Our RideFree experience was an adventure of epic proportions. With the guidance of Wil and strategic planning, we managed to do a self-guided tour from LA to Yosemite National park,... read more through San Francisco and back down to LA in 5 days. It was a trip of a lifetime and I can't wait to hit the road again soon."
Read my full blog and story here on my website, NavigatorNick
Nick S 4/24/2020
Nathan Peach ( Overseal, Derbyshire, United Kingdom ) Just recently completed a Ride Free organised tour of Northern California, me and my buddy hatched an idea to go... read more and have an adventure in America whilst still fit and able enough to not be plagued with...More
nathanp265 11/11/2019
Wil and Erin at Ride Free organised our whole trip along route 66 then the coast road to San Francisco. A self guided driving tour we did with our friends.... read more And taking in some of the natural wonders as well like the Grand Canyon &...More
Hello Wil and Erin. Just a short note to thank you for the ‘BEST VACATION EVER’. Both Brian and Andy were exceptionally professional and it is fair to say that that trip would not have been as good without the professional and friendly banter between the group and the guides. They were well able to cater for the differences in the group and this aided the holiday. The locations, lodgings and roads traveled matched and, sometimes, exceeded our expectations. On at least two occasions the accommodations were part of our dreams. ( Log cabin on a lake ) Read More
Route 66 Self Drive Car Tour. Drive Historic Route 66 from Chicago to LA down the Mother Road of America. Explore old Rt 66, The Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and more with the Oldest Motorcycle Tour Company in the USA. Fully Insured.
See the Route 66 Self Drive Motorcycle Tour from Chicago to Los Angeles with Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. Or for a shorter Route 66 trip, you can join on a motorcycle the portion from Albuquerque to LA on Route 66. This is a 10 Day Tour.
Pre Rt 66 Trip to Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee – or – Milwaukee Start Option – add to any tours
This extra day pre trip is available as an option on all our Route 66 tours. Adds 1 or 2 days to trip.
Or Start the tour in Milwaukee, visit the Harley Museum, pick up our Mustangs, drive with the group to Chicago.
Harley-Davidson 115th Anniversary Celebration Museum Rally Route 66 Motorcycle Tour from Milwaukee
Part 1: We meet up for a few days of celebration at the Harley Museum in Milwaukee. Then we get our Mustangs and drive to Chicago.
Part 2: From Chicago we do the Route 66 Chicago to Los Angeles Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Tour
Option 1 – 15 Day 14 Night – Traditional Classic Route 66 Motorcycle Tour
– can add Milwaukee Harley Museum Option
This is the Traditional Route 66 Chicago to LA Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Tour. Ride Free includes almost a full day at The Grand Canyon on this trip across America, or explore the area in your car that day. And, we arrive early to Las Vegas so you have a full afternoon and night in Las Vegas, or we can ride the Red Rock Canyon by Vegas or The Valley of fire. Optional helicopter ride at Grand Canyon. This is what most motorcycle tour companies run, but we highly suggest the 16 day or 17 day tour. They turn the trip from a mission feel where you just don’t have the time you wish you had every day, into the motorcycle tour experience you were hoping for. It is not that our 16 day Rt 66 route is longer in mileage, we just give you more time to see the things you came to see, and not be exhausted like the other tours we see on the road.
Option 2 – 16 Day 15 Night – Ultra Route 66 Motorcycle Tour – or 17 day Ultimate Explorer
– can add Milwaukee Harley Museum Option
This is the traditional Route 66 Chicago to Los Angeles Motorcycle Tour, BUT with a couple of extras.
We explore Rt 66 where most tours ride right by, and we add days so we have time to explore more without days being too long on our motorcycles. # Wil highly recommends this over any 15 day Rt 66 Route.
We add a day in the middle of the trip = shortens the riding days. Our 15 day is the industry standard, but there are some very long riding day, if you add a riding, it will make the 3 long days into 4 nice days. Well worth it. Or add 2 extra riding days for a 17 day Route 66 Motorcycle Tour, and is even more relaxing. This is how Wil would choose to do it every time. You are only doing this once, believe me now or later…
## Note: don’t let the mileage fool you, much of our trip exploring is slow moving and takes a long time. And, you don’t want to miss all the history and attractions.
Option 3 – 13 Day 12 Night – Chicago to Las Vegas Rt 66 Motorcycle Tour
– can add Milwaukee Harley Museum Option
This motorcycle trip across America is the same as the Traditional Chicago to LA Route 66 Harley-Davidson
motorcycle tour, but we ride our motorbikes Chicago to Las Vegas on Route 66.
Option 4 – 10 Day 9 Night – Chicago to Albuquerque Rt 66 Motorcycle Tour
– can add Milwaukee Harley Museum Option
This motorcycle trip across America is the same as the Ultra Chicago to LA Route 66 Harley-Davidson
motorcycle tour, but we ride our motorbikes Chicago to Santa Fe / Albuquerque on Route 66.
Option 5 – 9 Day 8 Night – Albuquerque to Los Angeles Rt 66 Motorcycle Tour
This motorcycle trip across America is the same as the Ultra Chicago to LA Route 66 Harley-Davidson
motorcycle tour, but we ride our motorbikes Albuquerque / Santa Fe to Los Angeles on Route 66.
Option 5B – 10 day 9 Night – We go to Santa Fe also on this trip.
Option 6 – 19 Day 18 Night – Chicago to Los Angeles Ultimate Rt 66 Motorcycle Tour
Add Harley Museum and Las Vegas Layover – starts in Chicago or Milwaukee start option
This Rt 66 motorcycle trip across America is the same as the relaxed 17 day Ultimate Chicago to LA Route 66 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Tour, except we add in a stop at the Harley Davidson Museum in Milwaukee and a layover day in Las Vegas.
If you want to go no holds barred on your motorbike experience of a lifetime, this is the trip for you. It still also has the layover day in Santa Fe. You will have time to see so much on your trip, and with the layover days, you will be much less fatigued and tired than the 15 day trip.
Route 66 Self Drive Car Tour. Drive Historic Route 66 from Chicago to LA down the Mother Road of America. Explore old Rt 66, The Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and more with the Oldest Motorcycle Tour Company in the USA. Fully Insured.
See the Route 66 Self Drive Motorcycle Tour from Chicago to Los Angeles with Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. Or for a shorter Route 66 trip, you can join on a motorcycle the portion from Albuquerque to LA on Route 66. This is a 10 Day Tour.
Pre Rt 66 Trip to Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee – or – Milwaukee Start Option – add to any tours
This extra day pre trip is available as an option on all our Route 66 tours. Adds 1 or 2 days to trip.
Or Start the tour in Milwaukee, visit the Harley Museum, pick up the bikes, ride with the group to Chicago.
Harley-Davidson 115th Anniversary Celebration Museum Rally Route 66 Motorcycle Tour from Milwaukee
Part 1: We meet up for a few days of celebration at the Harley Museum in Milwaukee. Then we get our bikes and ride to Chicago.
Part 2: From Chicago we do the Route 66 Chicago to Los Angeles Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Tour
Option 1 – 15 Day 14 Night – Traditional Classic Route 66 Motorcycle Tour
– can add Milwaukee Harley Museum Option
This is the Traditional Route 66 Chicago to LA Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Tour. Ride Free includes almost a full day at The Grand Canyon on this motorbike trip across America, or explore the area on your bike that day. And, we arrive early to Las Vegas so you have a full afternoon and night in Las Vegas, or we can ride the Red Rock Canyon by Vegas or The Valley of fire. Optional helicopter ride at Grand Canyon. This is what most motorcycle tour companies run, but we highly suggest the 16 day or 17 day tour. They turn the trip from a mission feel where you just don’t have the time you wish you had every day, into the motorcycle tour experience you were hoping for. It is not that our 16 day Rt 66 route is longer in mileage, we just give you more time to see the things you came to see, and not be exhausted like the other tours we see on the road.
Option 2 – 16 Day 15 Night – Ultra Route 66 Motorcycle Tour – or 17 day Ultimate Explorer
– can add Milwaukee Harley Museum Option
This is the traditional Route 66 Chicago to Los Angeles Motorcycle Tour, BUT with a couple of extras.
