Springfield, IL, July 28, 2026 – As excitement continues to build for the 100th anniversary of Historic Route 66 in 2026, the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway is inviting families to experience the Mother Road in a fun and interactive way with the launch of its brand-new Color Your Way Down Route 66 activity book.
Developed by the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway in partnership with Ace Sign Company and illustrated by Macie Wright, a Millikin University student and graduate of the Macoupin County CEO Program, the 25-plus-page activity book is filled with Route 66-inspired coloring pages, puzzles, games, educational activities, and family-friendly challenges that celebrate the people, places, and history of Illinois’ iconic stretch of Route 66.
“Our goal is to inspire the next generation of Route 66 travelers,” said Casey Claypool, Executive Director of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway. “This activity book gives families a fun way to learn about the history and attractions along Illinois Route 66 while creating lasting memories together. As we celebrate the Route 66 Centennial, we hope it encourages even more people to experience everything our communities have to offer.”
Designed for children and families of all ages, the book transforms a Route 66 road trip into an engaging learning experience while encouraging travelers to stop, explore, and discover the unique attractions and communities that make the Mother Road one of America’s most treasured highways.
The activity book also features Simon, the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway mascot, who guides families throughout their journey and encourages them to download and use the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway mobile app. Together, the book and app create an interactive travel experience that helps visitors discover attractions, restaurants, museums, businesses, and historic landmarks across the state.
In addition to serving as a memorable keepsake for visitors, the activity book provides an opportunity for Route 66 businesses, museums, visitor centers, and gift shops to offer a unique souvenir while promoting local tourism.
Wholesale copies are available to Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway members, allowing participating businesses to stock the activity book for visitors traveling the Mother Road during the Centennial and beyond.
The launch comes as excitement builds nationwide for Route 66’s Centennial, including the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Conference and Celebration at Motorheads in Springfield on November 11, which will bring together the public, tourism leaders, Route 66 business owners, volunteers, and Mother Road enthusiasts, alongside growing interest in family road trips and heritage tourism.
With Illinois serving as the starting point of the Mother Road, the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway continues to develop new ways to engage visitors while supporting the communities and businesses located along the historic route.
The Color Your Way Down Route 66 activity book is now available at https://bit.ly/RT66ColoringBook and will be available at select member locations in the coming months!
The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and enhancing the experience of Historic Route 66 across Illinois. Working in partnership with communities, businesses, museums, tourism organizations, and volunteers, the Byway celebrates the history, culture, and economic impact of the Mother Road while welcoming visitors from around the world.
