We always think of Route 66 as "starting" in Chicago and "ending" in California. The actual end of Route 66 is at Olympic Blvd., a tiny bit inland, but we think of Santa Monica Pier as the unofficial end. Maybe it's because when you can't go any further without getting wet, you know the road has ended. THe pier was built about 16 years before the road came into being, but it's the land of make believe, so lets just go with it. Palisades Park offers the dedication plaque. But, don't be fooled, it was a publicity stunt for a movie. Ah, tinsel town.

• Route 66 Minute