Atlanta, Illinois, may be a small town, but it packs a big punch on Route 66. Nestled along the historic Mother Road, Atlanta has a rich history dating back to the early days of Route 66 when it was a bustling stop for travelers heading west. Like many towns along the route, Atlanta saw the rise and fall of America’s great road trips, but it never lost its charm or connection to the highway. Today, it’s a must-see stop for modern road trippers, known for its quirky attractions and larger-than-life figures.
Atlanta has earned the nickname “Land of the Giants” for good reason. As you cruise through town, you’ll be greeted by towering fiberglass statues, most famously the 19-foot-tall Paul Bunyan muffler man holding a hot dog. These giants are part of a growing collection that pays homage to the heyday of roadside Americana, when businesses used colossal figures to catch the eyes of travelers speeding by. Atlanta has embraced these whimsical pieces of history, blending the nostalgia of Route 66 with a playful, modern twist.
But Atlanta isn’t just about big statues. It’s a town where Route 66 history comes alive. From its historic grain elevator to the iconic clock tower to the quaint diners that still serve up classic road trip fare, Atlanta offers a perfect snapshot of the golden age of the American road trip. Whether you’re here to see the giants or soak in the history, this little Illinois town has something for every traveler looking to experience the magic of Route 66.
Atlanta, Illinois Route 66
Things to See in Atlanta, Illinois
When it comes to roadside attractions, Atlanta, Illinois, delivers in a big way. This charming town is packed with unique sights that capture the spirit of Route 66, from its iconic giants to its historic landmarks. Whether you’re here to take a selfie with Paul Bunyon or the Texaco Giant or explore the town’s rich heritage, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. In this section, we’ll dive into the must-see attractions that make Atlanta a standout stop on the Mother Road. Get ready to discover what makes this small town a giant on Route 66!
Paul Bunyon Hot Dog Muffler Man
The Paul Bunyon Hot Dog Muffler Man in Atlanta, Illinois is one of the most recognizable roadside attractions on Route 66. Visit this Tall Paul then head across the street to check out the new American Giants Museum and all the other muffler men in Atlanta.
American Giant Museum
The American Giants Museum in Atlanta, Illinois pays tribute to Muffler Men and other oversized fiberglass creations that once were a mainstay of American advertising. Stop inside to learn more about muffler men and check out the giant examples outside: the Snerd Giant, Texaco Big Friend, Phillips 66 Cowboy, Space Man, Indian Brave, and Carpet Viking.
Texaco Big Friend
The Texaco Big Friend is unique among his peers with its signature stance (one arm bet up and the other bent to the front, palm up), impressive size (24-feet tall), and standard issue Texaco uniform (a green branded jumpsuit and service cap). This roadside attraction was originally created as part of a marketing campaign for Texaco. Unfortunately, after the campaign was cut short, all of the commissioned giants were ordered to be destroyed. Luckily, though rare, at least a few were spared and today you can still find some remnants of the attractions, whether in parts or in full. But out of the original 300, only about 6 are known to exist today.
Snerd Giant
The Snerd Muffler Man was the first muffler man installed outside of the American Giants Museum in 2023. The “Mortimer Snerd” muffler man (also known as the Happy Half Wit) has a wide goofy grin on a mug reminiscent of Mad Magazine’s Alfred E. Neuman.
Phillips 66 Cowboy
This Stetson-hat-wearing, gun-slinging muffler man was created in the mid-1960s as part of Phillips 66 petroleum’s ad campaign for “the gasoline that won the west.” This one was found in Georgia by American Giants’s Joel Baker, restored by Mark Cline, and added to the American Giants Museum in 2025.
Carpet Viking
Carpet Vikings were crafted in the late 1960s to advertise Viking Carpet stores. This one originally stood in front of a store in Delmar, Maryland and is now poised next to the American Giants Museum, on loan from Benjamin and Thomas Gabrysiak of New Jersey.
Atlanta Route 66 Park
This small park takes you on a walk through time. Atlanta Route 66 Park in Atlanta, Illinois celebrates the town’s history on The Mother Road.
Atlanta Public Library & Seth Thomas Clock Tower
The Atlanta Public Library was built in 1908 and has operated continuously as a library ever since. The limestone building is unique in shape with eight sides, making it one of only a few octagonal-shaped public libraries in Illinois. Located next to the Atlanta Public Library is the Atlanta Clock Tower. The 36-foot-tall stone tower houses a 1909 Seth Thomas clock.
