Whether ending or beginning your Route 66 adventure, the 66-to-Cali store on the Santa Monica Pier is a Mother Road must-visit.
The Santa Monica Pier has been a bustling tourist attraction for decades as people ride the roller coaster, take in the ocean views, and shop for souvenirs, but for the last several years, there’s been one spot that is always packed with tourists waiting patiently to get a picture… The "End of the Trail” sign.
For Route 66 travelers, it’s a picture you just have to get to celebrate the end (or beginning) of a Mother Road adventure. For others, it’s an introduction to a road they mostly know from the song, the movie Cars, or just general American folklore.
What most people don’t know, however, is this now-famous sign was really the result of a Route 66 enthusiast named Dan Rice that felt deflated every time he got home to LA and saw nothing celebrating the western “terminus” of the road.
Long story short, Dan took action and opened a temporary vendor cart on the pier with a couple of Route 66 “end” signs he had made. 66-to-Cali was born.
Each night, Dan and faithful employees like manager Ian Bowen, would have to drag the cart in for the night, but at least there was something denoting the famous highway.
While we don’t want to spoil the story since we hear it firsthand on our tours to the pier, a permanent sign and pagoda were eventually erected.
The sign, posted in 2009 on the 83rd anniversary of the road, is now arguably the most photographed spot in all of Santa Monica.
While the sign itself is a great photo op, the 66-to-Cali store itself is every bit as important. It’s become a beacon of sorts- a spot where those familiar with Route 66 can stop by and talk about their favorite parts and a spot where those less familiar with the road can learn all about its unique history and beauty.
For our Route 66 caravans and bus tours, the 66-to-Cali shop has become a place for us to gather and celebrate our trip together. The perfect end (or beginning) to a wonderful Route 66 adventure.
If you’re looking for an “End of the Trail” t-shirt, a unique sticker, or a coveted “Certificate of Completion,” the 66-to-Cali gift shop is the place to get it.
More importantly, it’s a place to learn and celebrate America’s favorite highway. For those unfamiliar with Route 66, the staff loves telling you all about the road- where it starts and ends, where to visit, and all the other little intricacies of the nearly 100-year old highway.
On your next trip to Santa Monica, be sure to get your picture at the “End of the Trail” sign, but make sure you don’t miss the folks at the booth right next to it that made the sign a reality.
Want to visit the pier with us? Why not sign up for one of our guided Route 66 caravans or bus tours?
Side note: the original booth can be found in the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville, CA...
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