If daily life gets dull, it could be time to explore something different. Some may think a trip might take a lot of money or time. But for citizens of Lake Havasu City, fun, adventure and history is right up the road. Plus, it can fit into a day trip.

A sign outside of Gas “N’ Grubb 66 points to different towns on Route 66. Grace Usher/RiverScene

Route 66 is known as the “Mother Road” and rightfully so. Spanning from Chicago, Ill., west to Santa Monica, Calif., this two-lane highway was the main route until Interstate 40 opened in 1957. Today, the road is thriving with a living taste of what U.S. travelers found when they ventured across the country.

To reach Route 66, head north on State Route 95, then east on the Interstate 40 for 60 miles to reach the first stop – Kingman. Here, visitors find the historic Train Park and Locomotive Museum. By exit 53, travel straight on to Historic Route 66.

The stunning scenery changes from rocky desert into rolling hills of green. The train tracks run parallel to the highway and remain in use today.

Hackerberry General Store is a point of interest along Route 66 in Arizona. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

About 30 miles outside of Kingman, look left and turn quick into the Hackberry General Store. Step back into the golden years entering the eclectic memories inside and out of this historic landmark.

Jump back on the 66 and notice a catchy phrase written over multiple red signs along the road. Don’t worry, it is not the road playing tricks, those are the famed Burma Shave signs and they line the 66 from beginning to end. Originally a no-brush shaving cream company, the company set up the signs to promote safe driving and remind drivers that a trip is more than just point A to point B; it’s the beauty in between.

Burma-Shave signs are seen along Route 66. Grace Usher/RiverScene

As motorists cruise along, a stop at Truxton’s Cruzin’ 66 Gas ‘N’ Grub offers fuel and a bite to eat. Not too far ahead is Peach Springs with the Keepers of the Wild Animal Park and the Hualapai Cultural Center. Soon, the Grand Canyon Caverns, full of the natural wonder of limestone caverns follow and there might even be some prehistoric friends greeting travelers.

At the ending curve of the trip, reaching Seligman, sightseers are officially at the heart of the Arizona Route 66. Eat lunch at Westside Lilo’s, visit the man who saved Seligman at Angel and Vilma’s Gift Shop, and grab a cone at Delgadillo’s Sno Cap Café.

Monsoon clouds are often seen during the summer on Route 66. Grace Usher/RiverScene

Wrapping up the day cruise, either turn back around on the 66 and search for all the little quirks you missed the first time. If in a rush to head back to the homestead, catch the Interstate 40 at the entrance to Seligman.

The best way to truly enjoy Route 66 in all glory is to cruise. Stop on the shoulder occasionally to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, rampant wildlife and pick a flower for a sweetheart. Route 66 is the ultimate scenic route.

A Route 66 sign is on display at the Gas “N” Grubb along Route 66 between Hackberry and Seligman, AZ. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

The Rusty Bolt is one of 14 shops to visit in Seligman, AZ. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Scenery along Route 66. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene