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

Countdown to the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Centennial Celebration - STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas

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

Williamsville
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Historic Downtown Williamsville

Williamsville, IL

Take a walk around Williamsville’s Downtown; stop, rest and enjoy the charm and nostalgia of what the area represents. Visit the interpretive signs depicting local history at the corners of Main and Pine Streets. The Northeast corner details local history about the Illinois Interurban Railway as well as Early Settlers and the first survey of the Village. Learn about how Williamsville was first named Benton. The Southwest corner details the Downtown Business District and Farm Community, as it was when Route 66, and the small towns along it, thrived. Enjoy a picnic on the Boulevard’s green space.

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Historic Downtown Williamsville
Williamsville, IL 62693
(217) 566-3520

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Events on Illinois Route 66

Events

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Today

  • Route 66 Submerged

    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…

  • Illinois State Fair

    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 hour prior to the show) - The 2026 Illinois State Fair features a diverse lineup of evening performances, with tickets available for purchase: Aug 14:…

  • Downtown Pontiac Cruise Nights

    Recurring
    Downtown Pontiac 115 W. Howard, Pontiac, IL, United States

    Get ready for another unforgettable season of Downtown Pontiac Cruise Nights 2026! Join us as we celebrate the Route 66 & Pontiac Car Centennial with a full lineup of special…

    Free
  • Sprague's Super Service

    Route 66 Centennial Parking Lot Party

    Sprague's Super Service 305 Pine Street, Normal, IL, United States

    You are invited to Ryburn Place at Sprague's Super Service, 305 Pine Street in Normal. Join us 6-9 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15 for a Route 66 Centennial Parking Lot…

  • Main Street of America Documentary At Eagle Theater

    Route 66: The Main Street of America Documentary At Eagle Theater

    Eagle Performing Arts Center 319 N Plum St, Pontiac, IL, United States

    Celebrate the centennial of a truly legendary highway with a special screening of ROUTE 66: THE MAIN STREET OF AMERICA—a powerfully moving new feature-length documentary that follows the road, sharing…