The New Route 66: Illinois Edition
198 S Michigan Ave, Chicago IL
You are at the start of Route 66 on the Miracle Mile in Chicago.
Go one block south and turn left onto E Jackson Drive
Go two blocks east and turn right onto S Columbus Dr
Go South for 1.1 miles and merge onto US-41 S/DuSable Lake Shore Drive
In less than a mile you will take the I-55 S exit towards St. Louis
You are on the New Route 66 only 2,142 miles to go unless you take an exit then it will be more. So which exits should you take. I have more than a few suggestions so keep reading.
Exit 293C State St
Let’s assume you have already done sightseeing in Chicago and are ready to make some time out of town. It is too soon to stop so let’s keep going
Exit 293B I90 I94 East Indiana
Only if you want to go to Indiana
Exit 292 I90 I94 West Wisconsin
Only if you want to detour to Wisconsin
Exit 290 Damen Ave
Unless you know where you are going I would stay on the interstate.
Exit 288 Kedzie Ave
No services immediately off the exit
Exit 287 Pulaski Rd
This is an industrial exit
Exit 286 IL-50/Cicero Ave
No services are immediately available at this exit.
Exit 285 S Central Ave
Primarily an industrial exit
Exit 283 IL-43/Harlem Ave
No services directly off of this exit
Exit 282 IL-171
Highway interchange no services directly of this exit
Exit 279B US-12/US-20/US-45US-12/US-20/US-45/US-12/US-20/US-45
Unless you know where you are going this exit is mainly a highway interchange.
Exit 279A US-12/US-20/US-45
No services directly off of this exit.
Exit 277A I-294 N Wisconsin
This will take you back to I 94
Exit 276B North County Line Road
Burr Ridge has a nice Hampton Inn that you can access from this exit. Most of the food options appear to be at the next exit for this village.
Exit 276A South County Line Road
This is the second exit for Burr Ridge which is
Exit 274 IL-83 N/Kingery Rd
Nothing is easily accessible at this exit.
Exit 273B N Cass Ave
No services immediately off this exit
Exit 273A S Cass Ave
No services immediately off this exit
Exit 271B N Lemont Rd
It’s a long drive to any services at this exit..
Exit 271A S Lemont Rd
Nothing easily accessible at this exit.
Exit 269 I-355 North/I-355 South
Highway Interchange to a toll road.
No immediate services.
Exit 268 South Joliet Road
No quick services at this exit, hold out for the next exit.
Exit 267 IL-53 Bolingbrook
This is the first exit I would recommend out of Chicago. There are restaurants and fuel. Bolingbrook is a nice community.
Weigh Station
Exit 263 Weber Rd
There is a lot in Romeoville. Which is a town that was on the original Route 66 configuration.
It is going to be a time burner, but there are some worthy restaurants here.
Exit 261 IL-126 W Plainfield
Plainfield has a lot to offer. It is unfortunately well off the beaten path.
Exit 257 US-30/Aurora/Joliet
This exit is a bonanza for restaurants and shopping. Pretty easy off and back on the interstate.
Exit 253 US-52/Shorewood/Joliet
More of Joliet at this exit, just not as much as the last exit.
Exit 250B I-80 West Iowa
Highway interchange, you really don’t want to see Iowa.
Exit 250A I-80 Indiana
Highway interchange, think Grand Canyon and the beach and avoid this detour.
Exit 248 US-6/Joliet/Morris
There is a truck stop and some fast food that is not easy to navigate off the highway and back on.
Exit 247 Bluff Rd
There is a Love’s Truck stop, but not much else this is a pass for me.
Exit 244 Arsenal Rd
No immediate services off this exit.
Exit 241 North River Road
No services at this exit
Exit 240 Lorenzo Rd
There are a couple of truck stops at this exit. It is not the most convenient exit in Illinois.
Exit 236 IL-113/Kankakee/Coal City
No immediate services at this exit.
Exit 233 Reed Rd
No services without a long drive off the interstate.
Exit 227 IL-53 Gardner
Gardner has some gas stations and restaurants, but they are off the beaten path.
Exit 220 IL-47/Morris/Dwight
There is a Love’s Travel stop at this location to the south.
Exit 217 IL-17/Streator/Kankakee
The city of Dwight is off this exit. It has a few places to eat, but it is not going to be fast at all.
Exit 209 Odell
There is a pizza place and a service station just off the highway.
Exit 201 IL-23/Pontiac/Streator
Nothing directly off of this exit.
Exit 197 IL-116/Pontiac/Flanagan
Pontiac is primarily on the east side of the interstate. There are a couple of fast food restaurants.
This is not a great stop in my book.
Rest Area
Very nice rest area with bathrooms and picnic table. Looks big enough to have maps and free coffee.
Exit 187 US-24/Chenoa/El Paso
The city of Chenoa has some fast food restaurants and at least one service station.
Exit 178 Lexington
Right off the interstate there is a service station and a fast food restaurant that makes a quick stop at this exit. To see Lexington will take an investment of time I am not willing to give.
Exit 171 Towanda
There is nothing immediately off the exit. If you want to go into Towanda or get on the original Route 66 you can do that easily here.
Exit 167 I-55 Business S//Veterans Pkwy
This exit will take you into the heart of Bloomington/Normal. There are countless restaurants, hotels, and almost any kind of store you could want. Probably the most restaurants available until you get to St. Louis.
Exit 165 US-51 Business/Bloomington/Normal
This exit will take you into the north side of Bloomington/Normal. There are more restaurants to explore at this exit.
Exit 164 I-39 North/US-51 North/Rockford
This exit will take you to Rockford and Southern Wisconsin.
Exit 163 I-74 Peoria
No Immediate services at this exit, It will take you straight west to Peoria.
Exit 160 US-150/IL-9/Market St/ Pekin
This exit into Bloomington hosts a plethora of restaurants, hotels, and shopping. There is a Walmart not far off the exit to the west.
Left of Y I-74E Indianapolis/Decatur
Right of Y I-55S St.Louis/Springfield
This is not marked as an exit, but you want to stay in the right lanes to stay on I-55 and continue to St. Louis.
Exit 154 Shirley
Other than getting on to the old Route 66 there is not much to see at this exit.
Rest Area
The Funks Grove rest area is a really nice big building and walking paths. Nice bathrooms, maps, and free coffee.
Exit 145 US-136/McClean/Heyworth
McClean is right off the highway. There is not a lot to see here, but you can get on the old Route 66 here.
Exit 140 Atlanta/Lawndale
Atlanta is a small town. It does have some fuel and food options that are easy to access.
Exit 133 I-55 Business/Lincoln
This exit will take you into Lincoln, it is a long drive for services in my opinion. Their are better exits coming up.
Exit 127 I-155 North/Peoria/Hartsburg
This is your second chance to go to Peoria.
There are no service immediately available at this exit.
Exit 126 IL-10/IL-121/Lincoln/Mason City
This is the best exit for Lincoln. There is a Mexican restaurant named El Mazatlan that is fantastic at this exit. I ate there several years ago and it defied my normal opinion that the further you go north the worse the Mexican food gets. That being said you will be really close to the Mexican border in a couple of days so their will be plenty of chances at great Mexican food.
Exit 123 I-55 Business N Lincoln
No services immediately available at this exit. You would have to go back into Lincoln to find anything.
Exit 119 Broadwell
There is nothing at this exit that will help you with your journey.
Exit 115 Elkhart
Elkhart has a couple of restaurants, but nothing looks fast about this stop.
Exit 109 IL-123/Williamsville/Petersburg
This exit features a Love’s Travel stop and a Huddle House on the Westbound side that are pretty convenient.
Weigh Station
Exit 105 I-55 Business/ Sherman
There are a couple of restaurants in Sherman, I would hold out for Springfield.
Rest Area
Nice pull off with restrooms
Exit 100B W Sangamon Ave
There is a Walmart and several restaurants on the west side of the interstate. This will require some maneuvering, but not a long way.
Exit 100A IL-54 E/ E Sangamon Ave/Clinton
This exit does not offer as much as the Westbound exit does.
Exit 98B IL-97/ E Clear Lake Ave
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is located at this exit.
There is also a Illinois Visitors center at this exit. Free coffee anyone?
There are several restaurant options at this exit.
Exit 98A I-72 E/US-36 E/ Decatur
If you're hungry or looking for fuel this isn’t the exit.
Exit 96B IL-29 N/South Grand Ave
This exit takes you into the heart of Springfield. There are lots of good restaurant choices off of this exit.
Exit 96A IL-29 S/ Taylorville
All the action is at the previous exit. There are no services immediately available this direction.
Exit 94 Stevenson Dr/E Lake Dr
This exit has a lot of hotels and restaurants. The nicer hotels are just to the west of the exit.
Exit 92A-B I-72/6th St
This exit is technically on I-72, but there is a Golden Corral and Walmart just off the exit if you are so inclined, otherwise stay left on I-55 St Louis. On the way to this exit in your rearview mirror you should be able to see the three smokestacks that look like the scenery in the Simpsons. There has been a debate on if it is Springfield MO IL MA. I think it is Springfield IL when you are driving East it looks just like the cartoon version without the Lincoln silhouette on the buildings.
Exit 90 Toronto Rd
There is a Cracker Barrel at this exit and few other services. You really kind of missed the boat if you didn’t stop in Springfield, unless you were waiting for a Cracker Barrel. The view of the lake is magnificent from the highway. It makes you want to stop and join in on the fun.
Exit 88 Chatham/E Lake Dr
Unless you have a place to go on the lake this exit doesn’t have much to offer.
Exit 83 Glenarm
No immediate services at this exit.
Exit 82 IL-104/Auburn/Pawnee
If you are desperate for gas there is a Circle K, I would keep going.
Exit 80 Divernon
The only convenient service is a funeral home. I am hoping this is not your exit.
Exit 72 Farmersville/Girard
No immediate services at this exit.
Rest Area
Nice rest area with the kind of building that has free coffee, maps, and bathrooms.
Exit 63 IL-48/IL-127/Raymond/Hillsboro
There are no services at this exit.
Exit 60 IL-108 W Carlinville
There are no immediate services at this exit.
Exit 52 IL-16/Gillespie/Litchfield
Litchfield is a pretty good sized town with a decent selection of restaurants and a few hotels. It is just a little too far off the interstate for me to call it a good stop, unless you just want to get off the road for a bit.
Exit 44 IL-138/Mt Olive/Benld
There is not a lot at this exit,.
Exit 41 Staunton
There is nothing immediately off the road at this exit.
Exit 37 Livingston/New Douglas
There are a couple of small cafes in the town of Livingston to the west of the interstate.
Exit 33 IL-4/Staunton/Lebanon
Very small town of Worden is off to the west. This exit is a pass for me.
