Imagine cruising down a highway that’s been the backbone of American road trips for nearly a century. Over 300 miles of nostalgic charm awaits you on the Mother Road as it winds its way through Illinois, from the bustling streets of Chicago to the banks of the Mississippi River.
As you embark on this iconic road trip, you’ll encounter a treasure trove of vintage diners, quirky roadside attractions, and historic landmarks that tell the story of America’s golden age of automobile travel. With its rich history, charming towns, and classic Americana, Illinois offers one of the most preserved and attraction-packed sections of this legendary highway.
Get ready to enjoy Illinois like never before as you explore the must-see attractions, landmarks, and experiences that make this stretch of highway so special.
The Mother Road Begins: Chicago to Joliet
Your road trip adventure on the Mother Road commences in Chicago, setting the stage for a memorable journey. The official starting point is in downtown Chicago, marked by a modest sign on East Adams Street between Michigan Avenue and Wabash Avenue.
Starting Point in Downtown Chicago
The beginning of Route 66 is nestled among the towering skyscrapers of Chicago, opposite the Art Institute Chicago, not far from the famous sculpture “The Bean.” This is where your trip down the historic road begins.
Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant: The First Stop
At the legendary Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant, you can fuel up for your journey in an original vintage diner atmosphere. As a Chicago institution since 1923, it’s the traditional first meal for many Route 66 travelers, offering a taste of nostalgia and their famous complimentary donut holes.
Joliet’s Route66 Highlights
As you drive southwest from Chicago, the urban landscape gives way to suburban and then rural scenery. Joliet, your first major stop, is home to the historic Rialto Square Theatre and the Joliet Area Historical Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center. Be sure to visit the imposing Old Joliet Prison, a Gothic-style correctional facility that operated from 1858 to 2002.
Iconic Roadside Giants: Muffler Men of Illinois
Illinois is home to a collection of gigantic statues that have become synonymous with the charm of Route 66. These towering figures, known as “Muffler Men,” were originally designed to attract the attention of travelers along the Mother Road.
Gemini Giant in Wilmington
The Gemini Giant, located in Wilmington, is a 30-foot tall statue sporting a space helmet and holding a rocket ship. It stands guard outside the former Launching Pad Drive-In, now a popular spot for photos.
Lauterbach Giant in Springfield
The Lauterbach Giant, once holding a tire, now proudly holds an American flag, symbolizing patriotism. This giant fiberglass statue has become a beloved landmark in Springfield.
Pink Elephant and Other Quirky Statues
Along Route 66, you’ll also find other quirky statues like the Pink Elephant in Livingston, showcasing the whimsical side of roadside America. These attractions continue to captivate travelers seeking authentic experiences.
These iconic giants not only offer great photo opportunities but also tell the story of how roadside attractions became an integral part of Route 66’s identity. As you travel along this historic way, you’ll discover that these attractions are a significant part of the vintage charm that makes Route 66 so special.
Pontiac: Heart of Route 66 Heritage
Pontiac, Illinois, stands as a vibrant testament to the enduring legacy of Route 66. This charming town has embraced its Mother Road heritage, transforming itself into a must-visit destination for enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum
The Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac is a treasure trove of memorabilia associated with the history of Route 66. You’ll discover an impressive collection, including the famous VW microbus and road van belonging to Route 66 artist and nomad Bob Waldmire. Be sure to snap a photo with the World’s Largest Route 66 Shield Mural painted on the back of the museum building.
Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum
For classic car enthusiasts, the Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum is a must-visit. It showcases the nation’s greatest collection of cars, dealer items, and literature related to the Oakland and Pontiac automobile brands. The exhibits change regularly, offering a fresh experience with each visit.
Walldog Murals Throughout Town
As you wander through downtown Pontiac, you’ll be greeted by over 20 vibrant Walldog Murals painted by artists during the 2009 Walldog Summer Bash. These murals depict scenes from local history and Route 66 culture, bringing the town’s past to life in a colorful and engaging way.
Historic Gas Stations Along the Route
As you travel along Illinois’ Route 66, you’ll discover a treasure trove of historic gas stations that evoke a bygone era. These stations are a testament to the road’s rich history and the evolution of automotive service.
Ambler-Becker Texaco Station in Dwight
The Ambler-Becker Texaco Station in Dwight is a notable stop on your day trip along Route 66. This station, which operated from 1933 to 1999, now serves as a visitor center, showcasing a vintage fire engine and offering insights into its storied past.
