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Route 66 Experiences Attractions

"A Geographical Journey" Parkway
A 1.6 mile stretch of Route 66 (an abandoned lane of the 1954 four-lane alignment) with educational kiosks that interpret each state along the road. The walking tour has fliers printed in several languages for international tourists and a collection of Burma Shave signs. It was created by volunteers from Towanda with students and teachers from the Normal Community High School. Hours: Year-Round.

"Atlanta: Midway on Illinois' Mother Road" Mural
Located inside the Route 66 Park, the mural celebrates Atlanta's location approximately 150 miles from both Chicago and St. Louis. The 20'x6' mural was designed by Bill Diaz of Pontiac, Illinois. It was completed in June, 2003 by the Letterheads.

"Joliet Kicks on 66" Tours
phone: 877-4-JOLIET web: www.jolietkicks.com Route 66 themed murals, sculptures, mosaics and antique replica gas pumps are found throughout Joliet's New City Center. These and other downtown attractions are part of the Joliet Kicks on 66 driving and walking tours. Visit the jolietkicks.com website for tour information. Hours: Year-Round.

"Route 66 Experience:" Joliet Area Historical Museum
201 N. Ottawa Street, Joliet Illinois web: www.jolietmuseum.org This "must stop" for Route 66 tourists celebrates the themes and experiences of the people who settled the Joliet area, including a Route 66 Welcome Center, exhibit gallery, discovery room, gift shop, cafe and auditorium. A prominent Route 66 sculpture is outside. It is located at the "Crossroads of America" where Route 66 and Lincoln Highway intersected. Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 am - 5 pm. Sunday Noon - 5 pm.

1910 Railroad Viaduct

between Western Avenue and Rockwell Street As the only crossing of the multiple tracks, the viaduct between Western Avenue and Rockwell Street dictated that Route 66 follow this corridor. This grey concrete monolith appears old and utilitarian. Its appearance defies the importance it had in channeling Route 66 through Chicago.

Abandoned Brick Road Curve
An abandoned curve of the 1930-1933 Route 66 alignment that is still paved in bricks. It is currently on private property on North Cotton Hill Road.

Abandoned Pavement under Lake Springfield
From 1930-1933, Route 66 followed North Cotton Hill Road. In 1933, Lake Springfield was created by damming Sugar Creek, and the water level rose to cover a large segment of the highway. Route 66 was moved to the current location of I-55 to cross the lake. Old pavement still leads through the woods here to where the road disappears under the lake.

Abandoned Route 66 Pavement, Lincoln
1905 N. Kickapoo St. Lincoln, IL 62656 A small stretch of original Route 66 alignment pavement, located behind a car dealership, once connected with a curve to the north. It is now used by the auto lot to park cars.

Abandoned Snake Bridge/"Schuster" Bridge over Lick Creek
The 1926-1930 alignment of Route 66 (old Route 4) traveled over this bridge. It was abandoned when IL-4 was rerouted. Under the bridge lives the harmless Kirtland's snake (Clonophis kirtlandii), which is an endangered and protected species.

Ace Sign Company
402 N. 4th Street, Springfield Illinois phone: 217-522-8417. Established in 1940, this business constructed many of the classic neon signs that advertised businesses throughout Springfield. Joe Bringuet (father) and Dennis Bringuet (son) currently run the business. A large number of vintage signs from Springfield are stored in the company's warehouse. Hours: Tours by appointment to view the collection of classic signs.

Ambler-Becker Texaco Gas Station
417 W. Waupansie Street, Dwight Illinois 60420 web: www.il66redcarpetcorridor.org/dwight.html This historic 1933 filling station is identified as the longest operating gas station along Route 66. It dispensed fuel for 66 continuous years until 1999. Ambler's was the subject of major restoration work from 2005-2007, and reopened as a Route 66 visitor center in May, 2007. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. It features a digital audio player for visitors when the building is closed. Hours: Accessible Year-Round.

Ariston Cafe
413 Old Route 66 North, Litchfield, Illinois phone: 217-324-2023 web: www.ariston-cafe.com Pete Adam started the Ariston Cafe in nearby Carlinville in 1924. When the Mother Road was rerouted in 1929, Pete leased a new building in Litchfield. The Ariston's great reputation for service, excellent food and unbelievable desserts led Pete to relocate across the street in 1935 to his own building that still stands today. The family still offers the same wonderful food and great service that it has for more than 80 years. It is said to be the oldest cafe on Route 66. The Ariston was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006 and is in the Route 66 Hall of Fame. Hours: Open Sundays & Tuesday - Friday from 11 am. Open Saturdays from 4 pm.

Art's Motel and Restaurant
101 Main Street, Farmersville, Illinois phone: 217-227-3277 Art McAnamey opened a restaurant and gas station here in 1937 and rented six cabins to overnight guests. In 1952, his two-story building caught fire, and he rebuilt a single- story restaurant. After he died in 1960, his sons replaced the cabins with a 13-room L-shaped motel. The motel and restaurant are still open to travelers. In 2007, the Route 66 Association restored the classic motel sign, including the replacement of neon on the "Art's."

Art's Motel and Restaurant
101 Main Street, Farmersville, Illinois phone: 217-227-3277 Art McAnamey opened a restaurant and gas station here in 1937 and rented six cabins to overnight guests. In 1952, his two-story building caught fire, and he rebuilt a single- story restaurant. After he died in 1960, his sons replaced the cabins with a 13-room L-shaped motel. The motel and restaurant are still open to travelers. In 2007, the Route 66 Association restored the classic motel sign, including the replacement of neon on the "Art's."

Becky's Barn
Old Route 66, Auburn, Illinois phone: 217-836-3043 On the site of an old hosiery factory, this modern emporium offers antiques, collectibles, souvenirs and a collection of road signs. In the snack shop, visitors may hear stories of local legends, play the jukebox, grab a cold drink or seek information. Located on the last brick alignment of Historic Route 66 in Illinois and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998. Appointments welcome. Hours: Thursday-Sunday 10 am - 5 pm.

Belevidere Cafe and Motel
817 Old Route 66 (Sherman St.), Litchfield IL. The Belevidere Cafe and Motel was built by Lester and Edith Kranich in the mid-1930s. The motel was a plain clapboard building with a series of attached units, unusual in an era of roadside cabins. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in March, 2007. The cafe and motel are closed. Rooms are rented to residents. The buildings are for sale.

