Santa Monica, CA

Los Angeles was the terminus of Route 66 on the original 1926 alignment. In 1936, it was extended to to Santa Monica. The terminus of Route 66 is a bit anti-climactic. It is not on the Pacific Ocean. Rather, it is on the corner of Olympic and Lincoln a few blocks from the water. There is no sign indicating you are at the end of Route 66. Plus, it is a big intersection, and you can't tell which corner is the actual terminus. If you ask people who work in the surrounding buildings which corner is the end of Route 66, they don't have a clue what you are talking about.

The Will Rogers Hwy Marker in Palisades Park at the Junction of Santa Monica Blvd and Ocean Ave is the better photo op for the end of your journey. Get your picture taken there, then head over to the Santa Monica Pier. It's fun, and there are some interesting Route 66 shops over there.

I usually stay at the Georgian Hotel on Ocean Avenue almost right across the street from the Will Rogers Hwy Marker. The price was reasonable by Santa Monica standards. There are ocean views and nicely appointed rooms. There is safe bike parking in the back. The only drawback is that although you can get a drink at a lobby bar, there is no rear bar to hang out in. Not to worry though; there are dozens of bars and restaurants within easy walking distance.

Congratulations, you have just completed one of the great road trip adventures in the world. Only one this left to do. Turn around and ride it back to Chicago!