Route 66 Experience Hubs in Illinois

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, Romeoville, Joliet, Wilmington, Dwight, Pontiac, Bloomington, Normal, Lincoln, Springfield, Carlinville, Litchfield, Edwardsville, and Chain of Rocks (Madison).

Each kiosk has three panels. One side gives you a warm “Welcome to Route 66 in Illinois,” taking you on a visual journey through the entire stretch of Route 66 in the state. The other side is split into two panels: one loaded with fun local facts and the other showcasing a map of top attractions in the area—perfect for planning your next stop!

Developed by the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway with the Federal Highway Administration, the Schmeeckle Reserve at the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point, and local Route 66 communities, these kiosks—along with Wayside Exhibits and Interpretive Statues—celebrate the rich history of Route 66. Placed in locations that hold Route 66 significance, they bring the history and stories of each stop to life. Be sure to check them out after dark too, when the displays light up, proudly showcasing the name of each host town as you roll through!

Route 66 Experience Hubs in Illinois

Explore all the Route 66 Experience Hubs below. Find the location (scroll all the way down to get an interactive map of them all!) and summaries of what you’ll find on each of the two panels. One features a slice of local history and the other a list of must-see attractions. Every kiosk features the Welcome to Route 66 in Illinois panel on one side!

Welcome to Route 66 in Illinois

Route 66, the legendary Mother Road, is a symbol of American freedom and adventure. Born in 1926, this iconic highway stretches 2,500 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, and you can still “get your kicks” today by exploring the Illinois Historic Route 66 National Scenic Byway. It all begins in downtown Chicago, winding through bustling suburbs before giving way to the rural countryside. Known as the road of escape during the Dust Bowl and the path to adventure in the ’50s and ’60s, Route 66 was more than just a highway—it was America’s Main Street. Travelers are greeted by grain elevators and prairie farmland, much like in the past, and quirky roadside attractions still beckon with promises of fun. Diners and cafes once catered to people on the move, and many of those spots still serve up hearty home-cooked meals. Historic service stations, where attendants pumped gas with a smile, can also be rediscovered today. The journey through Illinois ends at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, a scenic endpoint once used to cross the Mississippi River. Though decommissioned in 1985, the nostalgia and charm of Route 66 live on through movies, music, and memories, keeping the spirit of the Mother Road alive for generations of road trippers.

Find the Welcome to Route 66 in Illinois panel on one side of every Route 66 Experience Hub in Illinois!

Berwyn Route 66 Experience Hub

6201 W Ogden Ave, Berwyn, IL 60402

The City of Homes: Route 66 in Berwyn

Berwyn, known as the City of Homes, was already a thriving Chicago suburb when Route 66 made its debut in 1926. As motorists cruised down Ogden Avenue, they passed through a vibrant, diverse neighborhood where well-kept bungalows with gardens and manicured lawns lined the streets. Route 66 not only served as America’s highway of dreams but also as Berwyn’s bustling business strip. Home to the nation’s largest collection of Chicago-style bungalows, Berwyn was the fastest-growing town in America during the 1920s. Entire blocks were built simultaneously, with teams of carpenters and bricklayers transforming the landscape into a suburban paradise. Today, Berwyn keeps its Route 66 spirit alive with the annual Berwyn Route 66 Car Show every September, when Ogden Avenue fills with classic cars and thousands of visitors celebrating the town’s rich history and festive atmosphere.

Route 66 Attractions in the Berwyn Region

1. Castle Car Wash: This unique building served as a gas station from the 1920s to the 1970s.
2. Henry’s Drive-In: This diner has been serving classic Chicago-style hot dogs since the 1940s.
3. A Road Well Traveled: Discover how Ogden Avenue evolved from a mussy trail to a paved road.
4. Automobile Love Affair: Peel into the “car culture” at the world famous Ogden Top and Trim.
5. Cruising the Strip: Cruise Ogden Avenue and learn how it catered to the automobile.
6. Eating on the Run: Eat at the oldest White Castle on Route 66, opened in 1939.
7. Chicago Portage National Historic Site: View the “birthplace of Chicago,” a vital land connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River.
8. Hofmann Tower: Built in 1908 by a local brewer, the tower now houses the Lyons Historical Museum.
9. Steak N Egger: Originally Snuffy’s truck-stop, the diner has been serving “the best roadie food” since 1930.
10. McCook Quarry: This massive 650-acre limestone quarry has been in operation for over 100 years. A portion of Route 66 once crossed the quarry, but was closed for safety reasons.
11. This was Countryside: Discover the legacy of Countryside’s farms and quarries, including the Marx Brothers’ Chicken farm in 1917.
12. Wolf’s Head Inn: Dine in a unique restaurant surrounded by collectibles from around the world.
13. Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket: Started in a gas station by Irv Kolarik in 1939, the “secret recipe” for fried chicken has been popular for generations. Learn more about Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket on the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway’s main site.

