California, the Ultimate Road Trip Playground, Promotes 100 Years of the Iconic Route 66 With Exceptional Stays and Memorable Stopovers for GCC & MENA Road-Trippers
As Route 66 approaches its centennial, GCC and MENA travelers are invited to embark on an unforgettable Californian road trip—combining family and group adventures with luxury stays, cultural festivities and timeless Americana experiences.
California’s stretch of the legendary Route 66 is more than just a highway—it’s a journey through classic Americana, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless charm. For GCC and MENA travelers who love the thrill of road trips, scenic drives and the freedom of the open road, Visit California has curated a list of standout hotel offers that make this once in a century celebration the ultimate bucket list road trip for 2025/2026.
Additionally, a plethora of celebrations will begin as early as September 2025, including classic car festivals, cultural events, and nostalgic parades across Californian towns like Ontario, Barstow, and San Bernardino. For GCC and MENA travelers, this means there has never been a better time to plan a California road trip—combining stylish stays with once-in-a-century festivities that honor Route 66’s legendary place in history.
To celebrate Route 66 musically, the city of Santa Monica, the western end of the highway, is inviting musical types to add another song to the Route 66 lore through a song contest. All from the Middle East are invited to enter the 2026 Route 66 Centennial and Song Contest by filling out the interest form. Dates are still in the works, but the grand prize will be $10,000.
Year round, Route 66 road trippers can always take a pic by the “End of the Trail” sign at the legendary Santa Monica Pier, or by the Route 66 plaque in Palisades Park next to Santa Monica Travel & Tourism’s Visitor Information Kiosk. While you’re there, pick up a special Certificate of Completion from the Visitor Information Center.
From desert luxury retreats to retro mountain escapes and coastal icons, these standout stays along California’s section of the legendary Route 66 promise comfort, character, and classic Americana at every stop.
Joshua Tree: High Desert Luxury at RESET Hotel
Just minutes from Joshua Tree National Park and a short detour from Route 66, RESET Hotel offers 65 minimalist-modern rooms, solo fire pits, panoramic views and private patios—some with soaking tubs—it’s designed for stillness and space. The property also features a saltwater pool, hot tub and soon-to-launch creative residencies. Ideal for travelers seeking calm and luxury in the high desert.
Palm Springs: Desert Nostalgia at Casa Cody
Tucked just off Route 66, Casa Cody is Palm Springs’ oldest hotel, offering Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and tranquil desert luxury. Founded in the 1920s by Buffalo Bill’s cousin, it features citrus groves, soaking tubs and vine-shaded terraces across 1.5 serene acres. Guests can enjoy stargazing patios, two pools and a stylish social lounge, all just steps from downtown Palm Springs.
Retro Mountain Escape at Big Bear Lake’s Marina Riviera
For those detouring off the highway, Big Bear’s Hotel Marina Riviera, nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, offers a lakeside escape with classic Americana appeal. Originally built in 1968, it has been restored by Casetta Hotels to preserve its mid-century, Viking-inspired design. Guests can enjoy lake views, fireside mocktails, a barrel sauna and wood-fired pizza from De La Nonna Big Bear, an outpost of Los Angeles’ cult-favorite pizzeria, serving wood-fired pies, crafted drinks and sunset terrace vibes.
Pasadena: Historic and Modern Stays on Route 66
The new AC Hotel Pasadena features 194 rooms with contemporary design, rooftop beverages and communal lounges in the vibrant Pasadena Playhouse Village district. Nearby, the restored Pasadena Hotel & Pool channels 1920s charm with vintage décor and a rooftop pool. Both are near attractions such as the Rose Bowl, Norton Simon Museum and The Huntington, and offer prime views of the famous Rose Parade route.
Hotel Lucile: A Restored 1931 Historic Church Bringing Retro-Cool Designs to Silver Lake
The new Hotel Lucile transforms a 1931 church into a design-forward boutique experience. With stained-glass windows, rooftop beverages and atmospheric dining in a historic setting, it’s a standout for travelers seeking style, art and architecture.
Retro-Cool Stay in West Hollywood’s Rainbow District
Located on historic Route 66, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham West Hollywood offers a retro-modern stay in the heart of WeHo’s vibrant Rainbow District. This stylish stop blends classic Americana with contemporary comfort, featuring palm trees, neon signs and easy access to iconic nightlife and vintage boutiques. The hotel’s mid-century inspired design pairs with updated rooms, a cozy on-site coffee shop and exotic convertible rentals.
Torrance: A Retro Route 66 Detour
Just south of Santa Monica, Torrance makes for a worthy Route 66 detour with its beachy, retro charm. Comfortable hotels like Sonesta ES Suites, DoubleTree by Hilton and Torrance Marriott offer welcoming stays minutes from the coast. Grab coffee at the retro-inspired Clutch & Coffee with vintage cars and visit the Honda Museum to explore American auto history.
Santa Monica: Route 66’s Iconic End Point
As the western terminus of Route 66, Santa Monica offers a blend of coastal luxury and historic charm for road trippers. Stay at legendary landmarks like The Georgian Hotel, a 1933 Art Deco icon, or the classic Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, open since 1921. More modern and budget-friendly options include the Gateway Hotel and The Pierside Hotel, located near the iconic “End of the Trail” Route 66 sign at Santa Monica Pier.
