Cross Country 2026: Highlights of Route 66 & More

Duration: 27 days | Meals Included: 26 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Skydeck Chicago

Skydeck Chicago delivers unbeatable views of the city and four surrounding states. Take an elevator to the 103rd floor and step out onto The Ledge—a glass balcony extending 1,353 feet above the streets—for a thrilling, one-of-a-kind experience overlooking Wacker Drive and the Chicago River. Admission includes interactive exhibits and iconic photo ops.

 

 

Navy Pier

Since its construction in 1916, Navy Pier has stood as a cherished Chicago landmark. This iconic destination boasts dozens of restaurants, shops, special exhibits, entertainment options, and scenic gardens. Visitors can enjoy riding the impressive fifteen-story Ferris Wheel for unparalleled views of the Chicago skyline and experience the turn-of-the-century style carousel adorned with 36 hand-painted animals.

 

Lake Michigan and Chicago River Boat Cruise

Experience Chicago’s most comprehensive boat tour as you cruise Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. This signature journey takes you through the Chicago Lock and offers live narration highlighting the city’s rich history and iconic architecture. Vessels feature open-air and covered seating, restrooms, and a snack and cash bar. Please note: guests must navigate steps to reach the dock; those with mobility challenges may find this difficult.

 

Illinois Route 66 Association Hall of Fame Museum

The Illinois Route 66 Association Hall of Fame Museum celebrates the rich history of the Mother Road with thousands of artifacts and memorabilia. Highlights include the bus and van of Route 66 icon and artist Bob Waldmire, a flip rack library with travel resources to help you explore the highway, and a photo opportunity with the largest Route 66 shield mural, painted on the museum’s back wall.

 

Pontiac Oakland Auto Museum

The Pontiac-Oakland Auto Museum houses a collection of vehicles and memorabilia that trace the history of the Pontiac and Oakland brands from their early days to their final years of production. From vintage models to rare artifacts, the museum offers an engaging look at the legacy, innovation, and cultural impact of these iconic American automobiles.

 

Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum

Spanning an entire city block in downtown Springfield, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum is the largest presidential museum in the country. Covering over 50,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art facility features cutting-edge exhibits, special effects theaters, and displays of original Lincoln-era artifacts that bring 19th-century history vividly to life, making it the first major "Experience Museum" of its kind.

 

Henry's Rabbit Ranch

Hop into nostalgia at Henry’s Rabbit Ranch, where real rabbits and vintage VW Rabbits live side by side! This quirky Route 66 stop features a replica vintage gas station, unique highway and trucking memorabilia, and a fleet of Campbell’s “humpin’ to please” trailers. Recognized as a Route 66 Hall of Fame inductee, the ranch doubles as a visitor center and gift shop, welcoming travelers from around the world to celebrate the spirit and stories of America’s Main Street.

 

St. Louis Gateway Arch

No visit to the Gateway Arch National Park Riverfront is complete without ascending to the top of the tallest national monument in the U.S., standing 630 feet above downtown St. Louis. From this iconic vantage point, enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Mississippi River. Quiet, safe trams travel at a gentle 4 mph, making the short ride comfortable for most guests. Please note: the top of the Arch is not fully accessible for those with mobility impairments.

 

 

Fantastic Caverns

Fantastic Caverns, America’s only ride-through cave, offers a unique underground adventure beneath the Ozark hills. Guests board propane-powered Jeep-drawn trams that follow a one-mile path carved by an ancient river, revealing stunning formations like towering columns stretching from floor to ceiling, delicate soda straws glistening with minerals, and crystal-clear pools with hidden cave pearls. No walking is required, and the trams are wheelchair accessible, making this experience ideal for visitors of all ages and abilities. This all-weather natural cave attraction is open year 'round, with the temperature inside hovering at around 60 degrees F.

 

Will Rogers Memorial Museum

The Will Rogers Memorial Museum showcases an extensive collection of memorabilia celebrating the life and legacy of the beloved entertainer and humorist. Highlights include his personal saddles, photographs, and costumes from his Ziegfeld Follies days, along with many other artifacts reflecting his remarkable career. A 178-seat theater plays films daily, and visitors can also pay their respects at Rogers’ gravesite, located on the museum grounds.  