Romeoville Route 66 Experience Hub

15701 S Independence Blvd, Romeoville, IL 60446

Traveling the Old Indian Trace: Route 66 in Romeoville

Route 66 in Romeoville has long been a vital route, even before it became part of the iconic Mother Road. What is now busy Route 53 began as an old Indian trail, eventually evolving into a carriage road that early settlers like the Fitzpatrick family relied on to transport their crops. As the era of horse-drawn carriages gave way to automobiles, the road was paved and designated Route 66 in 1926, connecting Chicago to Los Angeles. The Fitzpatrick family, who built their Greek Revival homestead from local limestone in the 1840s, once farmed over 700 acres. Their produce made its way to markets in nearby Lockport and beyond via this very road. In 1932, the Fitzpatricks donated land to the Archdiocese of Chicago, leading to the founding of what is now Lewis University. Brother James Cantwell, FSC, famously recruited students by telling them Lewis was “only three stoplights from the city” on Route 66, keeping the connection between Romeoville and the Mother Road alive.

Route 66 Attractions in the Romeoville Region

1. White Fence Farm Restaurant: In the early 1920s, this restaurant was built on a farm and became popular with Chicago suburbanites and Route 66 travelers who wanted a taste of rural Illinois. Today, you can still enjoy “the world’s greatest chicken” served family style.
2. Isle a la Cache Museum: Explore the “Island of the Hiding Place” where French voyageurs in the 1700s cached their goods for trade with Native Americans. Experience exhibits, a trader’s cabin, a Native American longhouse, and trails.
3. Fitzpatrick House: This historic building is now home to the Lewis University History Center and the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau. Stop in to learn about the area’s history or plan a trip along the I&M Canal.
4. Illinois & Michigan Canal: Built in 1848, the historic I&M Canal runs the entire length of downtown Lockport. Walk a trail that follows the original towpath, and explore the remains of Lock#1 and some of the best preserved walls along the canal.
5. The Gaylord Building /Lincoln Landing Park: Visit the 1837 Gaylord Building, built originally to store canal construction materials. The adjacent Lincoln Landing Park features interactive exhibits, sculptures, and a walking path.
6. I&M Canal Museum: Located in the original 1837 Canal Headquarters Building, the museum displays artifacts that relate to the construction and operation of the canal.
7. Norton Building / ISM Lockport Gallery: Built around 1850, this limestone structure was used to store, process, and package grain shipped on the I&M Canal. It now houses the Illinois State Museum Lockport Gallery.
8. Plainfield: Intersecting the Lincoln Highway – This historic village is one of only two places where Route 66 crosses the Lincoln Highway (the other is in Joliet). The Lincoln Highway, established in 1913, was the country’s first paved, transcontinental highway and stretched from New York to San Francisco.

Joliet Route 66 Experience Hub

215 N Ottawa St, Joliet, IL 60432

America’s Crossroads: Route 66 in Joliet

Joliet, known as “America’s Crossroads,” sits at the junction of two historic highways: Route 66 and the Lincoln Highway, the first road to span the U.S. from coast to coast. Nestled along the Des Plaines River, Joliet has long been a bustling hub where railroads, highways, and canals intersect. This vibrant city attracted a diverse mix of people who helped build America, working in its quarries, ironworks, and roadways. Today, you can still “get your kicks” by exploring Joliet’s many Route 66 attractions. Known as the “City of Steel,” Joliet gained its title with the opening of its massive steel mill in 1869, once the second largest in the country. Though the mill closed in 1932, its legacy endures as a county historic site. Joliet’s limestone quarries earned it the nickname “City of Stone,” with local stone being used to build Joliet Prison in 1858. The quarries thrived after the 1871 Chicago Fire, with Joliet shipping thousands of railcars of stone each month to rebuild the Windy City. Joliet even made its mark on pop culture in The Blues Brothers movie, where “Joliet” Jake is famously released from Joliet Prison at the start of the adventure, adding a fun connection to the town’s rich history.

Route 66 Attractions in the Joliet Region

Joliet Kicks on 66 Walking and Driving Tours
Pick up a tour brochure at the Historical Museum across the street and explore Joliet murals, sculptures, parks, and vintage gas pumps that line historic Route 66.

