admin Route 66 In Illinois Map
Route 66 is a historic highway that spans across eight states in the United States, and Illinois is one of the states that this famous road passes through. This iconic highway is known for its American history, breathtaking natural scenery, and vibrant culture. If you are planning a trip to Illinois, a visit to Route 66 should be on your itinerary. In this travel guide, we will explore the best attractions and activities along this famous route.
Top Attractions
Illinois is home to some of the most iconic landmarks and attractions along Route 66. One of the must-visit places is the famous Gemini Giant in Wilmington, a 30-foot-tall statue of an astronaut holding a rocket. Another popular landmark is the historic Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, which showcases the history of the road. You can also visit the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge, a unique bridge that crosses the Mississippi River.
Hidden Gems
While the iconic landmarks are a must-visit, there are also some hidden gems along Route 66 that you shouldn’t miss. One of these is the Ariston Cafe in Litchfield, which is one of the oldest restaurants along the route. Another hidden gem is the Shea’s Gas Station Museum in Springfield, which is a restored gas station from the 1920s. You can also visit the Funk Prairie Home Museum, a historic home that showcases the life of a farming family during the early 1900s.
Food Scene
Illinois is known for its delicious food, and the food scene along Route 66 is no exception. You can find some of the best classic American diners along the route, such as the Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, which is famous for its hot dogs on a stick. You can also try some of the best barbecue in the state at the Route 66 Smokehouse in Springfield. For a sweet treat, don’t miss the pie at the Ariston Cafe in Litchfield.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling along Route 66 doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly options along the route. Instead of staying at expensive hotels, consider camping at one of the state parks along the route. You can also save money by packing your own food and having a picnic at one of the scenic spots along the road. Visiting the museums and attractions during the weekdays can also save you money on admission fees.
Outdoor Adventures
Illinois is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery, and Route 66 passes through some of the best outdoor destinations in the state. You can go hiking, fishing, and camping at the Chain O’Lakes State Park in Spring Grove. The Lincoln Trail State Park in Marshall offers scenic trails for hiking and biking. You can also go on a scenic drive through the Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois.
Historical Landmarks
Route 66 is known for its rich history, and Illinois is home to some of the most significant landmarks along the route. The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is a historic bridge that crosses the Mississippi River, and it played a significant role in the history of the road. You can also visit the historic Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, which was the home of Abraham Lincoln and his family. The Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac is also a must-visit for history buffs.
Family-Friendly Activities
Route 66 is a fun road trip destination for families, and there are plenty of family-friendly activities along the route in Illinois. The Children’s Discovery Museum in Normal is a hands-on museum that is perfect for kids of all ages. You can also go on a safari at the Scovill Zoo in Decatur or visit the Route 66 Drive-In Theater in Springfield for a classic movie experience.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you are looking for a unique experience along Route 66 in Illinois, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path attractions to explore. The Pink Elephant Antique Mall in Livingston is a quirky antique mall that is home to a giant pink elephant statue. You can also visit the Funk’s Grove Maple Sirup, which is a historic maple syrup farm that has been in operation since the 1820s. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Sinclair Gas Station in Mount Olive, which is a restored gas station from the 1930s.
Natural Wonders
Illinois is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders along Route 66. The Garden of the Gods in Southern Illinois is a breathtaking rock formation that offers stunning views of the Shawnee National Forest. The Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden in Springfield is a beautiful botanical garden that is perfect for a peaceful stroll. You can also explore the Starved Rock State Park in Utica, which offers scenic hiking trails and waterfalls.
Vibrant Nightlife
Route 66 in Illinois offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and live music venues to explore. Springfield is a great place to start, with plenty of bars and restaurants that offer live music and entertainment. You can also visit the Redbird Arena in Normal, which hosts concerts and other events throughout the year. The Blueberry Hill in Edwardsville is also a must-visit for music lovers, with live music every night.
Local Markets
Route 66 in Illinois is home to some of the best local markets, where you can find unique souvenirs, fresh produce, and handmade crafts. The Old Capitol Farmers Market in Springfield is a popular market that is open from May to October. You can also visit the Bloomington Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce and handmade crafts from local vendors. The Pontiac Farmers Market is also a must-visit, with fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
While Illinois may not be known for its beaches and mountains, there are still some great destinations along Route 66 that offer stunning views of both. The Lake Michigan shoreline in Chicago offers sandy beaches and breathtaking views of the city skyline. You can also visit the Mississippi Palisades State Park in Savanna, which offers scenic views of the Mississippi River and bluffs. The Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois is also a great destination for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the state.
Cultural Immersion
Route 66 in Illinois offers plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion, with museums, art galleries, and cultural sites to explore. The Illinois State Museum in Springfield offers exhibits on Illinois history, culture, and natural resources. The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie offers exhibits and educational programs on the Holocaust and human rights. You can also visit the Chicago Cultural Center, which offers free cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
Art and Music Scene
Illinois is known for its vibrant art and music scene, and Route 66 is no exception. You can explore the Art Institute of Chicago, which is home to one of the largest art collections in the country. The Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac also offers exhibits on the history of Route 66 and its impact on American culture. You can also explore the music scene in Chicago, with plenty of live music venues and festivals throughout the year.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the history and culture of Route 66 in Illinois. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield offers guided tours that explore the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln. You can also take a self-guided tour of the historic Route 66 in Pontiac, which offers information on the history of the road and its impact on American culture. The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park also offers guided tours that explore the life and work of the famous architect.
Architectural Marvels
Illinois is home to some of the most iconic architectural marvels along Route 66. The Willis Tower in Chicago, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is one of the tallest buildings in the world and offers stunning views of the city skyline. The Dana-Thomas House in Springfield is a beautiful example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie School architecture. You can also visit the historic Old State Capitol in Springfield, which was the seat of Illinois government from 1839 to 1876.
Historical Sites
Route 66 in Illinois is home to some of the most significant historical sites in the state. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield offers exhibits and artifacts that explore the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln. The Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site in Springfield is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln and his family. The Old State Capitol in Springfield is also a must-visit, as it was the site of many important events in Illinois history.
Biking Routes
If you enjoy biking, there are plenty of scenic routes along Route 66 in Illinois. The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge Trail in Madison County is a 10-mile paved trail that crosses the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape. The Route 66 Trail in Normal is a 12-mile paved trail that follows the old Route 66 roadbed and offers scenic views of the countryside. The I&M Canal State Trail in Utica is a 61.5