Exit 30 IL-140 Alton/Greenville
There is a Love’s Travel Stop at this exit. It is time to make sure you will have plenty of fuel to get through St. Louis. You do not want to be running close on fuel on the east side of St. Louis and be forced to try and find something until you can get well past the Arch.
Rest Area
Exit 23 IL-143/Edwardsville/Marine
There is a gas station just off the exit. Going into Edwardsville will require a pretty big time commitment. I would recommend Doc’s Smokehouse if you are going to take the time to sit down and eat.
Exit 20B I-270 West Kansas City
This will take you around downtown St Louis to Kansas City.
There are no immediate services at this exit.
Exit 20A I-70 East Indianapolis
This is a highway interchange and has no immediate services available.
Exit 18 IL-162 Troy
There are a couple of truck stops where you can fuel up. There are a couple of restaurant options at this exit as well.
Exit 17 US-40 E/St Jacob/Highland
No immediate services available, you would have to backtrack off the interstate to the previous exit.
Exit 15B IL-159 N/Maryville
There is nothing really convenient at this exit.
Exit 15A IL-159 S/Collinsville
Nothing convenient at this exit.
Weigh Station
Exit 11 IL-157/Collinsville/Edwardsville
There are nice hotels and restaurants at this exit. This would be a good stopping point if you are heading into rush hour in St. Louis. From here on out I would start thinking I am not going to stop until I see the Arch and get past downtown St. Louis, unless of course you are going downtown to see the Arch.
I will always recommend not stopping at any exit between here and the Mississippi River. East Saint Louis has always been one the most dangerous cities in the US. Your chances of being a crime victim are at last report 1 in 26. It is just not worth taking a chance and I could not in good conscience suggest stopping.
Exit 6 IL-111/Woodriver/Washington Park
Nothing immediately available at this exit. I would not stop at this exit.
Exit 4B IL-203 N/Granite City
No immediate services available. I would not stop at this exit.
Exit 4A IL-203 S Collinsville Rd
No immediate services available. I would not stop at this exit.
Exit 3C Exchange Ave
You can see the Arch. Smile and do not stop at this exit.
Exit 3B I-70 West Kansas City
Exit for going to Kansas City.
Exit 3A I-64 East/ IL-3/Louisville
No Immediate services available
Exit 2C Martin Luther King Bridge
Do not take this exit unless you know where you are going.
Exit 2B ML King Bridge/Downtown/St Louis
Stay in the middle lanes for I-44
Exit 2A Third Street
Do not take this exit unless you have a good plan.
Exit 1 IL-3 S/Sauget
Just say no and cross the Mississipi River and get on I-44 the second leg of the New Route 66.
Welcome to Missouri
The New Route 66: Missouri Edition
As you get close to the Mississippi River you will see the Arch. It has been one of my favorite sights since I first saw it as a kid. I still get excited everytime I drive through St. Louis and see the gateway to the west. It is a must do if you have not been to the top or stood next to it and admire the welded seams of this stainless steel looking wonder.
Exit 40B I-44 West Tulsa
I-70 W/Memorial Dr
Exit 290C South 7th St
Unless you know where you are going I would skip this exit.
Exit 290B I-55 S Memphis
This will take you south to Memphis. Stay in the right lanes to keep going towards Tulsa on I-44
Exit 290A MO-30/12th St/Gravois Ave
There are no services quickly available off of this exit.
Exit 289 S Jefferson Ave
There are a couple of options for gas at this exit including a Quiktrip. I would hold off unless absolutely necessary. There are much better suburban options coming up. This is not the best neighborhood and it is not a quick on and off the interstate.
Exit 288 Grand Blvd
Nothing immediately available off of this exit
Exit 287 Vandeventer Ave/Kingshighway Blvd
No quick food or gas at this exit.
Exit 286 Hampton Ave
This is the area known in St. Louis as the “The Hill” it is also called Italy hill and is full of great Italian restaurants.
The St Louis Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the country and is just a mile and a half north of I-44 on Hampton Ave.
There is an Imo’s Pizza north on Hampton Ave as well. It is one of my favorite pizza places of all time.
Exit 285 Southwest Ave
Nothing to quickly access off of this exit.
Exit 284 Arsenal St
Nothing I would stop for at this exit.
Exit 283 Shrewsbury Ave
There are no quick services to access at this exit
Exit 280 Elm Ave
No immediate services at this exit
Exit 279 Berry Rd
No fuel or food at this exit
Exit 278 Big Bend Rd
You can access a lot from this exit, but it is easier at the Lindbergh exit.
Exit 277 US-61/US67 Lindbergh Blvd
There is a lot at this exit as far as food,fuel, and shopping go. There is a Walmart not far off the exit if you're looking to stock up at non convenience store pricing. There is also a Bass Pro shop to the south of the exit.
Exit 276 I-270 Chicago/Memphis
This will take you back to I-55 South or North
Exit 275 N Highway Dr/Soccer Park Rd
There is nothing immediately off of this exit
Exit 274 Bowles Ave
There are some restaurants and pretty good hotels at this exit.
Exit 272 MO-141/Fenton/Valley Park
Good fuel and food options at this exit, but it is fairly time consuming.
Exit 269 Antire Rd/Beaumont
Nothing at this exit nearby.
Exit 266 Lewis Rd
There is a Route 66 State Park Visitors Center off of this exit. That is the only thing that is remotely interesting at this exit.
Exit 264 MO-109/ Eureka/Wildwood
This exit has a lot although it is not a quick stop in any way. The Quiktrip is really faster if you are eastbound. There are a lot of restaurants and a grocery store. This is close to Six Flags St Louis so it is a very tourist friendly area.
Exit 261 Six Flags Rd
Use this exit if you are going to Six Flags. It is not a great exit if you are trying to make good time across Missouri.
Exit 257 I-44 Business Pacific
This is your not ready for prime time stop for Six Flags. There are restaurants and hotels without the immediate access to the amusement park.
Exit 253 I-44 Business/MO-100 Gray Summit
There is a gas station and a pizza place on the south side of the exit.
Exit 251 MO-100 Washington
There is a gas station and fast food restaurant off this exit. It is not a short distance to get off and back on the interstate. There is also an Amtrak station at this exit.
Exit 247 US-50 W/Union/Jefferson City
No services directly off of this exit.
Exit 242 Missouri AH
Nothing to be seen here.
Exit 240 MO-47/Union/St. Clair
There are restaurants,hotels, and gas stations at this exit. You will have to venture well off the interstate to reach any of them, so this exit would be a pass for me.
Exit 239 MO-30
St. Clair has several food options; they are all well off the beaten path.
Rest Area
This is a left side exit. It is a nice rest stop with indoor bathrooms.
Exit 230 MO JJ/MO W/Stanton
There is nothing easily accessible at this exit.
Exit 226 MO-185 S/Sullivan
This is one of my favorite exits when passing through Missouri. There is an Imo’s Pizza on the east side of the interstate with a Walmart right behind it. There are quite a few other restaurants and several fueling options as well. I have never found Sullivan to be very busy and pretty easy to navigate back on the interstate.
Exit 225 MO-185 N
There is more of Sullivan to explore at this exit if you haven’t found an eatery that suits your taste.
Exit 218 Missouri N/Missouri C/Missouri J/Bourbon
There are restaurants at this exit, but they require some navigation that I am not fond of.
Exit 214 Missouri H/Leasburg
Nothing easy to get to at this exit
Exit 210 Missouri UU
This is in Cuba city limits, but there's not much here.
Exit 208 MO-19/Cuba/Owensville
Restaurants, fuel, hotels, and even a Walmart at this exit.
Exit 203 Missouri F/Missouri ZZ
Nothing close by off this exit.
Exit 195 MO-68/MO-8/St James
You will see the St James Winery and Brewery on the right hand side before the exit. There is a lot of attractions and restaurants at this exit.
Exit 189 Hy Point Ind Park Dr/Missouri V
There is a Quiktrip and Love’s Travel stop at this exit that are a pretty quick off and back on the interstate since they are on the right side of the road.
Exit 186 I-44 Business/US-63/MO-72/Rolla/Jefferson City
There is a lot of food choices at this exit when you get on the old Route 66 through Rolla. This is the best exit to take in Rolla. All of the exits in Rolla will take you off the trail for an extended stop.
Exit 185 Missouri E/Rolla
This exit is for the University of Central Missouri primarily.
Exit 184 44 Business/Missouri 42/Rolla/Salem
There is another slew of restaurants and shopping off the beaten path at this exit.
Exit 179 Missouri T/Missouri C/Doolittle/Newburg
There is fuel at this exit, but a pass for convenience and time's sake.
Parking Area
There are restrooms at this little exit
Exit 176 Sugar Tree Rd
There are no services off this exit
Exit 172 Missouri D/Jerome/Dixon
No immediate Services off this Exit.
Exit 169 Missouri J
Nothing here, keep on trucking.
Exit 163 MO-28 Dixon
If there is a landmark you won’t forget driving through Missouri it is at this exit. Uranus Fudge Factory and the Uranus Axe-Hole are seen off the highway. Proceed at your own risk. There is also a truck stop and some restaurants in Uranus.
Exit 161 Missouri Y/Ft Leonard Wood/St. Robert
A lot of hotels and restaurants that surround the exit for Ft Leonard Wood.
Exit 159 I-44 Business Loop Waynesville
More hotels and restaurants that are going to take a substantial investment of time to access.
Exit 156 I-44 Loop/Missouri H/Waynesville/Fort Leonard Wood
There are more hotels and restaurants that are well off the interstate at this exit.
Exit 153 MO-17 Buckhorn
If you need lingerie or a tattoo this might be a good stop otherwise I would keep going.
Exit 150 Missouri P/MO-7/Richland/Laquey
Keep going there is nothing at this exit.
Exit 145 AB/MO-133 Richland
You are halfway through Missouri. There are a couple of truck stops and a convenience store at this exit.
Exit 140 N/T/Stoutland
This exit has few services
Exit 135 Sleeper
No Services at this exit
Exit 130 I-44 Business/Lebanon
Lebanon has some restaurants and gas stations that are not the fastest stopping place through Missouri
Exit 129 Jefferson Ave/MO-32/MO-5/MO-64/Hartville
This exit is your best bet for food and fuel in Lebanon. There are a lot of restaurants at this exit. There is also a Walmart at this exit as well.
Exit 127 I-44 Business/Elm St/Morgan Rd
There are a couple of restaurants and a Holiday Inn Express at this exit.
Exit 123 County Road
There is nothing to see at this exit.
Exit 118 Missouri C/Missouri A/Phillipsburg
Redmon’s Candy Factory is at this exit. No other services immediately available.