1. Route 66 Park: Take a stroll on a pathway that overlooks Old Joliet Prison and enjoy a cone at the Rich and Creamy.
2. Old Joliet Prison Park: Built in 1858, this ornate prison has been featured in many movies and TV Shows.
3. Joliet Iron Works: Known as the City of Steel and Stone, discover the history of iron making in Joliet on this path.
4. First Dairy Queen: The first Dairy Queen in the country opened here in 1940, and was closed by 1956. The century-old two-story brick building still stands.
5. Route 66 Experience at the Joliet Area Historical Museum: Just across the street, this is a “must-see” stop for Route 66 travelers. Hands-on exhibits immerse you in the sounds and sights of the era.
6. Rialto Square Theatre: Opened in 1926, the same year that Route 66 was designated, this elaborate theater still offers shows and tours.
7. The Children’s Garden: A community garden with many nooks and mazes for the young and young at heart to explore.
8. Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery: On the grounds of the former Joliet Army Ammunition Plant, this cemetery was dedicated in 1999.

Wilmington Route 66 Experience Hub

201 Bridge St, Wilmington, IL 60481

A Landmark That’s Out of this World! Gemini Giant

Wilmington Route 66 Experience Hub

110 Bridge St, Wilmington, IL 60481

“The Island City”: Route 66 in Wilmington

Welcome to Wilmington, “The Island City,” where you’re standing on an island surrounded by the scenic Kankakee River—a place where people have crossed for centuries. Once a winter camp for the Potawatomi Tribe, Wilmington was founded in 1834 when Thomas Cox harnessed the river’s power for a sawmill and laid out the town. From 1926 to 1939, Route 66 passed right through here. Early settlers came to Cox’s Mill to grind their wheat and corn, and the Eagle Hotel, built in 1836, provided a stopover for farmers and travelers along the stagecoach route between Chicago and Pontiac. Today, Wilmington’s most famous “citizen” is the Gemini Giant, a towering 1960s “muffler man” standing at the Launching Pad Drive-In. This quirky roadside giant, clutching a rocket ship, has become one of the most photographed attractions on Route 66, continuing to draw travelers to the Island City.

Route 66 Attractions in the Wilmington Region

1. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie: Visit the Welcome Center just 3 miles north of here to discover the largest tallgrass prairie restoration in North America.
2. Launching Pad Drive-in and Gemini Giant: This classic Route 66 drive-in opened in 1960 to serve hot dogs and ice cream. Get your photo taken with the Gemini Giant, a fiberglass “Muffler Man” holding a rocket.
3. Sinclair Dinosaur: Look on the roof of G&D Tires for this dinosaur statue, the symbol of Sinclair Oil since 1933.
4. Mar Theater: This classic movie theater has been featuring first-run films since 1937.
5. Eagle Hotel: Built as a stage stop in 1836, this hotel was already 90 years old when Route 66 was designated.
6. Polk-a-Dot Drive In: In 1962, hot dogs were served out of a bus covered in colored polk-a-dots. Don’t miss the good food and memorabilia at this 1950s style drive in.
7. Art Deco Service Station: This historic station began serving Route 66 travelers in 1939.
8. Illinois Route 66 Mining Museum: Experience the “Mother Lode” of Illinois mining history along the Mother Road.
9. Mazonia-Braidwood State Fish and Wildlife Area: This reclaimed strip mine is a great place to watch wildlife and to hunt for fossils (permit required).
10. Two-Cell Jail: Take a picture behind bars and listen to an audio message at this historic jail built in 1906.
11. Historic Streetcar Diner: This Kankakee horse drawn street car came to Gardner in 1932 to serve as a diner for Route 66 travelers.

Dwight Route 66 Experience Hub

417 W Waupansie St, Dwight IL 60420

A Memorable Village: Route 66 in Dwight

Dwight, often fondly remembered by old-timers as possibly home to the first traffic light south of Chicago, has always been a memorable stop along Route 66. Founded in 1854 as a station along the Chicago and Alton Railroad, Dwight was uniquely designed around its depot rather than a traditional town square. The village boasts numerous historic buildings that tell the tales of trains, princes, the famous Keeley Cure, and of course, the Mother Road. Just a few blocks away is historic downtown Dwight, a treasure trove of architecture worth exploring, despite being bypassed by Route 66 to avoid traffic. The 1891 Dwight Depot remains an architectural centerpiece, now housing the Dwight Historical Society Museum. Nearby, you can visit the Keeley Institute’s buildings and learn about the pioneering “cure for alcoholism” developed there. Also not to be missed is the 1905 First National Bank, the last remaining bank designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. And if you stop by Dwight’s Pioneer Gothic Church, you’ll be stepping into history—it’s the very church where the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, worshiped during his visit in 1860.

