Highlights of Route 66 and Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

17 days
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Group Tour
Get your kicks on Route 66 with a legendary trip across America. This historic route was called the “Main Street of America” for more than 50 years before the advent of the US Interstate system. On this trip down memory lane, you’ll visit the major cities along Route 66, see many of the Route 66 museums, and step back in time to when the journey was part of t...
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Overview

Trip type
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy

What's this trip about?

    Get your kicks on Route 66 with a legendary trip across America. This historic route was called the “Main Street of America” for more than 50 years before the advent of the US Interstate system. On this trip down memory lane, you’ll visit the major cities along Route 66, see many of the Route 66 museums, and step back in time to when the journey was part of the fun. And you’ll be just in time to experience the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, an annual event where hundreds of vibrantly colored hot-air balloons take to the sky! This trip begins in the “Windy City” of Chicago, travels through eight states, and ends in Los Angeles. Travel to St. Louis where you’ll witness amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River from the top of the 630-foot-tall Gateway Arch. Visit Branson, Missouri – one of America’s most popular entertainment destinations and opt for dinner and a show. Visit the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City to view antique cars and historic documents that help you feel what it was like to travel Route 66. In Albuquerque, watch the colorful spectacle of hundreds of balloons rising into the sky at the early morning Balloon Glow and the Mass Ascension at the International Balloon Fiesta. Spend a day in beautiful Santa Fe, a city known for its art and culture and the home to the oldest and highest capitol in the United States. Deviate from Route 66 to see breathtaking scenery at one of the Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon and then experience the excitement of Las Vegas where you can explore the Vegas Strip, take an optional raft trip on the Colorado River, or just relax by the pool. In Los Angeles, you’ll enjoy a tour of Hollywood, the Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica, the ending point of Route 66. Discover vintage Americana, wide open spaces, and national treasures on this Route 66 tour designed for value-minded travel lovers.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityCHICAGO
End CityLOS ANGELES

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus
  • Cultural

Destinations

Activities

  • Culture

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1: CHICAGO

Welcome to Chicago, the start of Route 66! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon with answers, tips, and suggestions.

Day 2: CHICAGO

Known as the “Windy City,” Chicago is home to one of America’s tallest buildings, larger-than-life local legends like Al Capone and his notorious gang, along with countless jazz and blues clubs. Get to know this exciting city on a morning sightseeing tour that includ...

Day 3: CHICAGO–PONTIAC–SPRINGFIELD

This morning, immerse yourself in Route 66 memorabilia. Visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, housed in a historic fire station. See the large maps that will sketch out your Route 66 adventure for the coming days and enjoy the nostalgic photos and p...

Day 4: SPRINGFIELD–ST. LOUIS

Cross the mighty Mississippi River and continue to St. Louis, “Gateway to the West.” Your orientation tour includes the towering Gateway Arch National Park. Ascend to the top of the 630-foot-tall arch for a panoramic view of the city and river. Then drive along an original stretch of Route 66 and get the chance to savor some of Ted Drewes Frozen Custard.

Day 5: ST. LOUIS–BRANSON

Today, we travel through the Missouri countryside, then on to Branson, known as The Live Music Capital of the World. You’ll have free time to explore the historic downtown, situated along Lake Taneycomo. No visit to Branson is complete without seeing a live performance, so join your Tour Director on tonight’s optional dinner followed by a music-filled show. (Breakfast)

Day 6: BRANSON–TULSA–OKLAHOMA CITY

This morning, leave the Ozarks and continue through America’s “Bible Belt” into Cowboy Country. After a quick drive through Kansas, enter Oklahoma, once known as Indian Territory and home to the Cherokee Nation. In Tulsa, see the “East Meets West” sculpture that pays tribute to Cyrus Avery, “The Father of Route 66.” Later today, arrive in Oklahoma City. (Breakfast)

Day 7: OKLAHOMA CITY–ELK CITY–AMARILLO

Start the day with a city sightseeing tour of Oklahoma City, the capital and largest city in Oklahoma. From here, travel to Elk City and visit the National Route 66 Museum and take a journey through each of the eight states Route 66 passes through. Continue into the Texas Panhandle and on to Amarillo, the Yellow Rose of Texas. (Breakfast)

Day 8: AMARILLO–TUCUMCARI–ALBUQUERQUE

On the way out of Amarillo, you’ll stop at Cadillac Ranch, the quirky art sculpture consisting of a collection of 10 Cadillacs. Before crossing into New Mexico, reach Adrian, the halfway point on Route 66. Across the New Mexico border, visit Russell’s Car Museum, feat...

