In 2009 the Route 66 Alliance and the Santa Monica Pier Restoration Corp got together and declared the end of the Santa Monica Pier to be the western terminus of Route 66. It's now marked by an upright sign stating "The End of the Trail" and is a popular photo opportunity for travelers at the end of their journey. This is actually a replica of a sign that once stood on the corner of Santa Monica Blvd and Ocean Ave before it's mysterious disappearance 50 years ago.

Santa Monica Pier is home to a range of restaurants and souvenir shops as well as being a prime location to catch the beautiful sunsets over the pacific ocean. There's entertainment in the form of live music, street entertainers and rides for all ages.

"The unofficial end of Route 66, the world-famous Santa Monica Pier offers a variety of entertainment and shopping including Pacific Park amusement park, Heal The Bay Aquarium, a historic 1922 Merry-Go-Round (Carousel), plus speciality shops/carts, eateries, an old-fashioned soda fountain, and full-service restaurants. Located on the pier is Dan Rice's Route 66 to Cali souvenir shop.  With a great selection of Route 66 memorabilia, the added bonus is all items in the shop are 100% Made in the USA. Dan is also an author and well know Route 66 roadie. Stop by and say "hi" to Dan!"