 

Woody Guthrie Center

The Woody Guthrie Center honors the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential folk musicians and social activists. Best known for writing “This Land Is Your Land,” Guthrie gave voice to the struggles of working-class Americans. The center celebrates his enduring message of justice, equality, and unity through exhibits showcasing his music, art, writings, and activism.

 

Greenwood Rising

Greenwood Rising is a state-of-the-art history center dedicated to honoring the legacy of Tulsa’s Greenwood District and educating visitors about the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Once known as “Black Wall Street,” this prosperous Black community was destroyed by white rioters, leaving hundreds dead and thousands displaced. Through immersive exhibits and interactive storytelling, Greenwood Rising explores the district’s history, the tragedy and aftermath of the massacre, and the ongoing journey toward racial reconciliation and justice.

 

Arcadia Round Barn

The Arcadia Round Barn, a landmark along historic Route 66 in Arcadia, Oklahoma, is one of the few truly round barns in America. Built in 1898 by local farmer William Harrison Odor, it was crafted from native bur oak boards, soaked and curved to form its distinctive circular shape—a design believed to better withstand tornadoes. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the barn stands as a unique piece of Americana and a must-see stop for Route 66 travelers.

 

Oklahoma City National Memorial

The Oklahoma City National Memorial is a powerful outdoor tribute honoring the victims, survivors, rescuers, and all affected by the tragic bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building on April 19, 1995. Set on the sacred ground where the building once stood, the memorial offers a place of quiet reflection and remembrance, preserving the memory of that day and its profound impact on the community and the world.

 

Oklahoma Route 66 Museum

The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum takes visitors on a personal journey through the history of the nation's most revered highway. Explore the ideas, efforts, and myths behind its creation. Experience the Dust Bowl migration and hear the sounds of the Big Band era, when the roar of the big trucks and the welcome home cries to returning soldiers dominated the road. Step into a 1950s diner to feel the spirit of family road trips along Route 66. The museum also features rotating special exhibits that highlight different aspects of the Route 66 experience.

 

Devil's Rope Barbed Wire Museum

Discover the fascinating history of barbed wire at the Devil’s Barbed Wire Museum, where artifacts and exhibits reveal its crucial role in shaping the Old West. The onsite Mercantile offers unique souvenirs, including books, barbed wire samples, postcards, and various bundles of wire for the collector in your group. Visitors can also explore the museum’s library, featuring resources on barbed wire history and how to identify wire.

 

Big Texan Steak Ranch

Visit the Big Texan Steak Ranch and step back to rowdy, rip-roaring days of the late 1800s. The air buzzes with laughter, sizzling steaks, and the tunes of strolling musicians playing classics like "The Yellow Rose of Texas." The savory aroma of smoke and good beef fills the room as guests take in the old-fashioned bar, giant rocking chair, lobby magician, and a gift shop full of intriguing treasures.

 

Blue Swallow Motel

The Blue Swallow Motel, a beloved icon on Route 66 since 1939, offers travelers a glimpse into the golden age of American road travel. Famous for its well-preserved architecture and glowing neon sign, the motel features individually unique rooms decorated with authentic 1940s and 1950s style—including vintage garages between rooms. Family owned and operated, the Blue Swallow is known for warm hospitality that welcomes every guest like family, making it a memorable stop along the Mother Road.

 

New Mexico Route 66 Museum

The New Mexico Route 66 Museum offers a unique look into the state’s Route 66 heritage, covering the stretch from Glenrio to Gallup and everywhere in between. Showcasing the road’s evolution from its origins with the Ozark Trails system to today’s Historic Route 66, the museum offers a unique perspective on the Mother Road’s lasting impact in "The Land of Enchantment."