We explore Rt 66 where most tours ride right by, and we add days so we have time to explore more without days being too long on our motorcycles. # Wil highly recommends this over any 15 day Rt 66 Route.
We add a day in the middle of the trip = shortens the riding days. Our 15 day is the industry standard, but there are some very long riding day, if you add a riding, it will make the 3 long days into 4 nice days. Well worth it. Or add 2 extra riding days for a 17 day Route 66 Motorcycle Tour, and is even more relaxing. This is how Wil would choose to do it every time. You are only doing this once, believe me now or later…
## Note: don’t let the mileage fool you, much of our trip exploring is slow moving and takes a long time. And, you don’t want to miss all the history and attractions.
Option 3 – 13 Day 12 Night – Chicago to Las Vegas Rt 66 Motorcycle Tour
– can add Milwaukee Harley Museum Option
This motorcycle trip across America is the same as the Traditional Chicago to LA Route 66 Harley-Davidson
motorcycle tour, but we ride our motorbikes Chicago to Las Vegas on Route 66.
Option 4 – 10 Day 9 Night – Chicago to Albuquerque Rt 66 Motorcycle Tour
– can add Milwaukee Harley Museum Option
This motorcycle trip across America is the same as the Ultra Chicago to LA Route 66 Harley-Davidson
motorcycle tour, but we ride our motorbikes Chicago to Santa Fe / Albuquerque on Route 66.
Option 5 – 9 Day 8 Night – Albuquerque to Los Angeles Rt 66 Motorcycle Tour
This motorcycle trip across America is the same as the Ultra Chicago to LA Route 66 Harley-Davidson
motorcycle tour, but we ride our motorbikes Albuquerque / Santa Fe to Los Angeles on Route 66.
Option 5B – 10 day 9 Night – We go to Santa Fe also on this trip.
Option 6 – 19 Day 18 Night – Chicago to Los Angeles Ultimate Rt 66 Motorcycle Tour
Add Harley Museum and Las Vegas Layover – starts in Chicago or Milwaukee start option
This Rt 66 motorcycle trip across America is the same as the relaxed 17 day Ultimate Chicago to LA Route 66 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Tour, except we add in a stop at the Harley Davidson Museum in Milwaukee and a layover day in Las Vegas.
If you want to go no holds barred on your motorbike experience of a lifetime, this is the trip for you. It still also has the layover day in Santa Fe. You will have time to see so much on your trip, and with the layover days, you will be much less fatigued and tired than the 15 day trip.
We meet after lunchtime at the hotel and talk about our upcoming adventure on the Mother Road of America, Route 66 Chicago to LA. We also do an orientation with the Mustangs to familiarize ourselves with the upcoming adventure on Route 66 in new Mustang Convertibles. Then we go out for dinner after checking out the beginning of Route 66 in downtown Chicago to discuss our big adventure!
Day 2 – Chicago to Springfield, Illinois
Let’s get in our mustangs and drive on Route 66! We settle into our mustangs , and aim for California. This is our first night on the road. See icons such as the “Gemini Giant”, “Rocket Man”, “Old Log Cabin”, the old “Marathon Oil Station”. We also stop at the RT 66 Museum in Joliet. That afternoon we arrive to Springfield and stay at a nice local hotel in historic downtown where we can visit the amazing Lincoln Museum before having dinner at a local restaurant and celebrate our first night on the road.
Day 3 – Bloomington to Saint Loius
Riding Rt 66. Exploring St. Louis. The Gateway Arch welcomes travelers heading East or West. The famous Budweiser Brewery. Maybe a blues bar tonight? Before we get to Saint Louis, we drive our cars with the top down to the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge. We will walk out on the old bridge!
Day 4 – St Louis to Springfield
Riding Rt 66 through neat little towns. We have really fallen into sync with our rides now.. Americana. Devils Elbow is amazing.
Day 5 – Springfield to Oklahoma City
Great section of RT 66 with all the Googie Architecture. A really great ride. Great old diners. This is RT 66!
Day 6 – Oklahoma City to Amarillo, Texas
Elk Cit Rt 66 Museum. Welcome to Texas! The panhandle of Texas. Big Texan Steakhouse for dinner? Everything is bigger in Texas. You will know you are on old Rt 66 today. It will feel like a throwback to what it was like to travel Rt 66 on the road in years past.
Day 7 – Amarillo to Santa Fe, New Mexico
Cadillac Ranch is a Route 66 stop we must do. Who has ever spray painted a vintage Cadillac on Rt 66 before? Let me ask you again in the future… Welcome to Santa Fe. Art galleries, great restaurants, great walking around…. This is really an amazing Southwest city to spend time in. We discover the rich history and culture of Santa Fe after a big day riding Route 66 in our mustangs.
DAY 8 – Santa Fe to Gallup
We follow the Route 66 path, and end at the little town of Gallup, at the Rancho Hotel. The historic El Rancho Hotel and Motel has hosted a numerous array of movie stars including John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, Humphrey Bogart, Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn, Joan Crawford, Kirk Douglas, Doris Day, Gregory Peck, and Burt Lancaster. The rugged terrain surrounding Gallup was popular with Hollywood film makers during the 1940’s and 1950’s for the on-location shooting of Westerns. Actors and film crews would stay at the hotel during filming.
Day 9 – Gallup to Grand Canyon National Park South Rim
First, we will stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. We will get pictures with you on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. Next we drive down the main drag on Rt 66 in our vintage Mustang Convertibles with the top down through Flagstaff. Then, we stay on top of the Canyon and watch the sunset the first night. The Grand Canyon. “That’s one big hole!”, enough said. Seeing the sun set over the Grand canyon is one of the things that everyone should see once in a lifetime. We have dinner right on the rim of the Canyon. At night, we can walk back over to the rim under the stars.
Day 10 – Grand Canyon South Rim to Williams, AZ
What is different about Ride Free Chicago to LA Route: We stay at the top of the Grand Canyon for the sunset, unlike most tours who only stay at the bottom. We also spend a whole day at the Grand Canyon the next day, then ride to the bottom so we have more time on an amazing part of Route 66 the next day. For those that want to ride more, we have an amazing ride set up for the day. Who is up for a helicopter ride across the canyon after watching the sunrise? Hike down a trail the next am. into the Grand Canyon. Ride the donkeys down the trail into the canyon? Just relax enjoy the sites and history. Check out the Watchtower. Lots of great things to see. We get a full day in The Grand Canyon. When we are done here, we start heading back down the mountain and stop if you want for a helicopter or plane ride into the Canyon. Or maybe an old train ride? We then work our way down the hill after an amazing day to Williams for dinner and a night on the little town. Or sleep. Ready to hit the road the next am for an amazing day.
Day 11 – Williams to Laughlin, NV
An amazing Old RT 66 day! All the RT 66 shopping you could think of. We will be on the forgotten RT 66 a lot of the day. Grand Canyon Caverns, Peach Springs, Kingman…Towards the end of the day we will work our way on an incredible slow winding road to the old mining town of Oatman. Wild burros, real old 49er gold miners with real Colt 45s on their hips to protect their gold. A forgotten town. Not much has changed here the past 100 years. It is almost unbelievable that is winding mountain road was the main East West road until 1953 when Rt 66 was re routed. Time has held still since then in Oatman. Laughlin is a little Gambling town on the way to Vegas on the Colorado River. Let’s get you ready for the Big Time tomorrow. Ribeye Steak tonight!
Day 12 – Laughlin, NV to Las Vegas, NV 97 miles – Almost Full Day in Vegas!
An early morning ride out beats the heat, and gets us to Vegas early for a full day…. Plenty of time relax in your Vegas room and get cleaned up before hitting the Vegas Strip. Of course we get a picture in from of the famous Las Vegas sign when we ride in town down the strip in our mustangs. Or, instead of just Vegas lounging, we have some great rides out from Vegas if you want some more cruising our Mustangs in Las Vegas. Like Red Rock Canyon and some other stops. But first the Hoover Dam! Vegas – Pools, shows, fun. We will have most of the day to explore Vegas, and the whole relaxed evening.
Day 13 – Las Vegas, NV to Big Bear Lake (or Victorville), CA
( or we can do Big Bear Lake Option if want, see Ultra Tour below ) We follow the original path of Old Route 66 where we can, and explore the amazing Mojave desert.
