Route 66 from Kingman to Los Angeles: what to see and do along this iconic drive?

If there's one stretch of Route 66 that never disappoints, it's the drive between Kingman and Los Angeles. Whichever direction you're heading, it's the kind of journey that makes you feel as though you've wandered onto the set of a classic American film.

Retro towns, vintage petrol stations, sweeping desert landscapes and the iconic Santa Monica Pier await. Follow our guide to the highlights of this unforgettable road trip, then all that's left to do is turn up the music and hit the road!

Itinerary summary between Kingman and Los Angeles

Before hitting the road, here is the essential information to know to fully enjoy this stage of Route 66.

What to do between Kingman and Los Angeles?

A word of warning: on this stretch of Route 66, you'll be tempted to stop every few miles. Historic towns, desert scenery, vintage signs and legendary landmarks – every detour reveals another chapter of the Mother Road's story.

So don't rush it. Forget the clock for a while (but keep your sat nav handy) and simply enjoy the journey. Here are the stops and experiences you won't want to miss between Kingman and Los Angeles.

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Drive along Sitgreaves Pass, one of the most scenic stretches of Route 66

The adventure begins as soon as you leave Kingman. Route 66 climbs steadily into the Black Mountains before twisting its way through Sitgreaves Pass, one of the most spectacular stretches of the entire Mother Road.

Around every bend, the desert opens up a little more, revealing ever more dramatic views. Roll down the windows, turn up your favourite playlist and soak it all in – this is where you realise the journey is every bit as memorable as the destination.

Be sure to stop at the viewpoints along the way to take in the scenery and snap a few photos.

Take a break at Cool Springs Station

Nestled in the heart of the Black Mountains, Cool Springs Station is one of Route 66's most iconic stops. Lovingly restored, this former 1920s petrol station is packed with vintage charm, from its old-fashioned fuel pumps to its souvenir shop.

Take a break before getting back on the road. With gleaming motorcycles, classic cars and fellow Route 66 travellers passing through, it's the perfect place to soak up the spirit of America's most famous road trip.

Discover Oatman and its famous donkeys

Welcome to Oatman, a former mining town that feels as though time has stood still. Wooden boardwalks, Wild West façades and old saloons create the perfect western backdrop – but the real stars of the town are the friendly donkeys wandering freely through the streets.

Take your time exploring the quirky shops, watching one of the town's lively performances or simply enjoying the unique atmosphere. It's easily one of the most memorable stops between Kingman and Los Angeles.

Cross the Mojave Desert

Leaving Oatman behind, Route 66 heads into the vast Mojave Desert. Long, empty roads, rugged mountains and endless desert scenery reveal a completely different side of the American West.

This is the moment you'll probably turn the music down and simply enjoy the silence. The wide-open landscapes, the sense of freedom and the sheer scale of the desert are all part of what makes this stretch so unforgettable.

Stop at the legendary Roy's Motel & Café

Out in the middle of the desert, a giant sign suddenly appears on the horizon. Don't worry – it's not a mirage. You've just arrived at Roy's Motel & Café, one of the most iconic landmarks on Route 66.

Although the motel no longer welcomes guests, its famous vintage sign has become a true symbol of the Mother Road. Take a few minutes to snap some photos, soak up the timeless atmosphere and picture the days when thousands of travellers stopped here in Amboy.

Make a detour to Calico Ghost Town

Fancy extending your Route 66 adventure? Just a short detour from the historic highway, Calico Ghost Town is a former silver mining town founded in 1881. Carefully restored in the 1950s, it brings the Wild West back to life with its historic buildings, old mine shafts and charming wooden storefronts.

Although it's now a popular tourist attraction, Calico is well worth the visit, especially if you're travelling with children or have a soft spot for Old West history. Allow around 1 to 2 hours to explore before continuing your journey towards Los Angeles.

Finish in style at Santa Monica Pier

After hundreds of miles on the Mother Road, arriving in Santa Monica is a special moment. Standing on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, you've officially reached the end of the legendary Route 66.

Take a stroll along the famous pier, snap a photo beside the iconic "End of the Trail" sign and, why not, celebrate the occasion with an ice cream or by watching the sun set over the beach? You've earned it.

Where to eat on Route 66?

After all those miles, chances are you're ready for a bite to eat. The good news? This stretch of Route 66 is packed with characterful places where the atmosphere is every bit as memorable as the food. Here are a few of our favourites.

Start the day at Mr D'z Route 66 Diner

Before setting off, make a stop at Mr D'z Route 66 Diner, a true Kingman institution. With its colourful booths, 1950s-inspired décor and classic American diner atmosphere, it's the perfect place to kick off your day on the Mother Road.

Lunch at the Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Saloon

Fancy extending the Wild West experience? Step inside the historic Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Saloon, where the atmosphere is just as much of a draw as the menu. Expect hearty burgers, American favourites and plenty of Route 66 character.

Take a break at Roy's Café

Yes, we've already mentioned Roy's... but it's worth stopping twice! As well as being one of the most photographed spots on Route 66, Roy's Café is the perfect place to cool off or enjoy a coffee before continuing your journey.

Stop by the Bagdad Café

No Route 66 road trip would be complete without a stop at the Bagdad Café. Made famous by the cult film of the same name, this quirky roadside café has become a favourite with travellers from around the world, especially those from Europe.

End the day at The Albright

Round off your Route 66 adventure at The Albright, right on the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Known for its fresh seafood, fish and chips and laid-back atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to enjoy dinner overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Where to sleep between Kingman and Los Angeles?

Whether you want to cover this stage in one day or take your time, your choice of accommodation can make all the difference. Here are our recommendations based on your itinerary.

Spending the night in Kingman before hitting Route 66

If you're coming from the Grand Canyon or Las Vegas, spending the night in Kingman is an excellent option. This way, you can leave early the next day and fully enjoy Sitgreaves Pass, Oatman, and the other must-sees of Route 66.

Make a stop in Barstow

Are you planning to cover this portion of Route 66 in two days? Barstow is an excellent option to break up the journey. You'll enjoy a more relaxed day, with more time for breaks, visits, and numerous photos along the way.

End your road trip in Santa Monica

To conclude this stage beautifully, there's nothing like a night in Santa Monica. You can enjoy the beach, stroll on the pier at sunset, and discover the iconic neighborhoods of Los Angeles the next day.

Our tips for making the most of this stretch of Route 66

Take your time, set off early and plan your fuel stops wisely – a little preparation goes a long way towards making this unforgettable stretch of Route 66 even more enjoyable.

Can you drive from Kingman to Los Angeles in one day?

Yes, it's perfectly possible to cover this stretch in a single day. However, if your itinerary allows, we'd recommend spreading it over two days so you have time to enjoy the historic towns, desert scenery and all the memorable stops that make Route 66 so special.

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When is the best time to drive this stretch of Route 66?

An early start is the best way to enjoy Sitgreaves Pass and Oatman. The temperatures are cooler, the morning light is perfect for photos, and you'll have the sights largely to yourself before the crowds arrive.

Should you fill up before leaving Kingman?

Definitely. Petrol stations become much less frequent once you're on Route 66, particularly when crossing the Mojave Desert. Setting off with a full tank means you can simply relax and enjoy the drive.

"Between Kingman and Los Angeles, Route 66 is so much more than a road. It's a journey through spectacular landscapes, quirky towns, memorable food stops and places that seem untouched by time. So don't be afraid to take the occasional detour – they're often where the best memories are made. And if you find yourself spotting Route 66 signs long after you've arrived home… you'll know the magic of the Mother Road has worked." – Mélaine, Marketing Coordinator, Linkedin

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