Intersection of Santa Monica and Ocean
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

Traveling west to east, Route 66 starts out at the Will Roger's Plaque in Santa Monica, located at the intersection of Santa Monica Boulevard and Ocean Boulevard.  From this vantage point you can see the edge of the historic Santa Monica Pier sign as well as beaches and ocean, welcoming all to this wooden pier and western end of Route 66.

Along this stretch, visit the Brent West Car Wash if you're looking for a quick auto once over.  While waiting for your car, you can stroll over to the Cafe 50's for a flashback lunch.  Rather have a sit-down meal at an old coffee house?  Walk a couple blocks eastward and have a seat at Dolores Restaurant for breakfast and coffee.

Shoe Repair
Santa Monica, CA
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

An interesting roadside item of interest is Quality Shoe Repair, which features an orange shoe parked alongside the side of the street.   Down the block is the Royal Theatre still showing performances of interest.

Astro Motel
Pasadena, CA
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

Space age motels always bring out the fun in things, and the Astro Motel along Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena doesn't disappoint.

Hiway Host Motel
Pasadena, CA
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

Pasada Motel
Pasadena, CA
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

Now, let's take a quick skip over to Pasadena, known for historic buildings and preservation.  And yes, a Route 66 pass through point.  Many old motels are still situated off Colorado Boulevard, including the Hiway Host Motel and the Pasada Motel.