Art Institute of Chicago

Route 66 began a block away on Adams Street, and the sign at the museum's Michigan Avenue corner is the traditional first photo of the drive. The museum itself holds one of the biggest collections in the country, so it is worth a few hours before you head south. Parking in the Loop is expensive, so consider leaving the car at a garage and walking.

Good to know

• Start the trip with a photo at the Begin Route 66 sign on Adams Street
• Book timed tickets online in busy months
• Use a garage rather than street parking

Best time

Weekday mornings

Getting there

Downtown Chicago, garage parking nearby, not a place to park a big camper

Vehicles

Fine in any car

Data: Roadtrip. Things change: check opening times, prices and rules before you go.