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 Upcoming Byway Centennial Celebration & the Illinois Route 66 Experience at the State Fairgrounds

Featured Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Member

Pontiac, IL

The Eagle Performing Arts and Conference Center in Pontiac provides dinner theater productions by the Vermillion Players, as well as concerts, meetings, and other events. The Eagle motion picture house was originally built in the 1930s as the city’s second movie theater. On September 5th, celebrate the centennial of a truly legendary highway with a special screening of Route 66: The Main Street of America. Click here for event info.

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Eagle Performing Arts and Conference Center
319 North Plum Street
Pontiac, IL 61764
(815) 844-1187

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Events on Illinois Route 66

  • Route 66 Submerged: A Sunken Road. A Story Resurfaced.

    Lake Springfield Marina 17 Waters Edge Blvd, Springfield, IL, United States

    Step aboard Route 66 SUBMERGED, a 45-minute interpretive boat tour on Lake Springfield that reveals a hidden chapter of America’s most iconic highway. Beneath the surface lies a stretch of…

  • 2026 Illinois State Fair – Miles of Smiles

    Illinois State Fairgrounds 801 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield, IL, United States

    The Illinois State Fair returns for 2026, August 13 - 23, with an all star concert lineup and with the theme of "Miles of Smiles". Grandstand Events (Gates open 1…

  • 2026 Main Street Mingle in Virden

    Virden on the Square 175 E Jackson, Virden, IL, United States

    Main Street Mingle season is officially ready for vendor sign-ups — and trust us, this year is going to be BIG. With themed events, our Renaissance edition, and the massive Route 66 Centennial Celebration closing out the season, you’re going to want in on this one. Location: Old Route 66 – Virden Town Square 9…

  • Sunflower Days Festival at Rader Family Farms

    Rader Family Farms 1312 Ropp Road, Normal, United States

    Step into a sea of summer color at Sunflower Days Festival at Rader Family Farms. This daytime celebration invites guests to wander through acres of blooming sunflowers and a vibrant zinnia field, soak in the beauty of the season, and enjoy a relaxed, joy-filled farm experience designed for all ages. This is the perfect time…

  • 48th Annual Cultural Fest at Miller Park

    Miller Park/Miller Park Zoo 1020 S Morris Ave, Bloomington, IL, United States

    BLOOMINGTON, IL – The 48th Annual Cultural Fest returns to Miller Park in Bloomington on Saturday, August 22, from noon to 6:00 p.m. The free community festival will bring together music, dance, food, community organizations and family activities for an afternoon celebrating the cultural diversity of Bloomington-Normal. With the theme “A Celebration of Diversity,” Cultural Fest features a…