Every mile marker tells a different story, and each state along Route 66 offers its own slice of Americana. From restored gas stations frozen in time to desert craters that challenge your sense of scale, knowing where to stop can transform a long drive into an unforgettable adventure.

In this episode, host Angie Orth is back with travel journalist and filmmaker Karuna Eberl to break down Route 66 state by state. Fresh from her 2,448-mile journey across eight states, Karuna shares her top picks for the most unmissable attractions from Illinois to California, helping you prioritize where to spend your time along America's Mother Road.

You'll discover hidden gems in small towns and learn why one Kansas stop is a must for Pixar fans. You’ll also hear about the automobile-themed Texas landmark that may be the most iconic stop along the whole route. Karuna explains why supporting these roadside stops is so important for the future of Route 66, making it a pilgrimage for centuries to come.

What You’ll Learn:

1:23 Illinois's best historical architecture 

2:16 Why Kansas's 13-mile stretch is a must for Cars movie fans 

3:26 A defining Route 66 landmark in Texas

5:25 Arizona's only national park along the Mother Road 

6:05 California's desert oasis and spectacular Mojave views

Connect with Karuna Eberl:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quixotictravelers

What’s your favorite stop on Route 66? Tell us in the comments! 

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaa-auto-club-enterprises

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAAutoClubEnterprises