Driving Dreams: My Epic Journey Along the PCH and Route 66 in a Ford Mustang
- Paul Borthwick
- Feb 12
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 17
When I booked a Ford Mustang GT through the Turo app during a work trip to Los Angeles, I didn’t expect it to turn into one of the most memorable drives of my life. With two days of free time, I decided to take the Mustang for a spin along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and then explore the legendary Route 66. What made this trip special was the strange sense of familiarity I felt driving the PCH—it hit me that I had been cruising this road virtually for years in various car games. Now, here I was, behind the wheel of a roaring V8 Mustang, top down, soaking in the real views and sounds. This post shares my journey, the sights, and the unique feeling of driving these iconic American roads.
Cruising the Pacific Coast Highway in a Mustang
The PCH is famous for its breathtaking views and winding roads hugging the California coastline. Driving it in a Mustang added a whole new layer of excitement. The V8 engine’s growl echoed through the mountainous forest passes as I navigated the curves with the roof down, the salty ocean breeze mixing with the Mustang’s raw power.
What struck me was how familiar the road felt. Years of playing racing games had etched the PCH into my memory. The twists, the cliffs, the ocean vistas—they all matched the digital versions I had driven countless times. But nothing compares to the real thing: the smell of pine trees, the sun on your face, and the unpredictable nature of the road.
I made my way north towards Santa Maria, passing through dense forests and open coastal stretches. The Mustang handled the curves with ease, and the sound of the engine made every mile feel like a scene from a movie.
A Stop at Neptune’s Cafe
One of the highlights was stopping at Neptune’s Cafe, a spot made famous by the film The Fast and the Furious. Sitting there, I half-expected Brian or Dom to walk through the door. Of course, that didn’t happen, but the atmosphere was electric. Motorbikes lined the street outside, and the cafe buzzed with petrol heads sharing stories and admiring each other’s rides.
Neptune’s is more than just a cafe; it’s a shrine to car and bike culture on the coast. It was the perfect place to pause grab some food, and soak in the vibe before continuing my journey.
Heading Inland to Route 66
After a night in Santa Maria, I set off towards Barstow, where I planned to explore the legendary Route 66. This stretch of road is steeped in history and Americana, a symbol of freedom and adventure.
Driving the Mustang along Route 66 felt like stepping back in time. The road took me past run-down motels, old diners, and quirky roadside attractions that once thrived during the heyday of cross-country travel. Each stop told a story of a different era, when this highway was the main artery connecting the country.
Iconic Stops Along Route 66
One of the most memorable stops was the Bagdad Cafe, a quirky diner made famous by the 1987 film of the same name. The cafe’s rustic charm and friendly atmosphere made it a perfect lunch spot. I chatted with locals and fellow travelers, all drawn by the road’s history and the Mustang’s unmistakable presence.
Along the way, I also explored abandoned gas stations and motels, relics of a bygone era. These places, though faded, hold a certain magic. They remind you of the countless stories and journeys that passed through here, each traveler chasing their own version of the American dream.
The Mustang Experience
Driving a Ford Mustang on these roads was more than just transportation; it was an experience. The car’s powerful engine, responsive handling, and iconic design made every mile thrilling. The convertible top down meant I could fully immerse myself in the surroundings—the smell of the ocean, the rustling of the trees, and the hum of the engine.
The Mustang felt like the perfect companion for this journey, blending classic American muscle with modern comfort. It gave me the freedom to explore at my own pace and the confidence to tackle every twist and turn.
Reflections on the Journey
This trip reminded me how powerful the connection between virtual and real experiences can be. Driving the PCH and Route 66 in a Mustang brought to life years of digital memories and added new ones that no game could replicate.
The roads, the stops, and the car itself all combined to create a journey that was both nostalgic and exhilarating. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to experience a place is behind the wheel, with the top down and the engine roaring.
Oh and yes I did get sun burnt on my forehead! let that be a warning to you if you hire a softtop car :-)
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