Route 66 is marking a historic milestone: its 100th anniversary. To celebrate this iconic highway’s centennial, there are many ways for travelers to take part in the festivities, especially through a scenic road trip along this storied route.
One of these festivities includes riding along the highway in a vintage car to add a retro flair to your road trip. Remarkably, you can secure this unforgettable journey for just $1.
The travel package, aptly named the Ultimate Route 66 Road Trip, will be offered through Booking.com—the official travel partner commemorating the Route 66 Centennial. Starting at noon Eastern Time on May 20, the package will feature three unique trips, available on a first-come, first-served basis, all scheduled for June 25 to 28.
Travelers can choose among three movie-inspired cars: a 1966 Ford Thunderbird for a duo like “Thelma and Louise,” a sunshine-yellow 1960s VW Bus from “Little Miss Sunshine,” and a 1981 DeLorean straight out of “Back to the Future.”
Route 66 is offering the ultimate $1 vintage car experience
Each car is linked to a specific three-night itinerary along Route 66, from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, New Mexico, covering approximately 57 miles. Booking.com will also offer participants $10,000 in credits to cover road trip expenses, along with a professional photoshoot.
Booking.com has partnered with the car rental company DriveShare to create curated itineraries that vary by chosen vehicle. Below are some highlights for each itinerary:
- Two Women & a ’66 Thunderbird (1966 Ford Thunderbird): This itinerary celebrates female friendship as a best friend duo drives through Albuquerque’s bohemian Nob Hill district, stopping at the charming Sugar Nymphs Bistro for milkshakes. They will then head to Santa Fe, stopping in Madrid, a former coal-mining town that is now an artists’ village. Book here.
- Big Dreams, Small Yellow Van (1960s VW Bus): Designed for families, this road trip itinerary fosters connection among family members. It begins with a stay at the Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn before embarking on a city tour or a ghost tour of the old town. In Santa Fe, participants will take a scenic detour on the Turquoise Trail and stay at the Monterey Motel. Book here.
- Stainless Steel, Neon Horizons (1981 DeLorean): This trip combines elements of the old and the new, starting with an ABQ Trolley Co. City Tour that showcases 1980s landmarks and vintage signs. The photoshoot will take place in front of iconic neon signs on Central Avenue, followed by a milkshake stop at the classic 66 Diner. In Santa Fe, travelers will stay at the retro El Vado Motel. Book here.
