Tag: Route 66

The Ultimate Road Trip Guide: Your 13-Day Adventure on Route 66 2023

On By Sangamon DockIn Sangamon Illinois, Sangamon Watch Ambassador Program

Embarking on a quintessential American road trip along the historic Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica is a dream for many travelers. Before setting off on this 13-day adventure, be sure to purchase your Mother Road Route 66 Passport 2023 Edition online from SangamonWatches.com. This passport will not only serve as a unique keepsake, but also guide you to all the key tourist attractions along the way. With your Route 66 Passport in hand, you’ll be ready to explore the Mother Road’s hidden gems, vintage diners, and breathtaking landscapes, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Don’t forget that Route 66 is dotted with countless smaller attractions, adding charm and character to your road trip. Be sure to consult a map before hitting the road, so you don’t miss out on these hidden gems that make the Mother Road an unforgettable experience.

Photo by Athena on Pexels.com

Day 1: Chicago, IL to Springfield, IL (202 miles)

  • Start at the Route 66 Begin Sign, Chicago
  • Visit the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) Skydeck
  • Visit the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac 
  • Overnight in Springfield, IL and Visit Sangamon Watches shop for a Rt 66 Passport

Day 2: Springfield, IL to St. Louis, MO (98 miles)

  • Visit Lincoln’s Home and Tomb in Springfield
  • Drive to St. Louis, MO
  • Explore the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
  • Visit the Gateway Arch
  • Overnight in St. Louis, MO

Day 3: St. Louis, MO to Springfield, MO (215 miles)

  • Drive to Meramec Caverns in Stanton, MO
  • Drive to Springfield, MO
  • Visit the Route 66 Car Museum
  • Overnight in Springfield, MO

Day 4: Springfield, MO to Tulsa, OK (185 miles)

  • Drive to Joplin, MO
  • Stop at the Rainbow Arch Bridge in Riverton, KS
  • Drive to Tulsa, OK
  • Visit the Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza
  • Overnight in Tulsa, OK

Day 5: Tulsa, OK to Oklahoma City, OK (107 miles)

  • Drive to Oklahoma City, OK
  • Visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton
  • Overnight in Oklahoma City, OK

Day 6: Oklahoma City, OK to Amarillo, TX (259 miles)

  • Drive to Amarillo, TX
  • Stop at the Sandhills Curiosity Shop in Erick, OK
  • Visit the Cadillac Ranch
  • Overnight in Amarillo, TX

Day 7: Amarillo, TX to Tucumcari, NM (115 miles)

  • Drive to Tucumcari, NM
  • Visit the Route 66 Monument
  • Overnight in Tucumcari, NM

Day 8: Tucumcari, NM to Santa Fe, NM (174 miles)

  • Drive to Santa Fe, NM
  • Stop at the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari
  • Explore the historic Santa Fe Plaza
  • Overnight in Santa Fe, NM

Day 9: Santa Fe, NM to Albuquerque, NM (63 miles)

  • Drive to Albuquerque, NM
  • Visit the Petroglyph National Monument
  • Overnight in Albuquerque, NM

Day 10: Albuquerque, NM to Holbrook, AZ (259 miles)

  • Drive to Holbrook, AZ
  • Visit the Painted Desert & Petrified Forest National Park
  • Overnight in Holbrook, AZ

Day 11: Holbrook, AZ to Williams, AZ (145 miles)

  • Drive to Williams, AZ
  • Visit the Meteor Crater
  • Overnight in Williams, AZ

Day 12: Williams, AZ to Kingman, AZ (145 miles)

  • Drive to the Grand Canyon (optional day trip)
  • Drive to Kingman, AZ
  • Visit the Route 66 Museum
  • Overnight in Kingman, AZ

Day 13: Kingman, AZ to Santa Monica, CA (315 miles)

  • Drive to Oatman, AZ and explore the old mining town
  • Drive to Santa Monica, CA
  • Stop at the Route 66 End Sign
  • Enjoy Santa Monica Pier and beach

Throughout your trip, don’t forget to collect stamps for your Route 66 Passport at various attractions and landmarks. 

