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 Motorcycle Tour. Ride Historic Route 66 from Chicago to LA on a self drive motorcycle tour USA down the Mother Road of America on a Harley Davidson motorcycle. 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.
Runs: April – May – June – July – Aug – Sept – Oct – November
I do a number of different versions of this tour.
Starts in WASHINGTON, DC
The American History Tour > can tour the coastline of North Carolina, the outer banks with it’s ferries and light houses, Virginia Beach, the Eastern Shore like Onancock, Williamsburg, wild horses at Chincoteague Island, Jamestown, Revolutionary and Civil War battlefields, Washington D.C., and then back down the Blue Ridge Parkway on the Blue Ridge Mountains.
On some tours you can ride the world famous Tail of the Dragon in North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Route depends on what the particular group decides they like most after talking to all participants.
# We can modify the route where we start in DC if you want extra DC days, then depending on the length of the tour we drop down South to Richmond and loop around, or head down the Blue Ridge Mountain Parkway on our way to explore Civil War and Revolutionary War Battlefields, history, and mountains. Ending up with Deal’s Gap / Tail of the Dragon, then end in Atlanta with the huge airport.
I have an unlimited amount of options on this tour. There is so much history in Virginia and North Carolina. It would take us 2 months to run past a decent amount of it. I am from these areas, so I can modify each tour depending on what that group that is coming wants to do, and their interests
16 day 15 Night 14 riding days – HISTORY TOUR
Day 1- Arrive Washington, DC
Day 2- Washington to Gettysburg to Antietam to Harper’s Ferry – 1hr 31 fast route + 1hr + 25 mins
Day 3- the above day two split in half because of all the battlefields to see
Day 4 – Harper’s Ferry to Shenandoah, Front Royal, to Charlottesville – 1hr 12 + 3hr 28
Option Day Add – add day here in mountains above to slow the trip down
Day 5- – Charlottesville to Appomattox – time in Charlottesville and Appomattox – 1hr 23 mins –
Day 6 – Appomattox to Lexington – gives time around Lexington – 1hr 23 –
Day 7 – Lexington to The Homestead, Hot Springs, VA – lots to see and enjoy this special place – 1hr 12
Day 8 – Hot Springs to Blue Ridge Parkway Stop – about 4hr
Day 9 – Blue Ridge Parkway Stop to Asheville, NC – The Biltmore – about 4hr
Day 10 – add day in here to have time at Biltmore and shorter day to Wilmington, more time there, will shorten to Wilmington Day.
Day 11 – Asheville to Wilmington, NC – 5hr 28 mins fast route
Day 12 – Wilmington to Ocracoke – 6hr 2 minutes with 2hr 47min ferry ride = about 3.5hrs of riding
Day 13 – Ocracoke to Williamsburg – 5hr 58min
Day 14 -Williamsburg to Richmond, VA – time at Williamsburg and Richmond – 1hr 17 mins
Day 15 – Richmond to Washington, DC – 2hr 58 mins
Day 16 – Washington, DC Departure
9 Day 8 Night – can be extended to have more time to really see the sites and history – BLUE RIDGE TOUR
Day 1 – Arrive to Washington, DC
Day 2 – Washington to Winchester
Day 3 – Winchester to Lexington
Day 4 – Lexington to Galax
Day 5 – Galax to Asheville, NC
Day 6 – Asheville to Deals Gap
Day 7 – Deal Gap / Tail of The Dragon Layover – fun riding day
Day 8 – Deals Gap to Atlanta ( or to Nashville and end in Nashville, or add another day to the Jack Daniels Distillery or / and more )
Day 9 – Atlanta Departure Day
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 bikes to familiarize ourselves with the upcoming adventure and our Harley Davidsons. 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 -185 miles
Let’s hop on our Harley Davidsons and ride Route 66! We settle into our bikes, 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 a Rt 66 Museum in Pontiac to learn about Route 66 and the people who make America great. That afternoon we arrive to Springfield on our Harley Davidsons and stay at a nice local hotel in historic downtown where we can have dinner at a local restaurant and celebrate our first night on the road.
