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

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!

Navy Pier
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Featured Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Member

Navy Pier

Chicago, IL

Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is the most visited destination in the Midwest, stretching more than six city blocks and welcoming nearly 9 million annual guests. Originally opened in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, this Chicago landmark showcases over 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, retail shops, sightseeing and dining cruise boats, exposition facilities, and more.

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Navy Pier
600 East Grand Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 595-7437

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Events on Illinois Route 66

Events

Events Search and Views Navigation

Event Views Navigation

Today

  • Swinging Bridges Arts Festival

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

    Kick off the summer in Downtown Pontiac at the 2026 Swinging Bridges Arts Festival, in partnership with Red Carpet Corridor weekend on Saturday, May 2nd and Sunday, May 3rd! Hosted…

    Free

  • Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market

    Recurring
    Downtown Bloomington 115 E Washington St, Bloomington, IL, United States

    Market Day is calling! The Downtown Bloomington Farmers’ Market is a vibrant, community-centered market that brings together local farmers, artisans, and small businesses in the heart of the city. Held…

  • Illinois Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor

    2026 Illinois Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Festival

    Joliet Area Historical Museum 204 N Ottawa St, Joliet, IL, United States

    This two-day festival, May 2nd & 3rd, 2026, is all about family fun on the most famous two-lane highway in America - Route 66. Sponsored by the fifteen communities which…

  • Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market

    Recurring
    Downtown Bloomington 115 E Washington St, Bloomington, IL, United States

    Market Day is calling! The Downtown Bloomington Farmers’ Market is a vibrant, community-centered market that brings together local farmers, artisans, and small businesses in the heart of the city. Held…

  • Route 66 Centennial Bigfoot Festival 2026

    Route 66 Centennial Bigfoot Festival 2026

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

    Saturday - May 9, 2026 - 2ND ANNUAL ROUTE 66 CENTENNIAL BIGFOOT FESTIVAL 50+ Vendors @ the Bigfoot Market & Youth Entrepreneur Market. Bigfoot Speakers & activities for the whole…

    Free