Exit 113 Missouri J/Missouri Y/ Conway
This exit features a gas station that would make a pretty efficient stop and refuel mission.
Welcome Center/Rest Area
This is a good bathroom stop and possibly pick up a free cup of coffee.
Exit 107 Sampson Rd/Sparkle Brook Rd
No Immediate services at this exit.
Exit 103 Missouri CC/Marshall Rd
Nothing immediately off this exit. Wait for the next exit if you must stop
Exit 100 MO-38 W/Marshfield
Marshfield has several restaurants,service stations, and hotels. Unfortunately they are well off the highway making for an extended stop.
Exit 96 Missouri B/Northview
There are no services at this exit
Exit 88 MO-125/Strafford/Fair Grove
There is a truck stop and some fast food choices, but they are a bit off the beaten path.
Exit 84 MO-744/Mulroy Rd/Beaver Rd
There is a Buc-ee’s at this stop. It is the only one on The New Route 66. They are pretty impressive for a convenience store so if you have never been to one this is your chance. The food is actually pretty good.
Exit 82B US-65 North Sedalia
No services at this exit
Exit 82A US-65 Branson
Take this exit if you are going to Branson
Exit 80 Missouri H/Glenstone Ave/Pleasant Hope
If you want to explore Springfield this is a good exit to start at. There are numerous restaurants and hotels that can be accessed off of this exit. Most of the business is south of the interstate.
Exit 77 MO-13/Kansas Expressway/Bolivar
See the rest of Springfield from this exit. The original Bass Pro Shop is located in here in Springfield.
This exit has a plethora of restaurant and hotel choices.
Exit 75 US-160/Willard/West Bypass
Not as many choices as the last two exits, but there are some restaurants and hotels.
Exit 72 44 Business/ MO-266/Chestnut Expressway
There is a truckstop at this exit with not many other options.
Exit 70 Missouri MM/ Missouri B
Unless you need fireworks, keep on trucking.
Exit 69 MO 360 to MO 60/James River Fwy
No services at this exit.
Exit 67 Missouri N/Missouri T/Bois D’Arc/Republic
Nothing of interest at this exit
Exit 61 Missouri K/Missouri PP
A couple of service stations on the eastbound side.
Exit 58 Missouri Z/ Missouri O/Halltown
There are no immediate services off of this exit.
Exit 57 MO-96 Avilla
Keep going.
Truck Parking
Just a truck park as the English would say. There are restrooms if you really need one.
Exit 49 MO-174/Chesapeake/Mt. Vernon
There are no services at this exit.
Exit 46 I-44 Business/MO-39/MO265
Mount Vernon has some restaurants and a Walmart on 44 Business if you want to take a little detour through town.
Exit 44 Missouri H/I-44 Business/Monett/Mt. Vernon
If you meant to go to Mount Vernon and missed it you can go back here.
Exit 38 MO-97/Pierce City/Stotts City
No perks to stopping at this exit.
Exit 33 County Road 1010
There is nothing at this exit except a county road.
Exit 29 44 Business/Sarcoxie/La Russell/Missouri U
There are a couple of truck stops on the eastbound side of the interstate if you really need to stop.
Exit 26 MO-37 Reeds
No services at this exit.
Exit 22 County Rd No 100
There are no immediate services at this exit.
Exit 18B I-49 N/US-71 N/Carthage/Kansas City
This exit will put you on the road to Kansas City and Carthage.
This is a highway interchange with no services immediately available.
Exit 18A MO-59 S Diamond
No immediate services at this exit
Exit 15 i-44 Business/MO-66/Duenweg/Joplin
The exit will take you into Duenweg. Unless you urgently need something I would hold off for a better Joplin exit coming up quickly.
Exit 13 Prigmor Ave
A truck stop is available at this exit with some maneuvering. It is primarily an industrial exit.
Exit 11 MO-249/I-49 S/US-71/Neosho/Fort Smith
All services except a single truck stop are well off the interstate.
Exit 8 US-71 Business N/Range Line Rd
There are no exits in Joplin that will get you off and back on the interstate quickly. That being said this is probably the exit with the most choices for food. There are a lot of really cool restaurants in Joplin if you take the time to explore the city.
Exit 6 MO-86/MO-43 N/Joplin/Racine
More restaurants and you can backtrack to see the city of Joplin
Exit 4 MO-43 S/Seneca
You are pretty much out of Joplin proper. There is a Love’s Travel stop that is conveniently located on the westbound side. I have used this exit myself a lot over the years.
Truck Park
There are restrooms available at this exit
Exit 1 US-166/US-400 W/Downstream Blvd/Baxter Springs
The Downstream Convenience store is just north of this exit. The last time I was there the gas prices were pretty cheap compared to other places nearby since it is on Indian land.
The Downstream Casino can also be accessed at this exit.
We made it through Missouri and now on to Oklahoma!
Welcome to Oklahoma!
The New Route 66: Oklahoma Edition
Welcome to Oklahoma! You have traversed the New Route 66, Interstate Highway 44, through Missouri. Soon after you pass through Joplin you will be greeted by a welcome to Oklahoma sign. You should also note that you are on a toll road.
FYI: Only California has more exits than Oklahoma on the new Route 66
Most of the New Route 66 through Oklahoma are limited access toll roads with high-speed limits. The Will Rogers Turnpike will take you from the Missouri/Oklahoma state line to the East side of Tulsa which is about 100 miles. After you get to the West side of Tulsa the Turner Turnpike will take you into Oklahoma City, also a little over 100 miles. The good news is you can cover the first 200 miles in a little over 3 hours.
The last 160 miles from the end of the Turner Turnpike to the Texas state line are free. However the travel time is about 2 and a half hours. The first 200 miles will cost $10 via plate pay. Toll booths went the way of the dinosaur; they are no more in Oklahoma. Oklahoma has plate pay arrangements with some states.
Both Tulsa and OKC offer a turnpike option to bypass I-44 through either city. I will cover those in detail later. These are by the way the two largest cities in Oklahoma, what I would call fairly large metropolitan areas with extensive suburban populations.
If you are into casinos you are in for a treat. There is literally a casino at every other exit when you drive through Oklahoma. I may be exaggerating a little, but not too much. I have nothing against casinos, I actually prefer staying at casino hotels, I have always surmised that if you are sleeping on top of somebody else’s large pile of cash you are pretty safe from petty crimes and shenanigans of any sort.
One last note on the overview of Oklahoma for the remaining sinners who don’t gamble. Oklahoma does not have any Sunday blue laws or dry counties on the trek through the state.
You will have to go to a liquor store if you want spirits: i.e. vodka, gin, or whiskey.
Oklahoma used to be famous for our 3.2% beer. In the last 10 years strong beer and wine is available at all grocery and convenience stores as well as the liquor stores. I would stock up on cigarettes in Joplin as they have much lower taxes than Oklahoma, and the other states as you go westward.
Now that you have a pretty good idea of what you're up against in traversing the state let’s go back to the state line and start driving through Oklahoma.
After you pass the Oklahoma welcome sign you will have an exit on your right for an Oklahoma Welcome center. The bathrooms are acceptable and you can probably score a free cup of coffee and an Oklahoma map.
Exit 313 Miami, OK
Miami is a town that was on the original configuration of Route 66. There are two casinos in Miami.
There is a Walmart in Miami, but it is almost 5 miles off the exit. If you are like me and don’t want to spend a lot of time winding through a small town I would wait.
There is a Phillips 66 convenience store just off the exit with decent bathrooms.
Exit 302 Afton OK
You will not actually go into Afton on this exit with a short drive. There is a convenience store, Woodshed at Buffalo Ranch, that is about a mile off the turnpike. Just stay right after the toll booth onto US 60/US 69 and it will be on your left.
The Woodshed is a very well run convenience store. The bathrooms are nice and they sell a ton of fried chicken in different forms. They bread and cook all of their tenders on site. They operate all around the Grand Lake area. I am a big fan of the Woodshed convenience stores. The amount of chicken they sell is almost unfathomable, which speaks to the saying that they must be doing something right. There is also a Subway inside if chicken is not to your liking today.
Retrace your steps and get back on the New Route 66.
Exit 289 Vinita OK
Vinita is an original Route 66 town and actually a good place to hop on the old route 66 route into Claremore and actually put you back onto I-44 just outside of the east side of Tulsa in Catoosa. This route will take you by the Blue Whale in Catoosa, if you are looking for iconic sites.
The Walmart in Vinita is less than a mile off the exit if you are in need of general provisions for the road.
Clanton’s Restaurant in Vinita is a great choice. They have been featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dive’s. Chicken fried steak with cream gravy is classic Oklahoma fare. We put gravy on everything, lol.
There is also a Woodshed Convenience store almost across from Clanton’s if you are just wanting a bathroom and a snack.
Turn left past Clanton’s and head to Claremore if you want a taste of the old Route 66, otherwise go back and get on Eastbound I-44 the way you came in.
Will Rogers Archway Vinita OK
Just after the Vinita Exit is what used to be hailed as the world’s largest McDonalds. The eastbound side has a gas and convenience store.
I am not sure that Will would have been ok with putting his name on a toll road as he was fairly skeptical of government spending, but here we are.
Exit 283 Big Cabin OK
Big Cabin is basically a truck stop, but it is a hidden gem on the trek through Oklahoma. This is one of the highest volume restaurants in Oklahoma. The food is very good, but it is an old-style cafe type setting. This is as old Route 66 fare as you can get. If you are up for breakfast, lunch, or dinner this is a good choice. They also have a Subway on site if you just want fast food.
Everything else at the Big Cabin Restaurant is cooked to order.
Exit 269 Adair/Chelsea
The only reason to exit here is to get on the original Route 66 by going west to Chelsea. Either direction requires a substantial drive to get to any services
Exit 255 Claremore
Claremore is an original Route 66 town famous for the Will Rogers Memorial. Don’t be fooled, Claremore is not the birthplace of Will Rogers. That would be Oologah about 10 miles north of Claremore. It is also my hometown.
If you are looking for a quick restroom break and refreshments this is a great choice. There is a Quiktrip just off the turnpike.
The Hammet House has been a favorite in Claremore for decades and it is practically next door to the Will Rogers Memorial if you're looking to sit down for lunch.
There is a Walmart in Claremore, but it is not really convenient to get to and is honestly usually a madhouse. The Walmart in Catoosa a little further down the road is a better option.
Exit 248 Verdigris
There is a Quiktrip in Verdigris that is great for a fast stop for a bathroom break, gas, and refreshments. Getting off and back on the interstate is pretty quick. If the Blue Whale is on your list of things to see just stay on the old Route 66 West towards Catoosa and you will go right by it. You can’t miss it, after all it is a big blue whale.
