Illinois (page 2)
Auburn
- Auburn Brick Road: One of the most authentic relics of the Mother Road is the preserved 1.4-mile stretch of hand-laid brick located just north of Auburn, Illinois. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this segment was part of the original 1926–1930 alignment of Route 66 and was resurfaced with locally sourced vitrified bricks over a concrete base in 1932 and provides a rare glimpse of the road's texture before it was bypassed by straighter, concrete paths.
Address:
5435 Snell Rd, Auburn, IL 62615
Virden
A stagecoach stop and deep-rooted coal-mining town, Virden is the northernmost Route 66 town in Macoupin County. It has become a significant destination for public art primarily because its murals serve as a "living museum" for the town's complex identity as a coal mining hub and a vital stop on the original Route 66.
Virden also has one of the 31 interpretive exhibits that can be found along Route 66 through Illinois. In Virden, the historic Route 66 interpretive exhibit serves as a poignant reminder of the town’s deep roots in the coal mining industry and its struggle for labor rights. Located on the downtown square, the exhibit focuses specifically on the theme of "Coal and Labor Movements."
- Central Park/Virden Miner’s Memorial is a striking granite and bronze monument that commemorates the 1898 Battle of Virden—a violent conflict between striking miners and armed guards that eventually led to a major victory for the United Mine Workers of America. This stop is also part of the regional "Mother Jones" trail, connecting Virden’s history to the famous labor organizer buried in nearby Mt. Olive.
- Virden Postcard Mural: Virden rests on the first alignment of the Mother Road and its painting on the Mural Trail emphasizes Virden’s coal-mining history with a pickaxe, miner’s helmet, coal wagon, and the glasses of Mary “Mother” Jones-famed labor reformist and worker’s rights activist. Virden’s symbols also represent the Battle of Virden- a labor union and racial conflict that occurred on October 12, 1898, and killed at least 18 men and injured more than 30.
- The Sav-Mor History Mural functions as a chronological tapestry, featuring a series of panels that highlight Virden’s most significant figures and industries. Central to the piece is the portrait of Sarah Hall, who was born into slavery and became a cherished figure in Virden's early history, alongside depictions of the town's coal mining roots and its founder’s stagecoach hotel. The mural also honors the adventurous spirit of Virden with a panel dedicated to pioneer aviator Melvin Vaniman and a prominent map of the 1926 Route 66 alignment, cementing the pharmacy’s exterior as a stop for anyone exploring the legacy of the "Mother Road.
Address:
105 E Jackson St, Virden, IL 62690
105 E Jackson St, Virden, IL 62690
- The New Drag Racing Mural was added to the Sav-Mor building complex in late 2025 to fill in a specific "gap" in the town's story. It was specifically commissioned as part of the Route 66 Centennial (1926–2026) celebrations. The town wanted something that captured the "car culture" aspect of the Mother Road, since the other murals were more focused on industry and social history. It celebrates the 1950s–60s racing glory days of hometown legends Stan Lomelino and Joe Hendricks.11Virden also has one of the 31 interpretive exhibits that can be found along Route 66 through Illinois. In Virden, the historic Route 66 interpretive exhibit serves as a poignant reminder of the town’s deep roots in the coal mining industry and its struggle for labor rights. Located on the downtown square, the exhibit focuses specifically on the theme of "Coal and Labor Movements."
Address:
105 E Jackson St, Virden, IL 62690
105 E Jackson St, Virden, IL 62690
- The Virden Post Office Mural "Illinois Pastoral" stands as a significant legacy of FDR’s New Deal. Unlike the more famous Works Progress Administration (WPA), which focused primarily on direct unemployment relief, the "Section" aimed to democratize high-quality art by transforming local post offices into "people's galleries." By placing original artwork in the heart of small towns like Virden, the program sought to boost national morale and provide a sense of cultural dignity to Americans weary from the Great Depression. It was renowned artist James Daugherty’s final major mural project before he transitioned to his award-winning career in children’s literature. .Address:
211 N Springfield St, Virden, IL 62690
Girard
- Doc’s Just Off 66: Since 1884, Docs has served the people of Girard as a pharmacy, general store, soda fountain, museum, and Route 66 icon. Started by pharmacists Wyman and Robert Deck and adding a traditional soda fountain in 1929, the shop once sold drugs, paints, glass, books, and stationery. The shop has become a landmark of Girard and the Mother Road, and is part of the Route 66 Hall of Fame of Illinois. If a Tour Company includes food and/or drink in their package, they are willing to open a special for a group during times they are normally closed
Contact: Casey Claypool
- Girard Postcard Mural: Girard marks the historic Girard to Nilwood Segment on Route 66 which is on the National Register of Historic Places – you can drive the preserved original strip of Route 66 and see original attractions like the 1940s Former Standard Station, a vintage Shell Station, and get treats from the famous 1920s Docs Soda Fountain, now called Doc’s Just Off Route 66. Located on the side of the building by Doc's Just Off 66.
- Route 66 Shield Monument: Located across the street from Doc's in a park. Great photo opportunity.
- Whirl-A-Whip: is a rare survivor of mid-century roadside culture. Located on the historic 1926–1930 alignment of Route 66, this walk-up stand is famous for its namesake machine—a 1950s-era mechanical blender that whips each cup of ice cream individually, and offers over 50 flavors ranging from classic peanut butter and banana to more unique options like coffee nut and cotton candy. The building itself retains its vintage charm, featuring the original neon-bordered sign and resisting modern enclosures to preserve the authentic experience of an open-air Route 66 dairy bar.
The owner will work with tour companies on pricing.
Contact:Brent & Anita Barnes
Turkey Tracks on Route 66
- For a truly quirky and unique Route 66 experience, don't miss the Turkey Tracks on Route 66. Located between Nilwood and Carlinville, these fascinating imprints are a reminder of the highway's early days. Easily found by searching "Turkey Tracks on Route 66" on Google Maps, this section of road boasts the original 1926-30 alignment, a 100-year-old testament to the Mother Road. Legend has it that these turkey tracks were imprinted in the wet concrete during the road's construction, a whimsical reminder of the unexpected encounters that occurred along this historic highway in its early years. While there's no designated parking for motorcoaches, the road has minimal traffic, allowing for a brief stop with hazard lights activated while passengers capture photos.
Carlinville
Route 66 traveled through the City of Carlinville at the height of prohibition from 1926-1931. The infamous Ortic Inn was built on a farm several miles south of the city and purportedly used by gangster Al Capone and bootleggers running liquor from the south to Chicago. Coal mining played a significant part of the economy of Carlinville and Standard Oil built 159 Sears and Roebuck kit homes in the city in 1918- 156 of which still stand today.
- Macoupin County Courthouse: Macoupin County's "Million Dollar Courthouse" earned its nickname due to its exorbitant construction costs. Work was halted in 1870, not completed, yet already surpassed $1.3 million – a staggering sum equivalent to approximately $23.5 million today. This unprecedented overspending made it the most expensive construction project in Illinois history at the time. Upon its eventual completion, the courthouse held the distinction of being the largest in the nation, second only to one in New York City. Beyond its sheer size, the courthouse is renowned for its architectural grandeur. Its Romanesque Revival style, featuring intricate stonework and impressive towers, makes it a striking landmark on the original alignment of Route 66. Booking Notes: It is better to book at lunchtime, as this is a working courthouse, and if the court is out of session – you have a better chance at a full tour.Contact: AndreaPhone: (217) 854-2280
- Historic Macoupin County Jail: The historic Macoupin County jail was in service from 1869 to 1988. E.E. Meyers, the same architect who designed the county’s controversial courthouse, designed the Gothic Revival stone structure using the "cannonball method." Stones were hollowed out and leftover Civil War cannonballs were embedded into the stones used to build the walls, making an escape by removing stones nearly impossible. The jail was built to hold 17 prisoners but, on occasion, it was reported to house twice that number.
- Route 66 Monument: Located at the Macoupin County Jail.
- Carlinville Route 66 Postcard Mural: Route 66 traveled through the City of Carlinville at the height of prohibition from 1926-1931. The infamous Ortic Inn was built on a farm several miles south of the city and was purportedly used by gangster Al Capone and bootleggers running liquor from the south to Chicago. Coal mining played a significant part of the economy in Carlinville and Standard Oil built 159 Sears and Roebuck kit homes in the city in 1918 – 156 of which still stand. Carlinville is famous for the “Million Dollar” Court House and “Cannonball Jail,” as well as Carlinville’s original roundabout. The mural is located on the side of a barbershop at the following address.