Berghoff Restaurant

Near the center of the Chicago Loop, the restaurant was opened in 1898 by Herman Joseph Berghoff. It has served Route 66 travelers since the beginning. The Berghoff Restaurant closed in February, 2006. The basement cafe was reopened by Carlyn Berghoff in April, 2006 as the "Berghoff Cafe." The bar was also reopened under the new name "17/West at the Berghoff." The dining room is offered as a private banquet hall.

Bert's Chuck Wagon Bar-B-Q
207 E. Clay Street, Collinsville, Illinois phone: 618-344-7993 Classic 1950s-60s small diner that serves barbeque sandwiches and is known for its enchiladas and tacos. The sign is in the shape of a covered wagon and was once decorated in neon. Hours: Monday - Thursday 10 am - 9 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am -10 pm

Bluestem Bake Shop
107 Gov Oglesby Street, Elkhart, Illinois phone: 217-947-2222 A true find! This locally owned cafe serves up fresh, made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch. The restaurants also sells baked goods at many area farmers markets, and was recognized for its version of True American Apple Pie. Hours: Thursday - Sunday, 8 am - 2 pm.

Braidwood Historic Service Station
100 N Washington Street, Braidwood Illinois 60408 Formerly Lucenta Tire, this 1939 Art Deco service station veneered in white ceramic tile is now an automotive repair shop.

Brooks Catsup Bottle Water Tower

Standing proudly next to Route 159, this unique 170-foot water tower is the world's largest catsup bottle. It was built in 1949 for the bottlers of Brooks old original rich and tangy catsup. In 1995, due to the efforts of the Catsup Bottle Preservation Group, this landmark roadside attraction was saved from demolition and beautifully restored to its original appearance. In August of 2002 it was named to the National Register of Historic Places.

Buckingham Fountain
Built in 1927 in Grant Park, its design is based on a Versailles Palace fountain. This is one of the largest fountains in the world. Daily music and light displays during the summer make this a popular attraction. Constructed one year after Route 66, it is the nostalgic and symbolic starting point of the road.

Bunyon's Statue Giant
This fiberglass giant was made in the 1960s by International Fiberglass of Venice, California. Approximately 150 of these giants were made and put into service to advertise auto service. They became known as "Muffler Men." In 1965, this ex-Muffler Man was purchased by Hamlet Arthur Stephens. The muffler was replaced by a hotdog and the statue was placed in front of Stephen's restaurant, "Bunyon's" on Route 66 in Cicero, Illinois. For 38 years, "Bunyon's Statue" was a Route 66 landmark. In January 2003, the Bunyon's restaurant closed. The statue was relocated to downtown Atlanta, so that it could stay on historic Route 66.

Burma Shave Signs
A series of classic Burma Shave advertising signs with catchy phrases have been installed between Route 66 (Hwy. 53) and the railroad tracks on the edge of Godley.

Capitol City Motel
1620 N. 9th St, Springfield IL. 217-528-0462 A classic motel (still in operation) that was active during the heyday of Route 66.

Carpenter Park Route 66 pavement

An abandoned stretch of early Route 66 (1926-1936) forms the eastern border of Carpenter Park. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the curbed concrete provides a peek into the Mother Road's vintage past. It preserves the two-lane highway design, original cross-section with curbing, and original surface. The road travels past scenic bluffs to the Sangamon River.

Castle Car Wash

This unique building started as a classic style filling station in 1925 and was in business until the early 1980s. It is considered an endangered Route 66 icon.

Chain of Rocks Bridge
The third alignment of Route 66 crossed the Mississippi River here from 1936-1955. The eastern end of this scenic bridge is on Chouteau Island (part of Madison, Illinois), while the western end is on the Missouri shoreline. Its most notable feature is a 22-degree bend occurring at the middle of the crossing, necessary because of difficulties in finding solid footings. Originally a motor route, it now carries walking and biking trails over the river. The bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006. The bridge's name comes from a rock-ledged reach of river literally described as a chain of rocks, stretching to the north of St. Louis. The Mississippi's water, narrowed by these ledges, roars down a decline of 11 feet in seven river miles. The bridge was privately built as a toll bridge in 1929 at a cost of $3 million and later turned over to the city of Madison, Illinois, the current owner of the bridge. Eventually, the toll was removed from the bridge due to a law prohibiting the collecting of tolls on U.S. Highways. In 1967, the New Chain of Rocks Bridge was built immediately to the north in order to carry I-270 traffic; the old Chain of Rocks Bridge was subsequently closed in 1967. The bridge walk offers an immersive experience of strolling high above the Mississippi River, feeling river breezes, while peering down into river bottom forests and watching floating logs as they ride south with the current. The structural engineering of the bridge with its unique bend in the center and the immensity of the problems of crossing such a huge natural feature can be appreciated when seen close-up on this high bridge.

Church of the Neon Cross
North of town is St. Paul Lutheran Church and its large blue neon cross. Placed there during WWII by the Brunnworth family in memory of their son killed at Anzio, the large cross has signified safe travels for those driving Route 66. Route 66 was always dangerous. Lonely and vulnerable travelers sought guidance along the road. This cross offered that guidance.

Coliseum Ball Room
420 S Hardroad, Benld, Illinois 62009 Opened in 1924, this ball room in its heyday featured the biggest dance floor (10,000 square feet) between Chicago and St. Louis. Stars such as Tommy Dorsey, Fats Domino, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Ike and Tina Turner, Ray Charles, and the Everly Brothers played here. It is currently an antique mall.

Coney Island Restaurant
210 S. 5th St, Springfield Illinois phone: 217-528-1193 Opened in 1919, patrons have enjoyed chili dogs (the "best in town") and hamburgers here for nearly 90 years. The restaurant's decor features old mirrors hanging above wooden booths dating from the 1940s. Hours: Monday - Friday 11am - 2:30 pm.

Cotton's Village Inn
410 N. Main, Bloomington, Illinois This historic downtown restaurant was inducted into the Route 66 Hall of Fame in 1991.