Atlanta Museum
The Atlanta Museum celebrates Atlanta’s history from its founding in 1853 through local artifacts and displays. The museum is housed in the 1867 Downey Building, which was originally home to the Exchange Bank and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Atlanta Route 66 Murals
In 2003 the Walldogs, an international organization of sign and mural artists, descended upon Atlanta, Illinois for a “Letter Rip on 66” gathering. Many of the Atlanta Walldog murals are still in place today. As part of this around 100 Letterheads came to Atlanta leaving behind the large outdoor murals on the sides of buildings around town.
Route 66 High-Striker Challenge
Hit the road: how far can you go? Try the Route 66 High-Striker Challenge. Test your strength to see where you land on Route 66. A mural of Route 66 stands behind a carnival high striker game. Hit the base of the strongman game to see how far you go. A little hit might get you to Atlanta but the hardest hit will get you all the way to California.
J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator & Museum
The J. H. Hawes Elevator is a historic 1903 grain elevator. Built along the railroad it was used to store locally farmed grain to be shipped out by rail. It’s the only fully restored and operational wooden grain elevator in Illinois. Take an outside, self-guided tour.
Route 66 Arcade Museum
The Route 66 Arcade Museum features original pinball and video games from the 1930s through 1970s, most of which can still be played!
Route 66 Memories Museum
A quirky museum that celebrate Route 66, car culture, and local history through memorabilia and artifacts. Look for the Rolls-Royce on display.
Shell Station Muffler Man Head
Discover this Muffler Man Head at a Shell Station in Atlanta. In a hallway leading to the restrooms and Dairy Queen Grill & Chill, you’ll find a mural celebrating the town’s highlights, featuring the Palms Grill, the smiley water tower, a Route 66 shield, and the phrase “Welcoming the World with a Smile!” But what really brings it to life is a bright red display case housing an authentic, full-sized Muffler Man head!
Where to Eat in Atlanta, Illinois
After a day of exploring Atlanta’s larger-than-life attractions, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Luckily, this Route 66 town has some great spots to refuel and get a taste of local flavors. From classic diners serving up hearty American comfort food to cozy cafes perfect for a quick bite, Atlanta offers a variety of options to satisfy any road trip hunger. In this section, we’ll guide you through the best places to grab a meal and enjoy a slice of small-town hospitality right on Route 66.
Country-Aire Restaurant
Country-Aire Restaurant in Atlanta, Illinois is a family-style restaurant located right off of Route 66. If you’ve worked up an appetite searching for some of the best muffler men on Route 66 in town, you have to stop in for delicious food and friendly service.
Before you go in, be sure to take a photo with their “You Had Me at Pie” neon selfie spot inside and look for their custom-made pie-carrying Lumi Giant Uniroyal Gal outside!
217 Roadhouse Bar and Grill
217 Roadhouse Bar and Grill is a casual neighborhood eatery that offers burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, and daily specials alongside beers, mixed drinks, and liquor.
Chubby’s Bar & Grill
Chubby’s Bar & Grill is a small-town dive bar that offers good food and service in Atlanta. Stop in for a beer or some American comfort food, like their specialty cheeseburger and fries.
Sip Shack
Sip Shack is a drive-through coffee hut offering a unique blend of unique coffees, milkshakes, refreshing drinks, and seasonal specials on the go.
Where to Stay in Atlanta, Illinois
When you’re ready to call it a night after a day of exploring Atlanta’s giants and Route 66 history, Atlanta provides lodging options that reflect the town’s welcoming spirit. In this section, we’ll explore the best spot to rest and recharge, so you can continue your Route 66 journey feeling refreshed and ready for more adventures on the open road.
Travelodge by Wyndham Route 66 Atlanta
The Travelodge by Wyndham Route 66 Atlanta (formerly The Trail Inn) is the most convenient motel to downtown Atlanta. The location allows you to stay a while in town to take in all the best attractions in the area. Plus, with a gas station right across the street, it’s easy to fuel up your car or stock up on snacks.
As you wrap up your visit to Atlanta, Illinois, it’s clear this small town is anything but ordinary. From its towering giants to its rich Route 66 history, Atlanta offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and fun for any road tripper. Whether you’re snapping photos with the famous Paul Bunyon muffler man, exploring quirky museums, or enjoying a meal at one of the local diners, you’ll leave with memories as big as the attractions themselves. Atlanta may be small, but it’s a giant stop on your Route 66 adventure.
