Illinois may be the starting point of the Mother Road, but don't let that fool you — this stretch of Route 66 is packed with history, roadside charm, and unforgettable stops that set the tone for the entire journey west. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned road warrior, here are the best places to visit on Route 66 in Illinois.
1. Chicago – Where It All Begins
The official eastern terminus of Route 66 starts at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Adams Street in the heart of Chicago. Snap a photo at the historic sign, explore Millennium Park, and fuel up before hitting the open road. The city's energy is a perfect launchpad for the adventure ahead.
2. Joliet – Blues Brothers Country
Just 30 miles southwest of Chicago, Joliet is famous for its connection to the Blues Brothers film and its stunning Rialto Square Theatre. Don't miss the Route 66 Welcome Center, which is packed with maps, memorabilia, and friendly locals eager to point you in the right direction.
3. Dwight – A Glimpse of Old America
The charming town of Dwight is home to the beautifully restored Ambler's Texaco Gas Station, one of the oldest surviving gas stations on Route 66. It's a postcard-perfect photo stop that captures the spirit of mid-century America.
4. Pontiac – The Route 66 Hall of Fame
Pontiac is a must-stop on the Illinois stretch. The Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum is free to visit and brimming with artifacts, vintage cars, and stories from the road. The downtown murals are equally impressive — it's one of the most photogenic towns on the entire route.
5. Atlanta – Paul Bunyan's New Home
The tiny town of Atlanta punches way above its weight. It's home to the iconic Tall Paul statue — a giant figure holding a hot dog — relocated from Chicago and now a beloved roadside attraction. The Atlanta Public Library Museum is also worth a stop.
6. Springfield – Lincoln Land
Illinois's capital city is rich in Abraham Lincoln history and Route 66 nostalgia. Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, walk the historic downtown, and grab a horseshoe sandwich — a Springfield original. The Cozy Dog Drive In, birthplace of the corn dog on a stick, is a Route 66 institution.
7. Litchfield – Neon and Nostalgia
Litchfield is home to the Ariston Café, one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants on Route 66, open since 1935. The neon sign alone is worth the stop. Grab a bite and soak in the golden-era atmosphere before heading further south.
8. Staunton – Henry's Ra66it Ranch
This quirky roadside attraction near Staunton is a labor of love — a collection of vintage Volkswagen Beetles, Route 66 memorabilia, and an always-welcoming owner who embodies the spirit of the road. It's the kind of stop that makes Route 66 special.
9. Collinsville – The World's Largest Catsup Bottle
Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like. The Brooks Catsup Bottle Water Tower stands 170 feet tall and has been delighting travelers since 1949. It's quirky, it's iconic, and it's Route 66 at its finest.
10. East St. Louis – Gateway to the West
The Illinois stretch of Route 66 ends as you cross into Missouri via the McKinley Bridge or Veterans Memorial Bridge with sweeping views of the Gateway Arch. It's a fitting farewell to a state that gave the Mother Road its start.
Plan Your Illinois Route 66 Adventure
Ready to hit the road? Our Route 66 Centennial Calendar is the perfect travel companion — featuring stunning photography, key dates, and inspiration for every mile of the journey. Shop the calendar here and keep the spirit of Route 66 with you all year long.
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Happy travels — and remember, it's not about the destination, it's about the road.