Carol and Donna under the Hollywood sign before reaching their final destination
Griffith Observatory
From Hollywood Old Route 66 we continued on the last section of the Mother Road, Santa Monica Boulevard, but first made some stops to see the Hollywood sign up-close on Mulholland Drive, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Forever (the cemetery that has nighttime outdoor screenings of its residents' works), and Rodeo Drive.
We stopped at the Beverly Hills Hotel's Polo Lounge to celebrate our achievement. It seemed the right place to go, as this establishment has one of the most remarkable histories in Los Angeles, and its past guests most certainly would have had strong ties to Route 66.
Rodeo Drive Shopper
After returning to Santa Monica Boulevard, we made a brief stop in Venice Beach before reaching the traditional end of Route 66, located at the edge of the Pacific Ocean on a palm tree-lined bluff a few blocks from the landmark Santa Monica Pier. We walked on the boardwalk which featured an amusement park, antique Loeff carousel, and the historic Route 66 End of the Trail sign. It seemed fitting that this lively and vibrant carnival atmosphere marked the end of Route 66.
Beverly Hills Hotel and Bungalows
Carol A. Wallace
Celebration at the Polo Lounge
Mural on building in Venice Beach
Boardwalk on Santa Monica Pier
Rhinestone Prancers
Carol A. Wallace
End of the Trail
That night we flew back to the East Coast with great memories of the people we met and places we visited on Route 66.