DAY 14 - Big Bear Lake (or Victorville) to Santa Monica Pier! – 100 miles plus exploring and Malibu Coast Ride!
Over the famous Cajon Pass, then we drop into LA, freeways, civilization. We make it through all the way to the end. The Santa Monica Pier. We can go to Hollywood Blvd today, or we can explore the refreshing California Coast. Malibu, Venice Beach, Santa Monica… let’s keep the Ride Free tradition of ending the tour by putting our feet into the cold Pacific! We turn the bikes in at the end of the day. Let’s celebrate tonight!
Day 15 – Los Angeles Departure
We say our goodbyes, and plan for our next adventure. There is so much more to see in the USA in the future.
We meet after lunchtime at the hotel and talk about our upcoming adventure on the Mother Road of America, Route 66 Chicago to LA. We also do an orientation with the Mustangs to familiarize ourselves with the upcoming adventure on Route 66 in our Mustang Convertibles. Then we go out for dinner after checking out the beginning of Route 66 in downtown Chicago to discuss our big adventure!
Day 2 – Chicago to Springfield, Illinois
Let’s get in our Mustangs and drive on Route 66! We settle into our car and aim for California. This is our first night on the road. See icons such as the “Gemini Giant”, “Rocket Man”, “Old Log Cabin”, the old “Marathon Oil Station”. We also stop at the RT 66 Museum in Joliet.
That afternoon we arrive to Springfield and stay at a nice local hotel in historic downtown where we can visit the amazing Lincoln Museum if we have time before having dinner at a local restaurant and celebrate our first night on the road.
Day 3 – Springfield, Illinois to Saint Louis
Riding Rt 66. Exploring St. Louis. The Gateway Arch welcomes travelers heading East or West. Maybe a blues bar tonight?
Before we get to Saint Louis, we drive out Mustangs with the top down to the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge. We will walk out on the old bridge!
Day 4 – St Louis to Lebanon, MO
Riding Rt 66 through neat little towns. We have really fallen into sync with our rides now.. Americana. How about some great American BBQ? We get a picture with the worlds largest Rocking Chair. Devils Elbow is amazing. This is small town America. At a glance it does not seem like much has changed. We hang out with the locals tonight and relax under the stars under some neon light of a vintage Rt 66 Motel in the countryside.
Day 5 – Lebanon to Tulsa, OK 233 miles
Great section of RT 66 with all the Googie Architecture. A really great ride. Great old diners. A really nice driving day. This is one of the longest days, but a great day. This is RT 66! We stop and meet some very interesting people along the ride today, and ride over a famous RT 66 Bridge in our Mustangs. Then we go stop at a great little motorcycle museum along the way that has a great history of Rt 66.
Day 6 – Tulsa to Clinton OK 191 miles
Today is a really nice cruise through the countryside. So many great little signs and remnants of the hay days of this great road to see. We end the day with the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum where we can travel in time back to the glory days of Rt 66.
Day 7 – Clinton to Amarillo, TX
In the morning after a short ride we visit the Elk City Rt 66 Museum. I could spend a day at this one. It is absolutely amazing. The farming history, Wild West History, and every aspect of old America. Welcome to Texas! The panhandle of Texas. Big Texan Steakhouse for dinner? Everything is bigger in Texas. You will know you are on old Rt 66 today. It will feel like a throwback to what it was like to travel Rt 66 on the road in years past.
DAY 8 – Amarillo to Santa Fe, NM
Cadillac Ranch is a Route 66 stop we must do. Who has ever spray painted a vintage Cadillac on Rt 66 before? Let me ask you again in the future… Midpoint of Rt 66 at the Midpoint Café! Amazing day of vintage hotels and neon signs like The Blue Swallow and others. Welcome to Santa Fe. Art galleries, great restaurants, great walking around…. This is really an amazing Southwest city to spend time in. We discover the rich history and culture of Santa Fe after a big day riding Route 66 in our Mustangs.
Day 9 – Santa Fe to Gallup
We follow the Route 66 path, and end at the little town of Gallup, at the Rancho Hotel.
The historic El Rancho Hotel and Motel has hosted a numerous array of movie stars including John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, Humphrey Bogart, Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn, Joan Crawford, Kirk Douglas, Doris Day, Gregory Peck, and Burt Lancaster. The rugged terrain surrounding Gallup was popular with Hollywood film makers during the 1940’s and 1950’s for the on-location shooting of Westerns. Actors and film crews would stay at the hotel during filming.
Day 10 – Gallup to Grand Canyon National Park
First, we will stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. We will get pictures with your Mustang on a corner in Winslow, Arizona.
Next we drive down the main drag on Rt 66 in our Convertibles with the top down through Flagstaff. Then, we stay on top of the Canyon and watch the sunset the first night. The Grand Canyon. “That’s one big hole!”, enough said. Seeing the sun set over the Grand canyon is one of the things that everyone should see once in a lifetime. We have dinner right on the rim of the Canyon. At night, we can walk back over to the rim under the stars.
Day 11 – Grand Canyon to Williams, AZ
What is different about Ride Free Chicago to LA Route: We stay at the top of the Grand Canyon for the sunset, unlike most tours who only stay at the bottom. We also spend a whole day at the Grand Canyon the next day, then ride to the bottom so we have more time on an amazing part of Route 66 the next day.
For those that want to ride more, we have an amazing ride set up for the day.
Who is up for a helicopter ride across the canyon after watching the sunrise?
Hike down a trail the next am. into the Grand Canyon. Ride the donkeys down the trail into the canyon? Just relax enjoy the sites and history.
Check out the Watchtower. Lots of great things to see. We get a full day in The Grand Canyon. When we are done here, we start heading back down the mountain and stop if you want for a helicopter or plane ride into the Canyon. Or maybe an old train ride? We then work our way down the hill after an amazing day to Williams for dinner and a night on the little town. Or sleep. Ready to hit the road the next am for an amazing day.
Day 12 – Williams to Laughlin, NV
An amazing Old RT 66 day! All the RT 66 shopping you could think of. We will be on the forgotten RT 66 a lot of the day. Grand Canyon Caverns, Peach Springs, Kingman…Towards the end of the day we will work our way on an incredible slow winding road to the old mining town of Oatman. Wild burros, real old 49er gold miners with real Colt 45s on their hips to protect their gold. A forgotten town. Not much has changed here the past 100 years. It is almost unbelievable that is winding mountain road was the main East West road until 1953 when Rt 66 was re routed. Time has held still since then in Oatman.
Laughlin is a little Gambling town on the way to Vegas on the Colorado River. Let’s get you ready for the Big Time tomorrow.
Ribeye Steak tonight!
Day 13 – Laughlin, NV to Las Vegas, NV
An early morning ride out beats the heat, and gets us to Vegas early for a full day…. Plenty of time relax in your Vegas room and get cleaned up before hitting the Vegas Strip. Of course we get a picture in from of the famous Las Vegas sign when we ride in town down the strip in our Mustangs. Or, instead of just Vegas lounging, we have some great rides out from Vegas if you want some more cruising our Mustangs in Las Vegas. Like Red Rock Canyon and some other stops.
But first the Hoover Dam! Vegas – Pools, shows, fun. We will have most of the day to explore Vegas, and the whole relaxed evening.
Day 14 – Las Vegas, NV to Big Bear Lake (or Victorville), CA
( or we can do Big Bear Lake Option 296 miles – 5hr 24min )
We follow the original path of Old Route 66 where we explore the amazing Mojave desert. If we do the Big Bear Option we climb into the cool Alpine town of Big Bear Lake at the end of the day.
Day 15 – Big Bear Lake (or Victorville) to Santa Monica Pier!
Over the famous Cajon Pass, then we drop into LA, freeways, civilization. We make it through all the way to the end. The Santa Monica Pier. We can go to Hollywood Blvd today, or we can explore the refreshing California Coast. Malibu, Venice Beach, Santa Monica… let’s keep the Ride Free tradition of ending the tour by putting our feet into the cold Pacific!
We turn the bikes in at the end of the day.
Let’s celebrate tonight!
Day 16 – Los Angeles Departure
We say our goodbyes, and plan for our next adventure. There is so much more to see in the USA in the future.
A shuttle will take you to the LAX.