- Anderson Mansion Museum: The Anderson Mansion in Carlinville is a stunning 1883 Victorian estate that serves as a grand historical anchor along the Route 66 corridor. Built as a wedding gift for the son of a local banker, the thirteen-room home features a unique blend of Italianate and Queen Anne architecture, highlighted by its distinctive square tower. Today, it serves as the headquarters for the Macoupin County Historical Society, housing a vast collection of local artifacts and period furnishings alongside a living history village on the grounds. A favorite for travelers, the Historical Society offers catered lunches for tour groups, providing a rare opportunity to dine amidst the elegance of the "Millionaire’s Row" era.Address:
920 W Breckenridge St, Carlinville, IL 62626Contact:
Mary Tinder
Email:
marytinder1@gmail.com
Litchfield
Located on two alignments of the Mother Road, Litchfield is a great example of Route 66 preservation.
- Ariston Café: A road trip down the legendary Route 66 wouldn't be complete without a nostalgic meal at the Ariston Café in Litchfield. Believed to be the longest-operating restaurant along the Mother Road, it has served travelers since 1924. The original Ariston relocated to Litchfield in 1930 when Route 66 was realigned.
Contact:Will Law
- Jubelts: For over a century, Jubelt's has been renowned for its fresh-baked bread. A proud member of the Route 66 Hall of Fame, Jubelt's exemplifies quality through experience, dedication, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Today, it has evolved into a multifaceted culinary destination. Alongside its signature bread, Jubelt's offers an array of dining options: all-day breakfast and lunch specials, dinners, custom-crafted cakes and cookies, expertly brewed coffee and espresso, and a selection of hand-dipped ice creams, floats, and milkshakes. Jubelt's also serves as a convenient deli, grocery, and catering service.
Contact:Jean Jubelt
Phone: (217) 324-5314 - Route 66 Postcard Mural: The Litchfield Route 66 mural depicts its historic businesses with the drive-in’s arrow sign, a Jubelt’s cake, a classic 50s car, a campsite representing Lake Lou Yaeger recreation, and the Vic Suhling Gas Station sign. If you put "Greetings from Litchfield Mural" in your Google Maps, it will bring up that location.
Address: 423 N State St, Litchfield, IL 62056
- Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center: Welcoming travelers and locals alike, the Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center aims to both educate and entertain visitors with the history of Litchfield and the famed Mother Road. Located on the site of the former Vic Suhling gas station, the museum is home to many displays and is a perfect stop for a history lesson and photo opportunities. Located at
Contact:Carol Sneed
Contact:Stacie Peecher
Gillespie
The small town of Gillespie is on the original first alignment of Route 66 on the stretch between Springfield and Staunton, Illinois. A well-known coal-mining town, Gillespie was one of the busiest towns in the county in the early 20th century for its rich ores and is home to the Illinois Coal Museum, the 1921 Canna Theatre, a former service station, and Lake Gillespie.
- Illinois Coal Museum: From a village of 600 residents in the 1870s to a coal mining boom town of 6,000 people, the Illinois Coal Museum covers the history of Gillespie and the Illinois coal mining industry. Exhibits cover the different types of coal mines, advancements in mining processes and equipment, the road of Unions, and a number of mining disasters in the area.
- Route 66 Postcard Mural: The Progressive Miners of America Union formed in 1932 in Gillespie and the small town was once famous for its annual Black Diamond Days, a three-day festival featuring a carnival, parades, contests, mine rescue demonstrations, and shopping. The old Canna Theatre, Miner’s Union, Black Diamond Days, and Lake Gillespie are all featured symbols on the Gillespie Route 66 Mural Trail.
Benld
Benld’s Route 66 legacy is a gritty, neon-soaked blend of industrial labor and outlaw enterprise. During Prohibition, the town became a strategic hub for Al Capone’s Chicago Outfit and the rival Shelton Brothers Gang, who used the Mother Road to move contraband between Chicago and St. Louis. The centerpiece of this operation was the infamous "No. 5 Mine," a massive illegal distillery disguised as a coal tipple that produced 2000 gallons of moonshine daily. This intersection of "miners and mobsters" turned Benld into a high-energy crossroads, ensuring the town thrived as the region's illicit "liquor capital" throughout the golden age of the highway.