Curve Inn
3219 S 6th Street Rd, Springfield Illinois 62703 web: www.thecurveinn.com Opened on Route 66 south of Springfield in 1945. The original owner, Guido Manci, served the public in the main tavern area, while "special" customers could ring a buzzer at the bottom of the back stairs to gain entrance to the gambling and prostitution parlor on the upper floor. In 1972, Neil McGillivary purchased the Inn and kept the name. Current owners Ray and Ami Merchant and Don Thompson purchased the Inn in 2002. It was inducted into the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame in 2007. Hours: Mon - Fri 11am - 3 am, Sat 1 pm - 3 am, Sun Noon - 3 am.

Debby's Route 66 Frozen Custard/Sun Motel
3241 Chain of Rocks Road, Granite City, Illinois phone: 618-797-3305 Debby and Bernard Birger are in the process of restoring the Sun Motel, a vintage 1940s court on the Chain of Rocks Road. They also opened a small frozen custard stand called "Debby's Route 66 Frozen Custard." The 1958 pink Cadillac, parked outside the shop, draws in crowds from the Mother Road.

Decamp Junction Roadhouse
8727 State Route 4, Staunton, Illinois phone: 618-637-2951 This historic roadhouse on Route 66 had tourist cabins, a dance hall, gambling, and a brothel. In 1930, gangsters arrived in a black sedan with guns drawn and robbed the bar of slot machines, alcohol, guns, and cash. This historic tavern displays the photographs of the old dance hall that was here. Decamp Junction also has a wide variety of beers as well as a popular homemade apple cider. Hours: Wednesday - Sunday 4pm - 11pm (later on weekends).

Deerfield Drive Historic Bridge
Several miles south of Carlinville along Ill-4, a small original section of Route 66 survives called Deerfield Drive. A small concrete bridge built in 1920 was saved from destruction.

Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket
645 Joliet Rd, Willowbrook, Illinois phone: 630-325-0780 web: www.chickenbasket.com Dell Rhea's began in the late 1930s or early 1940s as a lunch counter in an old gas station along Route 66. The owner, Irv Kolarik, learned a special fried chicken recipe from some local farm women. The chicken was a hit and business boomed. An expanded building was built next door in 1946, which continues to serve travelers today. This 66 icon has survived as a remnant in a sea of residential and commercial development. It is an example of a "chicken diner" that was common on Route 66. Dell Rhea's has maintained its down home charm and menu. It is decorated with a vintage chicken motif and the historic neon sign is turned on every evening. Hours: Restaurant: Sunday & Tuesday - Thursday 11 am - 9 pm. Friday - Saturday 11 am - 10 pm. Lounge: Tuesday - Thursday 11 am - 10 pm, Friday - Saturday 11 am - 1 am. Sunday 11 am - midnight.

Die Cast Auto Sales

This 1930s service station is a collector's dream with vintage gas pumps and signs on the outside of the building. Although the building is now closed, it is a classic photo opportunity for Route 66 travelers.

Dixie Truck Stop
501 S Main St, Mc Lean, Illinois 61754 phone: 309-874-2323 In 1928, J.P. Walters and John Geske rented part of a mechanic's garage here to sell sandwiches to Route 66 travelers and truckers. By the 1930s, the operation had grown to a full-fledged restaurant, cabins,and a cattle pen. The Dixie was owned and operated by the Geske family from 1928-2003 and was only closed one day after a fire in1965. The truck stop has changed hands, but still serves travelers along Route 66 and I-55, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The original Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame was housed here from 1990-2004, when it moved to Pontiac. Hours: Open 24 hours a day.

Doc's Soda Fountain/Deck's Drug Store
133 S. 2nd Street, Girard IL phone: 217-627-2311 This drug store was operated continuously from 1884 to 2001 by three generations of the Deck family. It became a community gathering place with the addition of a soda fountain in 1929. In 2007, the store reopened offering soda fountain ice cream and a free drug store museum.

Double H Bar
121 N 1st Street, Sherman Illinois phone: 217-496-3811 The Double H Bar was built in 1946 from handmade concrete blocks, and has served Route 66 travelers continuously since that time.

Elkhart Gas Station
Now closed, this was a 1940s era landmark of Route 66. Its exterior was covered with colored glazed block, which can be seen on the back of the building.

Filling Station Restaurant
905 1/2 W Main St, Lexington, Illinios 61753. The Mesa Cafe was built in the 1940s and served as a filling station (Skelly) along Route 66. It closed in the 1970s and was brought back for a second life as the Filling Station Restaurant since 1982.

First Dairy Queen
501 N. Chicago Street, Joliet IL The McCullough family developed soft-serve "ice cream, frozen seconds before you eat it" and called it Dairy Queen. The first store, opened in 1940, was located here in Joliet on Route 66. The building now serves as a church.

First Steak'n Shake
1219 S. Main Street, Bloomington Illinois Gus and Edith Belt owned a Shell Gas Station in Bloomington in the 1920s. They attached a dining room and began selling "Shell's Chicken." Gus quickly realized that the area had plenty of chicken restaurants, however, and changed his line to steak burgers. His first Steak'n Shake was built in Bloomington along Route 66 in 1934. This original location has since closed, but Steak 'n Shake restaurants can be found throughout Illinois.

Flagg Farmstead B&B
500 Old Tipton School Road, Sherman, Illinois 62684 phone: 888-611-FLAG web: flaggfarmsteadbandb.com This attractive historic home is surrounded by stately oak, maple, and hickory trees. The Farmhouse was built in 1871 for Cornelius Flagg, one of four entrepreneurs who platted the town of Sherman. The Italianate structure offers four antiqued finished bedrooms with private baths. The Flagg Farmstead is in the National Register of Historic Places.

Funks Grove I-55 Rest Area
This modern rest area along I-55 features interior historical exhibits about Abraham Lincoln and Route 66. Metal silhouette statues outside tell the story of traveling in automobiles, picnicking, and the beginnings of Route 66. Historic Route 66 runs directly behind the rest area. There are no connecting access roads but off-ramps are nearby.

Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup
5257 Old Route 66 Funks Grove Illinois phone: 309-874-3360 web: www.funksgrove.org Debby and Mike Funk continue the family traditions laid down by the previous six generations. Funk descendents have been making maple sirup here since the town was founded in 1824. The Funk's Grove Maple Sirup business was established in 1891. Sirup is correctly spelled this way to distinguish it from sugar-based syrup. This was and continues to be a major stopping point along Route 66. The gift shop features maple sirup seasonally and Route 66 souvenirs. Hours: Open March - August. Monday - Saturday 9 am - 5 pm. Sunday 1 - 5 pm.

G&D Tire Company and Sinclair Dinosaur
200 E. Baltimore Street, Wilmington, Illinois 60481 A Sinclair Dinosaur statue sits atop the G&D Tire Company, housed in an old filling station.

Hallie's Restaurant
111 S. Kickapoo Street, Lincoln Illinois phone: 217-732-6923 Owned and operated by a grandson of the Huffmans, who began making their famous Schnitzel in the Mill Restaurant in 1945. The original Schnitzel is now served here in downtown Lincoln. Hours: Sun - Thurs 11 am - 8 pm , Sat - Sun 11 am - 9 pm.

Henry's Drive-In
6031 West Ogden Ave, Cicero, Illinois 60804 phone: 708-656-9344 Their slogan, "It's a Meal in Itself," refers to the way they serve Chicago-style hot dogs in the same bag with French fries and a pickle spear. It is a regional mom and pop diner with a fun old 66 personality. Hours: Monday - Saturday 10 am - 9 pm, Sunday 11 am - 8 pm.

Historic Brick Road
Snell Road and Curran Road, Auburn, Illinois This original 1.4 mile hand-lain brick road was completed in 1931, and curves through corn fields near Auburn. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Historic Streetcar Diner
E. Mazon St., Gardner Illinois 60424 (formerly located behind the Riviera) A historic Kankakee streetcar from the early 20th century was converted and moved to Gardner in 1932 to serve as a diner along Route 66. In 1937, the streetcar became a cottage and playhouse. It was moved behind the Riviera Roadhouse in 1955. The streetcar was restored by the Illinois Route 66 Association and later inducted into the Route 66 Hall of Fame in 2001. In June 2010, The Riviera was destroyed in a fire. By late November the diner was moved to the grounds of the two-cell jail and will undergo further restoration. Hours: Year-round access.

Homestead Rest Area
A rest area off of I-55 that is themed for Route 66. The 1957-1977 alignment actually follows I-55 at this point. This rest area does not currently have any interpretation, but does feature Route 66 ceiling banners, a floor map, and three-dimensional etchings in the brick wall.

Illinois State Fairgrounds/The Railsplitter Giant
801 Sangamon Avenue, Springfield Illinois phone: 217-782-6661 The Fairgrounds, as well as some of the exhibition buildings, date to 1894. Located on the state fairgrounds, "The Railsplitter" Abraham Lincoln giant statue was created and built by Carl W. Rinnus in commemoration of the State of Illinois' 150th Anniversary of its statehood (1968). Hours: Year-Round. Rates: Admission fee required during State Fair dates and during other events. No charge for admission during off hours.

Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation and Museum

Honors the men and women who have served on Illinois' highways since their establishment in 1922. Route 66 ("Bloody 66" as it was called) was a major patrol venue. The museum has pictures, uniforms, equipment and vintage cars dating back to the earliest years of the Illinois State Highway Patrol.

Joe Roger's Original Recipe Chili Parlor
Serves chili "just the way you like it"—with or without beans, mild, medium, medium/touch, medium hot, hot and the J.R. Special (if you survive a bowl of the Special, you get a second one free).

Joliet Jackhammer Giant statue
Silver Cross Field, Joliet Illinois Located at Silver Cross Field, this muffler man sports the Joliet Jackhammers baseball team colors and holds a jack hammer. Named "Left Field Louie" by baseball fan submissions, the giant was purchased by Peter Ferro from Ham Lake, Minnesota in 2003. Hours: Year-Round.

Jubelt's Restaurant & Bakery
303 North Old Route 66 Litchfield, IL 62056 Phone: 217-324-5314 Website: www.jubelts.com

Knights Action Park/Route 66 Drive-In
1700 Recreation Dr, Springfield, Illinois 62711 phone: 217-546-8881 web: www.knightsactionpark.com Knights Action Park started in 1952 as a golf driving range by George Knight Sr. It has evolved into a diverse family fun park with water slides, bumper boats and batting cages. The Green Meadows Drive-In opened in 1978 and lasted just 4 years. Restored in 2002 as the Route 66 Drive-In, it now shows double features nightly from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Hours: Open year-round. All entertainment available daily between Memorial Day - Labor Day.

Launching Pad Drive-In and Gemini Giant statue
810 E. Baltimore Street, Wilmington Illinois 60481 phone: 815-476-6535 Founded in 1960, the Launching Pad at first sold only hot dogs and ice cream, but now has a full service menu. It is also home to the Gemini Giant, a fiberglass "muffler man" sporting a space helmet and rocket ship, a remnant of our fascination with space travel. This is a friendly little establishment where travelers feel welcome and can easily chat with locals. It is reminiscent of drive-ins before corporate chains standardized them. Hours: Restaurant: Daily 11 - 8 pm.

Lauterbach Giant
1569 Wabash Avenue, Springfield, Illinois Lauterbach Tire and Auto Service has a fiberglass "muffler man" giant standing in the parking lot. He used to hold a tire, but was recently upgraded to be more patriotic with a U.S. flag. In 2006, the muffler man lost his head during a twister, but was skillfully repaired by the station.

Lazy A Motel (Prairie Village Apartments)

A 1949 motel built with a Southwest Vernacular style—unusual for this part of the country. It represents the typical 1930s to ‘40s "mom and pop" motor court with garages between the units, and is the last remaining structure of its type on Illinois Historic Route 66. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. The motel has been converted into apartments, but the original style is well maintained.

Lexington Neon Arrow Sign
Originally erected in the late 1940s on Route 66, the arrow pointed the way east to the central business district of Lexington. The sign has recently been restored and is in the original location. It is reminiscent of the neon era on the road.

Lexington Route 66 Park
A small wayside park along Route 66 that provides information about historic Lexington and serves as a trailhead for the "Lexington Parkway" Route 66 Bike Trail. Hours: Year-Round.

Lincoln Ghost Bridge
Ruins of a bridge over Salt Creek south of Lincoln—part of the 1926 alignment. Concrete piers still remain. A covered wooden bridge spanned the creek here previously.

Lions Lake
This former "borrow pit" was excavated for the expansion of Route 66 into a four- lane highway. In the early 1990s, it was transformed into a small park with fishing, picnic tables, a playground, and walking path.

Lou Mitchell's Restaurant

Built in 1923, Lou Mitchell's has served Route 66 travelers since its beginning. As part of its unique tradition, women receive a free box of milk duds. It was inducted into the Route 66 Hall of Fame in 2002. Its atmosphere and menu remain true to the heyday of Route 66.

Luna Cafe
201 E. Chain of Rocks Road, Mitchell, Illinois phone: 618-931-3152 The cafe was built in 1924, two years prior to the establishment of Route 66. It is rumored to have been frequented by gangsters like Al Capone. The Luna did operate as a cafe on the main floor, but had a gambling operation in the basement and a house of ill repute upstairs. The neon sign out front, still standing, has a cherry which used ruby glass to enhance its red glow. It is said that if the cherry was lit, the girls were in. At one time, the cafe was a "fine dining establishment" and so expensive that most law-abiding citizens could not afford to eat there. The Luna is now a working man's bar frequented by locals. There is an ongoing effort to have the neon sign restored to its former glory. Hours: Sunday - Friday 8 am - 1 am, Saturdays 8 am - 3 am.

Maggie's In Thayer
100 E. Ebony Street, Thayer, Illinois phone: 217-965-9860. A restaurant that celebrates the region's past with historic photographs on the walls and lots of local flavor and customers. Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 5 - 9 pm, Friday - Saturday 5 - 10 pm, Sundays 4 - 8:30 pm.

Magnuson Grand Hotel and Conference Center

I-55 & IL Route 108, Carlinville, Illinois This hotel is located several miles east of Carlinville on the 1940-77 alignment, just off of I-55 between Waggoner and Litchfield. A large paddle boat called the Carlin Belle is located in a pond on the hotel grounds. The owner has a passion for boats, which shows in the decorating scheme and restaurant names ("Captain's Table," "Yacht Club Lounge").

Maid Rite Sandwich Shop
118 N. Pasfield Street, Springfield ILllinois phone: 217-523-0723 On the National Register of Historic Places, this is one of America's oldest drive-ins, dating to 1924. It claims the first drive-up window in the country. It serves the original specially seasoned loose meat hamburger with mustard, pickle relish, and onion on a steamed bun. Hours: Monday - Friday 10 am - 4:30 pm, Saturdays 11 am - 3 pm.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Bridge
The fourth Route 66 alignment crossed the Mississippi River here from 1955-1967. Formerly called the Veterans Memorial Bridge when built in 1951, it was originally a toll bridge. The bridge is still open to traffic.

McKinley Bridge
The first Route 66 alignment crossed the Mississippi River here from 1926-1929. The steel truss bridge connects the city of St. Louis with Venice, Illinois. It opened in 1910 and was taken out of service on October 30, 2001. The bridge was reopened for pedestrians and bicyclists on November 17, 2007 with a grand re-opening celebration. The bridge carried both railroad and vehicular traffic across the Mississippi River for decades. By 1978, the railroad line over the span was closed, and an additional set of lanes were opened for vehicles in the inner roadway. It is commonly assumed that the bridge was named for President William McKinley; but in reality, it was named for the builder, William B. McKinley, chief executive of the Illinois Traction System interurban electric railway, which accessed St. Louis via the bridge.

McKinley Bridge Roadside Park
Located on the east side of McKinley Bridge, this small roadside park commemorates the history of McKinley Bridge and Madison County. A kiosk with interpretive panels describes the region's cities, transportation, geography, and industry. A modest interpretation of Route 66 is included in the panel text. A tall metal sculpture called "Salute to Steel" is topped with intertwined rings (that represent Venice, Madison, and Granite City). The park also features benches and picnic tables. The sculpture and park were dedicated in November, 2007 when the McKinley Bridge was re-opened.

Mel-O-Cream Donuts
525 N. Grand Ave, Springfield Illinois phone: 217-732-8972 Founded in 1932 as a retail shop in Springfield, Illinois. Created during the height of the Great Depression, the founder, Kelly Grant Sr., decided to sell donuts at wholesale to restaurants and corner grocery stores. Mel-O-Cream became a household word in the Springfield area, with distributions expanding in the late 40s and early 50s. In 1964, the first franchise was opened. The North Grand location is the only one with classic signage and building. Hours: Tuesday - Friday 5 am - 4 pm, Saturday - Sunday 5 am - noon.

Memory Lane
phone: 309-365-8105 A one mile stretch of original Route 66 that was dedicated in 1926. It has been restored back to the 1940s era with vintage billboard and Burma Shave signs. It can be walked year-round and is open to vehicular traffic during festivals. Hours: Year-Round.

Meramec Caverns Barn Advertisement (Cayuga)
Also known as the Cayuga barn, this is a restored example of early highway advertising (Meramec Caverns is in Stanton, Missouri). The Illinois Department of Transportation created a pull-off area from Route 66 so travelers can safely exit the road and take photographs. It is one of two remaining advertisement barns along Illinois Route 66 (the other is near Hamel, IL). It was restored by the Route 66 Association of Illinois Preservation Committee.

Meramec Caverns Barn Advertisement (Hamel)
The Meramec Caverns Barn is a restored example of early highway advertising (Meramec Caverns is in Stanton, Missouri). Located north of Hamel across the Interstate from St. Paul's Lutheran Church, it is one of two remaining barn advertisements along Illinois Route 66 (the other is near Cayuga, IL). Restored by the Route 66 Illinois Preservation Committee. It speaks to our longing for the old individualism and entrepreneurial spirit of classic Route 66 signage.

North Creek/Route 4 Bridge
Bridge abutments, the only ones with the original Illinois Route 4 logo on them, are located on either side of North Creek. A 1926 bronze plaque and a 1998 Route 66 Association of Illinois plaque mark this historic bridge.

Odell "Subway" Tunnel
313 W Hamilton St., Odell, Illinois 60460 web: www.il66redcarpetcorridor.org/odell.html Across from Saint Paul's church is an entrance to a 1937 pedestrian tunnel under Route 66, known locally as the "subway." The entrance was sealed in the 1950s. The first 3 steps and the railing were replaced in the spring of 2006 by the Illinois Route 66 Association. That this tunnel was a necessity to safely cross Route 66 is a revelation to anyone standing on this quiet corner today. It is a dramatic reminder of the importance of Route 66 as a national travel corridor.

Old Gillett Farm
web: oldgillettfarm.org The Old Gillett Farm is an historic seventh generation farm on Elkhart Hill. It covers 700 acres with beautiful gardens, the Elkhart Grove Forest Preserve, and open fields. Accommodations are available in the Brick House guest house. Tours of the Big House and Chapel, complete with stories about family associations with notable Illinoisans including Abraham Lincoln, are available by appointment. Visit oldgillettfarm.org for rates and reservations.

Old Log Cabin Restaurant
18700 N. Aurora St (Old Route 66), Pontiac Illinois 61764 phone: 815-842-2908 web: www.route66oldlogcabin.com Built in 1926, the restaurant originally faced the older Route 66 alignment behind the building (now gone). It is claimed to have been lifted and turned 180 degrees when the alignment changed at the intersection of Pontiac Road (two-lane 66) and the four-lane 66 on the north edge of town. The building was expanded over the years. It is a classic example of the economic significance that Route 66 had on roadside businesses. The restaurant still serves good food to travelers. Hours: Monday - Saturday 5 am -8 pm.

Old Route 66 Family Restaurant
105 S Old Highway 66, Dwight Illinois 60420 phone: 815-584-2920 A modern restaurant with a Route 66 theme located across from the historic Marathon Station.

Original two-lane segment
W. Mississippi St, Elwood IL 60421 An original two lane segment of Route 66 dating from 1926-30 connects .3 mile south of Manhattan Road along S. Chicago Road, then right on W. Mississippi Street to Elwood.

Oughton House/Country Mansion Restaurant
101 West South Street, Dwight, Illinois 60420 phone: 1-800-892-5969 web: www.thecountrymansion.com Built in 1891 on a different site, the Scott Boarding House was moved to the Keeley Estate in 1894. The building was remodeled into a home for John Oughton, a co-founder of the Keeley Institute. When Oughton died in 1925, the home became lodging for patients of the Keeley Institute. When the institute folded in 1965, Oughton's grandson converted the building into a restaurant. The handcrafted oak and maple woodwork and original fireplaces in the lounge area can be seen while eating lunch or dinner. Hours: Restaurant: Open Tues - Sunday. Call or visit website for daily hours.

Our Lady of the Highways Memorial
Built in 1959 as a high school project, the shrine harks to an era when "Bloody 66" was a dangerous drive. The Carrara marble statue is inscribed, "Mary, Loving Mother of Jesus, Protect us on the Highway." Along the road from this site is a trail of Burma Shave style signs of the Hail Mary.

Palms Grill Cafe
112 S.W. Arch Street, Atlanta Illinois phone: 217.648.5077 web: www.atlantaillinois.net Originally operated from 1934 to the late 1960s, the cafe has been refurbished as a working restaurant, and once again serves its traditional blue-plate specials to Route 66 travelers and visitors. It is noted for its beautifully restored neon sign. Historically, a customer would turn on a light at the bottom of the sign to notify the Greyhound bus driver to stop. This quaint procedure conjures images of humble travelers waiting patiently to journey to distant cities. It underscores the importance that Route 66 played in connecting scattered communities. The cafe is located in the historic Downey Building along with the new Atlanta Museum featuring local history. Hours: Sunday-Thursday 8 am - 5 pm. Friday & Saturday 8 am - 8 pm.

Pig Hip Restaurant
101 W. Oak Street, Broadwell Illinois An icon of Route 66, the Pig Hip Restaurant was open from 1937 to 1991, and served as a popular museum from 1991 to 2007. The building caught fire on March 5, 2007 and was destroyed. Ernie Edwards, creator of the Pig Hip sandwich and owner of the restaurant, still lives next door. The site is now simply identified with a stone marker.

Pink Elephant Antique Mall
908 Veterans Memorial Dr, Livingston Illinois This unique antique mall sports larger than life sculptures of a pink elephant, a male swimmer, and two normal-colored elephants emerging from an exterior wall of the old Livingston High School building. A visit inside the building reveals another "shorter" muffler man of Route 66 fame. These were originally at the Coliseum Antique Mall in Benld. Hours: Daily 9:30 am-5 pm.

Pioneer Motel

Located on the north side of Springfield, the Pioneer Motel was built in the 1940s, and consisted of 12 units arranged in a classic L-shape style. The name was never changed and the classic motel sign tower still greets guests.

Pioneer's Rest Motel
101 W. Oak Street, Broadwell Illinois In the 1940s, the Edwards family expanded their successful Pig Hip restaurant business. Next door, Ernie's sister built tourist cabins that were later enclosed as the Pioneer's Rest Motel. The motel closed in 1991 at the same time as the Pig-Hip Restaurant. The building still stands, as does the classic block letter motel sign.

Polk-a-Dot Drive In
222 N Front Street, Braidwood Illinois 60408 phone: 815-458-3377 web: www.polk-a-dot.com In 1956, Chester "Chet" Fife began taking fast food orders in his school bus painted in rainbow Polk-a-Dots. In 1962, he moved the business into the current building, which today continues to be a popular stop along Route 66. The drive-in has inside booths along with outdoor seating. Fiberglass figures of Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Betty Boop, James Dean, and the Blues Brothers adorn the outside. Travelers are quickly engaged by the light-hearted, fun atmosphere. Hours: Daily 11am - 8 pm, Memorial Day - Labor Day 11am - 9 pm.

Poplar Street Bridge
The fifth and final Route 66 alignment crossed the Mississippi River here from 1968-1977. The bridge is officially named the Bernard F. Dickmann Bridge for a former St. Louis mayor. The bridge crosses the south end of "Bloody Island," connected to the mainland with landfill by Robert E. Lee in the 1850s. Several Missouri politicians fought duels here. Today, the island is a train yard. This was also the bridge featured in "National Lampoon's Vacation." The bridge is still open to traffic (I-70, I-64, I-55, Hwy. 40)

Railsplitter Covered Wagon
1750 5th St., (Corner of 5th Street and Route 66), Lincoln Illinois Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the "World's Largest Covered Wagon," the Railsplitter and its driver, Abe Lincoln, welcome visitors throughout the year.

Rainbow Route 66 Welcome Sign and Street Banners
W. Ogden Ave, Berwyn, Illinois web: www.berwynrt66.com Berwyn celebrates its Route 66 heritage with banners and a unique glass block welcome sign that glows with multi-colored lights. The community also hosts a Route 66 car show every September.

