Route 66 Road Trip in California

Ah, the legendary Route 66. Imagine cruising down this historic stretch of American asphalt, a path once traversed by dreamers and adventurers, that winds its way through the heart of California. This camper van road trip isn't just a journey; it's a plunge into a rich tapestry of culture, kitsch, and natural wonders. As you meander from the arid deserts to the coastal splendors, you'll stumble upon quirky roadside attractions, vintage diners frozen in time, and landscapes that have inspired countless artists and filmmakers. Rent a camper van and buckle up for some exciting encounters! Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just in it for the drive, California's stretch of the Mother Road is guaranteed to offer an unforgettable experience with memories for the mileage.

First Original McDonald's Museum, Calico Ghost Town, Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch, The Gamble House, Route 66 Mother Road Museum, Aztec Hotel, Bagdad Cafe, Roy's Motel & Cafe

• First Original McDonald's Museum in San Bernardino, United States

  
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  The First Original McDonald's Museum is situated in San Bernardino, California, and is a must-see landmark for those embarking on a Route 66 camper van road trip through the state. This museum is located at the site of the first McDonald's restaurant opened by Richard and Maurice McDonald in 1940. A visit provides travelers with a nostalgic glimpse into the beginnings of this now-global fast-food empire, showcasing a collection of historical memorabilia, vintage advertisements, and early McDonald's merchandise. This is a fun-filled stop in your camper van rental!

• Calico Ghost Town, United States

  
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  Calico Ghost Town, nestled in the Mojave Desert of Southern California, is a popular stop for camper van travelers, embarking on a Route 66 road trip. This historic mining town, which dates back to 1881 during the largest silver strike in California, offers a glimpse into the Wild West with its preserved buildings and rich history. When exploring in your camper van rental, you can experience the old West's shops, restaurants, and attractions like a real mine, making for a memorable and educational detour along the legendary highway.

• Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch, United States

  
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  Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch is a vibrant and unique roadside attraction located along historic Route 66 in Oro Grande, California. Known for its whimsical forest of bottle trees created from welded metal rods and adorned with colorful glass bottles, this folk art installation captures the eccentric spirit synonymous with the Mother Road. Camper van travelers often stop at Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch to experience this one-of-a-kind outdoor gallery that reflects the quirky charm and nostalgic allure of the iconic highway.

• The Gamble House, United States

  
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  The Gamble House in Pasadena, California, is a magnificent example of American Arts and Crafts style architecture that stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the early 20th century. During your camper van road trip, take a detour to this 1908 masterpiece designed by architects Charles and Henry Greene. It offers a glimpse into the state's rich architectural heritage. The house, now a National Historic Landmark, not only provides a scenic stop for history and architecture enthusiasts but also enhances the cultural tapestry of taking an iconic Route 66 camper van trip.

• Route 66 Mother Road Museum, United States

  
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  The Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, California, is a cultural highlight in your camper van rental. Housed in the historic Casa del Desierto, the former Harvey House, the museum showcases an array of memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts that celebrate the history and legacy of the iconic Route 66. Visitors to the museum can immerse themselves in the rich narrative of the Mother Road, gaining a deeper appreciation for the legendary highway that played a pivotal role in American transportation history. Become part of that history in your camper van rental.

• Aztec Hotel in Monrovia, United States

  
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  The Aztec Hotel, located in Monrovia, California, is a notable historic landmark along the iconic Route 66, celebrated for its distinctive Mayan Revival architectural style. Built in 1925, this hotel has charmed visitors with its unique design, which stands out among the more traditional roadside establishments of the era. Today, it remains a popular attraction for your Route 66 camper van road trip, offering a glimpse into the region's eclectic cultural history and the golden age of American motoring.

• Bagdad Cafe, United States

  
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  The Bagdad Cafe, located in Newberry Springs, California, is a nostalgic highlight for camper van travelers venturing along the historic Route 66. Known for its appearance in the 1987 cult film of the same name, this quaint establishment has become a beloved stop for visitors seeking a taste of Americana and to embrace the unique charm of the Mother Road. Its quirky ambiance and memorabilia-laden interior provide a time capsule experience for those making the classic California road trip. It's a great stop in your camper van rental!

• Roy's Motel & Cafe in Amboy, United States

  
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  Roy's Motel & Cafe is a vintage roadside landmark located in the heart of the Mojave Desert on the historic Route 66 in Amboy, California. This iconic establishment, with its classic Googie architecture and famous neon sign, has been serving travelers since the 1930s and is a quintessential stop for photography and nostalgia enthusiasts on a California Route 66 camper van road trip. Although the motel is no longer operational, the cafe has been intermittently open, and the site continues to draw visitors looking to step back in time and experience a slice of classic Americana.