1. Tucumcari

  • Blue Swallow Motel – A beautifully restored, neon-lit classic Route 66 motel. Even if you don’t stay, it’s worth a photo stop.

  • Tee Pee Curios – A historic souvenir shop with a giant teepee entrance and fun Route 66 memorabilia.

  • Mesalands Dinosaur Museum – Cool fossil exhibits, including life-size bronze dinosaur sculptures.

2. Santa Rosa

  • Blue Hole – A stunningly clear, deep-water natural swimming hole that’s a must-see, even if you don’t take a dip.

  • Route 66 Auto Museum – A great collection of classic cars and Route 66 history.

3. Moriarty

  • El Comedor de Anayas – A classic Route 66 eatery known for its green chile cheeseburgers.

  • Sierra Blanca Brewery – A good stop if you enjoy craft beer with a Route 66 theme.

4. Albuquerque

  • 66 Diner – Retro-style diner serving up classic American comfort food, famous for its milkshakes.

  • Neon Signs & Murals – Central Avenue (former Route 66) is lined with restored neon signs, making for a great night drive.

  • Tinkertown Museum – A quirky collection of miniatures and oddities just off Route 66.

  • Old Town Albuquerque – Historic plaza with adobe buildings, great shops, and authentic New Mexican food.

5. Laguna & Acoma Pueblo

  • Laguna Pueblo Mission – A 1600s Spanish mission church worth a quick stop.

  • Sky City at Acoma Pueblo – One of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the U.S., with stunning views.

6. Grants

  • Route 66 Drive-Thru Sign – Drive your car through a neon-lit Route 66 sign for an epic road trip photo.

  • New Mexico Mining Museum – Learn about the region’s uranium mining history (you can even experience a simulated mine!).

7. Gallup

  • El Rancho Hotel – A historic hotel once home to Hollywood stars traveling Route 66.

  • Gallup Trading Posts – Stop by authentic trading posts for Navajo rugs, jewelry, and other handmade goods.

  • Red Rock Park – Beautiful rock formations and hiking trails just outside of town.

Bonus Detour: Santa Fe Loop

While not part of the modern Route 66 alignment, the Santa Fe Loop (pre-1937) is a great detour with stops like:

  • La Fonda on the Plaza – A historic hotel with a rooftop bar.

  • Meow Wolf – A mind-bending interactive art installation.

  • Turquoise Trail Scenic Byway – A stunning drive connecting Santa Fe and Albuquerque.