Explore What’s New Along Route
66 in Illinois
As Route 66 approaches its Centennial
in 2026, Illinois is gearing up to celebrate the legacy of America’s most
iconic highway with a host of exciting new attractions and experiences. With 300
miles filled with timeless Americana, Illinois Route 66 is where nostalgia
meets adventure. Here is a look at what’s new along the Mother Road in Illinois.
A Modern Touch: Revamped
Signage & Tours in Chicago
Chicago, the starting
point of Route 66, is enhancing its connections to the legendary road. New and
improved signage and expanded neighbourhood tours help visitors explore the
city’s deep-rooted relationship with the Mother Road, ensuring they start their
journey with a rich historical perspective.
The Return of the Gemini Giant
One of Route 66’s most beloved
roadside attractions, the Gemini Giant, has found a new home in
Wilmington’s South Island Park. After a recent makeover, this towering
fiberglass figure continues to welcome travellers, serving as a nostalgic
reminder of Route 66’s quirky roadside culture.
History Comes to Life: Old
Cannonball Jail Tours
Carlinville’s Old Cannonball
Jail, a fascinating piece of Illinois history, is now open for public
tours. Originally built in the 1800s, this architectural gem offers visitors a
glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for those interested in the
stories of early Route 66 travellers.
New Stops in Springfield:
Museums and More
Springfield, the state’s capital
and home of Abraham Lincoln, invites visitors to step back in time at Shea’s
Gas Station Museum with vintage gas pumps, memorabilia, and stories from
the road. Route 66 Motorheads Motor Museum blends history and
entertainment, featuring classic cars, a retro diner, and tributes to racing
culture.
.jpg)
A Neon Revival: It’s Electric
Neon Sign Park
Granite City is lighting up with
the launch of the It’s Electric Neon Sign Park, a vibrant tribute to
Route 66’s rich history. This glowing outdoor museum showcases beautifully
restored neon signs, evoking the classic Americana atmosphere that defined the
golden age of road travel.
A Colourful Tribute: Route 66
Mural Trail
Southern Illinois has embraced
the spirit of Route 66 through art, with the new Route 66 Mural Trail
spanning 11 towns. Each mural tells a different story of the historic highway,
creating the perfect backdrop for road trip photo ops.
EV Charging Stations and EV
Road Trips in Illinois
Explore Illinois like never
before by Electric
Vehicle. Illinois has over 1200 public EV charging stations across the
state which allow you to embark on unforgettable EV road trips, exploring
scenic routes and hidden gems across the state.
So, buckle up, hit the road, and
get ready to explore all that is waiting along this legendary highway!
For further info, or to plan your
trip, visit enjoyillinois.co.uk
