WHERE THE MOTHER ROAD BEGINS

Since 1926

Route 66 defined a remarkable era in our nation’s history – and it lives on today in Illinois' many Route 66 roadside attractions, museums, and restaurants – it's the shining ribbon of blacktop we call 'The Mother Road'.

Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway

Learn more about the Centennial & the Route 66 Experience

Click the Centennial logo to purchase merchandise available only through the Byway and click the Experience logo to learn more about the Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66 Experience!

Featured Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Member

Lincoln, IL

Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the “World’s Largest Covered Wagon” and rated as a top roadside attraction by Readers Digest, the Railsplitter Covered Wagon and its driver, Abe Lincoln, welcome visitors throughout the year. Donated by well-known Lincoln philanthropist Larry Van Bibber to the Logan County Tourism Bureau.

Learn More...

Railsplitter Covered Wagon
(World's Largest Covered Wagon)
1750 Fifth Street
Lincoln, IL 62656
(217) 732-8687

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Events on Illinois Route 66

Elkhart Historical Society – Behind the Scenes: Horses in the Movies

Elkhart Christian Church’s Fellowship Community Center 206 S. Gillett St., Elkhart, IL, United States

With prospects of a long-awaited January thaw comes the happy news of the first Elkhart Historical Society dinner lecture of the 2025 season, to be given Friday, February 21, 2025.…

Songs of the Illinois Freedom Road Performance by Chris Vallillo

The Eagle Performing Arts & Conference Center 319 N Plum St, Pontiac, I, United States

Award winning folk musician and folklorist Chris Vallillo brings the music and the stories of the Underground Railroad in Illinois to life in this engaging and powerful show featuring first…