- Dud’s Bar & Grill: A stop at Dud’s Bar & Grill offers a true taste of Route 66 history. Originally built around 1929, the building at 413 East Central Avenue served the Benld community as a neighborhood grocery store for sixteen years before transitioning into a tavern in 1945. Founded by Dudley "Dud" Frensko, the establishment became a legendary social hub for local miners and Mother Road travelers alike. Today, the family legacy is carried on by Dud’s son, Al Frensko, who continues to serve the signature steak sandwiches and traditional Friday fish fries that have made this historic site a regional favorite for decades.
Al with his friend (who is presently writing a book on Benld) regales groups with stories of the "miners and mobsters" era of Benld. For groups arriving in the morning “Mocktails and snacks” compliment the storytelling. At other times, lunch or dinner can be included.
Address:
413 E Central Ave, Benld, IL 62009
Contact: AlPhone:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/p/Duds-Bar-and-Gril
Mount Olive
Mount Olive has a history rich in coal. Home to the Union Miner’s Cemetery and burial place of labor rights activist Mary Harris ‘Mother Jones’, Mount Olive served as an important touchpoint in the labor rights movement. The Union Miner’s Cemetery is on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can also explore the Mother Jones Museum in Mount Olive and see Soulsby Shell Service Station, a restored Route 66 landmark built in 1926.
- Soulsby Station: The Soulsby Service Station is one of the oldest, most original service stations located on Historic Route 66. Stop by and discover such a rich history that started here when an Irish immigrant, Henry Soulsby, opened his service station on Route 66 in 1926. The station was run by his family for years before it was eventually shuttered and sold at auction. Today, a group of volunteers has refurbished the station and brought it back to its glory of the 1950s. The sunshine yellow pumps and bright Shell Oil sign are a true blast from the past and worth pulling over for to snap a pic.
- Route 66 Postcard Mural. The Mount Olive mural features the Mother Jones Monument at Union Miner’s Cemetery, a coal cart, a Soulsby Service Station fuel pump, the Route 66 shield, and a stalk of corn representing the town’s robust farming community.
- The Mother Jones Monument: Located within the Union Miners Cemetery, it is a towering 22-foot granite tribute to Mary Harris "Mother" Jones, the Irish-born labor organizer once dubbed "the most dangerous woman in America” because of her fierce advocacy for miners' rights and child labor laws.
Address:
5585 Mt Olive Rd, Mt Olive, IL 62069
Staunton
Staunton is on the first alignment of Route 66, but close to the second alignment on the city’s south side. The city is home to several notable Route 66 attractions including the Route 66 Flea Market and Storage Giant Rocking Chair, Visitors can stop at the popular Italian restaurant Cavataio’s or the historic 1931 Decamp Station for a bite to eat and to see the Route 66 Mural Trail rendition.
- Route 66 Postcard Mural. The mural has symbols representing the rabbit ranch, Decamp Roadhouse, the Staunton bike trail, Staunton Reservoir, Cavataio’s, and the former Neuhaus Texaco Station.
Livingston
The small town of Livingston is located on the third alignment of Route 66. There aren’t any ’66 gas stations left in the town, but Livingston is home to the Pink Elephant Antique Mall, a kitschy collection of Mother Road memorabilia including a reclaimed Beach Boy, an Uniroyal Gal, a Harley-Davidson Muffler Man, a flying saucer ski cabin, a giant ice-cream cone selling ice cream, and a giant pink elephant.
- Pink Elephant Antique Mall. The Pink Elephant Antique Mall is a must-see stop for travelers exploring Route 66. Pose for pictures with the oversized outdoor statues including the pink elephant, original 1960s Futuro house, authentic "muffler man" and more! Located in the former Livingston High School building, the Pink Elephant Antique Mall showcases the wares of more than 50 antique dealers. From floor to ceiling, browse the shelves for a unique find. If you happen to work up an appetite, they have you covered with a quaint diner offering burgers, nachos, sandwiches, and refreshments. Save room for ice cream, and don't forget to visit the candy and fudge shop!