We meet after lunchtime at the hotel and talk about our upcoming adventure on the Mother Road of America, Route 66 Chicago to LA. We also do an orientation with our Mustangs to familiarize ourselves with the upcoming adventure on Route 66. Then we go out for dinner after checking out the beginning of Route 66 in downtown Chicago to discuss our big adventure!
Day 2 – Chicago to Springfield, Illinois
Let’s get in our Mustangs and drive on Route 66! We settle into our car rentals and aim for California. This is our first night on the road. See icons such as the “Gemini Giant”, “Rocket Man”, “Old Log Cabin”, the old “Marathon Oil Station”. We also stop at the RT 66 Museum in Joliet.
That afternoon we arrive to Springfield and stay at a nice local hotel in historic downtown where we can visit the amazing Lincoln Museum if we have time before having dinner at a local restaurant and celebrate our first night on the road.
Day 3 – Springfield, Illinois to Saint Louis
Riding Rt 66. Exploring St. Louis. The Gateway Arch welcomes travelers heading East or West. Maybe a blues bar tonight?
Before we get to Saint Louis, we drive our Mustangs with the top down to the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge. We will walk out on the old bridge!
Day 4 – St Louis to Lebanon, MO
Riding Rt 66 through neat little towns. We have really fallen into sync with our rides now.. Americana. How about some great American BBQ? We get a picture with the worlds largest Rocking Chair. Devils Elbow is amazing. This is small town America. At a glance it does not seem like much has changed. We hang out with the locals tonight and relax under the stars under some neon light of a vintage Rt 66 Motel in the countryside.
Day 5 – Lebanon to Tulsa, OK 233 miles
Great section of RT 66 with all the Googie Architecture. A really great ride. Great old diners. A really nice driving day. This is one of the longest days, but a great day. This is RT 66! We stop and meet some very interesting people along the ride today, and ride over a famous RT 66 Bridge in our Mustangs. Then we go stop at a great little motorcycle museum along the way that has a great history of Rt 66.
Day 6 – Tulsa to Clinton OK 191 miles
Today is a really nice cruise through the countryside. So many great little signs and remnants of the hay days of this great road to see. We end the day with the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum where we can travel in time back to the glory days of Rt 66.
Day 7 – Clinton to Amarillo, TX
In the morning after a short ride we visit the Elk City Rt 66 Museum. I could spend a day at this one. It is absolutely amazing. The farming history, Wild West History, and every aspect of old America. Welcome to Texas! The panhandle of Texas. Big Texan Steakhouse for dinner? Everything is bigger in Texas. You will know you are on old Rt 66 today. It will feel like a throwback to what it was like to travel Rt 66 on the road in years past.
DAY 8 – Amarillo to Santa Fe, NM
Cadillac Ranch is a Route 66 stop we must do. Who has ever spray painted a vintage Cadillac on Rt 66 before? Let me ask you again in the future… Midpoint of Rt 66 at the Midpoint Café! Amazing day of vintage hotels and neon signs like The Blue Swallow and others. Welcome to Santa Fe. Art galleries, great restaurants, great walking around…. This is really an amazing Southwest city to spend time in. We discover the rich history and culture of Santa Fe after a big day riding Route 66 in our Mustangs.
Day 9 – Santa Fe to Gallup
We follow the Route 66 path, and end at the little town of Gallup, at the Rancho Hotel.
The historic El Rancho Hotel and Motel has hosted a numerous array of movie stars including John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, Humphrey Bogart, Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn, Joan Crawford, Kirk Douglas, Doris Day, Gregory Peck, and Burt Lancaster. The rugged terrain surrounding Gallup was popular with Hollywood film makers during the 1940’s and 1950’s for the on-location shooting of Westerns. Actors and film crews would stay at the hotel during filming.
Day 10 – Gallup to Grand Canyon National Park
First, we will stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. We will get pictures with you and your Mustangs on a corner in Winslow, Arizona.
Next we drive down the main drag on Rt 66 in our Convertibles with the top down through Flagstaff. Then, we stay on top of the Canyon and watch the sunset the first night. The Grand Canyon. “That’s one big hole!”, enough said. Seeing the sun set over the Grand canyon is one of the things that everyone should see once in a lifetime. We have dinner right on the rim of the Canyon. At night, we can walk back over to the rim under the stars.
Day 11 – Grand Canyon to Williams, AZ
What is different about Ride Free Chicago to LA Route: We stay at the top of the Grand Canyon for the sunset, unlike most tours who only stay at the bottom. We also spend a whole day at the Grand Canyon the next day, then ride to the bottom so we have more time on an amazing part of Route 66 the next day.
For those that want to ride more, we have an amazing ride set up for the day.
Who is up for a helicopter ride across the canyon after watching the sunrise?
Hike down a trail the next am. into the Grand Canyon. Ride the donkeys down the trail into the canyon? Just relax enjoy the sites and history.
Check out the Watchtower. Lots of great things to see. We get a full day in The Grand Canyon. When we are done here, we start heading back down the mountain and stop if you want for a helicopter or plane ride into the Canyon. Or maybe an old train ride? We then work our way down the hill after an amazing day to Williams for dinner and a night on the little town. Or sleep. Ready to hit the road the next am for an amazing day.
Day 12 – Williams to Laughlin, NV
An amazing Old RT 66 day! All the RT 66 shopping you could think of. We will be on the forgotten RT 66 a lot of the day. Grand Canyon Caverns, Peach Springs, Kingman…Towards the end of the day we will work our way on an incredible slow winding road to the old mining town of Oatman. Wild burros, real old 49er gold miners with real Colt 45s on their hips to protect their gold. A forgotten town. Not much has changed here the past 100 years. It is almost unbelievable that is winding mountain road was the main East West road until 1953 when Rt 66 was re routed. Time has held still since then in Oatman.
Laughlin is a little Gambling town on the way to Vegas on the Colorado River. Let’s get you ready for the Big Time tomorrow.
Ribeye Steak tonight!
Day 13 – Laughlin, NV to Las Vegas, NV
An early morning ride out beats the heat, and gets us to Vegas early for a full day…. Plenty of time relax in your Vegas room and get cleaned up before hitting the Vegas Strip. Of course we get a picture in from of the famous Las Vegas sign when we ride in town down the strip in our Mustangs. Or, instead of just Vegas lounging, we have some great rides out from Vegas if you want some more cruising our Mustangs in Las Vegas. Like Red Rock Canyon and some other stops.
But first the Hoover Dam! Vegas – Pools, shows, fun. We will have most of the day to explore Vegas, and the whole relaxed evening.
Day 14 – Las Vegas, NV to Big Bear Lake (or Victorville), CA
( or we can do Big Bear Lake Option 296 miles – 5hr 24min )
We follow the original path of Old Route 66 where we explore the amazing Mojave desert. If we do the Big Bear Option we climb into the cool Alpine town of Big Bear Lake at the end of the day.
Day 15 – Las Vegas, NV to Big Bear Lake (or Victorville), CA 224 miles
We take a little Rt 66 excursion up into the amazing San Bernadino mountains. A last long hard ride through the desert, we are covered in desert dust. Our bikes are covered in road grime. They and we look and feel like we really did something. We have. Then a climb up into the twisty mountains brings us to an awaiting pool in the cool alpine town of Big Bear Lake.
Day 16 – Big Bear Lake (or Victorville ) to Santa Monica Pier! 113 miles
It is not over yet! We ride the Rim of The World. An incredible ride on the top of a mountain range, with the clouds below. One of our most amazing rides. Then we drop into LA, freeways, civilization. We make it through all the way to the end of Route 66! The Santa Monica Pier. … let’s keep the Ride Free tradition of ending the tour by putting our feet into the cold Pacific! We turn the bikes in at the end of the day. A victory dinner tonight!
Day 17 – Los Angeles Departure
We say our goodbyes, and plan for our next adventure. There is so much more to see in the USA in the future. A shuttle will take you to the LAX.
We meet after lunchtime at the hotel and talk about our upcoming adventure on the Mother Road of America, Route 66 Chicago to LA. We also do an orientation with our Mustangs to familiarize ourselves with the upcoming adventure on Route 66. Then we go out for dinner after checking out the beginning of Route 66 in downtown Chicago to discuss our big adventure!