Exit 35 Pine Street/Catoosa
This exit has very little value as your only viable option is to take a right and go into Catoosa. You would come out on the old Route 66 in Catoosa, but would have to back track to see the Blue Whale.
FYI – the exit numbers changed because you technically got off the Turner Turnpike, and are now on I-44 free road as long as you take an exit before the Creek Turnpike begins.
Exit 34 I-44
Stay in the right lane if you want to take the New Route 66 through Tulsa on I-44. If you want to bypass Tulsa and go straight to OKC stay on Hwy 364 which is the Creek Turnpike. It will take you around the South side of Tulsa. It is a toll road, but there is no toll plaza. It is Oklahoma Pikepass or plate pay.
If you choose to take this route there are still options to exit for food and gas. It is faster if you have no plans to stay in Tulsa. It is far from desolate and actually takes you through the newer part of Tulsa. There is also the River Spirit Casino just off the Riverside exit. It, in my opinion, is the nicest casino in the Tulsa area.
Exit Route 66 East Catoosa
Stay in the left two lanes for I-44 at the un-numbered exit that would take you on old Route 66 east into Catoosa and back by the Big Blue Whale. I promise this is the last word on the blue whale matter.
Exit 240 Catoosa
Just North of the interstate at the Catoosa exit is the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino that is owned by the Cherokee Nation. The hotel is nice and as I stated before I like the security of staying at a casino run hotel. Check ahead if your heart is set on staying there as they can sell out if a popular concert or event is going on.
There is also a Walmart that is easily accessible at this exit.
Exit 238 165th E Ave
This is possibly one of the quickest gas, bathroom, and snack exits in Oklahoma. It is a Quiktrip truckstop and you can get right back on the Interstate without waiting at a traffic light. The world needs more of these!
I will never mention a stop unless I know the bathrooms are clean and the area is safe. Now that we are in Tulsa I will say that Quiktrip = clean bathroom. It is a hallmark of the Quiktrip convenience store chain. It is, by the way, a Tulsa based company. The very first store was in Tulsa and the Headquarters are still here in Tulsa.
Exit 236B I-244 Downtown Tulsa
Here you can exit to go to downtown Tulsa, otherwise you stay on I-44.
Here is my advice on staying in Tulsa. If you are wanting to venture out of your room at night and have dinner and maybe a few drinks I would definitely stay in downtown Tulsa. There are tons of restaurants and bars in downtown Tulsa that are safe to walk to without having to hail a rideshare.
The food scene in Tulsa, again in my opinion, is the best in the state. Food is a big deal in Tulsa, there are literally five restaurants at every intersection. If a restaurant can make it for more than a couple of years the food is probably pretty good. The competition is fierce in Tulsa.
Specifically, I would stay at Hotel Indigo at 1st and Elgin. You are within a short walking distance of numerous bars and restaurants. They have a balcony bar that is very popular.
Albert G’s Barbeque has been a Tulsa staple for over 25 years, McNellie’s restaurant is a longtime Tulsa favorite as well just around the corner.
If you just want to stay on I-44 but stay in Tulsa I will offer advice at future exits.
Exit 236 129th E Ave
Unless you have an insatiable urge for McDonald’s keep driving.
Exit 235 E. 11th St
I would only exit here if you want to drive on a section of original Route 66 which is 11th st into the southside of downtown Tulsa. You can get right back on I-244 to Oklahoma City downtown.
I really try to stick to the don’t say anything unless you have something nice to say. The Quiktrip at this location always features an armed guard which is reserved for select locations. It has a Motel 6 behind it which is frequently visited by the Tulsa Police Department. It has been featured on the show 48 hours on a couple of occasions. So without stating the obvious this is not the best place to stop.
I will say there is no part of Tulsa that I would not drive during the day, but some parts are better than others.
Exit 234 Hwy 169 Broken Arrow/Owasso
Exit for going to North Tulsa or South Tulsa on Highway 169. Highway 169 North would take you to Kansas City. Highway 169 South would take you to south Tulsa and turn into the Creek Turnpike to OKC.
Exit 233B E. 21st St
There are no services directly off of this exit.
Exit 232 Memorial Drive/E. 31st St.
I would recommend the Embassy Suites just north of this exit. There are a couple of hotels that are pretty nice north of 31st Street. I will be honest anywhere off of I-44 where there are cheap hotels can be pretty sketchy at night. That is why I recommend downtown if you want to get out at night.
Exit 231 Highway 52/64 Sand Springs/ Broken Arrow
This is known in Tulsa as the Broken Arrow Expressway. 51 East will take you into downtown if you changed your mind on staying downtown.
Exit 230 E 41st Street
This exit is more of a food exit. Not a good option for gas, but there are a couple of excellent options for food.
Fat Guys is a burger joint that is famous for all of its dipping sauces for fries and the burgers are awesome. Tulsa is a coney town and this exit is the easiest to get to a Coney I Lander which has been in Tulsa for at least 50 years. Both of these options are in a shopping center north of 41st street when you exit.
Exit 229 Yale Ave
There is a Quiktrip just South on Yale Ave from this exit. It is not really convenient and not the best neighborhood behind it, making it a little bit sketchy. There are more convenient options over the next couple of exits.
The Doubletree at Warren place is one and a half miles South on Yale Ave. It has quite a few nice restaurant options that are quite close.
Pub W and Neighborhood Jam are Oklahoma based restaurants that are a short walk from the Doubletree.
Almost a mile east on 61st is Goldie’s which has been in Tulsa over 40 years. They have great hamburgers. I have been eating there for at least 3 decades when I am in Tulsa.
Exit 228 Harvard Ave
If you are wanting Mexican food Casa Tequila is on the Northeast corner of this exit. It is almost always busy which is a good sign. I have eaten here on many occasions when in Tulsa.
Across the parking lot to the North is NY Pizza. I love this place, pizza by the slice, with your choice of toppings. They toss it back in the oven and then serve it up hot. It has been there for decades.
There is a Quiktrip across the street by the onramp back on I-44 making this a 5-star exit.
Exit 227 Lewis Ave
There is a Quiktrip at this exit, but it is much more convenient to Eastbound traffic. Hold on another mile and you will have a better westbound option.
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Exit 226B Peoria Ave
This is your last easy on and off quick access for fuel going through Tulsa. You guessed it, a Quiktrip right next to the I-44 West onramp.
If you are up for wandering off the highway then go a little over a mile North and you will be in the heart of Brookside as Tulsans call it. Lots of restaurants and bars.
The Brook is a local restaurant with a great menu. They have been there at least 25 years.
In The Raw is a longtime favorite sushi restaurant in Tulsa.
You also have a second chance at Coney-I-Lander at 41st and Peoria.
Exit 226A Riverside Drive
If you turn right and go North you will find The Gathering Place, which is a huge park that draws thousands of people weekly. If you have kids this is a must on the trip through Oklahoma. It draws people nationally.
Riverside drive runs alongside the east side of the Arkansas River. Going North will take you directly into downtown Tulsa.
If you go South 5 miles you will be at Riverspirit Casino that I talked about in the Southern bypass of Tulsa.
Exit 225 Elwood Ave
This is an industrial exit. No immediate services available.
Exit 224 Highway 75 Bartlesville/Okmulgee
Going North towards Bartlesville will take you into downtown Tulsa.
A couple of miles north on Highway 75 at 71st st is Tulsa Hills. There are several nice hotel options and a lot of shopping and restaurant options.
Albert G’s has a location here for which I would recommend for BBQ
Exit 223C 33rd W Ave
CLOSED DUE TO CONSTRUCTION
This exit is the trail to the best burger joint in Oklahoma in my opinion. Go North to Southwest Blvd which is the old Route 66. Turn right and just on your right a block or so is Arnold's Old Fashioned Hamburgers.
This is the best value for a meal that you will find and the burgers are excellent. Frank, the owner, told me that most months he sells over 100,000 burgers. If you can sell 100,000 burgers in a month you have a pretty good burger.
They have a drive thru if you don’t want to go in.
Exit 223B OK334 Gilcrease Expy
This will take you North to Highway 412 to Stillwater. No services directly off this exit
223A I-244 East
CLOSED DUE TO CONSTRUCTION
This would take you back to downtown Tulsa
Exit 222C 56th Street
No fuel or food here.
Exit 222A 49th W Ave
There is a Quiktrip truck stop on the east side of the highway along with several fast food options. Probably the most options until you reach OKC.
Exit 221B OK-66 W/Bristow/Sapulpa
If you are wanting to drive Tulsa to OKC via the old Route 66 this is a great place to start. Follow the signs once you get into Sapulpa.
Once you pass this exit you are on the Turner Turnpike. Keep in mind that if there is an accident and the westbound lanes are closed you will be diverted off onto the old Route 66.
While it is faster to stay on the turnpike when everything is running smoothly, in the last couple of years the traffic has become substantially more congested. When I get tired of waiting on slow trucks to pass slower trucks I just get on old 66 and make my way to Edmond. It may take 20 minutes longer, but is just less aggravating and somewhat enjoyable to drive the old highway.
Exit 215 OK97 Sapulpa/Sand Spring
This has a Quiktrip for fuel and food. It is fairly easy to get off and get back on to I-44.
You can also pick up the old Route 66 on the west side of Sapulpa, which you can drive all the way to OKC.
Finding a restaurant will be a fairly substantial time commitment going into Sapulpa.
Exit 211 OK33 Kellyville/Drumright/ OK66
There are any services directly off this exit.
Take a left at the exit to get on old Route 66
Exit 196 Bristow
Same as with all the exits on the Turner Turnpike you can pick up the old Route 66. Just turn left or South into Bristow and you can pick up the signs directing you to OKC
There is a Walmart right off the exit if you need to stock up with provisions at an everyday low price.
Turner Toll Plaza
CLOSED- Plate Pay Only
Exit 179 Drumright/Stroud
This is not a bad stop for fuel, but the biggest attraction is…..
The Rock Cafe on Main Street. The owner was the inspiration for “Sally” in the movie “Cars" that was based on Route 66
Midway Service Plaza
An easy stop for fuel. McDonalds is the only restaurant. The convenience store offers some pre prepared sandwiches. This is the only free exit on the turnpike.
Exit 166 Chandler/Cushing
Chandler is a little south of the exit. There is a Walmart, but it is a bit off the path.
Ken’s Pizza has a lunch buffet that is pretty good. It is a Tulsa tradition that was the predecessor to the Mazzio's pizza chain that is headquartered in Tulsa.
Exit 158 Wellston
Wellston is an easy stop for fuel and a restroom break, and get right back on the Interstate.
If you are a BBQ fan this is the mecca on the new and old Route 66.
Butcher BBQ is world renowned. Keep in mind it is only open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
It is open until they are sold out. Which means that as time goes by some menu items won’t be available. The good news is that it is all good.