- Twistee Treat Diner. Shop 'til you drop at the Pink Elephant, and take a break at the Twistee Treat Diner for a bit to eat. The Philly Cheesesteak sandwich served with a side of crispy fries is a visitor's favorite. You can't go wrong with the hamburger basket homemade waffle cone and ice cream for dessert.
- Route 66 Postcard Mural. Livingston’s Route 66 Mural Trail iteration is on the front of the Pink Elephant Antique Mall and portrays the giant ice-cream cone, the flying saucer, an American farm representing Livingston’s rural community, and vintage cars representing Livingston’s significance as a popular Route 66 pit stop.
Hamel
Once a service and dining pit stop on Route 66, the Village of Hamel has been aligned on Route 66 since its beginning and is still on the original route. The village is home to the 1931 Saint Paul Lutheran Church also called the ‘Church of the Neon Cross.’ The town was also home to Nearon’s Tourist Cabins, a Conoco Station, a Meramec Caverns barn sign, Cassens Car Dealership, and Fowley’s Tavern - all since demolished or converted today.
- Weezy’s Route 66 Bar and Grill. Stepping into Weezy's feels like a journey back in time, with its retro decor, classic jukebox tunes, and friendly atmosphere. Whether you're craving a taste of the open road or simply seeking a welcoming spot to unwind, Weezy's Route 66 Bar and Grill offers a slice of Americana and a warm welcome to all who pass through its doors.Contact: Karen
- Route 66 Postcard Mural. The Hamel mural depicts classic Route 66 diner food like ice cream, a burger, and a float, Hamel’s water tower, the Neon Cross Church, a 50s 50-era car, the Madison County Bike Trail, and the 1820-1852 Hamel School Log Cabin. Now a museum, the cabin preserves artifacts from the 19th century and can be visited by appointment.
Edwardsville
One of the largest cities of the Last 100 Miles of Route 66 in Illinois, Edwardsville is a bevy of historic sites dating all the way back to 1805. Edwardsville is the third-eldest town in Illinois and has three historic districts including the Historic Leclaire Neighborhood District, St. Louis Street District, and the Brick Street District which are all included on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Wildey Theatre. The Wildey Theatre is a premier gathering spot for cultural events along Route 66. First opened in 1909, the theatre served as an opera house that hosted concerts, dance performances, and movies. In 1984, the Wildey closed as a full-time movie theater and was named a "local landmark" a few years later. Since then, the city has renovated the theater back to its original glory, and it is now a premium venue for guests to experience the best live performances and some of the most popular classic films.
Contact: Amanda
- Postcard Mural. One of the largest cities of the Last 100 Miles of Route 66 in Illinois, Edwardsville is a bevy of historic sites dating all the way back to 1805. Edwardsville is the third-oldest town in Illinois and has three lovely historic districts, included on the National Register of Historic Places. The city is home to one of the largest college campuses in the country – Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville, and boasts a walkable downtown with lots of bike trails connecting you to various districts in the city and neighboring communities.
- West End Service Station. Opened in 1927, West End Station served as a bustling automobile service station on America’s iconic Route 66, for nearly four decades. Travelers and locals frequented the station to refuel, get an oil change, check their tires, and enjoy a cold soda. In 1939, the West End Service Station closed temporarily for the repaving of Route 66 through Edwardsville, and this time was used to make improvements to the facility. The old building was demolished and a larger, more modern building, the one you see today, was constructed. The new station re-opened on August 5, 1939, with its ideal location on this prime Route 66 corner, in the stylish “West End” of Edwardsville, the West End Service Station was a hive of activity. In the summer of 1964, around the time that I-55 bypassed Edwardsville, ending the Route 66 era, the building was purchased by a local dentist. For the next 55 years, it served as an office to a series of dentists — giving new meaning to the term “filling station.” In the fall of 2022, the City of Edwardsville purchased the West End Service Station, one of the last original Route 66 service stations in nearly 60 miles, at a public auction to create this Route 66 historic site and visitor center.