Day 2 – Chicago to Springfield, Illinois
Let’s get in our Mustangs and drive on Route 66! We settle into our car rentals , and aim for California. This is our first night on the road. See icons such as the “Gemini Giant”, “Rocket Man”, “Old Log Cabin”, the old “Marathon Oil Station”. We also stop at the RT 66 Museum in Joliet.
That afternoon we arrive to Springfield and stay at a nice local hotel in historic downtown where we can visit the amazing Lincoln Museum if we have time before having dinner at a local restaurant and celebrate our first night on the road.
Day 3 – Springfield, Illinois to Saint Louis
Riding Rt 66. Exploring St. Louis. The Gateway Arch welcomes travelers heading East or West. Maybe a blues bar tonight?
Before we get to Saint Louis, we drive out Mustangs with the top down to the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge. We will walk out on the old bridge!
Day 4 – St Louis to Lebanon, MO
Riding Rt 66 through neat little towns. We have really fallen into sync with our rides now.. Americana. How about some great American BBQ? We get a picture with the worlds largest Rocking Chair. Devils Elbow is amazing. This is small town America. At a glance it does not seem like much has changed. We hang out with the locals tonight and relax under the stars under some neon light of a vintage Rt 66 Motel in the countryside.
Day 5 – Lebanon to Tulsa, OK 233 miles
Great section of RT 66 with all the Googie Architecture. A really great ride. Great old diners. A really nice driving day. This is one of the longest days, but a great day. This is RT 66! We stop and meet some very interesting people along the ride today, and ride over a famous RT 66 Bridge in our Mustangs. Then we go stop at a great little motorcycle museum along the way that has a great history of Rt 66.
Day 6 – Tulsa to Clinton OK 191 miles
Today is a really nice cruise through the countryside. So many great little signs and remnants of the hay days of this great road to see. We end the day with the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum where we can travel in time back to the glory days of Rt 66.
Day 7 – Clinton to Amarillo, TX
In the morning after a short ride we visit the Elk City Rt 66 Museum. I could spend a day at this one. It is absolutely amazing. The farming history, Wild West History, and every aspect of old America. Welcome to Texas! The panhandle of Texas. Big Texan Steakhouse for dinner? Everything is bigger in Texas. You will know you are on old Rt 66 today. It will feel like a throwback to what it was like to travel Rt 66 on the road in years past.
DAY 8 – Amarillo to Santa Fe, NM
Cadillac Ranch is a Route 66 stop we must do. Who has ever spray painted a vintage Cadillac on Rt 66 before? Let me ask you again in the future… Midpoint of Rt 66 at the Midpoint Café! Amazing day of vintage hotels and neon signs like The Blue Swallow and others. Welcome to Santa Fe. Art galleries, great restaurants, great walking around…. This is really an amazing Southwest city to spend time in. We discover the rich history and culture of Santa Fe after a big day riding Route 66 in our Mustangs.
Day 9 – Santa Fe to Gallup
We follow the Route 66 path, and end at the little town of Gallup, at the Rancho Hotel.
The historic El Rancho Hotel and Motel has hosted a numerous array of movie stars including John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, Humphrey Bogart, Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn, Joan Crawford, Kirk Douglas, Doris Day, Gregory Peck, and Burt Lancaster. The rugged terrain surrounding Gallup was popular with Hollywood film makers during the 1940’s and 1950’s for the on-location shooting of Westerns. Actors and film crews would stay at the hotel during filming.
Day 10 – Gallup to Winslow, AZ
Ride out of Gallup today on Route 66 and stop at the Petrified Forest. We then work our way to Stand on a Corner in Winslow, Arizona where we arrive early today with plenty of time for pictures on the famous Rt 66 corner with you and your Mustang. This is a relaxing day with an early arrival and an iconic destination.
Day 11 – Winslow, AZ to Grand Canyon National Park
Next we drive down the main drag on Rt 66 in our Convertibles with the top down through Flagstaff. Then, we stay on top of the Canyon and watch the sunset the first night. The Grand Canyon. “That’s one big hole!”, enough said. Seeing the sun set over the Grand canyon is one of the things that everyone should see once in a lifetime. We have dinner right on the rim of the Canyon. At night, we can walk back over to the rim under the stars.
Day 12 – Grand Canyon National Park to Williams, AZ
What is different about Ride Free Chicago to LA Route: We stay at the top of the Grand Canyon for the sunset, unlike most tours who only stay at the bottom. We also spend a whole day at the Grand Canyon the next day, then ride to the bottom so we have more time on an amazing part of Route 66 the next day.
For those that want to ride more, we have an amazing ride set up for the day.
Who is up for a helicopter ride across the canyon after watching the sunrise?
Hike down a trail the next am. into the Grand Canyon. Ride the donkeys down the trail into the canyon? Just relax enjoy the sites and history.
Check out the Watchtower. Lots of great things to see. We get a full day in The Grand Canyon. When we are done here, we start heading back down the mountain and stop if you want for a helicopter or plane ride into the Canyon. Or maybe an old train ride? We then work our way down the hill after an amazing day to Williams for dinner and a night on the little town. Or sleep. Ready to hit the road the next am for an amazing day.
Day 13 – Williams to Laughlin, NV
An amazing Old RT 66 day! All the RT 66 shopping you could think of. We will be on the forgotten RT 66 a lot of the day. Grand Canyon Caverns, Peach Springs, Kingman…Towards the end of the day we will work our way on an incredible slow winding road to the old mining town of Oatman. Wild burros, real old 49er gold miners with real Colt 45s on their hips to protect their gold. A forgotten town. Not much has changed here the past 100 years. It is almost unbelievable that is winding mountain road was the main East West road until 1953 when Rt 66 was re routed. Time has held still since then in Oatman.
Laughlin is a little Gambling town on the way to Vegas on the Colorado River. Let’s get you ready for the Big Time tomorrow.
Ribeye Steak tonight!
Day 14 – Laughlin, NV to Las Vegas, NV
An early morning ride out beats the heat, and gets us to Vegas early for a full day…. Plenty of time relax in your Vegas room and get cleaned up before hitting the Vegas Strip. Of course we get a picture in from of the famous Las Vegas sign when we ride in town down the strip in our Mustangs. Or, instead of just Vegas lounging, we have some great rides out from Vegas if you want some more cruising our Mustangs in Las Vegas. Like Red Rock Canyon and some other stops.
But first the Hoover Dam! Vegas – Pools, shows, fun. We will have most of the day to explore Vegas, and the whole relaxed evening.
Day 15 – Las Vegas, NV to Victorville, CA
( or we can do Big Bear Lake Option 296 miles – 5hr 24min )
We follow the original path of Old Route 66 where we explore the amazing Mojave desert. If we do the Big Bear Option we climb into the cool Alpine town of Big Bear Lake at the end of the day.
Day 16 – Las Vegas, NV to Big Bear Lake (or Victorville), CA
We take a little Rt 66 excursion up into the amazing San Bernardino mountains. A last long hard drive through the desert, we are covered in desert dust. Our Mustangs are covered in road grime. They and we look and feel like we really did something. We have. Then a climb up into the twisty mountains brings us to an awaiting pool in the cool alpine town of Big Bear Lake.
Day 17 – Big Bear Lake (or Victorville) to Santa Monica Pier! 113 miles
It is not over yet! We ride the Rim of The World. An incredible drive on the top of a mountain range, with the clouds below. One of our most amazing rides. Then we drop into LA, freeways, civilization. We make it through all the way to the end of Route 66! The Santa Monica Pier. … let’s keep the Ride Free tradition of ending the tour by putting our feet into the cold Pacific! We turn our Mustangs in at the end of the day. A victory dinner tonight!
Day 18 – Los Angeles Departure
We say our goodbyes, and plan for our next adventure. There is so much more to see in the USA in the future.
A shuttle will take you to the LAX.
We meet after lunchtime at the hotel. We also do an orientation with our Mustangs. Then we go out for dinner to discuss our big adventure!
Day 2 – Chicago to Springfield, Illinois
See icons such as the “Gemini Giant”, “Rocket Man”, “Old Log Cabin”, the old “Marathon Oil Station”. We also stop at the RT 66 Museum in Joliet.