Exit 149 Kickapoo Turnpike South
The Kickapoo Turnpike will take you directly South to I-40. It is a longer detour so I would advise against it.
Exit 146 Luther/Jones
There are no services immediately off of this exit. You can get to the old route 66 and come out in Edmond on 2nd Street. You will also pass through Arcadia which has some famous landmarks.
The first is the Arcadia Round Barn which was built in 1898. It has a museum and gift shop
The second is Pop’s 66 which is a landmark diner and convenience store with hundreds of soda flavors available.
The third is a sign commemorating the spot that a local encountered Paul McCartney when he was passing through old Route 66. If it was good enough entertainment for one of the Beatles then it should be good enough for almost anyone. Don’t second guess yourself.
If you want to go to the old Route 66 it takes a bit of maneuvering
Turn right onto Hogback Road going North.
Take the next left onto 164th st going west.
Then take the next right onto Triple X Road then keep going North until you hit Route 66.
Yes, XXX road is right, don’t ask me why. You can’t make this stuff up.
Oklahoma City
You have been within Oklahoma City Limits for some time now. I want to take the time, before you start making decisions, to advise on which way to go ahead before you exit the Turner Turnpike.
Almost like Tulsa I would advise staying downtown in OKC at Bricktown if you want to get out and have dinner and drinks. There are a lot of great restaurants and bars within walking distance of a lot of nice hotel options.
If you just want to stay in a nice safe part of town, stay in Edmond just a couple of miles north. It is the nicest suburb of OKC and does have some very good hotel options and great restaurant options. If your out drinking Uber is readily available in Edmond, walking is not much of an option.
If you are wanting to stay just off the New Route 66 I will make some suggestions as we go along. Much like I-44 in Tulsa the cheaper hotels off the highway can be a little sketchy, I would save the cheap hotel night for a smaller town.
Slow down when you approach this intersection of highways as law enforcement frequently is sitting by the I-35 S offramp.
Exit I-35 N
Stay in the far right lane for I-35 towards Wichita.
A couple of miles north exit 15th Street in Edmond for easy access to a Walmart and quite a few restaurants.
This is a very nice part of the OKC metro.
Exit Kilpatrick Turnpike
Stay in the middle lanes if you want to bypass OKC as quickly as possible. It is a toll road with no toll booths. It will take you out to the west side of Oklahoma City near Yukon on I-40.
Exit I 35 S/I 44 W
Stay in the left hand lane to get on I 35/ I 44W. You have two options on going westward at this point. You will reach a Y on the road in about 4 miles, you will need to be in the far right lane to take I 44 West through midtown OKC. Stay in the left 2 lanes for I-35 S. I-35 S will turn into I-40 with the option to exit onto I-35 S going to Dallas. Just remember you are headed for Amarillo on I-40. This is the best way to go if you wish to stay in downtown OKC.
The road on I-35 S is much smoother and you avoid the construction on I-44. The time difference is less than a minute, I have checked multiple times on GPS going to the airport.
Exit 137 122nd St
There are 2 truck stops at this exit. The easiest place to get gas and back on the interstate is the Love’s. The bathrooms are good and they have some food options that are not bad. Love’s is an Oklahoma City based company and the bathrooms are always pretty good. The only problem you can run into is they are very high volume and can be crowded at times.
There is a Cracker Barrell just north of the Love’s across 122nd St through the light and to the right.
There is an Oklahoma Welcome Center across from Love’s. You can pick up an Oklahoma map and a free cup of coffee. They offer a selection of Oklahoma related gifts. The bathrooms will be good as well.
Exit 136 Hefner Rd
UPDATE! The Quiktrip is now open at this exit
There are no services off of this exit. If you are going to Frontier City you can exit and go north on the I-35 service road on the west side.
There is a Quiktrip in the works. I will update when this reaches fruition.
Exit 135 Britton Rd
No Services at this exit.
Exit 134 Wilshire Blvd
No quick service off of this exit. If you go over to the east side service road you can go south and find a Braum’s which is located at the Braum’s Corporate headquarters. The only fuel option is a pretty sketchy place.
Exit 133 I44 W Amarillo
Right now when you exit to I 44 W you will go through concrete barriers that
Exit 129 MLK Ave
This exit is not marked because of construction currently. There is no immediate access to fuel or restrooms.
The OKC Zoo is the 4th largest zoo in the country. It is well worth spending a day visiting if you like zoos.
Remington Park Casino is the most convenient casino in Oklahoma City proper. They do feature horse racing when it is in season.
You can go straight off the exit on 63rd St to the Cowboy Hall of Fame, but the lights at this exit are very long. I would suggest the Kelley exit if you are going to the museum.
Exit 128B Kelley Ave
There is a new off brand convenience store at this exit. If you are going to the Cowboy Hall of Fame go north to 63rd St. and turn right at the light.
Sign for OKC National Memorial
Exit 128A Lincoln Blvd/State Capitol
No fuel or restrooms directly off the exit.
If you want to sit down and eat a great option is Jamil’s Steakhouse at
4910 N Lincoln. It is not far off the interstate. I
Exit 127B US77 N/I235
This goes north into Edmond
Exit 127A I-235 S Oklahoma City Downtown
This exit will take you into downtown Oklahoma City.
I will not cover all the exits into downtown since it is really not New Route 66.
I will advise you to take the Exit 2 N 23rd St/Broadway Ave/State Capitol
Go straight at the light into downtown, the reason this works out well is because you avoid the possibility of getting cut off by the train. It is a major problem in downtown OKC.
This section is mainly to cover the restaurants downtown should you decide to stay there.
Let’s start with the skyline of OKC, the tallest building downtown is the Devon Tower. What if I told you there was a restaurant on top? Vast is on the 49th and 50th floors with breathtaking views. It is a 4-diamond restaurant. Check out the menu online, it is not as pricey as you would think.
Nearby the Devon Tower on Robinson is The National Hotel , it is a favorite of business travelers visiting OKC. The restaurant inside is Stock and Bond Steakhouse is a very popular destination among locals and travelers located at 138 Park Ave.
If you want steak, with a more budget friendly menu don’t fret you are in luck. Cattlemen's Steakhouse is located at 1309 South Agnew. Just outside of downtown in the old OKC Stockyards. This steakhouse has been there for over 100 years which speaks for itself. This is one of my favorite restaurants in the metro.
Another favorite restaurant in downtown OKC is Crabtown located in Bricktown at 303 E Sheridan. Being landlocked Oklahoma is not known as a mecca for seafood, but this Cajun style menu is one of the most popular restaurants in the city.
In case you're looking for Mexican food Iguana Mexican Grill is located at 9 NW 9th St. It is the Mexican place that is talked about most in downtown OKC.
If you up for breakfast Harvey Bakery is a great choice. It is a favorite of Thunder superstar Chet Holmgren who has a breakfast sandwich named after him. I picked up Jeff Ament the bassist for Pearl Jam during the NBA Finals, when I was driving rideshare, from this restaurant.
Downtown Detour is over back to the New Route 66
Exit 126 Western Ave
This is not a quick fuel or restroom stop. There are a couple of food options.
You will turn left at the stop sign off the exit to get to Western. There is a Sonic straight in front of you at the light. If you turn right and go north on Western you will run into Flip’s an Italian Restaurant, a Whole Foods a little further north, and a Whole Foods if you are a fan.
The Ellis Hotel is a business traveler's favorite across from the Devon Energy Campus.
Exit 125B Classen Blvd
This is a Left Lane Exit
Unless you know your way around OKC avoid this exit. You can get to the major attractions at this exit more readily at the next exit.
Exit 125 C OK-3A/ NW Expressway
This is a Left Lane Exit
If you are wanting to shop at Penn Square mall or cruise for a place to eat this is a great exit. You will go right and be on NW Expressway which has miles of restaurants and convenience stores to the Northwest as the name implies.
The first light you come to is Belle Isle. Turn right then left for a Walmart. Go straight and your first right will be Penn Square Mall.
Exit 125A N Penn Ave
There is a fuel and food option at this exit. I would only take it if I missed Penn Square or Northwest Expressway which can be rectified by turning right and going north to Penn Square and NW Expressway.
This underpass is a huge homeless encampment at most times and you have a pretty good chance of being asked for money while you are fueling at the convenience store that is just south of the interstate.
Exit 124 May Ave
This is not a good exit if time is of the essence. There is no immediate onramp back onto the interstate. You will have to go south to 36th street, turn right and get onto I-44.
There are some good food options off of May Avenue, but I would keep on trucking.
Exit 123B I44 West
Stay straight and the overpass will loop south on I-44. Be aware the left hand lane ends, but many drivers will act like they have right away. It can be a little dangerous here at times.
Exit 122 NW 23rd St
There is an Arby’s on the other side of the interstate, otherwise it is a bust.
Exit 121B NW 10th St West
I would advise a pass on this exit unless traffic is at a complete standstill. You can go west to Meridian Ave then left and get on I-40 about a mile South. At rush hour this is a viable strategy.
Exit 121A NW 10th St East
I would recommend a pass on this exit unless you are going to the State Fair Grounds.
Exit I40 West Amarillo
You are now on the third leg of what is the New Route 66. I-40 will take you all the way to Barstow,California before you take I-15 to I-10 to finish the journey to Santa Monica.
Exit 145 Meridian Avenue
There are a lot of nice hotels on Meridian South of I40. They would be considered the airport hotels. It is not an area I would walk around at night. There is a lot of transient and homeless traffic on the street. At night this area can look like an episode of Cops.
Honestly, I wouldn't walk around during the day either.
If it is not obvious going South on Meridian will take you straight to the Will Rogers International Airport Terminal
Exit 144 MacArthur Blvd
Skip this exit and thank me later. It is congested and you immediately have to take a left to access all of the businesses.
It often backs up and you may have to sit through several light cycles to get through. In fact you may sit on I-40 hoping an 18-wheeler doesn’t come through your rear window. The other day it was backed up for a mile on I-40. This is a horrible exit, probably the worst in Oklahoma.
There are a lot of restaurants and shopping options at this exit, but it is much easier to take the next exit. Plus you can see everything it has to offer and work your way back.
Exit 143 Rockwell Ave
After you have seen everything offered you can work your way back to what you choose.
Turn right off Rockwell and turn right at the first light which is 3rd Street.
There is a Walmart, but definitely not the crown jewel of Walmarts. It would be a last resort for me.
The on ramp to I 40 westbound is not marked well. Turn left of 3rd Street onto Rockwell. Then left at the first light, opposite the way you came off of Rockwell.
Exit 142 Council Rd
This is not a good fuel option as you have to make an unprotected left turn on a busy four lane street. I did a U turn to correct the situation.
The OKC outlet mall is just off this exit along with a few food options you can see before you exit.