 

Sandia Peak Tramway

Experience a ride on the world’s longest aerial tramway, soaring 2.7 miles above deep canyons and stunning landscapes. From the observation deck atop 10,378-foot Sandia Peak in Cibola National Forest, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views spanning 11,000 square miles of the Rio Grande Valley and New Mexico’s scenic Land of Enchantment. The tramway is located at the eastern edge of Albuquerque in the Sandia Foothills, at the end of Tramway Road.

 

Old Town Albuquerque

Historic Old Town has been the heart of Albuquerque since the city was founded in 1706. With its iconic adobe architecture, Old Town blends over 300 years of rich history with a vibrant arts and crafts scene. Visitors can explore world-class museums, browse more than 150 independent shops, galleries, and restaurants—making it a must-visit destination.

 

Petrified Forest National Park & Painted Desert

Petrified Forest National Park, located in northeastern Arizona, is one of the state’s most colorful and fascinating natural treasures. Filled with geological history, the park offers an unforgettable experience amid ancient, petrified wood and stunning landscapes. Adjacent to the park is the Painted Desert, where travelers will journey through miles of striking, multicolored terrain and stop at numerous scenic viewpoints to take in its beauty.

 

Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon Railway offers a scenic 130-mile round trip from Williams, AZ, to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, traveling in style aboard classic 1950s Streamliner-era coaches. Enjoy comfortable, over-sized seating, large windows, and complimentary morning and afternoon snacks in air-conditioned comfort. Strolling musicians fill the cars with nostalgic tunes while passenger service staff provide insights and answer questions. Upon arrival, you’ll have about 3 hours and 45 minutes to explore historic Grand Canyon Village, with its hotels, restaurants, and shops. Free shuttles are available for transportation throughout the canyon. Note: onboard purchases no longer accept cash.

 

Grand Canyon Caverns

The Grand Canyon Caverns, formed over 65 million years ago in ancient limestone seabeds, are among the largest dry caverns in the United States. Unlike typical water-filled caves, these caverns are dry, creating a rare and distinctive underground environment. Visitors can take the elevator 200 feet underground to explore the vast chambers. Handrails, paved walkways, stairs and mild inclines make the 3/4-mile-long tour suitable for all ages.

 

Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark

Amboy Crater is a striking volcanic cinder cone rising 250 feet high and spanning 1,500 feet in diameter, located within one of the youngest volcanic fields in the U.S. Designated a National Natural Landmark in 1973, it’s celebrated for both its geological and visual significance. The crater’s nearly perfect symmetry is broken only by a western breach, where basaltic lava once flowed across 24 square miles, forming lava lakes, collapsed lava tubes and sinks, spatter cones, and expansive basalt fields. This unique desert landscape offers a dramatic glimpse into Earth’s volcanic past, and temperatures can get very hot. Visitors should come prepared and pack plenty of water.

 

Route 66 Mother Road Museum

Step back in time at the Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, located in the historic Harvey House. The entire property, artifactual in its own right, was built in 1911 as part of the Fred Harvey Company, offering food and lodging to travelers on the Santa Fe Railroad. Explore fascinating exhibits and artifacts that bring the golden age of American road travel to life and the iconic highway’s cultural impact. It became a key stop on Route 66 before the construction of the freeway system and the decline of rail travel.

 

California Route 66 Museum

The California Route 66 Museum offers a fun, interactive journey through America’s most iconic highway, spread across 4,500 square feet of nostalgic exhibits and photo ops. Step into a retro 1950s diner, hop aboard a 1917 Model T Ford, or strike a pose in the colorful VW Love Bus—complete with hippie wigs and sunglasses for that perfect throwback shot. You’ll also find the original Santa Monica "End of the Trail" booth and a humorous outhouse photo spot. It’s a playful and memorable stop for travelers.

 

Original McDonalds Site and Museum

Step back into fast-food history at the Original McDonald’s Site and Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of McDonald’s memorabilia. Located where brothers Richard (Dick) and Maurice (Mac) McDonald opened the very first McDonald’s in 1948, this unique museum chronicles the humble beginnings and rapid rise of a global phenomenon. Discover vintage uniforms, packaging, toys, signage, and more.