Route 66 Attractions in the Dwight Region

1. Full Service on Route 66: The Ambler-Becker Texaco Station was the longest operating service station on Route 66 from 1933 to 1999. Listen to Phil Becker describe his experiences.
2. Mom and Pop Motels: Discover the history of the Paulsen-Strufe Motel, a classic family operated motel along Route 66 from 1935 to 1994.
3. Shifting Roadways: Take a walk at Lions Lake, originally a borrow pit dug to build the Route 66 Bypass, and discover how the roadway has changed alignments over time.
4. A Well Connected Village: Don’t miss the historic architecture in downtown Dwight. Learn about the 1854 Dwight Depot and the Keeley Institute founded in 1879.
5. Dwight Windmill: Walk the Keeley Institute grounds of the Oughton Estate and visit the picturesque 5-story windmill built in 1896.
6. Odell “Subway” Tunnel: Explore the remnants of a 1937 tunnel built under busy Route 66 to allow safe crossing for school children.
7. Odell Standard Oil Gas Station: Stop and listen to the stories of this historic service station that operated on Route 66 from 1932 to 1975.
8. Cayuga “Meramec Caverns” Barn: Take a photo of this restored early highway advertising, which once lured cross-country travelers.

Pontiac Route 66 Experience Hub

110 W Howard St, Pontiac, IL 61764

A Lingering Love Affair: Route 66 in Pontiac

Pontiac has had a long and passionate love affair with Route 66, though it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster. Over the years, the road’s alignment shifted away from the city’s center four times as roadside businesses caused traffic jams, but each time, Pontiac expanded to meet it again. While I-55 eventually replaced the Mother Road, Pontiac proudly keeps the spirit of Route 66 alive. In 2009, the “Walldogs,” a group of mural artists, descended on the town, painting 18 murals in just four days, including the World’s Largest Route 66 Shield Mural. Don’t miss the 13 “Route 66 Art Cars,” kid-sized fiberglass creations painted by local artists as part of the 2010 Downtown Art Project, scattered throughout downtown Pontiac.

Route 66 Attractions in the Pontiac Region

1. The Log Cabin Inn: Grab a bite to eat while learning how this 1926 restaurant turned to face a changing Route 66.
2. A Bridge to the Past: See original 1926 bridge abutments on this restored Route 4 and Route 66 concrete bridge.
3. Patrolling “Bloody 66”: Hear stories about accidents and tragedies that occurred on “Bloody 66” at the old State Patrol Headquarters Building (1935-1942).
4. Protecting Travelers: Visit a gun shaped building that served as the District 6 State Police Headquarters from 1941 to 2003. It provided easy access for patrolling the “Hard Road.”
5. Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum: Explore thousands of artifacts and memorabilia related to Route 66 in this historic firehouse. Take a picture with the largest Route 66 shield mural.
6. An Underground Crossing: Discover the site of a “subway” tunnel built under Route 66 so Ladd School students could safely cross.
7. Historic Chenoa: Visit Historic Chenoa founded in 1856 by Matthew T. Scott, an agriculturalist and real estate developer. You can tour the family’s historic home by appointment. The Chenoa Pharmacy, formerly Schuirman’s Drug Store, was founded in 1889.
8. Memory Lane: Take a one mile stroll on this original 1926 stretch of Route 66. Enjoy classic billboards, Burma shave signs, and an original tool wagon used during the construction of Illinois Route 6, which became Route 66.
9. Lexington Neon Sign and Filling Station Restaurant: Lexington’s restored neon sign pointed the way to downtown since the 1940s. Stop in for a bite at the Filling Station Cafe, which has served Route 66 travelers since the 1940s.
10. A Geographical Journey Parkway: Discover the legacy of Route 66 on this 1.6 mile stretch of abandoned 1954 pavement in Towanda. View Burma Shave signs, learn about every state along the Mother Road, and experience local features such as Dead Man’s Curve.

