Photos of the Shell Station Muffler Man Head in Atlanta, Illinois
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to the Shell Station Muffler Man Head in Atlanta, Illinois, here are some things to know before you go.
What is the Shell Station Muffler Man Head?
The Shell Station Muffler Man Head is a giant fiberglass Muffler Man head displayed inside a gas station in Atlanta, Illinois. The oversized head is a remnant of one of America’s iconic roadside advertising figures, known as Muffler Men, which were built during the 1960s and 1970s to attract motorists to businesses along highways such as Route 66.
Where is the Shell Station Muffler Man Head located?
Find this muffler man head inside the Roady’s Atlanta Travel Center (102 Empire St, Atlanta, IL 61723) next to the bathrooms between the convenience store and the Dairy Queen Grill & Chill.
What is a muffler man?
Muffler Man is the nickname given to a series of giant fiberglass advertising figures—usually between 18 and 25 feet tall—that popped up along America’s highways in the 1960s. Originally created by International Fiberglass in California, these oversized icons were built to grab the attention of passing motorists.
You’ll find several of these towering legends standing tall along the Mother Road from Illinois to California. Each one has its own name, theme, and story. Find a full list of Route 66 Muffler Men here.
What other muffler men can you see in Atlanta, Illinois?
Atlanta, Illinois, is one of the Land of the Giants on Route 66 where you can see an impressive cluster of muffler men all in one place.
It started with the Paul Bunyon Hot Dog Muffler Man and has grown from there. When in town, visit the American Giants Museum to see a Texaco Big Friend alongside a Cowboy, a Viking, a Space Man, a Snerd, and a Indian Brave. Also, look for the Lumi the Pie Lady Uniroyal Gal.
Where to Stay Near the Shell Station Muffler Man Head
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these nearby hotels on Illinois Route 66.
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.
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 Shell Station Muffler Man Head on Route 66
Paul Bunyon Hot Dog Muffler Man in Atlanta, Illinois
Snerd Giant in Atlanta, Illinois
This one is definitely a hidden gem! If you need to pull over for gas or a snack stop here and check it out before heading into Atlanta to see all the sites!