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It’s official: The United States is entering a road travel renaissance. According to a recent study, 71% of Americans plan to drive on their next vacation, and nearly two-thirds say they won’t go more than five hours without stopping at a hotel.
To celebrate the return of the road trip and, coincidentally, the 100th anniversary of Route 66, we’ve broken down five major stops from Chicago — just steps from the highway’s official Adams Street start sign — to Santa Monica, the western terminus of Route 66. And since all of the hotels listed are Hilton hotels, guests can collect points — and perks — at each stop through the free-to-join honors program (more on that below). New members can join now to earn 3,000 bonus points on their first three stays.
American Road Trip: Best Hotels on Route 66
Chicago, IL: Hilton Chicago
Start (or end) your road trip at the Hilton Chicago, steps from the official starting point of Historic Route 66. The 1,544-room hotel is located in the Windy City’s most exclusive location, with sweeping views of Grant Park, Lake Michigan and the museum campus.
When we think of this property, its rich history immediately comes to mind. In fact, the building was constructed in 1927, just one year after Route 66 was built. Since the Hilton Chicago (originally the Stevens Hotel) first opened its doors as the largest hotel in the world, this landmark has been meticulously redesigned and restored to maintain its early 20th-century identity, while also offering bright, modern rooms, exceptional dining options, and a full menu of amenities.
Visit the Hilton Chicago website for current rates, offers and complete amenities details.
Tulsa, Oklahoma: Tulsa Club Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
In keeping with the theme of a storied hotel, the 96-room Hilton is located downtown in the ultra-sleek Tulsa Club Building, an Art Deco landmark built in 1927. Redesigned as a boutique hotel in 2019, the Tulsa Club Hotel retains its old-school charm and Art Deco identity with a charming design and a speakeasy-style lounge. Amenities include a fitness center, on-site restaurant, room service, and meeting rooms.
Visit the hotel’s website for current rates, offers and full amenities details.
Santa Fe, New Mexico: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Hilton Santa Fe Oasis is even more historic now, set on a 350-year-old farm. Reflecting all the charm of New Mexico’s capital, the hotel features traditional Southwestern details throughout, from the outdoor kiva fireplace to the warm wood beams and richly patterned rugs. It’s a nice contrast to the Tulsa Club Hotel.
Visit the Hilton Santa Fe website for current rates, offers and complete amenities details.
Flagstaff, AZ: DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff
DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff is located directly on Old Route 66, just 10 miles from Arizona Snowball and 1.5 hours from Grand Canyon National Park. The hotel offers a 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor pool area for the warmer months, an indoor whirlpool and whirlpool for year-round use, and seasonally inspired dining options – from Southwestern cuisine to American favorites. As always, Hilton luxury beds are expected to be special.
Visit the hotel’s website for current rates, offers and full amenities details.
Santa Monica, CA: Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
You can enjoy it at home with the Hilton Santa Monica, located just three blocks from the ocean and the world-famous Santa Monica Pier. The full-service hotel embraces the city’s fresh vibe, with its bright, beachy décor, outdoor cabanas, farm-to-table dining, and signature craft cocktails. The rooms are spacious and inviting, with fresh white linens, light wood accents, and exquisite California-style furniture and accessories.
Visit the Hilton Santa Monica website for current rates, offers and complete amenities details.
Finally, to make the most of your stay (and future stays), Hilton’s complimentary Honors Entry program is a no-brainer. As a tiered membership model, perks range from digital keys, free Wi-Fi, and late check-out to room upgrades, food and beverage credits, discounted rates, and free nights — the more you stay, the more you earn. (Join now to earn 3,000 bonus points on your first three stays.) Regardless of membership status, customers can count on outstanding Hilton service at every stop. Nightly rates vary depending on the season and room type; Visit Hilton.com for the latest.
Related to: Hilton is filling the hotel gap in Los Angeles’ Stadium District with a new boutique property just steps from SoFi