 

Universal Studios City Walk

No plans? No problem. Universal CityWalk is your go-to destination for spontaneous fun and unforgettable moments. This lively entertainment hub is packed with unique shops, crave-worthy dining, and exciting live entertainment. Whether you're catching the latest blockbuster or simply soaking in the atmosphere, CityWalk delivers something for everyone.

 

Guided Tour of Los Angeles Area

Experience the best of Los Angeles and Hollywood on a guided tour packed with iconic highlights. Stroll the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame, marvel at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and take in the energy of the Hollywood & Highland Complex. Explore Downtown LA, then enjoy free time to shop and grab lunch at the world-famous Farmers Market. The tour also includes a visit to the Santa Monica Pier—the official “End of the Trail” for Route 66.

 

Grand Teton National Park

Soaring over a landscape rich with wildlife, pristine lakes, and majestic alpine vistas, the Teton Range is the crown jewel of Grand Teton National Park. This dramatic alpine terrain has captivated hearts for over 11,000 years, shaping the lives and cultures of those who’ve called the Jackson Hole Valley home. Today, visitors come from around the world to experience its timeless beauty.

 

Yellowstone National Park

Established in 1872 as America's first national park, Yellowstone is a true natural wonder spanning Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. This iconic landscape is home to an array of wildlife, including bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears. Within the park lie some of the world’s most extraordinary geothermal features—like the Old Faithful geyser, vibrant hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and steaming fumaroles. Don’t miss the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, where cascading waterfalls plunge into a canyon painted in stunning hues.

 

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Carved into a 6,000-foot granite mountain in South Dakota’s Black Hills, the faces of four great American presidents—Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt—stand as enduring symbols of the nation’s history and ideals. Marvel at the beauty of the Black Hills and learn about the birth, growth, development, and preservation of our country. Mount Rushmore has gained fame as a symbol of America—representing freedom and hope for people from all cultures and backgrounds.

 

Wall Drug Store

America’s Favorite Roadside Attraction, Wall Drug Store is a 76,000-square-foot wonderland packed with free fun. Explore the Backyard featuring the Branding Iron Arcade, an animated T-Rex, fossil and gemstone panning, the Train Station Water Show, and playful photo props in a picnic area. Browse the shopping area to find a great selection of Western items, authentic South Dakota Jackalopes, exquisite fine art, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. When hunger strikes, choose from the Western Art Gallery Restaurant, gourmet coffee shop, or Pizza Parlor.

 

Field of Dreams Home Tour

Step back in time with a guided 30-minute tour of the iconic Kinsella family home, a cherished centerpiece of the film "Field of Dreams." You'll hear stories about the home, from its early days as the Lansing family homestead in the early 20th century to its rebirth as the set for the Kinsella family in the 1989 fantasy classic.

 

Field of Dreams Ghost Player Speaker

Discover the magic behind this famous movie site as a Ghost Player shares the story of how Universal Studios found the location, the role of the Ghost Players, and how their involvement in the film opened doors to unforgettable baseball adventures around the world!

 

A Christmas Story House

Step into the world of Ralphie Parker and his family at the iconic house from "A Christmas Story," lovingly restored to capture the essence of the beloved holiday classic. Fans can relive favorite scenes in the movie’s settings and snap memorable photos in the front or backyard, or by the garage featuring the vintage firetruck and Oldsmobile.

 

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Explore the world's only facility dedicated to the living legacy of rock and roll music. Designed by I.M. Pei, this impressive $92 million structure towers above Lake Erie's shore at North Coast Harbor. Inside, the Hall of Fame wows visitors with a dynamic multimedia experience, blending film footage, music, interviews, animation, and photography to narrate the stories of rock and roll's iconic legends. An onsite cafe serves light refreshments and food.

 

Hofbräuhaus Restaurant

Hofbräuhaus Cleveland is modeled after the legendary 400+ year-old Hofbräuhaus in Munich, Germany. Guests can enjoy many of the traditions from Germany that have made Hofbräuhaus famous. From the traditionally decorated rooms in the building to the beer that is brewed on-site, and of course the excellent German fare, Hofbräuhaus Cleveland is a memorable experience for all!