Day 3 – Springfield, Illinois to Saint Louis- 175 miles
Today we drive over the famous old red brick section of Rt 66. It is a tucked away little gem. Amazing day riding Rt 66. Exploring St. Louis. Then we drive our Mustangs to the famous Rt 66 Chain of Rocks Bridge that goes over the mighty Mississippi River. The Gateway Arch welcomes travelers heading East or West. The famous Budweiser Brewery. Maybe a blues bar tonight?
Day 4 - St Louis to Lebanon, MO – 153 miles
Driving our Mustangs on Rt 66 through neat little towns, we have really fallen into synch with our cars. Americana. Devils Elbow is amazing.
Day 5 – Lebanon to Tulsa, OK – 233 miles
A great section of RT 66 with all the Googie Architecture. A really great drive on old pavement of the Mother Road. We visit some great old diners. This is RT 66!
Day 6 – Tulsa to Clinton OK – 191 miles
Elk Cit Rt 66 Museum. Welcome to Texas! The panhandle of Texas. Big Texan Steakhouse for dinner?
Day 7 – Clinton to Amarillo, TX – 176 miles
Everything is bigger in Texas. Let’s live a little old Route 66 today in our Mustangs and tonight. You will know you are on old Rt 66 today. It will feel like a throwback to what it was like to travel Rt 66 on the road in years past.
DAY 8 – Amarillo to Santa Fe, NM – 279 miles
Cadillac Ranch is a Route 66 stop we must do. Who has ever spray painted a vintage Cadillac on Rt 66 before? Let me ask you again in the future… Welcome to Santa Fe. Art galleries, great restaurants, shopping, great walking around…. This is really an amazing Southwest town to spend time in. We discover the rich history and culture of Santa Fe after a big day driving on Route 66.
Day 9 - Santa Fe, NM - Layover
Relax and enjoy this great town. We can take a short nice ride up into the beautiful mountains today. Or just enjoy a full day of rest and fun.
Day 10 – Santa Fe to Gallup – 199 miles
We start the day driving the curvy hills to Maggie’s Diner where the big showdown was in “Wild Hogs”. Then lunch in Old Town Albuquerque. Next we follow the Route 66 path, and end at the little town of Gallup, at the Rancho Hotel.The historic El Rancho Hotel and Motel has hosted a numerous array of movie stars including John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, Humphrey Bogart, Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn, Joan Crawford, Kirk Douglas, Doris Day, Gregory Peck, and Burt Lancaster. The rugged terrain surrounding Gallup was popular with Hollywood film makers during the 1940′s and 1950′s for the on-location shooting of Westerns. Actors and film crews would stay at the hotel during filming.
Day 11 – Gallup to Winslow, AZ
Ride out of Gallup today on Route 66 and stop at the Petrified Forest. We then work our way to Stand on a Corner in Winslow, Arizona where we arrive early today with plenty of time for pictures on the famous Rt 66 corner with you and your motorcycle. This is a relaxing day with an early arrival and an iconic destination.
Day 12 – Winslow, AZ to Grand Canyon National Park
We stay on top of the Canyon and watch the sunset the first night. The Grand Canyon. “That’s one big hole!”, enough said.
Day 13 – Grand Canyon to Williams, AZ – 51 miles
Hike down a trail the next am. into the Grand Canyon. Ride the donkeys down the trail into the canyon? Check out the Watchtower. Lots of great things to see. We get a full day in The Grand Canyon. When we are done here, we start heading back down the mountain and stop if you want for a helicopter or plane ride into the Canyon. Or maybe an old train ride? We then work our way down the hill after an amazing day to Williams for dinner and a night on the Western town. Or sleep.
Day 14 – Williams to Laughlin, NV – 190 miles
The quintessential Western Old RT 66 day! All the RT 66 shopping you could think of. We will be on the forgotten RT 66 a lot of the day. Grand Canyon Caverns, Peach Springs, Kingman…Towards the end of the day we will work our way on an incredible slow winding road to the old mining town of Oatman. Wild burros, real old 49er gold miners with real Colt 45s on their hips to protect their gold. A forgotten town. Not much has changed here the past 100 years. It is almost unbelievable that is winding mountain road was the main East West road until 1953 when Rt 66 was re routed. Time has held still since then in Oatman. Laughlin is a little Gambling town on the way to Vegas on the Colorado River. Let’s get you ready for the Big Time tomorrow. Ribeye Steak and Mico Brewery tonight!
Day 15 – Laughlin, NV to Las Vegas, NV – 97 miles
An early morning drive out beats the heat, and gets us to Vegas for an early lunch….. But first the Hoover Dam! Vegas – Pools, shows, fun. We will have a lot of the day to explore Vegas, and the whole evening.
Day 16 - Las Vegas - Layover Day
Lots to do today. We have some great optional half day drives planned. Have fun with the group or explore Vegas on your own. Tons of fun activities to do.
Day 17 – Las Vegas, NV to Big Bear Lake (or Victorville), CA
We take a little Rt 66 excursion up into the amazing San Bernardino mountains. A last long hard drive through the desert, we are covered in desert dust. Our Mustangs are covered in road grime. They and we look and feel like we really did something. We have. Then a climb up into the twisty mountains brings us to an awaiting pool in the cool alpine town of Big Bear Lake.
Day 18 – Big Bear Lake (or Victorville ) to Santa Monica Pier! – 113 miles
It is not over yet! We drive the Rim of The World. An incredible ride on the top of a mountain range, with the clouds below. One of our most amazing rides. Then we drop into LA, freeways, civilization. We make it through all the way to the end of Route 66!
The Santa Monica Pier. … let’s keep the Ride Free tradition of ending the tour by putting our feet into the cold Pacific!
We turn our Mustangs in at the end of the day. A victory dinner tonight!
DAY 19 – Los Angeles Departure
We say our goodbyes, and plan for our next adventure. There is so much more to see in the USA in the future. A shuttle will take you to the LAX.
We meet after lunchtime at the hotel. We also do an orientation with our Mustangs. Then we go out for dinner to discuss our big adventure!
Day 2 – Chicago to Springfield, Illinois -185 miles
Start Tour out of Chicago. Let’s go! We settle into our Mustangs and aim for California. This is our first night on the road. See icons such as the “Gemini Giant”, “Rocket Man”, “Old Log Cabin”, the old “Marathon Oil Station”. We also stop at the RT 66 Museum in Joliet.
Day 3 – Springfield, Illinois to Saint Louis 175 miles
Today we drive over the famous old red brick section of Rt 66. It is a tucked away little gem. Amazing day riding Rt 66. Exploring St. Louis. Then we drive our Mustangs to the famous Rt 66 Chain of Rocks Bridge that goes over the mighty Mississippi River. The Gateway Arch welcomes travelers heading East or West. The famous Budweiser Brewery. Maybe a blues bar tonight?
Day 4 – St Louis to Lebanon, MO – 153 miles
Driving our Mustangs on Rt 66 through neat little towns, we have really fallen into synch. Americana. Devils Elbow is amazing.
Day 5 – Lebanon to Tulsa, OK – 233 miles
A great section of RT 66 with all the Googie Architecture. A really great car ride on old pavement of the Mother Road. We visit some great old diners. This is RT 66!
Day 6 – Tulsa to Clinton OK – 191 miles
Elk Cit Rt 66 Museum. Welcome to Texas! The panhandle of Texas. Big Texan Steakhouse for dinner?
Day 7 – Clinton to Amarillo, TX – 176 miles
Welcome to Texas! The panhandle of Texas. Big Texan Steakhouse for dinner? Everything is bigger in Texas. Let’s live a little old Route 66 today in our Mustangs and tonight. You will know you are on old Rt 66 today. It will feel like a throwback to what it was like to travel Rt 66 on the road in years past.
DAY 8 – Amarillo to Santa Fe, NM – 279 miles
Cadillac Ranch is a Route 66 stop we must do. Who has ever spray painted a vintage Cadillac on Rt 66 before? Let me ask you again in the future… Welcome to Santa Fe. Art galleries, great restaurants, great walking around…. This is really an amazing Southwest city to spend time in. We discover the rich history and culture of Santa Fe after a big day driving Route 66.