Bloomington-Normal Route 66 Experience Hub

301 N Main St, Bloomington, IL 61701
305 Pine St, Normal, IL 61761

Serving the Route 66 Traveler: Route 66 in Normal-Bloomington

In the twin cities of Normal and Bloomington, Route 66 travelers found all they needed to keep moving along the Mother Road. When Route 66 first emerged, businesses popped up to serve motorists with basic gas pumps outside stores, but soon evolved to include canopy roofs and eye-catching architecture to lure the growing number of road trippers. You’re standing near one such gem—Sprague’s Super Service, built in 1931 in the charming Tudor Revival style to blend in with the neighborhood while offering gas, mechanical service, and home-cooked meals. In the mid-1930s, oil companies hired top architects to design modern service stations, like the streamlined Texaco stations crafted by Walter Dorwin Teague. One such station, Quinn’s Texaco, opened in 1941 on Main Street in Bloomington. By the 1950s, Mom and Pop businesses like Streid’s, with its “Streamlined Spanish” style, offered one-stop services—gas, food, and a place to sleep as Route 66 followed the Beltline. And let’s not forget the legendary Steak ‘n Shake! Gus Belt turned his Shell gas station on Main Street in Normal into a restaurant in 1934, serving up his famous Steakburger. While the original building now houses a pizza restaurant, over 500 Steak ‘n Shake locations across the country keep that Route 66 legacy alive.

Route 66 Attractions in the Normal – Bloomington Region

1. Sprague’s Super Service: You are standing next to the only two-story Tudor Revival service station on Route 66, built in 1931. A wayside exhibit tells the story.
2. Normal Theater: The Art Deco style theater, built in 1937, has been completely restored. Enjoy classic films, live theater, and music.
3. David Davis Museum: David Davis, a U.S. Supreme Court Justice appointed by his friend and fellow circuit rider Abraham Lincoln, built this Victorian home in 1872. Open for tours.
4. McLean Country Museum of History: Housed in the 1900 McLean Country Courthouse, experience the history of this region through award-winning exhibits. A Route 66 wayside exhibit interprets “Bloody 66” and the rise of insurance companies in Bloomington.
5. Funk Prairie Home: Visit the restored 1864 home of Lafayette Funk, co-founder and director of the Chicago Union Stockyards and an Illinois State Senator. The Funk Gem and Mineral Museum is also located on the grounds. Open for tours.
6. Walker Store and Historic Depot: The Walker Store was a true general store. From 1921 to 1973, it sold a bit of everything including gas. Across the road is an abandoned historic depot that was mover here from Shirley.
7. Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup: The Funk family has been making and selling maple sirup since 1891. Pick up a sample for the road!
8. Funks Grove Church and Cemetery: Enjoy sanctuary-like peace beneath the giant maples at the Funks Grove Church (1864) and Cemetery.
9. Sugar Grove Nature Center: Visit the largest remaining intact prairie grove in Illinois. The nature center offers exhibits, live animals, trails, and programs.
10. Dixie Truck Stop: Opened in 1928 to serve Route 66 Truckers and travelers, it has only been closed one day due to fire in 1965.

Lincoln Route 66 Experience Hub

123 N Kickapoo St, Lincoln, IL 62656

Touring the Heart of Lincoln Country: Route 66 in Logan County

As Route 66 winds through Logan County, it takes you right through the heart of Abraham Lincoln country. This “hard road” once connected rural farms and became a vital artery for towns that used to rely on the railroad, with motels, diners, and service stations springing up to cater to travelers. Route 66 closely followed the path of the Chicago and Alton Railroad, which spurred the growth of small towns like Lincoln, Atlanta, and Elkhart in the mid-1800s. When the Mother Road was established in 1926, businesses shifted their attention from the railroad to the highway. And let’s not forget—Abe was here! Lincoln, Illinois, holds the distinction of being the only town named for Abraham Lincoln before he became president. He even practiced law in Logan County and helped plat the town, famously christening it with watermelon juice in 1853.