 

Meal Information:

 

Dinner on day two is included at Gino's East.

Menu is TBA

 

Lunch on day three is included at Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen.

Menu is TBA

 

Lunch on day eight is included at Hammett House Restaurant.

Menu is TBA

 

Dinner on day ten is included at The Big Texan Steak Ranch.

Menu is TBA

 

Dinner on day fourteen is included at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel.

Menu is TBA

 

Lunch on day sixteen is included at Jimmy John's. Boxed lunch choices are:

• Big John: roast beef, lettuce, tomato & mayo

• Turkey Tom: turkey, lettuce, tomato & mayo

• The Veggie: provolone, avocado spread, cucumber, lettuce, tomato & mayo

Lunch is served with chips, a pickle, dessert, and a bottle of water.

 

Lunch on day seventeen is included at Juan Pollo.

Menu is TBA

 

Dinner on day twenty-six is included at Hofbräuhaus Restaurant.

Menu is TBA

 

Menus are subject to change

 

Need to Know:

• This trip is not recommended for people who cannot easily get on and off the bus or have difficulty walking. There are many photo stops, which require passengers to board and deboard the bus easily.

• Grand Canyon Railway: Cash is no longer accepted for onboard purchases while riding the train.

• Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark: Amboy Crater and surrounding area are unique volcanic environments where temperatures can get very hot.

• Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Food, beverages, cans, glass containers, weapons, and any contraband are not permitted inside the museum. All backpacks, large bags, or luggage must be checked at the coat check or returned to the coach.

• Every Starr trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• A Starr Tour Director will accompany you on this trip.

• Baggage handling at hotels is included.

 

Accessibility:

• Lake Michigan and Chicago River Boat Cruise: The boat is wheelchair accessible, however, there are approximately 60 easy steps down to reach the dock. This may pose difficulty for individuals with walking disabilities.

• St. Louis Gateway Arch: The top of the Arch is not fully accessible to visitors with mobility impairments.

• Grand Canyon Caverns: The elevator takes you 200 feet underground. Handrails, paved walkways, stairs and mild inclines make the 3/4-mile-long tour suitable for all ages.

• Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Day 1: Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Grove City (Grove City, OH)

 

Day 2: Fairfield Inn Chicago Downtown (Chicago, IL)

 

Day 3: Hampton Inn Pontiac (Pontiac, IL)

 

Day 4: Drury Inn & Suites Springfield (Springfield, IL)

 

Day 5: Drury Plaza St.Louis at the Arch (St. Louis, MO)

 

Day 6: Drury Inn & Suites Springfield (Springfield, MO)

 

Day 7: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Vinita (Vinita, OK)

 

Day 8: Hilton Garden Inn Tulsa Midtown (Tulsa, OK)

 

Day 9: Country Inn & Suites OKC Airport (Oklahoma City, OK)

 

Day 10: Country Inn & Suites Amarillo (Amarillo, TX)

 

Day 11: Drury Inn & Suites Albuquerque North (Albuquerque, NM)

 

Day 12: El Rancho Hotel (Gallup, NM)

 

Days 13-14: Grand Canyon Railway Hotel (Williams, AZ)

 

Day 15: Holiday Inn Express (Kingman, AZ)

 

Day 16: Holiday Inn & Suites Barstow (Barstow, CA)

 

Days 17-18: Hilton Garden Inn Burbank Los Angeles (Burbank, CA)

 

Day 19: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Cedar City (Cedar City, UT)

 

Day 20-21: The Rockwell Inn (Jackson Hole, WY)

 

Day 22: Mineral Palace & Casino (Deadwood, SD)

 

Day 23: Comfort Inn & Suites Mitchell (Mitchell, SD)

 

Day 24: Holiday Inn Dubuque/Galena (Dubuque, IA)

 

Day 25: Drury Inn & Suites Findlay (Findlay, OH)

 

Day 26: Hampton Inn Cleveland-Downtown (Cleveland, OH)