Standard Oil Station in Odell
Ten miles south of Dwight, in Odell, lies a beautifully restored Standard Oil Gas Station. This 1932 domestic-style filling station exemplifies the “house with canopy” design popular during the early days of automobile travel, now displaying vintage car-repair tools and selling Route 66 memorabilia.
Soulsby Service Station in Mt. Olive
Soulsby Service Station in Mt. Olive is the most original station along Illinois’ Route 66. Its bright yellow pumps and white exterior make it a standout, representing one of the best-preserved examples of early roadside architecture on the entire route.
| Gas Station | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ambler-Becker Texaco | Dwight | Vintage fire engine, Texaco sign |
| Standard Oil Station | Odell | Vintage car-repair tools, Route 66 memorabilia |
| Soulsby Service Station | Mt. Olive | Bright yellow pumps, original architecture |
Springfield: Lincoln and Route 66
As you drive along Route 66, you’ll discover that Springfield, Illinois, is a city where the legacies of Abraham Lincoln and the Mother Road intersect. This city offers a unique blend of American history and road trip nostalgia, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.
Abraham Lincoln Historic Sites
Visit Abraham Lincoln’s home and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to gain insights into the life and times of America’s 16th president. These historic sites provide a fascinating glimpse into Lincoln’s life before continuing your Route 66 adventure.
Cozy Dog Drive-In: Home of the Corn Dog
Stop at the iconic Cozy Dog Drive-In, birthplace of the famous “hot dog on a stick” and a Route 66 institution since 1946. The walls covered with Route 66 memorabilia and photos create an authentic roadside dining experience.
Illinois Route66 Experience at the State Fairgrounds
Explore the Illinois Route 66 Experience at the State Fairgrounds, featuring artifacts from Shea’s Gas Station Museum, vintage billboards, and interpretive signs that tell the story of the Mother Road in Illinois. This open-air exhibit is a fun and informative stop for travelers.
U.S. Route 66, Illinois: Driving the Original Brick Road
A trip along Route 66 in Illinois isn’t complete without driving on the historic brick road. This experience is a nostalgic journey back in time, offering a glimpse into the past of America’s most iconic road.
Auburn’s Historic Brick Road
Auburn’s Historic Brick Road is a 1.4-mile stretch of original Route 66 pavement constructed in 1931. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this road allows you to experience driving on an authentic piece of American history. As you drive, you’ll feel the distinctive rumble beneath your tires on the meticulously preserved red bricks laid in a herringbone pattern.
Preserving Route 66 Heritage
The preservation of Auburn’s Historic Brick Road is a testament to the dedication of local historical societies and Route 66 associations. They work tirelessly to protect this tangible link to Route 66’s past. You can appreciate the engineering challenges faced by early road builders and the craftsmanship that has allowed this section to survive for over 90 years.
| Historic Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Brick Pattern | Herringbone pattern for durability |
| Construction Year | 1931 |
| Length | 1.4 miles |
Museums and Welcome Centers
Museums and welcome centers along Route66 in Illinois provide a unique perspective on the local history and culture, making them a must-visit for any road tripper. These stops not only educate visitors about the region’s heritage but also serve as community gathering places that often host special events celebrating Route66 culture.
Litchfield Museum & Route66 Welcome Center
Located right along Route66, the Litchfield Museum & Route66 Welcome Center showcases the city’s deep ties to the Mother Road. Inside, you’ll find vintage photographs, artifacts, and exhibits highlighting local businesses and personalities from the Route66 era, as well as a restored 1950s Corvette.
Illinois Route66 Mining Museum
The Illinois Route66 Mining Museum in Godley highlights the important relationship between coal mining and the development of communities along Route66. The museum features mining equipment, historical photographs, and personal stories from local miners.
Shea’s Gas Station Museum
Once a working Texaco and Marathon station, Shea’s Gas Station Museum became a beloved roadside attraction packed with Route66 memorabilia, antique signs, and vintage gas pumps. Although the original site closed, many of its artifacts are now preserved at the Route66 Experience on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
- Explore the Litchfield Museum & Route66 Welcome Center for comprehensive exhibits about the city’s connection to Route66.
- Discover the Illinois Route66 Mining Museum in Godley to learn about the history of coal mining along Route66.