Exit 140 Morgan Rd
Four small truck stops and a couple of fast food places. Unless your really hungry or low on fuel keep going
Exit 139 Kilpatrick Turnpike
If you took the Northern bypass of OKC this is where you will come out on I-40.
Exit 138 OK-4 Mustang/Yukon
There are good options for hotels at this exit. You are on the good side of 4 hours to Amarillo at this exit.
Exit 137 Cornwell Dr/Czech Hall Rd
This exit is a time killer to access food.
Fuel is really easy on and off the interstate at the OnCue.
Exit 136 OK-92 Yukon/Mustang/Garth Brooks Blvd
This is a great exit for food if you are wanting to skip the fast-food option and sit down and enjoy lunch or dinner.
You will have to venture a couple of miles off of the Interstate, but it is well worth the effort.
Earl's Rib Palace is one of the best BBQ offerings in the state of Oklahoma, our family is a regular consumer of Earl's ribs. Next door is The Lokal restaurant which is another favorite of mine. They have deep fried deviled eggs on the appetizer menu which is the bomb. The bonus to all this is they are on the original Route 66 through Yukon.
Exit 134 Frisco Rd
Unless your shopping for a tractor keep going
Exit 132 Cimarron Rd
Nothing of note at this exit.
244 miles to Amarillo
Exit 130 Banner Rd
Unless you want to get on old Route 66 or shop for an RV keep going.
Exit 127 Radio Rd
There is a Love's Truck stop South of the interstate. It is actually a good fuel and bathroom stop. It appears to be fairly new and there is not a lot of traffic. It has a Carl’s Jr. drive thru
Exit 125 US-81 El Reno
This exit has heavy construction at this time and looks like a bomb went off. Unless you are desperate, keep on going. El Reno is just one of those towns that I-44 passed by. It is quite far off the interstate for the town itself. You could potentially get fuel and get back on with the convenience store just to the right of the exit. Anything further is just a disaster. The intersection is confusing and somewhat dangerous at the light north of the exit.
Exit 123 Country Club Rd
There is a Walmart just off this exit and a fueling option.
Exit 119 El Reno
There is nothing available immediately off this exit.
Exit 115 US 270
There are no services at this exit.
Exit 108 US-281 Geary/Watonga
Cherokee Trading Post is a nice convenience store and gift shop. There is also The Indian Trading post across the highway on the south side.
Exit 104 Methodist Rd
No services
Exit 101 US-281 Hinton/Anadarko
On the south side of I-40 is Sugar Creek Casino. I have not stayed at the Inn, but it looks nice and fairly new. There is also a Love’s travel stop with fast food options on site.
Exit 95 Bethel Rd
Nothing is available immediately on this exit.
Exit 88 OK-58 Hydro
There is nothing directly off the road. Hydro has a bit of history as an original Route 66 town. It is unfortunately quite a way off the interstate.
Exit 84 Airport Rd
New fuel station
Stafford
Exit 82 E Main St
This is a pretty good stop for food and fuel.
Exit 80 OK-54 Thomas
No immediate services
Exit 71 Custer City Rd
There is a Love’s at this exit, but it is very small and overcrowded.
Exit 69 I40 Loop Clinton
No services immediately available
Exit 66 Cordell
Not an easy off and on
Exit 65A Neptune Dr
Nice hotels
Exit 65 I40 Loop
Long stop
Exit 62 Parkersburg Rd
Nothing immediate
Exit 61 Haggard Rd
Nothing
Exit 57 Stafford Rd
Nothing
Exit 53 Foss/Altus
No services immediately available
Spaceport
Exit 50 Clinton Lake Rd
No immediate services
KOA Campground with a small convenience store.
Exit 47 Canute
No services available immediately off this exit
Exit 41 I40 Bus
Rt 66 museum
Love's
Exit 40 Elk City
Available not quickly
Walmart just off exit
Exit 38 OK-6 Elk City
Easy on and off for fuel and restrooms.
There are a couple of fast food options
Exit 34 Merritt Rd
There are no immediate services at this exit.
Exit 32 OK-34
There are no immediate services at this exit.
Exit 26 Cemetery Rd
There are a couple of truck stops off this exit, you are running out of options until you get to Amarillo.
Exit 25 N 4th St
Convenience store half mile north
Exit 23 OK-152
Keep going unless you just want to meditate in the middle of nowhere.
Exit 20 US-283 S 4th St
Very convenient on and off to a Flying J with a Denny’s inside.
Washita Battlefield Historic Site off this exit.
Exit 14 Hext Road
No services at this exit.
Exit 11 Erick
No services immediately available.
You can get on the old Route 66
Exit 7 Erick/Sweetwater
There is a Love's on the South side of the interstate. There is not a lot between here and Amarillo so make sure you are not low on fuel.
Exit 5 Honeyfarm Rd
No services at this stop, but you can pick up the original Route 66 from this exit.
If you turn left and go south
Exit 1 Texola
Nothing here to see. The Texas welcome sign is very close by. There is a turn out in front of it if you want to take a picture. You have to be ready because it comes pretty quick and is easy to miss.
Welcome to Texas Sign
There is a small turn out in front of the sign if you want to stop and take a picture. Be Cautious it is small and comes up quickly.
The New Route 66: Texas Edition
Exit 169 FM 1802
Nothing here at all
Exit 167 FM 2168 Daberry Rd
There is nothing modern at this exit.
Exit 164 I-40 Business Shamrock
This will take you into Shamrock Business district there are a couple of restaurants and a hotel, but this looks like a time killer.
Exit 163 US 83 Shamrock/Wheeler/Wellington
Stopping here requires some driving into town. Unless you are not going to make it to Amarillo I would keep on going.
Exit 157 FM1547/FM3075/Lela
Taxidermy services are the only thing worthwhile at this exit.
Exit 152 FM453 Pakan Rd
I can see for miles and miles from this exit without seeing any civilization.
Exit 148 FM1443/Kellerville Rd
No services at this exit
Exit 146 County Line Rd
No immediate service at this exit.
Exit 143 40 Business McLean
This will take you into downtown Mclean
Exit 142 TX 273
Nothing to get excited about here.
Exit 135 Alanreed
There is a service station in Alanreed, but it is way out of the way. This is a pass for me.
Exit 132 Johnson Ranch Rd
No services at this exit
Rest Area/Welcome Center
This is a nice place for restrooms and a free cup of coffee
Exit 128 FM 2877
Nothing of interest at this exit.
Exit 124 TX 70 S Clarendon
There are some nice wind turbines at this exit, but not much else.
Exit 121 TX 70 N Pampa
No services just wind turbines
Exit 114 40 Business Groom
This will take you into downtown Groom. I would hold out for Amarillo
Exit 113 FM 2300
There is a convenience store/truck stop that is pretty accessible for a quick on and off.
Exit 112 TX 295
No immediate services at this exit. Get used to this, it happens a lot in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
Exit 110 40 Business East
This will take you back into Groom
Exit 109 FM 294
Unless your in the market for a truck, keep on trucking.
Exit 105 FM 2880
No immediate services at this exit.
Exit 98 TX 207 S Claude
No Services at this exit
Exit 96 TX 207 Conway/Panhandle
There is a Love’s Truck Stop that is really easy to access off the highway and quickly get back on the interstate. It might be the quickest pit stop in the Texas panhandle. So if you're not stopping in Amarillo and just need fuel this might be your best option.
Exit 89 FM 2161
No services at this exit
Exit 87 FM2373
Nothing at this exit
Picnic Area
No Restrooms or picnic tables
Exit 85 40 Business Amarillo Blvd
There are no immediate services at this exit
Exit 81 FM 1912
There is a service station off this exit. It is pretty easy on and off.
Exit 80 Spur 228
No immediate services at this exit
Exit 77 FM 1258 Pullman Rd
There is a truck stop at this exit
Exit 76 Rick Husband Amarillo Intl Airport/Texas Travel Info Center
The airport and the travel center where you can grab a map, a free cup of coffee, or a flight out of Amarillo.
Exit 75 Loop 335 Lakeside St
There is a nice new looking Holiday Inn Express right off the interstate.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is 31 miles south of this exit. It is the second largest canyon in the United States.
There is also a Pilot Truck stop off this exit.
Exit 74 Whitaker Rd
You have been seeing the billboards since Missouri, the moment is here.
This is your exit for the Big Texan Steakhouse. I didn’t attempt the challenge, but we did have a pretty reasonably priced lunch on the way through one afternoon.
Exit 73 Eastern St/ Bolton St
All I spotted was a liquor store. There are better exits in Amarillo.
Exit 72B Grand St
There is lots of fast food and even a Walmart at this exit.
One of the top choices among restaurants in Amarillo is the Coyote Bluff Cafe at 2417 S Grand St.
Exit 72A Quarter Horse Dr/Nelson St
Fuel, hotels, and the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum at this exit.
Exit 71 Ross-Osage Dr/Arthur St
Exit for a Cracker Barrell and a couple of hotels.
Make sure you gas up in Amarillo. Gas is much more expensive in New Mexico and even more so in Arizona. I stay on full when I drive west because I know the price is going up the further I go.
Exit 70 Dumas/Pampa/Downtown
Anything off this exit is a long drive to services. I would pass on this unless you have business in downtown Amarillo.
Exit 69B Washington St/Amarillo College
This exit doesn’t offer a lot, just a few fast food options.
Exit 69A Crockett St
There are some pretty good restaurant and hotel options at this exit.
Exit 68B Georgia St
More food options here as The Lost Cajun (2425 I-40 Frontage Rd) is a very highly rated restaurant in Amarillo.
Exit 68A Julian Blvd/Paramount Blvd
More food and shopping options at this exit.
Tyler's BBQ is one of the highest rated restaurants in Amarillo located off this exit at 3301 Olson Rd.
Exit 67 Western St/Avondale St
There are plenty of food options at this exit.
Exit 66 Bell St/Wofflin Ave
There is not a lot directly off of this exit. If you are looking for Mexican food El Brocero Mexican Grill is highly rated it is located at 3303 Bell St in Amarillo.
Exit 65 Coulter St
More hotels and restaurants off this exit with the best rated one being the Hoffbrau Steak & Grill House located on the south side of the interstate at 7203 I-40 Frontage Rd
Exit 64 Soncy Rd
This exit takes you right to the Drury Inn which is my favorite place to stay in Amarillo. I like Drury Inn because they offer free drinks and food at a social hour in the hotel. We talked to a couple from Houston when we were there last month. I love the interaction with people from different places that you get at this event. It is an event as people mingle and eagerly await the opening of the buffet and drink bar. It is one of the best gimmicks I have ever seen at a hotel chain. I think it is a priceless perk.
Exit 63 Helium Rd
This is the last exit for Amarillo. You can easily access the Hilton Garden Inn, but will have to backtrack to other shopping and restaurants.
Exit 62A Hope Rd
This is the exit for the Cadillac Ranch. You will have to crossover to the I-40 East frontage road.
There are no Immediate services at this exit.
Exit 60 Arnot Rd
There is a Love’s Travel stop at this exit if you need to gas up. I would do it if you are not on a full tank. It is going to get expensive fast from this point forward. You really don’t want to be driving through New Mexico and Arizona with low fuel. The frequency of services is pretty scarce compared to the states that preceded.
Exit 57 FM2381 Bushland
There is a service station a bit north of the interstate. A restaurant called Joe’s Pizza and Pasta is on the south side of the exit.
Parking Area
No restrooms, just a pulloff to get off the interstate.
Exit 54 Adkisson Rd
No immediate services at this exit
Exit 49 FM809 Wildorado
There are no services at this exit.
Exit 42 Everett Rd
Nothing to stop for here.
Exit 37 40 Business Vega
This will take you into downtown Vega. There is a service station that is pretty accessible for getting on and back on the interstate..
Exit 36 US 385 Channing/Hereford
Take a right and go north into downtown Vega. There is a truck stop to the south and more than a couple of restaurants in town, but it doesn’t look like a quick stop.
Exit 35 40 Business East
This is your third and last chance to visit downtown Vega
Picnic Area
There are a couple of tables under shade in this turnoff.
Exit 28 Landergin
Other than what appears to be a truck graveyard there is nothing worth stopping for at this exit.
Exit 23 TX214
No immediate services at this exit.
Exit 22 40 Business West Adrian
This exit will take you into downtown Adrian. There is a service station, but it is pretty inconvenient if you are westbound.
The town appears to claim to be the midpoint of Route 66. It will take some research to verify this.
Exit 18 FM2858 Gruhlkey Rd
No immediate services at this exit
Picnic Area
Nice area with covered tables
Exit 0 40 Business West Glenrio
Welcome to New Mexico
The New Route 66: New Mexico Edition
Welcome to the Land of Enchantment! I love New Mexico. There is just something enchanting about the desert and mountains of this state.
You are in the Mountain Time Zone and just gained an hour. Set your clock back.
Rest Area
This is a nice rest stop with bathrooms and I am betting they also have free maps and coffee.
Exit 369 NM-93 S/NM-392 N/Endee
There is a gas station and a truck stop to the north of this exit.
Exit 361 Bard
There are no services at this exit.
Weigh Station/Port of Entry
Exit 356 NM-469 San Jon
A service station does exist in San Jon. There is not a lot here I would pass this for now.
I always have.
Exit 343
The sign confirms that there is nothing here.
Exit 339 NM-278
If you haven’t noticed you are really in the middle of nowhere. It gets better I promise.
Exit 335 I-40 Business W/ Historic Route 66
This takes you into the east end of Tucumcari where there are several budget hotels and a service station.
Exit 333 US-54/ Mountain Rd
There is a Love’s Travel Stop and a Flying J at this exit along with some fast food options. You can also go north into Tucumcari. The first and last time I stayed in Tucumcari I was pleasantly surprised that the little grocery store on the main drag had pretty good beer prices. I was expecting to get fleeced on a six pack, but ended up texting a pic of Guinness Draft to my dad showing him how cheap it was.
Exit 332 NM-209/1st St/ NM-104
There are a couple of hotels and some fast food at this exit. You can also go north to the original Route 66 and the main drag of Tucumcari.
Exit 331 Camino Del Coronado
The fairgrounds are at this exit, but nothing else of much interest.
Exit 329 I-40 Business E/Historic Route 66
This will take you into the west end of Tucumcari. There is nothing immediate at this exit, you will have to drive back into Tucumcari.
Exit 321 Palomas
There are no services at this exit, unless you own the ranch on the south side of the interstate.
Exit 311 Montoya
There are no services at this exit.
Rest Area
Nice modern restrooms. No maps or free coffee.
Exit 300 NM-129 Newkirk
A three street town with two gas stations. I would pass on this exit.
Exit 291 Cuervo
No immediate services at this exit.
Exit 277 US-84 Ft Sumner
This is the eastside of Santa Rosa which is a nice little town. There is a Love’s Travel Stop along with a couple of other truck stops. There are a couple of nice hotels as well.
Carlsbad Caverns Sign
The sign before the exit informs us that Carlsbad Caverns is only 235 miles south via US-54 then US-285.
This is a great trip if you want to wander off the mother road for a day or two. The caverns are not the Grand Canyon thrill, but it is not far off as unforgettable experiences go. Carlsbad itself is a great small town with a couple of other attractions. I am here to tell you that New Mexico has some small towns with great vibes. Roswell is another favorite if you ever get the chance. Back to our regular programming.
Exit 275 US-54 S/ Santa Rosa
There are some fast food options and service stations at this exit.
Besides the option to go to Carlsbad this exit features the Blue Hole. Which is a Cenote here in Santa Rosa. It is definitely worth the stop. It just keeps adding to all the reasons I always love driving through New Mexico.
Being a kid that grew up reading old west tales it gets even better when you start realizing that you are traversing areas that Billy the Kid haunted in his short life.
Exit 273 Santa Rosa
No immediate services at this exit. This will take you back into Santa Rosa, but it is a bit of a drive. If you wanted to visit Santa Rosa you should have exited earlier.
Exit 267 Colonias
There are a couple of service stations at this exit, but I would pass and hope you filled up on fuel previously.
Exit 263 San Ignacio
There are no services at this exit.
Exit 256 US-84 N/ Las Vegas
No services at this exit. This is not an exit for Sin City, this is for Las Vegas NM, that exit will come later in Arizona.
Rest Area
Nice rest stop with bathrooms.
Exit 243
There is a small service station at this exit. Absolutely nothing else.
Both of these exits have a sign that says exit 243. One of the strangest things I have ever seen, but since it is in the middle of nowhere it really doesn’t do any harm. No harm no foul.
Exit 243
You can backtrack to the gas station if you missed it, which is why they made this exit in my opinion.
Exit 239 County Road CO53
There is nothing at this exit except a lonely county road. Let’s keep it that way.
Exit 234
This exit features Bowlin’s Flying C Ranch which are really well run gift shops. So if you want to get out and walk around in the air conditioning this is not a bad stop. Bowlin boasts ten travel stops in New Mexico and Arizona. They are very clean and usually have an interesting theme such as the continental divide on both I-40 and I-10.
Exit 234
Same scenario as exits 243 and 243 nine miles back. This is just a chance to backtrack to Bowlin’s.
Exit 230 NM-3/Encino/Villanueva
Conserve power steering fluid and keep going straight on I-40. There is nothing remotely close to this exit.
Exit 226
There are no services at this exit and New Mexico officially clinches the award for most exit signs with no description as to what is there. Don’t get me wrong I love traveling New Mexico, but never really noticed this until I started scrutinizing every exit.
Parking Area
Just a car park with no bathrooms.
Exit 218 US-285/Vaughn/Santa Fe
There is a truck stop here at Clines Corners.
Exit 208 Wagon Wheel
No immediate services at this exit
Rattlesnake Draw Rest Area
A car park with a sign warning you to beware of snakes. There are bathrooms, but no free coffee or maps.
Exit 203
Truth in advertising there is nothing at this exit.
Exit 197 I-40 Business Moriarty
There is a little of everything at this exit. There are hotels, gas stations, and restaurants. There is a Blake’s Lot-A-Burger which is a New Mexico staple as you pass through town.
Exit 196 NM-41 Howard Cavasos Blvd/ Estancia/Santa Fe
This exit is more of Moriarty. You can access more restaurants and service stations at this exit.
Exit 194 I-40 Business Moriarty
This exit will take you back through Moriarty if you changed your mind about holding out for Albuquerque which is not far away.
Exit 187 NM-344 S/Edgewood
This is not a quick off and back on exit. There are gas stations and restaurants, but it will not be a fast stop. This exit has the Wildlife Nature Park & Zoo.
Exit 181 NM-217 Sedillo
There are no immediate services at this exit. You are starting to see the mountains that surround Albuquerque. This city is gorgeous with the mountains surrounding it.
Exit 178 Zuzax
There is a service station on the south side of the interstate. I would pass since there are much better options coming up.
Exit 175 NM-14/NM-333/NM-337/Tijeras/ Cedar Crest
No service close by at this exit.
Exit 170
Just like the sign there is nothing at this exit.
Exit 167 Central Ave/Tramway Blvd
Plenty of fuel and fast food options at this exit.
Exit 166 Juan Tabo Blvd
This is not the ideal exit. There are restaurants, but they will take a while to get to. More choices are available at other exits.
Exit 165 Eubank Blvd
There are restaurants and shopping off of this exit.
Exit 164 Wyoming Blvd
This is not the best exit, not much immediately available.
Exit 162 Louisiana Blvd
There are a fair amount of restaurants and other shops at this exit. There is a Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse at this exit if you feel like splurging today.
Exit 161 San Mateo Blvd
This exit will have some fast food available as well as other shopping options.
Exit 160 Carlisle Blvd
More fast food and shopping.
Exit 159D University Blvd/ 2nd-4th St
This is not a bad exit for restaurants and hotels.
Exit 159C I-25 North Santa Fe
This will take you to Santa Fe or North Albuquerque. There are nice hotel options if you go north here.
Exit 159B I-25 South Las Cruces
This goes towards the airport and downtown Albuquerque.
Exit 158 6th St/12th St
Gas Stations and restaurants are both available at this exit.
Exit 157A Rio Grande Blvd
Several gas stations and restaurants at this exit
Exit 155 NM-45 N Coors Blvd N/NM-45 S Coors Blvd S
There is a Walmart just north of this exit. Coors Blvd has a lot of nice shopping and restaurant options.
There are several nice hotels on this exit. It would be my choice to stay as the area is pretty nice.
Exit 154 Unser Blvd
This is really not a good exit to take as all the fast food is not immediately off the interstate. It is primarily a residential area.
Exit 153 98th St/Arroyo Vista Blvd
Most of the services are well off the interstate at this exit. If you do take it go south to Central Ave as there are quite a few options there.
Exit 149 NM-500 Atrisco Vista Blvd
If you're looking for a Love’s Travel stop there is one at this exit. It is otherwise primarily an industrial exit.
Exit 140 Rio Puerco
There is a 66 Pit Stop that is the home of the Laguna Burger. It has pretty good reviews and there is a casino across the street.
Exit 131 Tohajiilee
The name is much more interesting than the exit as there is nothing for miles off this exit.
Tohajiilee is a faction of the Navajo Indian tribe that was viewed as a renegade segment of the regular Navajo tribe.
