A must-stop for families, this museum is a fascinating way to learn about the history of Route 66. It features old photographs, artifacts, and exhibits about the development of the highway, its impact on the American road trip, and the cultural evolution of the route. Kids will enjoy the vintage cars and memorabilia, while adults can reflect on how this iconic road changed American travel.

Step back in time to the days of the Wild West in this well-preserved ghost town. Calico offers a variety of kid-friendly activities like mining for gemstones, riding the old-time Calico Train, exploring the old mining tunnels, and discovering the fascinating history of the area. It’s educational and interactive, making it fun for both kids and adults.

This quirky and fun roadside attraction is a family favorite. The ranch is filled with large, colorful "bottle trees" made from recycled glass bottles. It's a great spot for kids to explore and take pictures while you enjoy the creativity of this roadside art installation.

For families who love the outdoors, the Mojave National Preserve is a fantastic place to explore. The preserve offers hiking trails, desert wildlife viewing, and opportunities to visit natural landmarks like the Kelso Dunes and the Mojave Cross. The preserve is a great spot to stretch your legs, have a picnic, and immerse your family in the beauty of the desert landscape.

A quintessential Route 66 stop, Roy's Motel & Café is a great photo opportunity with its vintage signage and retro diner. While the motel is no longer in operation, you can still get a sense of the Route 66 vibe with a visit to the restored diner, and the whole family will enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere.

Original McDonald’s Museum: Not only will kids love the idea of visiting the birthplace of the fast-food chain, but there are also fun exhibits showing the history of McDonald's and its significance in American culture.
Lake Arrowhead: For a family-friendly escape into nature, take a short detour to Lake Arrowhead, just outside of San Bernardino. You can enjoy boat rentals, lakeside picnics, and peaceful walking paths that are perfect for families.

End your Route 66 journey with a visit to the iconic Santa Monica Pier. It’s the perfect spot to wrap up your family road trip. The pier offers classic attractions like an amusement park with rides and games, an aquarium, and lots of places to eat. Kids will love riding the Ferris wheel and roller coaster while the whole family can enjoy a stroll along the beach.

After visiting the pier, head down to the beach for some sand and surf. Families can relax in the sun, play in the sand, or even try out some beach sports like volleyball. The beach is spacious and family-friendly, offering a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

One of LA’s most famous parks, Griffith Park offers a variety of family-friendly activities. You can visit the Griffith Observatory for some educational fun, hike to the famous Hollywood Sign, or even take a ride on the historic Levitated Mass or the Los Angeles Live Steamers miniature train. It's a perfect mix of fun, nature, and science for kids of all ages.

For a truly unique family experience, stay at The Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino. The family can sleep in one of the iconic teepee-shaped rooms—an experience that’s fun for kids and makes for a memorable part of the trip. The motel also has an outdoor pool, making it a great place to relax after a day of driving.

If your family enjoys cars, check out a Cars & Coffee event in the LA area (check the local calendar). These gatherings showcase vintage and exotic cars, and it’s a fun opportunity to get up close to some unique vehicles while spending time outdoors with other car enthusiasts.

Big Bear Lake: A short detour from Route 66, this mountain getaway offers a variety of activities like boating, hiking, and even winter sports. Families can enjoy a day of outdoor fun, whether it’s in the summer by the lake or during the winter for snow play.
Joshua Tree National Park: Although a bit off the main route, a quick detour to Joshua Tree is well worth it for families. The park is known for its unique rock formations, kid-friendly hiking trails, and iconic Joshua trees. Kids can explore the easy walking trails and even try some rock scrambling in a safe environment.

The California Route 66 Museum: Dive deeper into the history of the iconic highway with exhibits showcasing the past, including vintage cars, signs, and memorabilia. It’s a fun, informative stop for families of all ages.
Mojave River Valley Museum: This museum provides a look at the history and ecology of the region, showcasing fossils, wildlife, and Native American artifacts that will captivate young minds.

In-N-Out Burger (Various Locations): A quick and iconic stop for a tasty and family-friendly meal. Kids will love the simple menu, and parents can appreciate the fresh ingredients.
Apple Valley’s Waffle Shop: For a classic American breakfast with great options for kids, this diner serves up waffles, pancakes, and other hearty meals in a nostalgic setting.

Calico Ghost Town Mining Adventure: Besides exploring the town, families can go on a fun and interactive experience by panning for gold or visiting the town’s mining exhibits. It’s both educational and fun, giving kids a sense of what life was like during the gold rush era.

Plan Pit Stops: The drive along Route 66 can be long, so make sure to plan regular pit stops at rest areas and fun attractions to keep kids entertained.
Pack Snacks & Drinks: Have plenty of water and snacks on hand, as some parts of Route 66 in California are quite remote, and stops may be few and far between.
Interactive Museums: Look for interactive museums and educational experiences to keep children engaged, especially when traveling through towns with rich history like Barstow, Victorville, and San Bernardino.
Take Family Photos: There are so many iconic spots along the route—don’t forget to snap family photos at the End of the Trail Sign in Santa Monica, Roy’s Motel, or other nostalgic Route 66 spots.

Wandering Souls