Route 66 Attractions in the Lincoln Region

1. Old Route 66 Alignment: Walk on original concrete pavement laid in 1922 for Illinois State Road 4, which later became Route 66.
2. Bunyon’s Statue: Get your photo taken with this fiberglass giant “Muffler Man,” an icon on Illinois Route 66 since 1965. He moved from Cicero to Atlanta in 2003.
3. Palm’s Grill Cafe: Operating from 1934 to the late 1960s, the cafe was restored and reopened in 2009. Enjoy a home-cooked meal while discovering Atlanta’s history.
4. Route 66 Park and Mural: Have a picnic in the park and celebrate Atlanta’s location midway on Illinois Route 66. Listen to an Atlanta resident recall his experience at the Palm’s Gill Cafe, which once served as a bus stop. Visit the Illinois Route 66 Wayside Exhibit inside the park.
5. Hawes Grain Elevator Museum: Schedule a tour through the only restored wooden grain elevator in Illinois.
6. Lincoln Heritage Museum at Lincoln College: Discover rare Abe Lincoln artifacts.
7. Lincoln Christening Site: Abe Lincoln christened the town in 1853 by squeezing the juice of a watermelon.
8. Logan County Courthouse: See grand architecture and art in a historic downtown shopping district.
9. Postville Courthouse: A replica of the building where Abraham Lincoln practiced law from 1840-1848. Also visit the 1848 Mt. Pulaski Courthouse where Lincoln tried cases, 12 miles southeast near the intersection of Routes 121 and 54.
10. The Mill Restaurant: From 1929 to 1996, this was a popular stop along Route 66, famous for its schnitzel.
11. Lincoln City Hall: Look up on the roof of this 1895 brick building to see the famous storm spotter’s telephone booth.
12. World’s Largest Covered Wagon: Built in 2001, this wagon holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest covered wagon.
13. Ghost Bridge: Ruins of a concrete Route 66 bridge over Salt Creek, Now closed to the public.

Springfield Route 66 Experience Hub

2935 S 6th St, Springfield, IL 62703

Metropolis on the Prairiey: Route 66 in Springfield

Springfield, Illinois, the “Metropolis on the Prairie,” has been a beloved stop on Route 66, where travelers were greeted by a dazzling display of neon signs advertising local delights like Cozy Dogs, Mel-O-Cream Donuts, and the iconic Horseshoe Sandwich. Motels along the Mother Road thrived, offering everything from southwestern adobe-style accommodations to space-age designs inspired by Sputnik, complete with playgrounds, pools, and color TV. Hungry motorists could dive into a Horseshoe Sandwich—layers of bread, ham or hamburger patties, fries, and cheese sauce—or grab a Cozy Dog, the original hot dog on a stick, first served in 1946 at Lake Springfield. And no stop in Springfield is complete without a fresh Mel-O-Cream donut, a local favorite since 1932. Whether for the food or to walk in the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield has always drawn Route 66 travelers with its charm and history.

Route 66 Attractions in the Springfield Region

1. Williamsville Historical Museum: Housed in a historic depot and two authentic railway boxcars, the museum offers photos and stories of the time Route 66 passed through town.
2. Route 66 Memorial Rest Area: Stretch your legs at this original preserved rest area along Route 66.
3. Carpenter Park Old Pavement: Walk on original Route 66 pavement past bluffs to the Sangamon River.
4. Illinois State Police Museum: View vintage cars, uniforms, and other artifacts in honor of those who patrolled the original “Hard Road” since 1922.
5. Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site
6. Shea’s Gas Station Museum: A favorite stop along Route 66, this private museum is an incredible collection of gas station memorabilia. Be sure the talk with Bill Shea, who has worked along Route 66 for over fifty years.
7. Maid Rite Sandwich Shop: Grab a tasty sandwich at one of the country’s oldest drive-ins dating to 1924. Order a the first drive-up window in America.
8. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
9. Lincoln Home National Historic Site
10. Lauterbach Giant: Snap a photo with this patriotic “muffler man” in the parking lot of Lauterbach Tire and Auto Service.
11. Knights Action Park: Started as a golf driving range along Route 66 in 1930, this has grown into a popular family amusement park. A Route 66 Twin Drive-in theater shows movies in season.
12. Cozy Dog Drive In: Enjoy the original “hot dog on a stick” created by Ed Waldmire, Jr. in 1946. This classic Drive in is a shrine to all things Route 66.
13. Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center: Originally a classic Holiday Inn along the old highway, the hotel today features a Route 66 theme, “mini museum” and the Filling Station Bar and Grill.
14. The Curve Inn: Opened in 1945, the public was served in the main tavern area, while “special” customers could ring a buzzer for the gambling and prostitution parlor on the upper floor.
15. Road Under Lake Springfield: When Lake Springfield filled in 1933, a portion of Route 66 was flooded. High on original pavement to see where it dips below the water.
16. Chatham Railroad Museum: Built in 1902 the depot museum features displays that interpret the railroad history of the region.
17. Sugar Creek Covered Bridge: Take a short detour off of Route 66 and have a picnic next to this restored 1880 bridge.

