we are hoping to go down route 66 next year, would it be better to just hire a car and go?

Answer 1

I am not sure what you mean by hire a car. If that means hiring a tour guide with a vehicle, then I would say no. You can research the road here on line and decide what you want to see. One good one is historic66.com. There are a couple of guides that you can buy there that i also recommend.
If you are referring to renting a car and making the trip on your own, I would highly recommend it instead of using your on car or public transportation.

There are approximately 85% of the road still in existence. Due to the amount of things to see and do along the way, you will have to do some serious planning taking into consideration the amount of time you have. In fact, if time it critical you might want to consider making it in two time periods.

You can count on about ten days to two weeks to may the trip and see the scenery along the way.

I hope you enjoy the journey. In fact i am envious and wish i were going with you. If i can provide more information please feel free to email.

Answer 2

Do your research first. There are patches of the road preserved, but not much. The longest stretch I know, personally, is outside Albuquerque, New Mexico as it parallels Interstate 40. But, take a look at the map symbol for Route 66. Note it looks like a badge? Look at any road map for America and that symbol is the old State Highway system, often the most scenic and more leisurely. Combine your search for Route 66 with the State Highways I mentioned. If it were me, I'd rent a car. But, most of all, have a great trip!

Answer 3

No research it first. A lot of the traditional Route 66 has disappeared and if you don't know what to look for, you'll miss the best bits.

Answer 4

not much left
do not hire a car
do it on your own and see the world.
Barstow, Calif has a museum was there in 2006
Amazing and loved it ------------- lots of history and you will enjoy but it is a broken road. no real highway anymore

mc can I have a BA