Before Route 66 stretches west toward wide-open deserts and Pacific sunsets, it eases you into the adventure right here in Illinois. This is where the Mother Road officially begins (at least if you’re heading west), and it sets the tone for everything that follows: historic pavement, oversized roadside icons, comfort food classics, and plenty of …
When most people think of the Illinois stretch of Route 66, they picture the towering skyscrapers of Chicago, the classic small towns that dot the prairie, and the long, open miles heading southwest toward St. Louis. But there’s another part of the Mother Road that’s just as iconic as the signs, the neon, and the …
Nestled in southern Illinois, Hamel is a small town with a big connection to Route 66. Located just northeast of St. Louis, this historic pit stop has been welcoming travelers for decades, offering a mix of classic roadside attractions, nostalgic eats, and unique landmarks that make it a must-visit destination on any Route 66 road …
Spanning just over 300 miles from Chicago to the Mississippi River, Illinois’ stretch of Route 66 is packed with history, nostalgia, and roadside charm. While you could technically drive it in a single day, dedicating four days to the journey allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience rather than rushing from one stop …
Illinois is more than just the starting point of Route 66, it’s a treasure trove of iconic eats that tell the story of the Land of Lincoln through every bite. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the rolling farmland of downstate Illinois, the Mother Road serves up a smorgasbord of flavors that will leave …
When it comes to classic American road trip food, Springfield, Illinois, delivers in spades. Located right on historic Route 66, this vibrant city is a haven for travelers craving a taste of nostalgia and culinary tradition. From quirky roadside diners to long-standing local institutions, Springfield’s food scene reflects the heart and soul of the Mother …
Embarking on Route 66 is an adventure filled with roadside nostalgia, quirky attractions, and miles of open road. But before you roll onto the Mother Road, there’s no better place to fuel up than Chicago—a city celebrated for its rich culinary tapestry and iconic dishes. Chicago isn’t just a starting point for Route 66, it’s …
The Route 66 Experience Hubs in Illinois are a must-see for any road tripper cruising along the Mother Road. Standing at 9 feet tall, these custom-made kiosks offer an in-depth look at the unique communities and local attractions that make Route 66 in Illinois so special. You’ll spot these towering signposts in towns like Berwyn, …
As you roll down the Mother Road in Illinois, be sure to pull over and soak up some local history. The Illinois Route 66 Wayside Exhibits dot the highway from Chicago to St. Louis, offering bite-sized stories about the towns, people, places, and quirky history that give America’s Main Street its character. Originally you’d find …
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 …
Join our email list to receive Route 66 road trip planning inspiration in your inbox. Sign up now and get a free copy of our printable Route 66 Checklist e-book full of all the must-see attractions add to your road trip itinerary!
