Welcome to Santa Rosa, the dynamic heart of Sonoma County and one of Northern California’s most inviting small cities. Today’s tour will guide you through the landscapes, neighborhoods, and landmarks that define this community — a place shaped by creativity, agriculture, and a deep connection to the natural world. Santa Rosa blends a lively urban core with quiet parks, historic districts, and pockets of wild beauty that stretch right into the hills. It’s a city of artists and innovators, from Charles M. Schulz sketching Snoopy at his favorite ice rink to horticultural pioneer Luther Burbank cultivating plants that would one day circle the globe. As we make our way through its museums, gardens, and historic squares, you’ll see how Santa Rosa’s character has been forged over generations — resilient in the face of earthquakes and fires, proud of its agricultural roots, and continually reinventing itself as a cultural and recreational hub. Whether you’re exploring tranquil lakeside paths, strolling streets where early settlers once traded goods, or passing the vineyards that now define the region, Santa Rosa offers a sense of place that is both grounded and welcoming. And while our journey begins firmly here in the city, it will eventually carry us down the Sonoma Highway and into Sonoma Valley — where rolling hills and endless vineyards await. But for now, settle in as we discover the many layers of Santa Rosa, one stop at a time.
Welcome to Day 3 of our epic route 66 adventure., stretching from Amarillo, Texas, to Albuquerque, New Mexico. This route is packed with iconic landmarks, quirky roadside attractions, and historical sites that tell the story of the Mother Road. You'll experience the heart of Route 66, visiting must-see spots like the Midpoint Café, the eerie Ghost Town of Glenrio, and the vibrant Tucumcari Murals. Discover the charm of the Blue Swallow Motel, delve into prehistoric history at the Mesalands Dinosaur Museum, and take a refreshing dip at the Santa Rosa Blue Hole. This tour offers a blend of nostalgia, history, and natural beauty, perfect for first-time Route 66 travelers and seasoned road trippers alike. Explore historic downtown Albuquerque and experience the magic of El Rancho Hotel, a favorite of Hollywood stars. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Americana. Route 66 Day 1: Chicago, IL to Springfield, MO - Epic, Self-Guided Driving Tour. Route 66 Day 2: Springfield MO to Amarillo, TX- Epic, Self-Guided Driving Tour. Route 66 Day 3 (This Tour): Amarillo, TX to Albuquerque, NM - Epic, Self-Guided Driving Tour. Route 66 Day 4: Albuquerque, NM to Flagstaff, AZ- Epic Self-Guided Driving Tour. Route 66 Day 5: Flagstaff, AZ to San Bernardino, CA - Epic Self-Guided Driving Tour. Route 66 Day 6: San Bernardino, CA to Santa Monica, CA - Epic Self-Guided Driving Tour.