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

SEARCH OR NAVIGATE ILLINOIS ROUTE 66 HERE

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!

Mel-O-Cream
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Featured Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Member

Mel-O-Cream Donuts

Springfield, IL

A beloved local donut institution since 1932, Mel-O-Cream is where classic donut lovers go for warm, handmade favorites like glazed rings, old-fashioned cake donuts, creamy long johns, and jam-filled bismarcks. Known for time-tested flavors and hometown charm, Mel-O-Cream is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.

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Mel-O-Cream Donuts
217 East Laurel Street
(217) 544-4644

3010 S. 6th St.
(217) 529-7708

525 North Grand Ave E
(217) 528-2303

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Events on Illinois Route 66

Events

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Today

  • New Starting Point for Historic Route 66 at Navy Pier

    Dedication Ceremony for Historic Route 66 New Starting Point at Navy Pier

    Navy Pier 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL, United States

    In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Route 66, the City of Chicago will formally recognize Navy Pier as the starting point of the iconic roadway. “This move symbolizes how Route 66 continues to evolve while honoring its roots,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “From the shores of Lake Michigan to the shores of the Pacific…

  • Worldwide Toast to Harry Caray

    28th Annual Worldwide Toast to Harry Caray

    Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier 700 E Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL, United States

    Chicago marks a new beginning for an iconic American journey with the official designation of Navy Pier as the new starting point of historic Route 66, commemorating the Mother Road’s 100th anniversary alongside the 28th Annual Worldwide Toast to Harry Caray. The daylong celebration kicks off with a sign dedication ceremony at 10:30 a.m. and…

  • Route 66: The Road That Takes You

    Route 66: The Road That Takes You – Springfield Edition – A Photographic Exhibition by David J. Schwartz

    The Pharmacy Gallery & Art Space 623 E. Adams Street, Springfield, IL, United States

    Route 66: The Road That Takes You — Springfield Edition is a photography exhibition by Lakewood, Ohio photographer David J. Schwartz, whose work was selected for the official USPS Route 66 Centennial commemorative stamps. For more than two decades, Schwartz has traveled the length of Route 66, documenting the people, places, and quiet moments that…

    Free
  • TWISTEE easter egg hunt

    Route 66 Eggstravaganza at The Twistee Treat Diner

    Pink Elephant Antique Mall/Twistee Treat Diner 908 Veterans Memorial Dr., Livingston, IL, United States

    The Route 66 Eggstravaganza at The Twistee Treat Diner is Sunday - March 29, 2026 from 1:30-4pm. Rain or shine event. ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT Twistee Treat Diner 908 Veterans Memorial Drive Livingston, IL 62058 3PM: Youth (Ages 0-12) Hunt - FREE 3PM: Accessible Hunt for Disabled (All Ages) - FREE 3:30PM: Teen/Young Adult (Ages…