- Learn about the legacy of Bill Shea at what was once Shea’s Gas Station Museum, now partially preserved at the Illinois Route66 Experience.
These museums and welcome centers are not just educational resources but also vibrant community hubs that celebrate Route66 heritage, making them essential stops on your Illinois Route66 journey.
Unique Shopping Experiences
As you travel along Illinois’ Route 66, you’ll discover a treasure trove of unique shopping experiences that capture the essence of the Mother Road. From vintage memorabilia to one-of-a-kind souvenirs, these shopping destinations are a crucial part of the Route 66 adventure.
Pink Elephant Antique Mall
The Pink Elephant Antique Mall is a must-visit, boasting an enormous collection of vintage items and Route 66 memorabilia. You’ll find everything from old advertising signs to classic records and retro furniture.
The Shop on Route66 in Gardner
Stop by The Shop on Route66 in Gardner, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly owner and an array of Coca-Cola collectibles and Route 66 souvenirs. Don’t forget to sign the guestbook!
Route66 Memorabilia and Souvenirs
As you explore these unique shopping destinations, be sure to look for the official Route 66 Passport. Collecting stamps from various attractions will create a personalized record of your journey. You’ll find authentic memorabilia and one-of-a-kind souvenirs to commemorate your trip.
Classic Diners and Food Stops
As you drive along Illinois Route 66, you’ll discover a treasure trove of classic diners and food stops that are sure to satisfy your cravings. These vintage eateries offer a taste of nostalgia and a chance to refuel for your next adventure.
Polk-A-Dot Drive-In in Braidwood
Visit the iconic Polk-A-Dot Drive-In, instantly recognizable by its colorful polka dot exterior and life-size statues of Elvis, Marilyn Monroe, and the Blues Brothers. Grab a bite to eat and snap some memorable photos.
Doc’s Soda Fountain in Girard
Step back in time at Doc’s Soda Fountain, voted one of America’s best soda fountains by Country Living Magazine. Enjoy hand-mixed phosphates, ice cream sodas, and malts prepared the old-fashioned way at the original marble counter.
Jubelt’s Bakery in Litchfield
Sample fresh-baked goods at Jubelt’s Bakery, a family-owned establishment serving travelers since 1922. Known for its delicious pastries, breads, and sandwiches, Jubelt’s makes perfect road trip snacks.
These classic diners and food stops along Illinois Route 66 preserve not just the flavors but also the hospitality and sense of community that have characterized the Mother Road throughout time. Savor the authentic roadside dining experiences and enjoy the vintage ambiance that makes this route so special.
Historic and Cultural Landmarks
As you travel along Illinois Route66, you’ll discover a wealth of historic and cultural landmarks that showcase the region’s rich heritage. These sites offer a deeper understanding of the area’s history and significance beyond the nostalgic charm of the Mother Road.
Cahokia Mounds UNESCO World Heritage Site
Near Collinsville, the Cahokia Mounds UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit attraction. This 2,000-acre site preserves the remains of the most sophisticated prehistoric native civilization north of Mexico. The Cahokia Mounds feature Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas, and reveal the advanced engineering and astronomical knowledge of its builders.
Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
As you near the end of your Illinois Route66 journey, visit the iconic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. Built in 1929, this bridge carried Route66 across the Mississippi River between Illinois and Missouri. Its distinctive 30-degree bend makes it a notable landmark, now preserved as a pedestrian and cycling path.
These landmarks connect Route66 travelers to both the ancient history of the region and the engineering achievements of the early 20th century, providing context for understanding the cultural landscape through which the historic highway passes.
Planning Your Illinois Route 66 Road Trip
As you plan your Illinois Route 66 road trip, consider the rich history and attractions that make this journey unforgettable. The approximately 300-mile stretch from Chicago to the Mississippi River offers a diverse range of experiences.
Deciding on the duration of your trip is crucial. You can cover the entire Illinois portion in one go, typically taking 1-2 days, or break it into segments to explore the numerous attractions and roadside curiosities along the way.
The best time to visit is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is ideal. However, summer months attract larger crowds to popular attractions along the Mother Road.
To make the most of your trip, download the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway map or use dedicated guidebooks that provide detailed information about the historic alignments. Building flexibility into your itinerary allows for unexpected discoveries and spontaneous stops at roadside attractions.
Researching accommodation options in advance is also recommended, with historic motor courts and renovated motels offering authentic Route 66 experiences in towns like Pontiac and Springfield.
