Springfield, IL — April 15, 2026 — The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Mother Road with the release of a special commemorative Visitor Guide and Business Directory, designed to help travelers explore the rich history, iconic attractions, and vibrant communities along the Illinois portion of Route 66.
“The Centennial is an opportunity to celebrate not only the history of Route 66 but also the small businesses and quirky roadside attractions that give the road its soul,” said Casey Claypool, Executive Director of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway.
“This visitor guide serves as the map to this year’s celebrations, helping enthusiasts discover everything Illinois Route 66 has to offer—from historic sites and charming towns to must-see attractions across the Northern, Central, and Southern sections of the state.”
The guide provides an easy-to-use summary of towns and attractions, complete with maps, must-stop highlights, and resources for planning an unforgettable Route 66 journey. It can be downloaded directly from the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway website or requested to be mailed through the site.
In addition, a limited-edition Centennial Coin Set has been created to commemorate this milestone anniversary. The set, which is Route 66 Centennial Certified, includes 12 attraction coins featuring iconic Illinois Route 66 sites, one official Scenic Byway coin, and is individually numbered with a Certificate of Authenticity. Twelve sets contain a bonus gold coin that unlocks VIP access to the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Statewide Conference and Route 66 Centennial Celebration in Springfield on November 11, 2026, including full conference access, VIP seating, meals, a swag bag, and overnight accommodations.
For more information, to explore the guide, or to stay updated on the Centennial, visit illinoisroute66.org and follow the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway on Facebook and Instagram.
You can request your free copy of the Commemorative Visitor Guide and Business Directory at https://illinoisroute66.org/maps-brochures/#explore-form.
You can purchase the limited-edition Centennial Coin Set and other Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway merchandise at https://illinoisroute66.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/illinoisroute66/giftstore.jsp.
About the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway
The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway enhances and promotes economic opportunities for communities along Route 66 by preserving heritage and sustaining cultural tourism. More information can be found at illinoisroute66.org.