Day 9: ALBUQUERQUE–INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FESTIVAL

This morning, enjoy an unforgettable experience at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta’s Mass Ascension, where hundreds of colorful hot-air balloons fill the morning sky. Enjoy time walking down Main Street where you’ll find food vendors, merchandise, and ent...

Day 10: ALBUQUERQUE. EXCURSION TO SANTA FE

Travel through the foothills of the Sandia Mountains to enjoy the day in Santa Fe. Take an orientation tour with highlights including the Palace of the Governors and the State Capitol. Visit historic Loretto Chapel and learn about its mysterious “Miracle Stairway.” Return to Albuquerque via the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway with a stop in the eclectic artist community of Madrid.

Day 11: ALBUQUERQUE–GALLUP–WINSLOW–WILLIAMS

Depart Albuquerque and cross the Continental Divide continuing to Gallup, sometimes called the “Indian Capital of the World.” It is the homeland of Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and many other tribes who comprise a large percentage of the population. Then we’ll be “standing on ...

Day 12: WILLIAMS. EXCURSION TO GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Deviate from Route 66 to see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Grand Canyon National Park. Wander along the canyon rim for breathtaking views and wildlife, including the chance to spot Elk grazing in the forested areas on the South Rim. Consider an option...

Day 13: WILLIAMS–SELIGMAN–LAS VEGAS

Depart Williams for Seligman, home to the rebirth of Route 66. Detour once again from Route 66 to visit the bright lights of Las Vegas. An orientation tour upon arrival shows off many of the themed casino resorts along the glittering “Strip.” This evening, consider an...

Day 14: LAS VEGAS

A day at leisure to relax by the pool or explore the legendary Las Vegas Strip. Maybe ride the world’s highest rollercoaster, float through a Venetian canal, or test your luck at one of the many world-famous casinos—it’s all possible in Las Vegas! Don’t miss downtown ...

Day 15: LAS VEGAS–VICTORVILLE–LOS ANGELES

Today, depart the man-made oasis of Las Vegas, and cross the natural beauty of the Mojave Desert and the San Bernardino Mountains en route to Los Angeles. Visit the California Route 66 Museum, featuring a 50’s diner, VW Love Bus, and the 1917 Model T Ford exhibits. Overnight in Los Angeles, where you’ll visit Santa Monica, the ending point of Route 66.

Day 16: LOS ANGELES

Explore the exciting “City of Angels” on a morning tour of legendary Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, and Hollywood, where you’ll walk along the stars on Hollywood Boulevard, and get a photo of the iconic Hollywood sign. Your afternoon is free to consider an optional Warner Brothers Studio tour, shop for souvenirs, or relax by the pool.

Day 17: LOS ANGELES

Your vacation ends this morning. Consider extending your vacation with extra nights and explore Los Angeles further.

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Dates & Availability

Price From $4,099
Price per day$241
Last Updated: 8/3/2024
Departure Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Availability
03 Oct 2025
19 Oct 2025
$4,509

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The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

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Since inventing the budget vacation over 50 years ago, Cosmos has offered savvy, value-minded travelers the most affordable travel packages to the world's most captivating places - from the City of Brotherly Love to the City of Light…from the Great White North to northern Africa…from tropical Hawaii to sub-tropical Lugano, Switzerland…from the rainforests of Brazil to the Lost "City of the Incas." Our incredible value helps travel buffs travel more often.

We understand that you want to get out and experience the world. And that you'd rather spend another day in London than have a chocolate on your pillow. That's why Cosmos vacation packages include comfortable, clean, and attractive pre-selected hotels; guided city sightseeing; a dynamic assortment of transportation…to make getting there half the fun; and many meals. Our clout with suppliers is concentrated…and we pass the savings on to you.

With Cosmos, you'll enjoy the benefits, security, and convenience of escorted travel, an expert Tour Director, a greater choice of activities and excursions, and longer stays in key cities so that you can truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

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Logistics

Accommodation

Hotel Saint Clair

Wyndham Springfield City Centre

Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Convention Center

Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills

Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel

Country Inn & Suites Amarillo West

Holiday Inn Express Albuquerque Midtown

La Quinta Inn and Suites-Grand Canyon Area

Sahara Las Vegas

Westin Bonaventure

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We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
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Age Requirements
6 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
COSMOS-8540

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