Route 66 Santa Monica – Day 14

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Journey Along the Mother Road: Day 14 on Route 66

Good afternoon, everyone! Welcome to day 14 of my incredible Route 66 adventure, taking me from the bustling streets of Chicago to the sun-soaked avenues of Los Angeles. Today was a day filled with nostalgia, stunning sights, and the culmination of an epic journey. Let me take you through this memorable day in detail.

Morning Departure from Barstow

The day began bright and early as I left Barstow at 7:30 AM. Before hitting the road, I grabbed a quick breakfast at McDonald’s at the Barstow Station. This spot is usually buzzing with tour buses en route to Las Vegas, but today, it was surprisingly calm and quiet, making for a relaxing start to the day.

The Ever-Changing Scenery of Route 66

As I continued my journey along Route 66, I couldn’t help but marvel at how the scenery constantly evolves. Each day brings a new landscape, a fresh perspective, and a different piece of Americana. This ever-changing backdrop is part of what makes Route 66 so enchanting and keeps the adventure alive.

Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch

My first stop was Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in San Bernardino County, near Oro Grande. This unique roadside attraction is a testament to one man’s creative vision. Elmer Long, who passed away in June 2022, created this whimsical forest of bottle trees, each one adorned with colorful glass bottles that glint in the sunlight. Elmer’s spirit lives on in this magical place, beloved by all who travel Route 66. It’s a poignant reminder of the creativity and passion that define this historic route.

Exploring San Bernardino

Next, I made my way to the city of San Bernardino. A highlight here is the McDonald’s Museum, the site of the very first McDonald’s restaurant. Although it was closed when I arrived, it was fascinating to see the humble beginnings of what would become a global fast-food empire. The small, unassuming building stands as a piece of history, offering a glimpse into the past.

Navigating LA Traffic

Leaving San Bernardino, I headed towards the City of Angels. The infamous LA traffic lived up to its reputation, turning my drive into a test of patience. However, the excitement of nearing the end of my journey kept my spirits high.

Arrival at Santa Monica Pier

Finally, after maneuvering through the bustling streets of Los Angeles, I reached the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Parking on the pier was a breeze, thanks to the ample parking space available. Here, I met a gentleman named Ian, who was greeting visitors starting or finishing their Route 66 journey. Ian’s enthusiasm and love for the Mother Road were infectious. He shared stories of travelers from all over the world, each with their own unique experiences and adventures.

The End of the Trail

Standing by the “Route 66 End of the Trail” sign on the pier was a moment of triumph and reflection. I captured this milestone with a photograph and then wandered over to Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. for a well-deserved lunch. The ocean breeze, the vibrant atmosphere, and the delicious food made for a perfect celebration.

Looking Ahead

After this exhilarating journey, I plan to rest in Los Angeles for a couple of days. On Wednesday morning, I’ll begin my eastward trip back to South-Western Ontario, Canada. This adventure has been an unforgettable experience, filled with rich history, fascinating people, and breathtaking landscapes.

Thank you all for traveling with me on this incredible journey along Route 66. Stay tuned for more adventures to come. Until next time, goodbye and thank you! Watch for my definitive guide for Route 66 from a Canadian’s Perspective.

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