Carlinville Route 66 Experience Hub

550 N Broad St, Carlinville, IL 62626

Historical Treasure Trove: Route 66 in Carlinville

Carlinville, Illinois, is a historical gem along Route 66, known for its rich architecture and fascinating past. Just a few blocks from here, you’ll find the only round-about square on the old Mother Road, surrounded by landmarks like the Loomis House Hotel, the “Million Dollar” Courthouse, and the quirky “Cannonball” Jail. The Macoupin County Courthouse, started in 1867, ballooned from a $50,000 project to over $1.3 million, earning its famous nickname. Carlinville also boasts the world’s largest collection of Sears Catalog homes, built for mine workers in 1917, with 152 of the original 156 still standing today. During Prohibition, the town’s lore includes rumored visits from Al Capone to the Ortic Inn, a nearby bootlegger hideout. Carlinville’s storied past and architectural treasures make it a must-see stop on Route 66.

Route 66 Attractions in the Carlinville Region

1. Auburn Historic Brick Road: Drive this scenic 1.5 mile section of brick pavement, laid in 1932 after Route 66 was moved to the east.
2. Battle of Virden Memorial: Visit the Route 66 wayside exhibit and listen as a local historian brings this 1898 conflict between miners and coal companies to life.
3. Post Office Mural: Stop by the Virden post office to view a mural called “Illinois Pastoral” painted in 1939 by James Daugherty.
4. Whirl-a-Whip Drive-In: This classic family-owned 1950s diner offers lunch and 50 flavors of ice cream.
5. Doc’s Soda Fountain and Deck’s Drug Store: Enjoy lunch and old fashioned treats, while exploring an 1884 drug store owned by three generations of the Deck Family.
6. Nilwood Turkey Tracks: When this concrete was poured prior to its 1926 Route 66 designation, turkeys left their footprints.
7. Standard Edition – Sears Catalog Homes: The largest collection of Sears Catalog Homes in the country, these were built in 1918 by the Standard Oil Company for its mine workers.
8. Historic Carlinville Square: Explore historic building in the Carlinville Square, like the 1870 Loomis House. A Route 66 wayside exhibit shows photos of the square over time and plays a song that celebrates the city. Learn more about Carlinville’s Square on the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway website.
9. Macoupin County Courthouse: This historic 1970 building is one of the largest and most elegant courthouses in the country. Known as the ” Million Dollar Courthouse,” it took 40 years to pay it off.
10. Macoupin County Historic Jail: Built in 1869, this fortress-like jail was built with cannonballs embedded into its walls to prevent jail breaks. It operated until 1988, and at one time held 33 prisoners.

Litchfield Route 66 Experience Hub

718 Old Rte 66 N, Litchfield, IL 62056

“Drive In” and Enjoy: Route 66 in Litchfield

Litchfield, Illinois, was a lively stop along Route 66, with neon signs lighting the way for travelers to pause at its service stations, hotels, and diners. Locals, too, were a part of the bustling activity—farmers would rise early to transport cattle to the East St. Louis Stockyards, and residents gathered in cozy cafes to exchange the latest news. Two iconic Route 66 landmarks still preserve that sense of community and nostalgia:

The Ariston Cafe, established in 1935, is one of the oldest continually operating restaurants on Route 66. Travelers and locals alike have enjoyed meals here, drawn in by its warm neon glow.

Just north of town, the Sky View Drive-In has been a beloved fixture since 1950. It’s the last original Route 66 drive-in theater in Illinois, where visitors can still catch a movie under the stars. Litchfield’s Route 66 history lives on through these classic spots, inviting new generations to experience the charm of the Mother Road.

Route 66 Attractions in the Litchfield Region

1. Art’s Cafe and Motel: Grab a meal or stay for the night; Art’s has been in business since 1937.
2. Our Lady of the Highways: Built in 1959, this shrine was created to remind motorists that the road could be a dangerous place.
3. Sky View Drive-In: Watch a movie at the last continuously operating drive-in theater on Illinois Route 66, first opened in 1950.
4. Niehaus Cycle Sales: A Route 66 themed cycle shop that has been operating on the Mother Road for more than 40 years.
5. Ariston Cafe: In business since 1924, enjoy an excellent meal at the oldest operating cafe on Route 66.
6. “Vic” Suhling Sign: Snap a photo of this classic symbol of a Route 66 service station, across the road from the Ariston.
7. Belevidere Cafe and Motel: See a vintage cafe and motel that served motorists beginning in the mid-1930s (now closed).
8. Union Miners Cemetery and Mother Jones Monument: Burial site of miners killed in the Virden Mine Riot and Mother Jones, a fierce advocate of labor rights.
9. Soulsby Service Station: Opened in 1926, explore one of the oldest service stations still standing on Route 66.
10. Henry’s Ra66it Ranch: Pet a rabbit while you explore this emporium of Route 66 highway and trucking memorabilia.
11. DeCamp Junction Roadhouse: Drop in for a drink or meal at this historic tavern, a popular stop since 1931.
12. Pink Elephant Antiques: Experience an antique mall that sports larger than life sculptures inside and out,
13. Weezy’s Bar and Grill: Originally called “Tourist Haven,” this restaurant has been serving Route 66 truckers and travelers since 1937. Visit the exhibit across the street to hear a waitress share her memories.

