Mini Takes Route 66

Driving Route 66 from Santa Monica Pier to downtown Chicago is an epic road trip that takes you through some of the most iconic landscapes and cities in the United States. The journey is over 2,000 miles long and can take up to two weeks to complete, but it's well worth the effort.

Along the way, you'll pass through eight states: California, Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana. You'll see everything from the Mojave Desert to the Grand Canyon to the Ozark Mountains. You'll also have the opportunity to visit some of the most iconic cities in America, including Los Angeles, St. Louis, and Chicago.

Here are a few of the must-see stops along the way:

Santa Monica Pier: Start your journey at the Santa Monica Pier, a popular tourist destination known for its amusement park rides, shops, and restaurants.

Mojave Desert: The Mojave Desert is a vast and arid landscape, but it's also home to some beautiful scenery, including Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park.

Grand Canyon: The Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and it's a must-see for any visitor to Arizona. Be sure to hike to the bottom of the canyon for an unforgettable experience.

Petrified Forest National Park: This park is home to the largest concentration of petrified wood in the world. Petrified wood is formed when trees are buried in ash and sediment and then mineralized over millions of years. The results are stunning and otherworldly.

Oklahoma City: Oklahoma City is home to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, which is a must-see for anyone interested in American history.

St. Louis: Be sure to visit the Gateway Arch, a 630-foot-tall monument that commemorates the westward expansion of the United States.

Chicago: End your journey in downtown Chicago, a vibrant city with something to offer everyone. Be sure to visit Millennium Park, the Willis Tower, and the Magnificent Mile.

Of course, this is just a small sample of the many things to see and do along Route 66. With its rich history and diverse scenery, Route 66 is a road trip that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. (Based on Google Bard)