Day 3 – Springfield, Illinois to Saint Louis, MO 175 miles
Riding Rt 66. Exploring St. Louis. The Gateway Arch welcomes travelers heading East or West. The famous Budweiser Brewery. Maybe a blues bar tonight? There is so much to discover and explore on the motorcycle adventure across the Mother Road of America, Route 66! Before we get to Saint Louis, we ride our Harley-Davidson motorcycles onto an old section of Route 66 that is all red bricks. Then to the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge. We will walk out on the old bridge over the mighty Mississippi River.
Day 4 – St Louis to Springfield, Missouri 216 miles
Riding our motorcycles on Rt 66 through neat little towns, we have really fallen into synch with our Harley Davidsons. We have some great authenic BBQ for lunch, and see the World’s Largest Rocking Chair. We get to see the real America that is still here, far far away from the big cities. Then we ride down a deserted twisty old part of Route 66 on our motorcycles to Devil’s Elbow.
Day 5 – Springfield, Missouri to Oklahoma City 285 miles
A great section of RT 66 with all the Googie Architecture. A really great motorcycle ride on old pavement of the Mother Road. Gary’s Gay Parita and the old Rt 66 Rainbow Bridge are some highlights. We visit some great old diners. This is Rt 66 on a Harley!
Day 6 – Oklahoma City to Amarillo, Texas 259 miles
The Elk Cit Rt 66 Museum is full of American history from farming to the Wild West. Welcome to the panhandle of Texas. Big Texan Steakhouse for dinner? Everything is bigger in Texas. Let’s live a little old Route 66 today on our motorcycle 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. After riding your motorcycle all day you will be ready for a big steak dinner.
Day 7 – Amarillo to Santa Fe, New Mexico – 176 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… We make it to the Midpoint of Rt 66! Then 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 motorbike day riding Route 66 on our Harley Davidsons.
DAY 8 – Santa Fe to Gallup 191 miles
We follow the Route 66 path, and end at the little town of Gallup, at the Rancho Hotel. But first let’s ride our Harleys to Maggie’s Diner, where the big fight happened in Wild Hogs! Then to Old Town Albuquerque. 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 283 miles
First, we will stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. Next we ride down the main drag on Rt 66 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 283 miles - Almost Full Day At Grand Canyon! – Or go for an amazing ride
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 190 miles
An amazing Old RT 66 day! All the RT 66 shopping you could think of. We will be on an old part of RT 66 a lot of the day. We ride our Harley motorcycles through old towns, some great shopping spots with old stores and memoralbilia. 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 on our Harley-Davidsons! Or, instead of just Vegas lounging, we have some great rides out from Vegas if you want some more riding. 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 190 miles
( or we can do Big Bear Lake Option if want) We follow the original path of Old Route 66 where we can, and explore the amazing Mojave desert. Or if you have had enough desert at this point, we will leave the hot straight desert behind and climb high above the clouds through the cool crisp mountain air on amazing twisty mountain roads to the alpine lake of Big Bear on our motorcycles.
Day 14 – Big Bear Lake (or Victorville) to Santa Monica Pier! 100 miles or add more twisties option
You think the trip is about done? No way. Some of the best motorcycling riding is today. We ride through the California mountains on our Harley or Indian motorcycles carving our way one perfect motorcycle curve after another. Before we drop down into civilization we have a great stop on top of the mountain with amazing views towards our destination. Then it is time to head over the famous Cajon Pass, 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 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. A shuttle will take you to the LAX.
We meet after lunchtime at the hotel. We also do an orientation with the bikes. 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 bikes, 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 ride 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 ride our bikes 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
Riding our motorcycles on Rt 66 through neat little towns, we have really fallen into synch with our Harley Davidsons. 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 motorcycle 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 on our motorcycle 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 riding Route 66 on our Harley Davidson.
Santa Fe, NM – Layover on 17 Day Ultimate Tour – Relax and enjoy this great town. We can take short nice ride up into the beautiful mountains today. Or just enjoy a full day of rest and fun. If you can do the 17 day, I highly recommend it.
