. It is a lively, high-energy sendoff for America’s most famous highway.
