Tucumcari Tonite!: This town is famous for its vintage neon signs. Stroll Main Street at dusk—it’s totally solo-friendly and makes for dreamy photo ops.
Stay at the Blue Swallow Motel: Iconic, affordable, and friendly. You’ll likely meet other travelers here while enjoying retro vibes.
Explore the Murals: There are 40+ colorful murals around town—perfect for a solo walking tour with your camera.
Tucumcari Historical Museum: Housed in a 1903 schoolhouse, it’s a quirky and cool place to learn about the area’s past.

Blue Hole: A stunning natural spring perfect for swimming or even diving (if you're certified). Great place to clear your head or meet fellow road trippers.
Route 66 Auto Museum: Packed with vintage cars and memorabilia—small, but worth it.
Sunset Picnic by Park Lake: Cheap and peaceful—great for journaling or a quiet meal with a view.

Explore Nob Hill: A hip, walkable neighborhood along old Route 66 with bookstores, coffee shops, murals, and vintage neon galore.
ABQ Trolley Tour: A fun way to meet other travelers while getting the lay of the land.
Historic Old Town Albuquerque: Adobe buildings, local artists, and Native American crafts. Lots of solo travelers stroll through and strike up conversations here.
Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway: Gorgeous views, solo introspection at the top, or casual chats with others in the cable car.
Stay at a Boutique Hostel or B&B: Many are solo-traveler friendly and located near great Route 66 attractions.

El Malpais National Monument: Hike solo through lava tubes and scenic trails—other hikers around, but it never feels crowded.
Route 66 Arch: Quick stop for a photo and a little wander through a town that’s proud of its Mother Road roots.
Stay in a Budget Motel: Small-town motels are a Route 66 staple and usually friendly and relaxed.

Downtown Gallup: Known for its Native American trading posts, public art, and Route 66-era buildings.
Visit the Rex Museum: A hidden gem of quirky, small-town history.
Check out the El Rancho Hotel: Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth a look. It hosted classic Hollywood stars in its day and is full of cinematic history.
Hike Red Rock Park: Just outside town—easy trails, red rock formations, and lots of scenic solitude.

Santa Fe wasn’t part of the post-1937 Route 66 route, but the original 1926 alignment went right through it.
Canyon Road: Dozens of art galleries in a row. Great for solo wandering and chatting with local artists.
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: A soulful spot for any solo traveler interested in art and the spirit of the Southwest.
Meow Wolf: Mind-blowing immersive art experience—perfect for a solo deep dive into creative weirdness.

Document Your Journey: A solo Route 66 trip is pure journal-and-Polaroid gold.
Talk to Locals: New Mexico is full of kind, curious folks. Sit at a diner counter, browse a gift shop, or ask about town history—people want to talk.
Travel Light: Especially helpful if you're hopping on and off buses or trains in towns like Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
Safety First: Stick to populated areas at night, especially in smaller towns. Most areas are very safe and solo-traveler-friendly.

Wandering Souls