Does Route 66 go through Las Vegas?

As with the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas isn't considered part of the original Route 66. But, it's a city you might be keen to experience at least once, and it's close enough (five hours' drive) to the canyon. En route is Seligman, a classic Route 66 town of traditional motels, diners, shops and flashing neon signs.



Strictly speaking, Historic Route 66 does not go through Las Vegas, Nevada. The "Mother Road" was originally commissioned in 1926 to connect Chicago to Los Angeles, following a path through Arizona and California that stayed significantly south of the then-small settlement of Las Vegas. The original road passed through towns like Kingman and Oatman, Arizona, before crossing into Needles, California. However, because Las Vegas became a global tourism phenomenon in the 1950s, it grew into one of the most popular side-trips for Route 66 travelers. Today, many road-trippers detour roughly 100 miles north from Kingman to visit the Las Vegas Strip before reconnecting with the historic route in Barstow or Needles. While you won't find the official Route 66 shield on the Las Vegas Boulevard, the city’s vintage neon signs and mid-century architecture perfectly capture the spirit of the classic American road trip.

People Also Ask

Of the original 2,448 miles that made up Route 66, about 80-85% is still drivable.

MORE DETAILS

In some states Rt 66 is not well- marked and it was often difficult to find where it picks up when one section of it ends. But all in all it is worth the effort if you want to see some almost forgotten bits of Americana. Lots of worthwhile stops along the way, but they are scattered across 2,400 miles.

MORE DETAILS

Route 66 crosses eight states and three time zones. Some of the best-preserved sections include the stretch between Springfield, Missouri and Tulsa, Oklahoma; the road west of Seligman, Arizona; and the Oatman Highway through the Black Hills of Arizona.

MORE DETAILS

Distance from Las Vegas to the West Rim The West Rim (also known as the Grand Canyon West) is roughly 130 miles (210 km) from Las Vegas. The drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. This route isn't difficult, as long as you're prepared — there aren't many services along the road.

MORE DETAILS

Visiting Both Destinations In One Day Hoover Dam is located strategically between Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon South and West Rim. Therefore, it is easy to find day tours from Vegas where travelers can do both attractions in one day.

MORE DETAILS

You have the flexibility to stay overnight at the Grand Canyon, which is often recommended for travellers driving themselves from Las Vegas because of the length of the drive and the number of things to see and do at the Canyon. You'll have more time to explore the Canyon, especially if you stay overnight.

MORE DETAILS

For desert lovers, Arizona's most striking Route 66 scenery lies between Flagstaff and the New Mexico border. Chiefly, you'll travel I-40 as not much remains of old 66 in eastern Arizona. Along the drive you'll see a petrified wood forest, a gorgeous “painted” desert and a massive meteor crater.

MORE DETAILS