Edwardsville Route 66 Experience Hub

632 W Schwarz St, Edwardsville, IL 62025

Madison County Seat: Route 66 in Edwardsville

Edwardsville has been a welcoming stop for Route 66 travelers since 1926, offering food, service, and a dash of local history. Along the way, travelers passed by Cathcart’s Cafe, the Hi-Way Tavern & Cafe, and the Bohm Building. One highlight, the 16-foot Madison County Centennial Monument outside the Carnegie Library, showcases four figures symbolizing Learning, Justice, Plenty, and Virtue. For decades, visitors also enjoyed free concerts at City Park. The Cathcart/Goddard Tourist Home and 24-hour cafe next door became iconic stops for road trippers looking for “coast-to-coast” hospitality along the Mother Road.

Route 66 Attractions in the Edwardsville Region

1. Halley’s Cash Market: From 1927 through 1972, Halley’s offered groceries and snacks to travelers.
2. Madison County Centennial Monument: Erected in 1912 this restored marble sculpture commemorates the founding of Madison County in 1812.
3. Wildey Theatre: Built as an opera house in 1909, the restored theater serves as a preforming arts destination.
4. West End Service Station: Built in 1922, this station featured Mobil gas, car washes, and cold sodas. Today, the building serves as a dental office.
5. Coles Monument: Anti-slavery Illinois governor Edward Coles is honored with a monument in Valley View Cemetery.
6. Luna Cafe: Grab a bite to eat at the historic Luna Cafe. Built in 1924 it is rumored to have been a gangster hangout, with gambling in the basement and a brothel upstairs.
7. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge: At the scenic endpoint of Route 66 in Illinois, walk over this 1929 bridge with a unique 22-degree bend in the middle.
8. Brooks Catsup Water Tower: Visit the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle, 170 feet tall, built in 1949 for the bottlers of Brooks Catsup.
9. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site: Discover the largest Pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chain of Rocks Route 66 Experience Hub

4205-4207 Chain of Rocks Rd, Granite City, IL 62040

Gateway to the West: Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, stretching a “mile long” across the Mississippi, was an unforgettable Route 66 crossing from 1936 to 1965. With its famous 22-degree bend and the unique underwater rock formations that gave the bridge its name, this crossing became a bucket-list experience for Mother Road travelers. Lined by 400 elm trees on the Illinois side, the approach was as scenic as the bridge itself, with brightly lit motels and restaurants ready to welcome weary road trippers. Today, you can walk or bike across this historic bridge—now one of the longest pedestrian crossings—reviving a bit of Route 66 magic along the way.

Route 66 Bridges: Crossing the Mississippi

Over its 50-year history, Route 66 crossed the Mississippi River at five different locations, adapting to increasing traffic with larger and safer bridges.

• McKinley Bridge (1926-1929): Opened in 1910 as a toll bridge, the McKinley Bridge features the “Salute to Steel” sculpture at McKinley Bridge Roadside Park, which interprets the region’s history. It remains open for traffic and has a pedestrian lane.
• MacArthur/Municipal “Free” Bridge (1929-1935): Although built in 1909, this bridge opened to traffic in 1927 due to funding delays. It was closed to cars in 1981 but continues to serve trains.
• Old Chain of Rocks Bridge (1936-1955): This private toll bridge opened in 1929 and became a Route 66 crossing for 30 years, the longest of any bridge. It was closed in 1967 with the construction of the New Chain of Rocks Bridge to the north.
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Bridge (1950-1967): Originally named the Veterans Memorial Bridge, it opened as a toll bridge in 1951 and currently carries Interstate Highway traffic.
• Poplar Street Bridge (1967-1977): The last bridge crossed by Route 66, it opened in 1967 and still accommodates Interstate Highway traffic. It spans the south end of “Bloody Island,” known for its historical duels.

Map of Route 66 Experience Hubs in Illinois

Get ready to hit the road with our handy map of Route 66 Experience Hubs in Illinois! This guide will lead you to all experience hubs and wayside exhibits in Illinois.