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

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!

Featured Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Member

Edwardsville, IL

Catch a classic movie or watch a live performance at this recently renovated theater house. Built in 1909 and named after the founder of the International Order of Odd Fellows, the Wildey Theatre offers a full range of events, including movies, musicals, live theatre and concerts- all conveniently located in the diverse downtown historic district.

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Wildey Theatre
252 North Main Street
Edwardsville, IL 62025
(618) 307-1750

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Events on Illinois Route 66

  • Illinois Local 5th Annual Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday

    Illinois State Fairgrounds 801 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield, IL, United States

    Join Illinois Local, an official American Express Neighborhood Champion, for the Illinois Local 5th Annual Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday, November 29, from 9 am to 4 pm. Entry is $5 for 13 and over. 12 and under FREE. 70+ vendors, hot food and drinks, alcohol, Santa, Bluey & Bingo, and entertainment throughout the…

  • Shop Small Business Saturday on Route 66 – The Pink Elephant Experience

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

    🎁💗 Shop Small. Shop Fun. Shop the Pink Elephant! 💗🎁 Celebrate Small Business Saturday at the Pink Elephant Antique Mall in Livingston, Illinois — a one-of-a-kind Route 66 destination filled with antiques, nostalgia, and local flavor! Join us Saturday, November 29th for a full day of shopping, sweets, and small-town cheer. 🛍️ Mall & Mother…

    FREE
  • 2025 Staunton Holiday Walk

    Downtown Staunton 229 W Main St, Staunton, IL, United States

    Merry Christmas and Happy Ho-Ho-Holidays! The annual Holiday Walk will run from 4 to 8 p.m. on December 5 and will feature local businesses and vendors lining main street; the lighting of Duda Park, as well as a live nativity within Duda park; the inaugural lighting of the Staunton Christmas Tree; and the presentation of…

  • Decade of Decadence 80’s Hair Night at Route 66 Motorheads LIVE in the Motordome

    Route 66 Motorheads Bar-Grill-Museum 600 Toronto Rd, Springfield, IL, United States

     SPRINGFIELD — ARE YOU READY?!  The Party Boys of the Midwest are back at Route 66 MotorHeads Bar & Grill, Museum & Entertainment Complex for another massive night inside the legendary Motordome!  Saturday, December 6th 8PM – 11PM $10 Cover | 21+ Only  It’s the ULTIMATE 80’s ROCK PARTY — packed with big hair, screaming guitars, and…

  • Lexington’s Christmas on the Prairie

    Downtown Lexington 329 W Main St, Lexington, IL, United States

    Experience Christmas on the Prairie in Lexington on Saturday, December 6th!! This year's entire event will be held in beautiful downtown Lexington. Vendor applications are now available at City Hall…