Ray's Route 66 Diner

A modern diner with inexpensive breakfast and lunch specials. An unusual shrine with a statue of Mary is located on a brick patio adjacent to the diner and visible from the road. The statue is elevated on bricks with a skylight above; true Route 66 kitsch.

Redwood Motel
725 Hickox, Lincoln, Illinois 62656 phone: 217-732-4113 The Redwood Motel was built in 1955 at the junctions of Route 66, 10, and 21. This had previously been the site of a Standard Oil station built in 1934. The current owners are maintaining the motel in its 1950s-60s era.

Rich & Creamy on Broadway
Route 66 Park, 920 N Broadway Street, Joliet Illinois phone: 815-740-2899 This place is typical of ice cream shops that dotted Route 66 in its heyday, when Broadway was a leg of the highway in Joliet. City leaders restored Rich & Creamy back to its retro appearance from its heyday. Jake and Elwood, "The Blues Brothers," dance atop the tower wrapped in neon lights. Hours: Monday - Saturday 11 am-9 pm, Sunday Noon - 9 pm. Open until 10 pm during warm-weather months.

Riviera Restaurant
5650 S State Route 53, Gardner Illinois 60424 Destroyed by fire June 2010. Constructed in 1928 out of a church from Gardner and a mining office from South Wilmington, the Riviera hosted many famous customers, including Gene Kelly, Tom Mix, Al Capone, and his brother Ralph. A freezer in the basement with a heavy iron door was supposedly built to hide gambling machines and booze during Prohibition in case of a raid. The unique bar in the basement provided comfort before air conditioning and was decorated like a cave. In its heyday, this classic Route 66 roadhouse featured a zoo, picnic area, swimming hole, and gas station. Until recently, the restaurant still served good food and inexpensive draft beer. This venerable supper club offered travelers genuine Route 66 adventure. Interested customers were given personal tours to see where slot machines and prohibition booze were hidden from raiding revenuers and toilets that were placed on high "thrones" to keep them above periodic river flooding. Hours: Destroyed by fire June 2010

Route 66 and Lincoln Highway Shared Route
S. Joliet Rd and W. Lincoln Hwy, Plainview Illinois Banners in downtown commemorate the 1930-40 period when Lincoln Highway and Route 66 joined for three blocks.

Route 66 Chapel
Corner of 5th and Logan, Lincoln, Illinois Built by the Zion Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, this small log cabin chapel next to Route 66 is open for travelers. It has a working bell tower.

Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum
110 W. Howard Street, Pontiac Illinois phone: 815-844-4566 web: www.il66redcarpetcorridor.org/pontiac.html Housed in an historic firehouse, this facility tells the story of the people and places that have been inducted into the hall of fame. The museum displays significant Illinois artifacts from along Route 66. The upstairs features "Route 66—A Photo Journal," a series of pictures by Michael Campanelli that captures the true spirit of Route 66. Hours: April - October: Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm, Saturday - Sun 10 am to 4 pm. November - March: Monday - Friday 11 am - 3 pm, Saturday - Sunday 10 am - 4pm. Rates: Donations accepted.

Route 66 Hotel & Conference Center
625 E. Saint Joseph Street, Springfield Illinois phone: 217-529-6626 Includes a "mini museum" with a unique array of vehicles, signs and articles from the Route 66 era, and a family-style restaurant dubbed the "Filling Station Bar and Grill."

Route 66 Java Stop
502 West Mazon Avenue, Dwight Illinois A unique modern drive-through coffee shop built of two freight containers, one atop another.

Route 66 Memorial Rest Area
This is an original preserved rest area along Route 66 next to the Double H Bar. Historic rest areas had few amenities; they were places to stretch legs and eat at picnic tables.

Route 66 Park & Tourism Center, Atlanta
114 SW Arch St. Atlanta, IL 61723 This modern roadside park was built by Atlanta for Route 66 travelers to relax. An information booth is staffed seasonally to provide information about sites in Atlanta (once was a Ticket Office for the Atlanta Fair). It also includes the cornerstone of Atlanta High School (1909) and a memorial to the veterans of WWI (1921).

Route 66 Park, Joliet
920 N Broadway Street, Joliet Illinois This park has an overlook for viewing the historic Collins Street Prison where the Blues Brothers and other movies were filmed. Informational kiosks highlight Route 66 attractions in Joliet with directions, photos, and messages. Rich & Creamy on Broadway is also located here. Hours: Year-Round.

Shea's Gas Station Museum

This wonderful private museum, owned by the Shea family, is loaded with gas station and oil company collectibles and is an internationally renowned, must-see Route 66 landmark.

Sky View Drive-In Theatre
1200 N Old Route 66, Litchfield, Illinois phone: 217-324-4451. A Route 66 Hall of Fame inductee, the SkyView opened in the spring of 1951 and has been in seasonal operation since. It is the last remaining original operating drive-in theatre on Route 66 in Illinois. Hours: May - October. Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays. One showing per night, starting at dusk. Rates: $2 per person.

Snuffy's 24 Hour Grill
8408 Joliet Road, McCook, Illinois 60525 phone: 708-447-9780 Snuffy's is a Route 66 eatery whose classic Formica tables, vinyl seats, and counter stools are little changed from its 1964 opening. Hours: Monday - Wednesday 5 am - 9 pm, Thursday -Sunday, open 24 hours.

Soulsby's Service Station
In 1926 Henry Soulsby and his son Russell built a Shell gas station. Today it ranks as one of the oldest filling stations still standing on Route 66. The original 1926 station was a mere 13 by 20 feet wide and had just enough room for a desk, cash register, battery charger, and a few supplies. The Soulsbys doubled the size of the station in the 1930s, but it was never big enough to be called a garage. There is a drive up ramp located outside of the station that was used for oil changes and minor repairs—it now has a large tree growing inside it. Russell learned about electronics in the Navy during WWII and started a TV repair business in the 1950s, which allowed him to survive the opening of I-55. After Henry died, Russell and his sister Ola ran the station until 1991, and continued to greet visitors until 1997. The new station owner is working with the Soulsby Station Society and the Illinois Route 66 Association to maintain this classic filling station as a historical and educational attraction. Hours: Year-Round.