Granite City
- Historic Route 66 Flea Market & Café: Historic Route 66 Flea Market and Café is a 1950s-style American restaurant located beside the Historic Route 66 Flea Market. Home to the premier market in the Greater St. Louis Metro Area in Illinois and Missouri, it brings over 30 indoor and outdoor vendors for the ultimate shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for items at bargain prices, vintage finds, relics of the past, or everyday items for your home or business.Contact: Gina Korte (Flea Market) & Teri Bonbicino (Diner)Phone:
618-709-7007 Flea MarketPhone:
618-797-1501 Teri's Diner - Luna Café: Since prohibition, the Luna has been serving up food, drinks, and history. Legend has it that the bar was a favorite hideout of mobster Al Capone and other prohibition-era gangsters - the basement held an illegal gambling den and the upstairs was a brothel. The café allegedly served as a hideout for criminals who could lie low, enjoy food and drink, and partake in the café’s many illicit activities. Located on Route 66, the Luna serves steak, seafood, and chicken. Nostalgic Route 66 mementos line the walls of this historic establishment, including a portrait of Capone, old license plates, and gangster memorabilia. Keeping with tradition, the café offers pool and slot machines-come play while listening to classics on the jukebox.
- Route 66 Monument: Only a few miles from the Mississippi and at the crossroads of three Route 66 alignments, Granite City has many Mother Road attractions.
- Chain of Rocks Bridge: The Chain of Rocks Bridge is one of the most interesting bridges in America, with a 30-degree turn in the middle of this mile-long bridge that sits above the Mississippi. This bridge is perfect for that Instagram-worthy photo-op! Note: The bridge is not currently accessible to motor coaches on the Illinois side. The Illinois side of the bridge has a canal bridge that cannot be crossed by bus due to the weight limit.
- It's Electric - Neon Sign Park is a vibrant outdoor museum that blends Route 66 nostalgia with local industrial history. The park features three meticulously crafted, full-scale neon replicas from iconic mid-20th-century businesses: Hudson Jewelers, Reese Drug Store, and the Washington Theatre. It also honors the city’s 1896 foundation with oversized sculptures, most notably a giant blue-speckled Graniteware teapot. This monument celebrates the city's namesake industry: enamelware made of steel or iron coated in powdered glass and fired at high temperatures. The city’s founder, William Niedringhaus, revolutionized this process by adding ground granite to the coating to create a patented "mottled" pattern that made the durable pans look like stone. Nearby, a Make-It Toy dinosaur pays tribute to the vintage construction sets once manufactured locally. For the full experience, the best time to visit is between dusk and dawn when the entire park is brilliantly illuminated.Address:
1300 19th St, Granite City,
IL 62040
Collinsville
- The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle. At 170 feet tall, the largest water tower in the world is the Brooks Catsup Bottle in Collinsville. It was built in 1949 to supply water to the catsup plant below. The water tower was refurbished at the request of the Catsup Bottle Preservation Society. Now it is a beautiful, historic attraction off Route 66 and is known worldwide. There is an Exon Station at the corner of Clinton and Morrison Avenue, 1/2 block from the World's Largest Catsup Bottle. It is the only place that a motorcoach can safely park and is a good place for passengers to take pictures.
- Old Herald Brewery & Distillery. This former site of the Collinsville Herald newspaper has been transformed into a full-service restaurant, production brewery, and craft distillery. Craft beers such as Proofreader Pale and Printer's Ink hearken back to the site's printing history. Spirits are available under their Ardent Spirits label and include gin, rum & vodka. Lunch and dinner are served daily. Note: There is a weight limit on E. Clay St. The city has stated that motor coaches are exempt. If there are any problems, call Lindsey Laird at
Office: (618) 465-6676 x 2104
Mobile: (618) 972-3941.Contact: Derik - Route 66 Postcard Mural. Collinsville’s Route 66 Mural Trail painting depicts horseradish root representing Collinsville as the Horseradish Capitol of the World, Monk’s Mound, the Brooks Catsup Bottle, and a plate of spaghetti representing Mungo’s Italian Eatery, Ravenelli’s Italian Steakhouse, and Collinsville’s prominent Italian heritage.Address:
225 W. Main St. Collinsville,
Illinois 62234
(on the side of Verona Coffee & Bert’s Chuck Wagon)
