Drive 371 miles • 6 hours, 33 minutes

During the mid-20th century, legions of Americans hopped on Route 66 to explore the travel corridor between Illinois and California. Many would argue that the stretch of the Mother Road that runs through New Mexico boasts the best scenery and most compelling stops. Take this trip and judge for yourself.

1. Gallup

Starting Point • History, Shopping

Start this All American Road Trip in the Gallup Cultural Center in the city’s historic Santa Fe Depot. Learn about the area’s prehistoric history in interpretive displays at Red Rock Park, and see the Route 66 phenomenon in local landmarks like the classic El Rancho Hotel. Shop for skilled weaving, sand painting, silver jewelry, turquoise, pottery and sculpture—after all, Gallup’s the “Native American Jewelry Capital of the World.”

RECOMMENDED STOPOVERS

USA RV Park – Gallup, NM – (505) 863-5021

2. Albuquerque

139.7 miles, 2 hours, 17 minutes • History, Outdoor Recreation

Time it right (first week of October) and see Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta. Appreciate the rich native culture at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, and then see ancient rock art at Petroglyph National Monument. Bike or hike the stunning Paseo del Bosque Trail along the Rio Grande, or see the city’s oldest building, the San Felipe de Neri Parish. Top it off with a tram ride up Sandia Peak, where stunning views of the city reward intrepid visitors.

RECOMMENDED STOPOVERS

Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post – Albuquerque, NM – (505) 831-6317

Route 66 RV Resort – Albuquerque, NM – (505) 352-8000

3. Santa Fe

63.7 miles, 1 hour, 10 minutes • Entertainment, History, Shopping

Santa Fe is America’s hub for Southwestern art. Canyon Road is home to 200 art galleries, but you’ll have to visit Johnston Street to see the famed Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Feeling peckish? The Spanish Market serves up tasty food and colonial culture, including native food, live music, dancing and crafts. At the Traveler’s Market, Navajo carpets, jewelry, toys and oddities compete for your attention. Spend an inspirational moment in the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and stroll Santa Fe’s Historic District.

RECOMMENDED STOPOVERS

Santa Fe Skies RV Park – Santa Fe, NM – (877) 565-0451

4. Santa Rosa

108.6 miles, 2 hours, 4 minutes • History, Nature, Outdoor Recreation, Quirky

Scuba diving in the desert? Slip on your flippers and take a dip in the “Scuba Diving Capital of the Southwest.” The Blue Hole is an 80-foot-wide lake known for its crystal-clear water and compelling depths. Back on land, tour the classic Route 66 Auto Museum, which traces the evolution of the amazing machines that traversed the iconic Mother Road. Walk through the picturesque downtown past frontier-era stone buildings. If you’re feeling the heat, relax awhile by the historic Courthouse Plaza’s lovely fountain.

5. Tucumcari

59 miles, 1 hour, 3 minutes • Entertainment, History, Shopping

This small town is the quintessential Mother Road stop. Get Route 66 memorabilia at quaint shops in town or drop into the compelling New Mexico Route 66 Museum, with exhibits devoted to the travelers and attractions found along the state’s 604 miles of Mother Road. Tour downtown in the evening and watch the retro neon signs light up. Tucumcari is the “City of Murals,” so keep your eyes peeled for these sprawling paintings.