As you conclude your remarkable 13-day journey along Route 66, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you’ve created. From iconic landmarks to charming small towns, your adventure has been enriched by the rich history and diverse culture that define the Mother Road. The Route 66 Passport from SangamonWatches.com has guided you every step of the way, making it the perfect keepsake to commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime trip. As you reminisce about your travels, remember that the spirit of Route 66 will live on in your heart, inspiring you to continue exploring the open road and discovering new horizons. Get your Route 66 Passport online now!

Plan Your Route 66 Road Trip with the Route 66 Passport from Sangamon Watches

On By Sangamon DockIn Microbrand Watches

If you’re planning a road trip along Route 66 this summer, be sure to get your hands on the enhanced second edition of the Route 66 Passport, produced by Route 66 Navigation. This passport allows travelers to collect unique stamps at 34 selected locations along Route 66, as well as free souvenirs and discounts. And, if you’re passing through Springfield, Illinois, be sure to stop by Sangamon Watches to get your passport stamped and pick up a Mother Road Collection watch!

At Sangamon Watches, we have just received the 2022-2023 edition of the Mother Road Route 66 passport and made them immediately available for travelers passing through central Illinois. Located just a few minutes away from popular Springfield Route 66 spots like Cozy Dog, Black Route History Museum, Maid Rite, and Rt 66 Motörhead Bar Grill and Museum, our office is the perfect place to stop and collect your stamps.

Not only can you get your passport stamped at our office, but you can also browse and purchase a watch from our Mother Road Collection. And, as a bonus, we’re offering free gifts with the purchase of any watch from our collection. Our showroom is located at 206 South 6th Street, downtown Springfield IL, right across from the Springfield Visitors Center where you can claim your free Route 66 stamp for your passport. We accept all major credit cards, so stop by and make your Route 66 road trip even more memorable with a unique watch from Sangamon Watches.

If you’re unable to stop by our showroom in person, don’t worry. You can also order your Route 66 Passport online prior to your trip and enjoy free shipping within the USA. Just shop online at http://www.SangamonWatches.com (FREE USPS Priority Shipping) and we’ll be happy to assist you. Don’t miss out on the fun and adventure of a Route 66 road trip this summer – get your passport and watch from Sangamon Watches today!

Old Route 66 Must See Spots in Downtown Springfield, Illinois

On By Sangamon DockIn Microbrand Watch Events, Microbrand Watches, Sangamon Illinois, Sangamon Watch Ambassador Program

Downtown Springfield, Illinois is a vibrant and bustling city that is home to several must-see spots on Old Route 66. This iconic highway runs through the heart of the city and offers visitors a glimpse into its rich history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s something for everyone in downtown Springfield, and here are some of the must-see spots that you should visit.

  1. Maldaner’s Restaurant – The Oldest American Restaurant on Route 66

Maldaner’s Restaurant is one of the oldest American restaurants on Route 66 and has been serving delicious meals to locals and visitors since 1884. The restaurant is known for its traditional American cuisine, including steak, seafood, and pasta dishes, and it has been recognized as one of the best restaurants in the state. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and rich history of Maldaner’s Restaurant make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

  1. Sangamon Watches – Where You Pick Up Route 66 Passports

Sangamon Watches is a locally owned business that has been crafting high-quality watches. The company is known for its attention to detail and its commitment to using the finest materials, and its watches are a true testament to the art of watchmaking. Visitors to the store can learn about the history of local watchmaking history, and they can even purchase a custom-made watch as a souvenir of their visit to Springfield. Route 66 passports and free stamps are available at the shop.

  1. 6th Street Cafe – A Cozy Spot for Breakfast on Route 66

The 6th Street Cafe is a charming and cozy spot for breakfast, and it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The cafe serves a variety of breakfast dishes, including omelets, pancakes, and French toast, and it is known for its friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy their breakfast in the cozy dining room or on the outdoor patio, and they can take in the sights and sounds of downtown Springfield while they eat.