Day 9 – Santa Fe to Albuquerque
We start the day slow today. First have a leisurely breakfast in Santa Fe. Stroll around the town square, or take a drive up into the mountains. Next we drive the curvy hills to Maggie’s Diner in Madrid where the big showdown was in “Wild Hogs”. Plenty of time to soak in the unique town of Madrid and have lunch. There are also some other neat stops we have added in on the way to Old Town Albuquerque where you spend the afternoon exploring.
We meet after lunchtime at the hotel. We also do an orientation with our Mustangs. Then we go out for dinner to discuss our big adventure in Old Town Albuquerque.
DAY 2 – Albuquerque to Gallup – ( On 5B Option, we ride to Santa Fe this day )
We start the day with breakfast in Old Town Albuquerque. Next we follow the Route 66 path, and end at the little town of Gallup, at the Rancho Hotel.The historic El Rancho Hotel and Motel has hosted a numerous array of movie stars including John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, Humphrey Bogart, Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn, Joan Crawford, Kirk Douglas, Doris Day, Gregory Peck, and Burt Lancaster. The rugged terrain surrounding Gallup was popular with Hollywood film makers during the 1940′s and 1950′s for the on-location shooting of Westerns. Actors and film crews would stay at the hotel during filming.
Day 3 – Gallup to Grand Canyon National Park - 283 miles
We stay on top of the Canyon and watch the sunset the first night. The Grand Canyon. “That’s one big hole!”, enough said.
Day 4 – Grand Canyon South Rim to Williams, AZ – 51 miles
Hike down a trail the next morning into the Grand Canyon. Ride the donkeys down the trail into the canyon? Check out the Watchtower. Lots of great things to see. We get a full day in The Grand Canyon. When we are done here, we start heading back down the mountain and stop if you want for a helicopter or plane ride into the Canyon. Or maybe an old train ride? We then work our way down the hill after an amazing day to Williams for dinner and a night on the Western town. Or sleep.
Day 5 – Williams to Laughlin, NV – 190 miles
The quintessential Western Old RT 66 day! All the RT 66 shopping you could think of. We will be on the forgotten RT 66 a lot of the day. Grand Canyon Caverns, Peach Springs, Kingman…Towards the end of the day we will work our way on an incredible slow winding road to the old mining town of Oatman. Wild burros, real old 49er gold miners with real Colt 45s on their hips to protect their gold. A forgotten town. Not much has changed here the past 100 years. It is almost unbelievable that is winding mountain road was the main East West road until 1953 when Rt 66 was re routed. Time has held still since then in Oatman. Laughlin is a little Gambling town on the way to Vegas on the Colorado River. Let’s get you ready for the Big Time tomorrow. Ribeye Steak and Mico Brewery tonight!
Day 6 – Laughlin, NV to Las Vegas, NV – 97 miles
An early morning drive beats the heat and gets us to Vegas for an early lunch….. But first the Hoover Dam!
Vegas – Pools, shows, fun. We will have a lot of the day to explore Vegas, and the whole evening.
Day 7 – Las Vegas, NV to Big Bear Lake (or Victorville), CA – 224 miles
We take a little Rt 66 excursion up into the amazing San Bernadino mountains. A last long hard ride through the desert, we are covered in desert dust. Our Mustangs are covered in road grime. They and we look and feel like we really did something. We have. Then a climb up into the twisty mountains brings us to an awaiting pool in the cool alpine town of Big Bear Lake.
Day 8 – Big Bear Lake (or Victorville) to Santa Monica Pier! – 113 miles
It is not over yet! We drive the Rim of The World. An incredible drive on the top of a mountain range, with the clouds below. One of our most amazing drives. Then we drop into LA, freeways, civilization. We make it through all the way to the end of Route 66! The Santa Monica Pier. … let’s keep the Ride Free tradition of ending the tour by putting our feet into the cold Pacific! We turn our Mustangs in at the end of the day. A victory dinner tonight!
Day 9 – Los Angeles Departure
We say our goodbyes, and plan for our next adventure. There is so much more to see in the USA in the future. A shuttle will take you to the LAX.
ROUTE 66 GUIDED TOUR AND SELF DRIVE TOUR INFO AND PRICING
Route 66 new Muscle Car Rental and Tours for you or your group. We arrange it all, just like our motorcycle tours. Contact us to join a current car tour we have planned, or to book a custom tour for your group. Schedule Below.
Drive Route 66 with real V8 engine American power, our late model V8 Mustang Convertibles and V8 Challengers rumble!
V8 cars are owned by Ride Free Tours so we book you an exact car. Not like booking online with a travel agent or with the huge rental car companies where you don’t really know if the car will be there or not, and they won’t guarantee the exact car.
Hear that real American Muscle car sound and feel the power of the V8 engine as you rumble down Route 66!
Guided Tour and Self Guided Tour Pricing, and Guided Tour Dates below.
Self Guided Tours can start almost any date you want.
2022 Chicago to LA Guided Car Tour – Start Dates March 5 – April 5 – May 5 – May 19 –June 9 –July 7 – July 30 –Aug 4 – Aug 15- Sept 3 – Sept 15 – Oct 2 – Nov 2
2023 Chicago to LA Guided Car Tour – Start Dates
March 5 – April 5 – May 5 – May 19 –June 9 –July 7 – July 30 –Aug 4 – Aug 15- Sept 3 – Sept 15 –Oct 2 – Nov 2
2024 Chicago to LA Guided Car Tour – Start Dates
March 5 – April 5 – May 5 – May 19 –June 9 –July 7 – July 30 –Aug 4 – Aug 15- Sept 3 – Sept 15 – Oct 2 – Nov 2
Drive Route 66 in a late model muscle car
Guided Tours: Ride Free Tours leads the group in a car. All you have to do is have fun driving your late model muscle car. We take care of the car rental, route, hotels, any worries, and anything that happens along the way.
Add $2000 ONE WAY FEE PER VEHICLE for Chicago to Los Angeles, if you choose a RIDE FREE guaranteed fleet late model Muscle car like our own RIDE FREE FLEET V8 Mustang convertible or Challenger V8 convertible, or non V8 option – We book your exact muscle car. Unlike booking with the large rental companies or travel agents. $1500 one way fee Chicago to Albuquerque.
200 miles per rental / travel day come with our V8 late model RIDE FREE owned muscle cars, then $1.50 per mile after that.
Note that our 16 day tour has 15 nights and 14 travel / rental days with it. 14 travel / rental days x 200 miles = 2800 miles included.
Self Guided Car Tour Option: car, route, attractions, hotels, phone support before and during your trip.
# The 16 Day Tour takes the 2 longest days of the 15 day tour, and cuts them in half. I highly recommend.
The 17 Day really makes a relaxed trip, and adds a layover or mountain day in Santa Fe. The Ultimate. Wil’s choice.
Route 66 Car Guided Tour Pricing
Guided Tour
15 Day 14 night
16 Day 15 night
17 Day 16 night
18 Day 17 night
19 Day 18 night
1 car - 1 room / 2 people
$5,990
$6,273
$6,593
$7,025
$7,456
1 car - 1 room
$11,980
$12,545
$13,185
$14,050
$14,915
For 2nd room
$2,940
$3,150
$3,360
$3,570
$3,780
$2000 one way fee Chicago to LA not included
Rental Car Tax not included
Rental Vehicle Insurances not included
Self Guided Car Tour Option: Route, vehicle, GPS, booked hotels, daily itinerary, stops, restaurants, custom support, and more
Self Guided Rt 66 Car Pricing Chicago to LA in new Mustang Convertible
Route 66 Self Drive Car Tour Pricing
Self Drive Late Model Muscle Car Tour - per car and room, not per person -
9 Day 8 Night
10 Day 9 Night
11 Day 10 Night
12 Day 11 Night Self
13 Day 12 Night
14 Day 13 Night
1 car / 1 tour / 1 room
$ inquire
$ inquire
$ inquire
$ inquire
$ inquire
$ inquire
Additional Cost For A Second Room
$ inquire
$ inquire
$ inquire
$ inquire
$ inquire
$ inquire
$2000 one way fee Chicago to LA not included
Vehicle Rental Tax not included
Rental Vehicle Insurances not included
200 miles a rental day included, then $1.50 per mile
Self Drive Late Model Muscle Car Tour - price per car not per person -
15 Day 14 Night
16 Day 15 Night
17 Day 16 Night
18 Day 17 Night
19 Day 18 Night
20 Day 19 Night
21 Day 20 Night
1 car / 1 tour / 1 room
$8,005
$8,110
$8,675
$9,240
$9,805
$10,370
$10,935
Additional Cost For A Second Room Option
$2940
$3,150
$3,360
$3,570
$3,780
$3,990
$4,200
add $2000 one way fee Chicago to LA
Rental Car taxes not included
Rental Car Insurances not included
200 miles per rental day included then $1.50 per mile
Mustang, Camaro, Challenger, Charger, Corvette Rates- can vary per date and availability You must provide proof of primary rental insurance coverage that we will verify. If you do not have a USA primary policy that will cover this vehicle, we can refer you to inexpensive short term primary car insurance coverage companies where you can quickly buy primary collision and primary coverage online. You can also purchase supplemental collision damage waivers to reduce your deductible, and supplemental liability insurance to reduce your liability; but Ride Free sells none of these policies. There are through a 3rd party options we can refer you to.
