

Whatever your reason for taking photos, Route 66 is full of picture-perfect moments. Roadside attractions beg for a quick snap, and the natural wonders along the journey will take your breath away, even when viewed through a lens.
However, while many photo opportunities may arise, there are a few spots that just can't be missed for anyone wanting to seize the experience of Route 66 in film.
1. The Wild Burros of Oatman, Arizona
We can't get past how adorable these wild burros (the Spanish term for donkeys) are. Wandering freely through the town, they are a classic Route 66 photo opportunity and the story behind them tells some of Route 66's history.
Introduced by gold prospectors, and then released once no longer needed, they've been roaming the area for more than 100 years and perfectly capture the quirky nature of Route 66.
2. Roadside attractions
Your Route 66 photo collage won't be complete without acknowledging the multitude of neon-signs, drive-in theatres and giant icons that are scattered along the road. While we cannot give you one single place to look out for here, you will get a few options to choose from.
You'll find the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, and the Muffler Men all in Illinois. At the Jack Rabbit Trading Post, you'll even find a massive statue of the animal outside, ready for photos and the odd brave soul who decides to clamber up onto its back. Additionally, Blue Swallow Motel will provide you with all the neon signs needed to prove their extensive use along the road.
Litchfield Skyview Drive-in theatre in Illinois will give your photos that old-school feeling of popcorn, cars, and classic movies. It's also in the Route 66 Hall of Fame for being the only original drive-in along the mother road that's still operating.
Don't forget to take a snap of one of the famous gas stations that you'll encounter on your road trip along Route 66 either. Hackberry General Store is our favourite choice here. Not only has it influenced the movie Cars, but it was also run by one of the people who helped preserve this incredible route for your enjoyment.
3. The Grand Canyon and Painted Desert
Missing a photo opportunity here might just mean you have to do the whole tour again, just to ensure you get these incredible natural vistas on film (which we're all for, especially since each season brings something new to the road!).
While you might find it difficult to capture how massive and awe-inspiring these areas are, it's well worth the effort to do so. After all, the Grand Canyon is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World for good reason.
In between all the camera clicks, make sure you take the chance to stop and absorb it all. From the coloured layers that make the Painted Desert so fascinating to the unfathomable vastness of the Grand Canyon, each photo will bring you back to this one moment. Don't forget to enjoy it.
4. Cadillac Ranch
One of Route 66's unique and quirky attractions, part of the reason this photo stop is counted among the best is its ever-changing nature.
The 10 Cadillacs buried nose-down in a line rarely look the same, visit to visit. This is because everyone is welcome to add to them. Each car is covered in spray paint, and all visitors are welcome to add more. So be warned if you want to get in on the photo – there are no promises that the paint won't still be wet!
Route 66 is an incredible journey through America, layered with its history and character, which is why you'll find endless incredible spots for taking pictures. If you want to check out our favourites and rank them for yourself, take a look the guided tours we run today. With something for everyone, we're dedicated to giving you an authentic experience that you won't ever forget.