Discover Route 66
Illinois
Route 66 holidays generally begin in Chicago - commonly referred to as the Windy City. Located on the shore of Lake Michigan, the city has an intriguing past, featuring gangsters like Al Capone and the Great Fire of 1871. It also played a significant role in the American Civil War.
For a true taste of Americana, why not go see a baseball game? Chicago is home to two teams - the Chicago Cubs, who play at the iconic Wrigley Field, as well as the White Sox.
During your stay, be sure to try a slice or two of a real Chicago-style pizza. Or for something a bit more upmarket, the city is home to more than 20 Michelin-starred restaurants.
Missouri
The next state on the Route 66 map is Missouri, with a stop in St Louis. Located on the Mississippi River, St Louis's most recognisable structure is the Gateway Arch.
This feat of engineering was completed in 1967 and stands at over 630 feet (192 metres) tall. It is situated above the Thomas Jefferson Expansion Memorial and from the top, visitors can enjoy picturesque views.
While exploring St Louis, you may also wish to take in a bit of shopping or enjoy some of the city's fine eateries. Alternatively, why not get some fresh air with a stroll in one of the city's more than 100 parks and green spaces?
Texas
Further along on a Route 66 road trip, travellers will cross the northern part of Texas and enter the city of Amarillo.
The Cadillac Ranch is a prominent public art installation that comprises a number of Cadillacs 'planted' bonnet-first into the desert. Visitors are invited to decorate the vehicles with cans of spray paint, ensuring that the work is an ever-changing masterpiece.
Be sure to bring your appetite with you when you come to Amarillo, as massive steak dinners are the dish du jour. The Big Texan Steak Ranch is a popular eatery and if you fancy a food challenge, the restaurant offers the Texas King - a 72-ounce (2.041 kg) steak that's free to anyone who can eat it, along with all the fixin's in less than an hour.
Arizona
The next leg of a Route 66 holiday will take visitors through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes that America has to offer.
As you travel through this part of the country, you'll see dramatic plateaus with colourful cliffs that change colour as the daylight changes. Plus, a stop at the Grand Canyon will be one of the most memorable parts of the journey.
California
Finally, touring holidays along Route 66 come to an end in Long Beach in southern California. Visitors will have a few nights to experience the Los Angeles region - shopping in Beverly Hills, spotting celebrities in Hollywood or grabbing a photo op with the world's most famous mouse at Disneyland are just some of the options to consider.
Alternatively, you could find a sandy beach and soak up some sunshine, while reflecting on your journey across America.
Read "Getting your kicks on Route 66" by Travel Guru Graham Boynton.