Sprague Super Service Station
305 E. Pine Street, Normal Illinois phone: 309-452-5325. This two-story Tudor-Revival style building was built in 1931 to serve increasing traveler needs on Route 66. The building housed a cafe, gas station, and garage on the first floor, while the upstairs served as housing for the owner and station attendant. Several different cafe and auto-related businesses utilized the building until 1976, when it ceased auto-related service. The building has been approved by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency and nominated by the agency to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Rehabilitation plans include an information center, diner/soda fountain, bed and breakfast, and event space. It is the largest gas station/restaurant on Historic Route 66. The station still displays great architectural integrity despite minor conversions to other uses. It occupies a commanding location on Historic Route 66 within a very intact cultural landscape. A traveler senses that this streetscape has changed very little since the busy days of Route 66. Hours: not currently open for tours, but can be viewed from the site.

Springers Creek Winery
817 Hillsboro Avenue, Edwardsville, Illinois phone: 618-656-0815 web: www.springerscreekwinery.com Owned and operated by Sam Makler, The Springers Creek Winery is housed in a historic 1910 storefront grocery and an adjacent historic house. Many classic decorative features still exist, including an awning over the entrance with original pressed metal enhancements. The residence has a unique copper Lincoln head embedded into its front steps. Locally produced wine, like a semi-sweet Route 66 blush, is served and sold in this cozy, restored environment. The old building is full of antiques, comfortable spaces, and a wine garden where the owner, a professional musician, provides evening entertainment with acoustical instruments. This is an opportunity to interact with locals and travelers in a friendly atmosphere. Hours: Thursdays noon - 9 pm, Friday & Saturday noon - 10 pm, Sunday noon - 7 pm

Standard-Sinclair/Odell Gas Station
West St., Odell Illinois phone: 815-998-2133 web: www.il66redcarpetcorridor.org/odell.html On the National Register of Historic Places, this gas station was built in 1932 and served travelers until 1975. It was restored with the help of the Illinois Route 66 Association's Preservation Committee. A digital audio player makes audio messages available to visitors at any time. Hours: Daily 11 am to 3 pm.

The Mill Restaurant
738 S. Washington, Lincoln Illinois web: www.SaveTheMill.org Opened in 1929 under the name of the Blue Mill, it served grilled sandwiches at any hour of the day or night. The Dutch themed building with blue trim featured a revolving windmill and waitresses dressed in blue with white aprons. In 1945, Albert and Blossom Huffman purchased the building, added a barroom and dance hall, and then painted the building barn red. Over the years, the restaurant became famous for its fried schnitzel, originally made of veal, and later of pork. The Mill closed in 1996. In 2007 work began to restore the building as a museum.

The Wishing Well Motel
Formerly at 6363 Joliet Road, Countryside IL (map this site to show origin of Motel) Now an exhibit at Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac. Dating from 1941 and demolished in 2007, this motel was a retreat for Chicago entertainers and Route 66 travelers. The iconic wishing well structure is now preserved at the Route 66 Museum in Pontiac.

Towanda Dead Man's Curve
A dangerous curve on old Route 4, the original Route 66 before the 1940s. Travelers unaccustomed with the curve misjudged its sharpness and narrow width—just 18 feet wide for two-way traffic. The curve was bypassed after WWII. This curve became a familiar site to patrolling District 6 State Highway Police. Many of these accidents were caused by travelers from Chicago speeding on an unfamiliar road. A house located west of the curve was removed after a semi-trailer truck ran off the road, knocking the structure off its foundation. Before this event, the homeowners had replaced the front porch numerous times because of the damage from cars and trucks crashing into it.

Tropics Restaurant
1007 Hickox/Lincoln Parkway (Rt. 66), Lincoln, Illinois Opened in 1950 by Vince Schwenoha (son of Coonhound Johnny). He had served in Hawaii during his tour of duty and came up with the name "The Tropics." The original neon sign with palm tree still stands, although the restaurant is closed.

Turkey Tracks in Pavement
An original piece of the narrow 1926-30 Route 66 alignment winds south of Nilwood, parallel to the current straight configuration Ill-4. Turkey tracks were imprinted in the 1920s when the original Route 4 concrete was poured, prior to its designation as Route 66. The story varies from a local farmer's escaped turkeys to wild turkeys as being the owners of the prints.

Weezy's Route 66 Bar & Grill
108 S. Old Route 66, Hamel, Illinois phone: 618-633-2228 This roadhouse at the intersection of old 66 and Ill. 140 has been serving travelers since the late 1930s. In the past, it was named "tourist Haven," "Village Inn," "Earnie's Roadhouse," and "Scotty's." The old signs still decorate the walls along with histroic photographs. The dining room has a Route 66 theme, and the beautiful exterior brickwork connotes its place in the evolution of travel on the old Mother Road. Hours: Open at 11 am Monday - Saturday.

Whirl-A-Whip
309 S. 3rd Street, Girard IL phone: 217-627-3210 web: www.whirl-a-whip.com This classic 1950s drive-in restaurant still offers travelers food and 50 flavors of ice cream in the summer. It is family owned and non-franchised. Hours: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 9 pm, Friday - Saturday 11 am - 10 pm.

White Fence Farm
1376 Joliet Rd, Romeoville Illinois 60446 phone: 630-739-1720 web: www.whitefencefarm.com This restaurant dates to the 1920s and serves the "World's Greatest Chicken" family style. While you wait you can play with and observe a large collection of antique machines, cars, and other artifacts in a rambling building that feels like it dates to the 1920s. Hours: Tuesday - Friday 5 pm - 9 pm, Saturday 4 pm - 9 pm, Sunday noon - 8 pm.

Widow at Windsor Antique Shop
711 South Fifth Street, Springfield Illinois phone: 217-744-3735 Located in an old ornate Cadillac dealership building, the shop offers fine European antiques and architecturals. Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 11 am - 5 pm.

Wolf's Head Inn
6937 Joliet Road, Indian Head Park, Illinois 60525 phone: 708-246-0400 This restaurant is filled with curiosities and offers good food. Although not a historic restaurant, it is idiosyncratic in the Route 66 tradition. Hours: Weekdays and Sundays 10 am - 9 pm, Saturdays 10 am - 10 pm.

Zion Church Neon Cross
501 S Broad St, Carlinville, Illinois 62626 The Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church adjacent to Route 66 in Gillespie has a neon cross that is lit up at night. The church was built in 1901. Train tracks once ran next to the church. On November 25, 1967, a train wreck destroyed the church steps and entrance canopy, while one freight car leaned dangerously close to the sacristy. Services were still held the next day.

Wayside Exhibit