Cannonball Run
United States
The legendary coast-to-coast dash from the Red Ball Garage on Manhattan to the Portofino Inn on Redondo Beach, dreamed up by Brock Yates in 1971 after the 55mph national speed limit threatened to kill American road culture. Dan Gurney ran it in 35 hours 54 minutes at an average of 80mph. The record stands at just under 26 hours.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Red Ball Garage
The midnight starting line on East 31st Street where Brock Yates launched cars west in 1971. One rule: reach the Portofino Inn in Redondo Beach as fast as possible.
- Indianapolis
The Crossroads of America at the route's midpoint. Flat Midwest interstates made this the natural fast corridor, and the city's motorsport DNA fits the spirit of the run.
- St. Louis Gateway Arch
The 192-metre stainless steel arch marks the Mississippi crossing and the traditional gateway to the West. Cross the river and the landscape opens into the Great Plains.
- Cadillac Ranch
Ten Cadillacs buried nose-down in a Texas Panhandle wheat field, a pop-art monument to American car culture. The terrain shifts from plains to mesa country heading west.
- Flagstaff
Ponderosa pine country at 2,100 metres, the last high-altitude stop before the Mojave descent. I-40 west follows the old Route 66 corridor through dramatic Southwest scenery.
- Barstow
The last Mojave outpost before the LA basin, a strip of truck stops and diners where the desert highway surrenders to Southern California sprawl.
- Portofino Inn, Redondo Beach
The Pacific finish line. Gurney and Yates arrived in 35 hrs 54 min in 1971; the outright record fell to 25 hrs 55 min in 2019. Touch the ocean and note the time.
Where to Eat
- St. Elmo Steak HouseSteakhouse
Established in 1902, this iconic spot offers renowned steaks and a famous shrimp cocktail in a classic setting.
- Pappy's SmokehouseBarbecue
Known for Memphis-style BBQ, this joint serves slow-smoked ribs and pulled pork in a casual atmosphere.
- The Big Texan Steak RanchSteakhouse
Home of the 72-ounce steak challenge, offering hearty meals in a Western-themed setting.
- El Tovar Dining RoomSouthwestern
Located on the Grand Canyon's rim, it offers fine dining with panoramic views and regional cuisine.
- Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-InAmerican Diner
A quirky Route 66 landmark serving classic burgers and shakes with a side of humor.
- Emma Jean's Holland Burger CafeDiner
A historic Route 66 diner known for its homestyle burgers and friendly service.
- The Original Pantry CafeAmerican
Since 1924, this 24-hour diner has been serving hearty breakfasts and comfort food classics.
Things to Do
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway MuseumMuseum
Explore the history of auto racing at the home of the Indy 500 with exhibits and historic cars.
- Gateway Arch National ParkNational Park
Visit the iconic 630-foot arch symbolizing westward expansion, with museum exhibits and tram rides to the top.
- Petrified Forest National ParkNational Park
Discover ancient fossilized trees and colorful badlands along historic Route 66.
- Meteor CraterNatural Landmark
Visit the best-preserved meteorite impact site on Earth, with a visitor center and observation decks.
- Calico Ghost TownHistoric Site
Explore a restored silver mining town from the 1880s with shops, mine tours, and reenactments.
- Santa Monica PierLandmark
Enjoy ocean views, an amusement park, and dining at this historic pier marking Route 66's end.
- Barstow Route 66 Mother Road MuseumMuseum
Learn about the history of Route 66 through artifacts, photographs, and exhibits.