Ride Free owned Fleet of late model V8 Engine real Muscle cars.
They are mostly Ford Mustang GT 460 horsepower V8 engine Convertibles, and Dodge Challenger 375 horsepower V8 engine cars. What a rumble and exhaust note!
Real American Muscle cars.
The great thing is I own all these cars, so we don’t have to deal with any unreliable rental car companies. I am booking you an exact car.
Or we can possibly save you a little money by arranging one of our large rental car partner’s non V8 Cars for you to rent from them.
#Ask about our One Way Special Waiver List: To save money for you, if we have a vehicle that is booked to go one popular direction, we can sometimes waive your $600 to $2500 one way fee if your trip will get the car to the location needed. Examples: LA to Chicago trip, LA to San Francisco trip, and more.
RIDE FREE owned V8 late model muscle cars
$285 per day, and they come with 200 miles per day. That gives a person 2800 miles on a 14 day rental doing Rt 66. $1.50 per mile over the 200 miles per day.
One way fee is $2000 from Chicago to LA, $600 from LA to Vegas or San Francisco. And other custom one way options are available on a case by case basis. On certain dates we can waiver the $2000 one way fee if going LA to Chicago, if available. RIDE FREE V8 PRICING CHART AT BOTTOM OF THIS WINDOW
I have been working very closely with all the major rental car companies that I have worked with for years, and it is extremely difficult to rent their non v8 engine / not real muscle cars for 2022 from the major rental car companies. I am extremely concerned like never before for any of the major rental car companies to actually deliver the booked car, no matter what they tell anyone now. I think there will be a lot of very unhappy people in 2022 who don’t get their desired car they booked when they show up to pick the car up. This is what the managers are telling me. This is why I have decided to expand my Ride Free owned fleet. Plus why rent a v4 or v6, when you can book a real American Muscle car with V8 power! And know you will get that car when you show up for the trip of a lifetime.
NON RIDE FREE FLEET NON V8 RENTAL CAR BASE PRICING / AND NON RIDE FREE FLEET INFO
If you want a non V8 muscle car, we can work with our partners who have them to get you the best chance of getting one for your trip. Happy to help any way that works for you.
LOS ANGELES, SAN FRANCISCO, LAS VEGAS per day leaving from: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas
$250 convertible – $230 hard top or Dodge Challenger
$265 convertible – Mustang or Camaro
CHICAGO per day leaving from: Chicago
$265 hard top – Mustang, Camaro, Dodge Challenger V6
$285 convertible – Mustang or Camaro
Return Fees:(includes tax) Camaros / Mustangs / Challengers – Non RIDE FREE V8 Fleet Chicago to LA: $605 – San Fran to LA / LA to Vegas / Vegas to San Fran: all $275
Chicago to LA with tax, one way fee – Non v8, non RIDE FREE fleet 10 Day – Convertible: Mustang or Camaro – $2850 + $605 = $3455 per car
11 Day – Convertible: Mustang or Camaro – $3135 + $605 = $3740 per car
12 Day – Convertible: Mustang or Camaro – $3420 + $605 = $4025 per car
13 Day – Convertible: Mustang or Camaro – $3705 + $605 = $4310 per car
14 Day – Convertible: Mustang or Camaro – $3990 + $605 = $4595 per car
15 Day – Convertible: Mustang or Camaro – $4275 + $605 = $4880 per car
16 Day – Convertible: Mustang or Camaro – $4560 + $605 = $5165 per car
RIDE FREE V8 – Pick up and drop same location – Los Angeles, Chicago, Las Vegas, San Francisco with tax, one way fee – V8 RIDE FREE fleet
$285 per day / 24 hour rental
200 miles per rental day included, then $1.50 per mile after – Mustang V8 Convertible or V8 Dodge Challenger – base prices before mileage
7 Day – $1995 per car
8 Day – $2280 per car
9 Day – $2565 per car
10 Day – $2850 per car
11 Day – $3135 per car
12 Day – $3420 per car
13 Day – $3705 per car
14 Day – $3990 per car
15 Day – $4275 per car
16 Day – $4560 per car
17 Day – $4845 per car
18 Day – $5130 per car
19 Day – $5415 per car
20 Day – $5700 per car
21 Day – $5985 per car
RIDE FREE FLEET V8 LATE MODEL RENTAL CAR PRICING CHART Chicago to LA with tax, one way fee – V8 RIDE FREE fleet
$285 per day / 24 hour rental
$2000 Chicago to LA One way fee, 200 miles per rental day included, then $1.50 per mile after
On certain dates we can waiver the $2000 one way fee if going LA to Chicago, if available. Mustang V8 Convertible or V8 Dodge Challenger – base prices before mileage
10 Day – $2850 + $2000 = $4850 per car
11 Day – $3135 + $2000 = $5135 per car
12 Day – $3420 + $2000 = $5420 per car
13 Day – $3705 + $2000 = $5705 per car
14 Day – $3990 + $2000 = $5990 per car
15 Day – $4275 + $2000 = $6275 per car
16 Day – $4560 + $2000 = $6560 per car
17 Day – $4845 + $2000 = $6845 per car
18 Day – $5130 + $2000 = $7130 per car
19 Day – $5415 + $2000 = $7415 per car
20 Day – $5700 + $2000 = $7700 per car
21 Day – $5985 + $2000 = $7985 per car
RIDE FREE V8 – Los Angeles / Vegas / San Francisco – one way to or from LA – most cars in LA with tax, one way fee – V8 RIDE FREE fleet
$285 per day / 24 hour rental $600 One way fee, 200 miles per rental day included, then $1.50 per mile after Mustang V8 Convertible or V8 Dodge Challenger – base prices before mileage
7 Day – $1995 + $600 = $2595 per car
8 Day – $2280 + $600 = $2880 per car
9 Day – $2565 + $600 = $3165 per car
10 Day – $2850 + $600 = $3450 per car
11 Day – $3135 + $600 = $3735 per car
12 Day – $3420 + $600 = $4020 per car
13 Day – $3705 + $600 = $4305 per car
14 Day – $3990 + $600 = $4590 per car
15 Day – $4275 + $600 = $4875 per car
16 Day – $4560 + $600 = $5160 per car
17 Day – $4845 + $600 = $5445 per car
18 Day – $5130 + $600 = $5730 per car
19 Day – $5415 + $600 = $6015 per car
20 Day – $5700 + 600 = $6300 per car
21 Day – $5985 + $600 = $6585 per car
Automatic transmission, very small trunk / full sized suitcases fit in back seat only. 2 front seat, 2 very small rear seats.
V8 GT Mustang Rental: 460 horsepower engine. Owned by RIDE FREE, our own fleet.
V8 cars are owned by Ride Free Tours so we book you an exact car. Not like booking online with a travel agent or with the huge rental car companies where you don’t really know if the car will be there or not, and they won’t guarantee the exact car. Our V8 cars are in great shape, but about 4 years old so we can rent them for the same price as the non v8 brand new cars. We have some almost brand new V8 options also, but they are more expensive.
Hear that real American Muscle car sound and feel the power of the V8 engine as you rumble down Route 66!
Our RideFree experience was an adventure of epic proportions. With the guidance of Wil and strategic planning, we managed to do a self-guided tour from LA to Yosemite National park,... read more 
