Photos of the Carl’s Ice Cream Muffler Man in Normal, Illinois
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to the Carl’s Ice Cream Muffler Man in Normal, Illinois, here are some things to know before you go.
What is the Carl’s Ice Cream Muffler Man?
The Carl’s Ice Cream Muffler Man is a 15-foot-tall roadside giant standing outside Carl’s Ice Cream Factory in Normal, Illinois. Named “Carl,” the fiberglass figure is a modern take on the classic Muffler Men that became popular along American highways in the 1960s. Instead of holding a muffler, Carl proudly displays an ice cream cone in one hand and a cheeseburger in the other.
Where is the Carl’s Ice Cream Muffler Man located?
Carl stands outside Carl’s Ice Cream Factory at 1700 W. College Avenue, in Normal, Illinois, just west of Historic Route 66 and near Illinois State University.
Is Carl an original Muffler Man?
No. While inspired by the classic Muffler Men produced by International Fiberglass during the roadside heyday of Route 66, Carl is a modern reproduction designed by Mark Cline of Enchanted Castle Studios in Virginia. Cline is known for creating modern fiberglass giants and quirky attractions across the United States, including Foamhenge and Dinosaur Kingdom II. This modern muffler man was built specifically for Carl’s Ice Cream Factory and customized as a soda jerk-style mascot.
What are the hours?
Because Carl stands outside, the statue can be viewed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you’d like to grab a cone while you’re there, Carl’s Ice Cream Factory is typically open daily.
Is parking available?
Parking is available in the ice cream shop’s lot.
Where to Stay Near the Carl’s Ice Cream Muffler Man
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these nearby hotels on Illinois Route 66.
Vrooman Mansion Bed and Breakfast
Vrooman Mansion Bed and Breakfast is located off Route 66 in the heart of Bloomington/Normal, Illinois. The Vrooman Mansion is a historical 1869 estate, with seven suites to choose from, all with private baths and access to beautiful common areas like the library, parlor, sitting rooms, and manicured grounds.
State House Inn
State House Inn, a landmark hotel in Springfield, Illinois, features a business center, gym, ironing service, and complimentary breakfast with a convenient location directly across the street from the Illinois State Capitol. Book a stay in one of the two themed Presidential Suites: the Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd.
Attractions Near the Carl’s Ice Cream Muffler Man on Route 66
Route 66 Experience Hub in Normal, Illinois
LOVE this muffler man! And my chocolate milkshake was delicious too!