Exit 126 NM-6 Los Lunas 60
There are no services at this exit. Los Lunas is a long way off this exit.
Exit 117 Mesita
There are no services off of this exit.
Exit 114 NM-124 Laguna
Limited services available at this exit.
Parking Area
I think scenic outlook is the better description for this offramp. No bathrooms, maps, or coffee at this rest area.
Exit 108 Casa Blanca/Paraje
There is a truck stop on the south side of this exit.
Exit 104 Cubero/Budville/Seama
No immediate services at this exit.
Exit 102 Acomita/Acoma/Sky City
Sky City Casino Hotel, fast food, and fuel at this exit.
Exit 100 San Fidel
There is not much at this exit.
Exit 96 McCartys/Acoma/ Sky City
No immediate services at this exit.
Exit 89 Quemado
There is a truck stop at this exit.
Exit 85 I-40 Business/NM-122/NM-547/Grants/Mt Taylor
There is a very convenient Walmart off of this exit to the north. There are a couple of hotels and some restaurants.
Exit 81 I-40 Business/NM-53/NM-122/Grants/San Rafael
There are some restaurants at this exit, but they are a bit off the beaten path.
Exit 79 I-40 Business/NM-122/NM-605/Milan/San Mateo
A Love’s Travel stop is off of this exit along with a grocery store.
Exit 72 Bluewater Village
There is a service station with a convenience store off of this exit, but not much else.
Exit 63 NM-412 Prewitt
This exit is a pass for me with no services immediately available.
Exit 53 NM-612/NM-371/Thoreau
There is a Market Deli right off the exit. Everything else is far off the beaten path.
Exit 47 Continental Divide
There is a service station at this exit.
Exit 44 Coolidge
Nothing to see here.
Exit 39 Refinery
There is a Flying J Truck stop and a Denny’s at this exit.
Exit 36 NM-618/Iyanbito
There are no services at this exit. It is an easy way on to Old Route 66 that you can take into Gallup.
Exit 33 NM-400 S/ McGaffey
There is a Fort Wingate historical marker on the south side of the interstate. Nothing else of interest at this exit.
Exit 26 I-40 Business E. Gallup
This exit puts you on the old Route 66 through Gallup, lots of hotels and restaurants.
Exit 22 Miyamura Dr/Montoya Blvd
There are lots more restaurants off this exit in Gallup. We ate at the Sizzlin off this exit last time through and I was pleasantly surprised how much you got at the salad bar at lunch.
Exit 20 Munoz Blvd
Lots of restaurants and hotels at this exit.
Exit 16 I-40 Business/NM-118/W Gallup
A couple of restaurants and hotels, but mainly the last of Gallup.
Exit 8 Defiance/Manuelito
There are no immediate services at this exit. Next stop is Arizona!
Welcome to Arizona!
The New Route 66: Arizona Edition
Welcome to Arizona! Spoiler alert, I have only finished the guide to the extent of getting to Grand Canyon
Exit 359 Grants Rd
Before you even get to the Welcome to Arizona sign this exit pops up just across the border.
There is a truck stop that you can back track to on the north side of the interstate. There are also several gift shops that are scattered on the exit.
Exit 357 AZ-12 N Window Rock
There is very little available at this exit.
Exit 354 Hawthorne Road
This exit is a pass for me.
Exit 351 Allentown Rd
There are a couple of gift shops at this exit. This was not enough to get me off the interstate.
Exit 348 Houck
A ghost tourist trap called Fort Courage is all that this exit features.
Exit 346 Pine Springs Rd
According to the sign right before the exit you are at 6000 ft elevation. That is the most interesting thing about this exit. There is nothing to see here.
Exit 343 Querino Rd
There is nothing nearby at this exit.
Exit 341 Ortega Road
There is an Indian Center on the north side of the exit that does have fuel.
Weigh Station/ Arizona Port of Entry
Exit 339 US-191 S/ St Johns
There is a gas station south of the exit. There is one restaurant. I would pass unless you're running low on fuel.
Exit 333 US-191 N/ Ganado
There is a gas station and hotel at this exit. Both have seen better days.
Exit 330 Mc Carrell Rd
There is nothing at this exit.
Exit 325 Navajo
On the eastbound side of the highway is the Navajo Travel Center. A convenience store with fuel and a sandwich shop. Honestly, the food options are better at the Petrified Forest. I will explain that later.
Exit 320 Pinta Rd
This exit is void of services.
Exit 311 Petrified Forest National Park
The Petrified Forest National Park is worth stopping even if you don’t feel you have a lot of time. Even the park visitors center is chock full of interesting facts and posters. There is also a park ranger on hand to answer questions. The one we talked to was very knowledgeable.
There is also a restaurant that shares a space with the gift shop across from the visitors center. It featured hamburgers and philly cheese steak sandwiches with fries. It was pretty moderately price which was nice for a touristy area.
Plenty of nice clean bathrooms as well. A full fledged desert oasis.
This observation was made in May of 2024.
Exit 303 Adamana Rd
There are a couple of souvenir shops and a giant statue of Kachina at this exit.
Exit 300 Goodwater
Arizona must get a really good deal on building exits. This one has nothing at all as well.
Exit 294 Sun Valley Rd
There are souvenir shops directly off the interstate, but everything else is way off the beaten path.
Exit 292 AZ-77 N Keams Canyon
No immediate services off this exit.
Exit 289 I-40 Business Navajo Blvd
This exit has the best restaurants in Holbrook. There is a fairly new LaQuinta Inn at this exit. If I were going to spend a day at the Petrified Forest this would be the exit.
Exit 286 I-40 Business/AZ-77 S/ US-180 E/AZ-377 S/Show Low/Heber
More of Holbrook at this exit. You can exit more restaurants and the ones that you missed at the last exit.
Exit 285 I-40 Business Hopl Dr
At this point you missed most of the commercial part of Holbrook. You can backtrack and redeem yourself.
Exit 283 Golf Course Rd
There is a golf course on this road. Hidden Cove Golf Course, I bet it is a hidden cove because there is no water in the middle of the desert. I have seen Arizona rivers and they are bone dry.
I digress; on a more useful note, there is a truck stop at this exit if you don’t have your golf clubs and need fuel.
Exit 280 Hunt Rd/Geronimo Rd
There are no immediate services at this exit.
Exit 277 I-40 Business Joseph City
There is a Love’s Travel Center at this exit. Esther’s Diner appears to be the real deal here in the middle of nowhere.
Exit 274 Joseph City
You can backtrack to Joseph City here, but there is not much immediately at this exit.
Exit 269 Jackrabbit Rd
Jackrabbit Trading post exists at this exit, but I am not stopping.
Exit 264 Hibbard Rd
Nothing to see here.
Exit 257 AZ-87 N/ 2nd Mesa
Nothing to get excited about at this exit.
Exit 255 I-40 Business Transcon Ln
East end of Winslow with a Best Western and a truck stop.
If you want to see the Standin’ on a Corner Park exit here and find your way to the old Route 66.
RelicRoad Brewing Company is a favorite if you are visiting the park.
Exit 253 N Park Dr
There is more of Winslow to see at this exit. There is a Walmart just north of this exit along with hotels and restaurants.
Captain Tony’s Pizza looks to be a promising stop for lunch, it is near Walmart.
Exit 252 I-40 Business/Hipkoe Dr
There are a couple of hotels at this exit, but you have pretty much gone by Winslow at this point.
Exit 245 AZ-99 North Leupp
There are no services at this exit.
Exit 239 Meteor City Rd
There are no services at this exit.
Rest Area
This is the Meteor Crater Rest Area.
Exit 233 Meteor Crater Rd
Meteor Crater & Barringer Space Museum is a little under six miles south of this exit.
Exit 230 2 Guns
There is not much in the way of services, but there are more than a few tourist attractions at the 2 guns exit.
Exit 225 Buffalo Range Rd
There are no services at this exit.
Exit 219 Twin Arrows
There is a Navajo Blue Travel plaza to the north of this exit.
Exit 211 Winona
There is a gas station and Winona Trading post. This is a pass for me since Flagstaff is not far off.
Exit 207 Cosnino Rd
Nothing at this exit unless you need a deer processed.
Exit 204 US 66 Historic
This is a great exit to take onto the old Route 66 into Flagstaff. It really puts you on the main drag, just don’t miss the turn for the Grand Canyon.
Walnut Canyon National Monument is also advertised as being at this exit.
Exit 201 I-40 Business W Country Club Dr/US-180 W/US-89 N Grand Canyon
Go North to get on old Route 66 into downtown Flagstaff.
South of the exit has some nicer hotels.
Restaurants are abundant at this exit.
Exit 198 Butler Ave
Butler Avenue takes you directly to the south side of Flagstaff which has a lot of shopping, restaurants and hotels.
Northern Pines restaurant is just off of this exit and it is really good. We ate there last month when we were in Flagstaff. I will warn you that prices are inflated in Flagstaff. Our server informed us that Flagstaff passed an $18/hr minimum wage. I had a French dip and Marcy had a Reuben and it was over $40 with tip. It was great, but a bit overpriced by my standards. Expect high prices in Flagstaff above the usual touristy area prices.
To go to the Grand Canyon take this exit and get on Old Route 66
In about half a mile turn on N Switzer Canyon Dr
Turn Right onto AZ-64 this will take you to the Grand Canyon National Park
I am almost embarrassed to say that I did not visit the Grand Canyon until May 2024 when I was 56 years old. I think that everyone that lives in the US should visit the Grand Canyon. Your brain will not believe what your eyes are showing it. A picture is like a piece of a jigsaw puzzle. It does not do justice to the grandeur of this site.
Coming soon the rest of the exits to California
The New Route 66: Overview
This exit-by-exit guide of the The New Route 66 is intended to be used as a reference for places to stop and more importantly not to stop. As a professional driver that tries to make the best time possible, I will always opt for the exits that are quick off and back on the highway. I also will mention exits that are less than desirable from a safety standpoint when I have information. This means I will discourage you from taking exits that are in a bad part of town.
Things change fast on the highways mainly with construction, but sometimes accidents can cause temporary road closures. We will try to relay these but cannot guarantee that all is well on the road you are traveling.
This is a constant work in progress to give the best and most up to date information available.
On restaurants that I recommend: I have not made a dime on advertising from this project. I recommend places that I have truly enjoyed eating at. I have been in the restaurant business for over 40 years and consider myself a pretty good judge of who has their ducks in a row. I also will rarely recommend chains unless it is a last resort for a given location. I believe part of traveling is eating what the locals eat. The local independent restaurant owner is the heart of America in my opinion. This can be a gray area as some local chains are successful because they are just plain good places to eat. That is a little different than Red Lobster and Taco Bell as they still provide a unique local experience.