Celebrating a Century of Adventure: TripAdvisor and Choice Hotels Unveil Ultimate Route 66 Road Trip Guide
1. A Historic Collaboration
On February 24, 2026, Wanderlab, the creative studio within TripAdvisor Inc., announced an exciting collaboration with Choice Hotels International to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of Route 66, America’s iconic highway. This partnership has birthed a dynamic and interactive guide designed to enhance the road-tripping experience along the storied route, which stretches over 2,500 miles across eight states.
2. The Century of Route 66 Road Trip Guide
The newly launched Century of Route 66 road trip guide is more than just a map; it is an immersive digital experience that combines accommodations offered by Choice Hotels with the rich tapestry of historic sites, quirky roadside attractions, and beloved diners that characterize Route 66. Travelers can now craft their own bucket-list itinerary while enjoying convenient stays at Choice Hotels properties, ensuring comfort along their journey.
Key Features of the Guide
- Interactive Map: The guide includes a comprehensive map detailing all 2,500 miles of Route 66, highlighting the best local experiences and accommodations.
- Curated Itineraries: From iconic diners to must-see landmarks, the guide provides suggestions for travelers looking to explore the unique offerings of each state along the route.
- Strategic Partnerships: The collaboration with Choice Hotels guarantees that travelers have access to over 7,400 properties worldwide, making it easy to find comfortable accommodations in small towns and cities along the highway.
3. Growing Interest in Route 66
The collaboration comes at a time when interest in Route 66 is experiencing a significant surge. Steve Paganelli, Vice President of Global Media & Partnerships at TripAdvisor, reported a 20% increase in pageviews related to Route 66 on their platform from 2023 to 2024. This growing interest emphasizes the road trip's vital role in American travel, as 56% of U.S. travelers plan to drive to vacation destinations this year.
Paganelli remarked, "Route 66 isn't just a road but a century's worth of stories and experiences," highlighting the importance of making travel planning easier for those eager to hit the open road.
4. Insights from Choice Hotels
Noha Abdalla, Chief Marketing Officer at Choice Hotels International, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating that "Route 66 has inspired generations of travelers." The partnership aims to make exploring this iconic highway more accessible by offering a reliable network of hotels, empowering road-trippers to delve into local cultures and histories.
A Journey Through the States
The guide invites travelers to explore the many faces of Route 66 through various states, each with its own unique charm:
- Illinois: The journey begins with neon-lit diners and historic museums, with stops at the Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66 Experience.
- Missouri: Features classic Americana, including the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge and nostalgic drive-in theaters.
- Kansas: Although only 13 miles long, Kansas packs a punch with its preserved historic sites like the Old Riverton Store.
- Oklahoma: Boasting the longest stretch of Route 66, it is home to iconic landmarks like the Round Barn.
- Texas: Known for its larger-than-life attractions, including Cadillac Ranch and the Big Texan Steak Ranch.
- New Mexico: Offers scenic views and cultural experiences, highlighted by the Route 66 Auto Museum.
- Arizona: Showcases dramatic landscapes and unique attractions such as Meteor Crater.
- California: The journey culminates at the Santa Monica Pier, marking the end of Route 66.
5. Conclusion: The Open Road Awaits
With this collaboration, TripAdvisor and Choice Hotels have crafted an essential tool for travelers eager to explore the legacy of Route 66. By combining traveler insights with a trusted hotel network, they have redefined how road trips can be planned and experienced. As the centennial celebration unfolds, the Century of Route 66 road trip guide serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure that this legendary highway represents.
As travelers prepare to embark on this journey of a lifetime, they can look forward to discovering the stories, flavors, and landmarks that have made Route 66 a cherished part of American history.