Day 9 – Santa Fe to Gallup 199 miles
We start the day riding 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 10 – Gallup to Grand Canyon National Park 283 miles
We stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. 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 11 – 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 12 – 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 13 – Laughlin, NV to Las Vegas, NV 97 miles
An early morning ride 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 14 – 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 15 – 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 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. We also do an orientation with the bikes. 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 bikes, 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 ride 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 ride our bikes 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
Riding our motorcycles on Rt 66 through neat little towns, we have really fallen into synch with our Harley Davidsons. 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 motorcycle 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 on our motorcycle 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 riding Route 66 on our Harley Davidson.
Day 9 – Santa Fe, NM – Layover on 17 Day Ultimate Tour
Relax and enjoy this great town. We can take 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 riding 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 Grand Canyon National Park 283 miles
We stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. 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 12 – 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 13 – 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 14 – Laughlin, NV to Las Vegas, NV 97 miles
An early morning ride 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 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. We also do an orientation with the bikes. 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 bikes, 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 ride 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 ride our bikes 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
Riding our motorcycles on Rt 66 through neat little towns, we have really fallen into synch with our Harley Davidsons. 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 motorcycle 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 on our motorcycle 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 riding Route 66 on our Harley Davidson.
Day 9 – Santa Fe, NM – Layover on 17 Day Ultimate Tour
Relax and enjoy this great town. We can take 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 riding 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 ride 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, 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 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 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 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 the bikes. Then we go out for dinner to discuss our big adventure!
Day 2 – Chicago to Springfield, Illinois- 185 miles
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 ride 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 ride our bikes 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
Riding our motorcycles on Rt 66 through neat little towns, we have really fallen into synch with our Harley Davidsons. 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 motorcycle 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 on our motorcycle 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 riding Route 66 on our Harley Davidson.
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 riding 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 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 ride 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 rides 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 – 224 miles
We take a little Rt 66 excursion up into the amazing San Bernardino 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 18 – 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 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 the bikes. Then we go out for dinner to discuss our big adventure!
Day 2 – Chicago to Milwaukee (Option 1) or Chicago to Milwaukee to Chicago (Option 2)
Start Tour out of Chicago. Let’s go! We settle into our bikes, and aim for California. This is our first night on the road. We ride on our motorcycles to the famous Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee where we tour before heading out on Route 66 the next day.
Day 3 – Milwaukee (Or Chicago) to Springfield, Illinois- 185 miles
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 4 – Springfield, Illinois to Saint Louis- 175 miles
Today we ride 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 ride our bikes 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 5 - St Louis to Lebanon, MO – 153 miles
Riding our motorcycles on Rt 66 through neat little towns, we have really fallen into synch with our Harley Davidsons. Americana. Devils Elbow is amazing.
Day 6 – Lebanon to Tulsa, OK – 233 miles
A great section of RT 66 with all the Googie Architecture. A really great motorcycle ride on old pavement of the Mother Road. We visit some great old diners. This is RT 66!
Day 7 – Tulsa to Clinton OK – 191 miles
Elk Cit Rt 66 Museum. Welcome to Texas! The panhandle of Texas. Big Texan Steakhouse for dinner?
Day 8 – 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 on our motorcycle 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 9 – 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 riding Route 66 on our Harley Davidson.
Day 10 - Santa Fe, NM - Layover
Relax and enjoy this great town. We can take short nice ride up into the beautiful mountains today. Or just enjoy a full day of rest and fun.
Day 11 – Santa Fe to Gallup – 199 miles
We start the day riding 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 12 – Gallup to Grand Canyon National Park – 283 miles
We stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. 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 ride 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 rides 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 – 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 18 – 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 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 the bikes. 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 bikes, 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 ride 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 ride our bikes 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
Riding our motorcycles on Rt 66 through neat little towns, we have really fallen into synch with our Harley Davidsons. 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 motorcycle 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 on our motorcycle 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 riding Route 66 on our Harley Davidson.
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 ride up into the mountains. Next we ride 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 the bikes. 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. On 5B Option – we would add a day here, and this day Ride to Santa Fe, and the next day Ride through Madrid to see Maggie’s Diner and more, before getting to Gallup.
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 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 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 Spr