  1. La Piazza Cucina Italiana – A Taste of Italy on Route 66

La Piazza Cucina Italiana is a family-owned Italian restaurant that offers a taste of Italy in the heart of downtown Springfield. The restaurant is known for its delicious pasta dishes, including lasagna, spaghetti, and ravioli, and its extensive wine list features a variety of Italian and Californian wines. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant, along with its friendly staff and delicious food, make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

  1. Loukinen’s On 4th Street Restaurant – Upscale Dining on Route 66

Loukinen’s On 4th Street Restaurant is an upscale dining destination that offers a sophisticated and elegant dining experience. The restaurant is known for its upscale cuisine, including steak, seafood, and pasta dishes, and its extensive wine list features a variety of premium wines from around the world. The chic and stylish decor of the restaurant, along with its friendly staff and delicious food, make it a popular destination for special occasions and romantic dinners.

  1. Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery – A Unique Brewing Experience on Route 66

Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery is a unique and innovative brewery that offers a wide variety of handcrafted beers. The brewery is housed in a historic building in the heart of downtown Springfield, and it is known for its unique brewing process and commitment to using only the finest ingredients.

Downtown Springfield is home to several cultural attractions, including the Old State Capitol, which served as the seat of government for the state of Illinois and is now a museum. Visitors can also visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the life and legacy of the 16th President of the United States.

Overall, visiting downtown Springfield on IL 66 is a unique and enriching experience that offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.


Travelers, claim your FREE Rt 66 Sticker and stamp at Sangamon Watches downtown shop at 206 S 6th Street, Springfield IL; a new Route 66 passport is available for purchase.

Sangamon Mother Road: A watch that Defies Categorization

On By Sangamon DockIn Uncategorized

We want to thank Split Second Watch for reviewing our Mother Road Collection watch. Please watch this wonderful review and subscribe the channel! Mother Road Collection is inspired by the iconic Route 66, one of the most famous roads in the world connecting Chicago to Los Angeles. The Mother Road became a symbol of classic Americana throughout the years, paving the way for greater adventure and mobility. The engraved backside of the watch highlights the famous Route 66 road sign in front of a checkered flag. The backside also highlights one of the nicknames of Route 66 with a “Main Street of America” header and the official commissioned dates of 1926-1985 underneath the sign.

Will you get your kicks on Route 66 with the Mother Road? Check it out at http://www.SangamonWatches.com

Watch Review by Aron Dunlap-OFD Watch Channel: Sangamon Watches Mother Road Route 66 Tribute

On By Sangamon DockIn Microbrand Watches, Sangamon Illinois, Sangamon Watch Ambassador Program

“Cool looking watch representing classic Route 66” – Aron Dunlap

The following watch review is contributed by Aron Dunlap-OFD Watch Channel. If you want to learn more about Mother Road Collection watches or order your own, please log on http://www.SangamonWatches.com

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Photos of Pontiac Illinois: Must-see Route 66 Shield Mural and More

On By Sangamon DockIn Microbrand Watches, Sangamon Illinois

On my way back from Chicago this morning, I decided to drive by Pontiac Illinois and shoot some photos for our Mother Road Collection watches. Pontiac is about one hour south of Chicago, where most of Route 66 travelers would make a stop to see the Route 66 Shield Mural. This beautiful and gigantic mural is right behind the Illinois Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Route 66 Museum and this is a beautiful spot for photo opportunities!! The building itself has been in the National Register of Historic Places since 1990. Bob Waldmire Road Yellow Yacht is next to the Route 66 shield mural.

The Route 66 Shield Mural is probably the most iconic in town and should be seen when driving the route! The mural was designed by Diaz Sign Art in 2006.

The small town of Pontiac has a lot of fun and well done murals. There are lots to see and do, most of it free! However, due to the pandemic, the Route 66 Museum and War Museum are closed. You can still look around on the street, there are a number of beautiful and well maintained murals. A great way to see Pontiac is to locate every mural it has to offer. I did exactly that today. Most of them are brilliant and it is a fun thing to do. BTW, a few restaurants seem to be open with outside seating.

There are many historic places in Pontiac, which as a city goes back to the 1830s, and through all these years it has gone through a lot of transformations, but it keeps its rich historic heritage. The Pontiac City Hall and the Fire Station building was constructed in Pontiac around 1900.

If you come on Route 66, bring your favorite car or motorcycle so you can get your picture made!

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