If you’re like most people, you’ve probably had some plans derailed in the last year and half due to the lockdowns and other restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. One of those plans may have included a much-anticipated Route 66 road trip. Now that things are opening back up again (hopefully for good!), we hope that you are able revisit those plans to travel The Mother Road soon! If you are, here are some things you need to know about traveling Route 66 post COVID.
First, and most importantly, the establishments along Route 66 are anxious to welcome back the tourists on whom they depend. The tourism industry as a whole had a rough time during the pandemic and Route 66 was no different. If you are able to plan your trip in the near future, early Fall is the perfect time of year for a Route 66 road trip, especially if you will be doing it on a motorcycle. For the most part, restaurants, hotels, shops, museums, and historic landmarks are open at full capacity.
In normal times, we might suggest being a bit flexible with your travel plans and allowing yourself time to linger when you find an area in which you want to spend a little more time or to hunker down when the weather isn’t cooperating. But as we all know, times are not “normal.” It’s important to make reservations this year. Many people who put off their trips are as anxious as you are to get back to traveling, so rental cars and hotel reservations can be hard to come by in certain areas. If you expect to find a great last-minute hotel or just pop into the rental car office at the airport and pick up a car, you could be disappointed, or you could find yourself in a bit of a bind when there is nothing available at all. At the very least, make reservations at places with good cancellation policies, should you decide to change your plans on the fly.
Regardless of when you decide to take your trip, we recommend purchasing a helpful Route 66 travel guide. A comprehensive guide will make sure you don’t miss any of the treasures along the byway. It also gives recommendations for places to stay and eat that you are sure to love. For many, a road trip along Route 66 is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Get the most out of it by utilizing a guide written by experts who have traveled it many times. It’s almost like having your own personal tour guide riding shotgun!
