Travel Guide: Route 66 Illinois Map
Introduction
If you’re planning a road trip on Route 66, Illinois is one of the states you must visit. The state has a lot to offer, from historical landmarks to hidden gems, outdoor adventures to cultural immersion. This comprehensive travel guide will help you discover the top attractions, budget-friendly tips, family-friendly activities, natural wonders, and more.
Top Attractions
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
This museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It houses artifacts and exhibits related to Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States.
Chain of Rocks Bridge
This historic bridge is a Route 66 landmark. It spans the Mississippi River and offers stunning views.
Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum
This museum celebrates the history of Route 66. It features vintage cars, memorabilia, and exhibits related to the Mother Road.
Hidden Gems
The Mill
This restaurant is a hidden gem in Lincoln, Illinois. It serves delicious burgers, sandwiches, and fries in a cozy atmosphere.
The Ariston Cafe
This cafe is a Route 66 icon. It has been serving homemade food since 1924 and has hosted several famous guests over the years.
The Pink Elephant Antique Mall
This antique mall in Livingston, Illinois, is a quirky stop. It houses vintage items, collectibles, and oddities.
Food Scene
Illinois is known for its deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. You can find these dishes and more at local restaurants and diners along Route 66.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying at budget-friendly motels or camping grounds along Route 66. You can also save money by packing your own snacks and meals for the road.
Outdoor Adventures
Shawnee National Forest
This national forest is a great spot for hiking, camping, and fishing. It features scenic trails and waterfalls.
Starved Rock State Park
This state park offers hiking, camping, and canoeing opportunities. It also features stunning canyons and waterfalls.
Historical Landmarks
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
This site features the home of Abraham Lincoln and his family. It offers guided tours and exhibits related to Lincoln’s life and legacy.
Old State Capitol
This historic building served as the Illinois State Capitol from 1839 to 1876. It now houses a museum and offers guided tours.
Family-Friendly Activities
Route 66 Drive-In Theater
This drive-in theater in Springfield, Illinois, is a fun family activity. You can watch movies under the stars while enjoying snacks from the concession stand.
Children’s Discovery Museum
This museum in Normal, Illinois, offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for kids.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Gemini Giant
This 30-foot-tall statue in Wilmington, Illinois, is a Route 66 icon. It was built in 1965 and has become a popular photo spot for travelers.
The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle
This 70-foot-tall water tower in Collinsville, Illinois, is shaped like a giant ketchup bottle. It was built in 1949 and has become a quirky Route 66 attraction.
Natural Wonders
Garden of the Gods
This natural rock formation in Shawnee National Forest is a breathtaking sight. It offers hiking trails and scenic views.
Mammoth Cave National Park
This park in Kentucky, near the Illinois border, features the world’s longest known cave system. It offers tours and outdoor activities.
Vibrant Nightlife
Cities like Chicago and Springfield offer a vibrant nightlife scene. You can find bars, clubs, and live music venues along Route 66.
Local Markets
Illinois has several farmers’ markets where you can taste local produce and buy handmade items. The markets in Springfield and Bloomington are worth a visit.
Beaches and Mountains
Illinois doesn’t have mountains or beaches, but neighboring states like Missouri and Indiana offer outdoor destinations worth exploring.
Cultural Immersion
Illinois is a melting pot of cultures, and you can experience this diversity through food, music, and art. The Pilsen neighborhood in Chicago is known for its Mexican heritage, while the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign has a vibrant Asian community.
Art and Music Scene
Cities like Chicago and Springfield have thriving art and music scenes. You can find galleries, museums, and live music venues along Route 66.
Walking Tours
Several cities along Route 66 offer walking tours that showcase their history and architecture. The Chicago Architecture Foundation offers several tours that focus on the city’s iconic buildings.
Architectural Marvels
Willis Tower
This skyscraper, formerly known as the Sears Tower, was the tallest building in the world when it was completed in 1973. It offers stunning views of Chicago from its observation deck.
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
This home and studio in Oak Park, Illinois, was designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It offers tours and exhibits related to his work.
Historical Sites
Prairie du Rocher
This French colonial village in southern Illinois offers a glimpse into Illinois’ early history. It features historic buildings and reenactments of colonial life.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
This site in Collinsville, Illinois, features the remains of an ancient Native American city. It offers guided tours and exhibits related to the city’s history.
Biking Routes
Illinois has several biking trails that offer scenic views and outdoor recreation. The Route 66 Trail and the Illinois Prairie Path are worth exploring.
Wellness Retreats
Illinois has several wellness retreats that offer yoga classes, spa treatments, and meditation sessions. The Galena Country Inn in Galena and the Ayurveda Yoga Spa in Evanston are popular destinations.
Adventure Sports
Illinois doesn’t offer extreme adventure sports, but you can find outdoor activities like kayaking, rock climbing, and zip-lining at parks and recreation areas along Route 66.
With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re ready to explore Route 66 in Illinois. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature lover, or adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone on the Mother Road.