Lauren Breedlove

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the USA’s historic Route 66, a famous 2,448-mile road trip route weaving through 8 states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. So, why not celebrate with a hot dog?  A road trip is all about the journey, and one of its greatest joys is discovering fantastic food in unexpected places. Refueling your vehicle might be extra costly right now, but filling up your belly doesn’t have to be. And on the Mother Road, you certainly don’t have to sacrifice taste. Whether you’re tackling the entire shebang from Chicago to Santa Monica (or vice versa) or heading out on a shorter section for a weekend jaunt, these are some of the best budget stops for roadtrippers who want to eat well without breaking the bank or taking up too much time. So pack up your car and shove this proverbial food-centric guide to the USA’s ‘Mother Road,’ where classic diners, roadside stands, drive-ins, and long-standing general stores will have a table waiting.  RECOMMENDED: The coolest roadside attractions along Route 66Set off on the ultimate Route 66 road trip—here's how