Springfield IL, September 1, 2026 – The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway is launching the inaugural Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Awards, a new initiative celebrating the businesses, attractions, communities and individuals who contribute to the continued vitality and legacy of Route 66 in Illinois.
With Route 66 celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, the new awards provide an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the people and places that make Illinois Route 66 a destination for visitors from around the world.
Nominations will open September 1 and remain open through September 14. Nominations are open to the public, meaning anyone can nominate an eligible Route 66 Scenic Byway member for recognition.
“Route 66 has always been about the people and places along the road,” said,” Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Executive Director, Casey Claypool. “These awards are an opportunity to recognize the businesses, attractions, communities and individuals who continue to create memorable experiences, preserve the Mother Road’s history and help shape its future. We want the public to tell us which members of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway deserve to be recognized.”
The inaugural awards are part of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway’s broader Centennial programming and effort to celebrate the people and communities that continue to bring the Mother Road to life and will be presented at a gala for members on November 10.
How to Nominate
Nominations are open to the public from September 1 through September 14, 2026.
To submit a nomination:
1. Review the list of Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway members.
2. Select a member you believe deserves recognition.
3. Complete the online nomination form by September 14.
Anyone can nominate, but only current Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway members are eligible to receive an award.
Nomination Form: https://bit.ly/
For more information about the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway and its Centennial programming, including tickets for the Mother Road Conference at Motorheads on November 11, followed by an evening Centennial Celebration featuring Starship featuring Mickey Thomas, click here.
