As Route 66 turns 100, Illinois is revving up with nostalgic attractions, restored landmarks and fun tributes to the golden age of American road travel
In 2026, one of America’s most iconic highways will celebrate a century of road trips, neon signs and unforgettable memories. Route 66, affectionately known as the Mother Road, has long symbolized freedom, adventure and the golden age of automobile travel. Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, this historic highway has captured the imagination of generations and remains a beloved journey for travelers seeking a slice of classic Americana.
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As the 100th anniversary approaches, towns and attractions along the route are gearing up for a celebration like no other. From vibrant murals and glowing neon to restored service stations and nostalgic museums, here are a few standout spots in Illinois that honor the legacy, and spirit, of Route 66.
Pontiac Mural Shield
Located in Pontiac, Illinois, along the old Route 66, is a larger-than-lifemural shield. It showcases not only the world’s largest Route 66 shield, but also the St. Louis arch and Chicago skyline. There are more large murals that can be found along Pontiac’s main street, featuring themes from the town’s economic, social and political past. You can view these murals by car, but locals recommend experiencing the art by foot.
Pontiac is also home to the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum, which features thousands of memorabilia from the glory days of the Mother Road. You can learn about its infamous history, see photos from its unforgettable lifetime and hear jaw-dropping stories from its golden era. It’s open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The mural shield is painted on the back of the building.
Legends Neon Sign Park
One of the most well-known images of Route 66 lore is the highway’s attractions being lit up by neon. Found aglow in Springfield, Illinois, the Legends Neon Park at the Illinois State Fairgrounds houses re-creations or restorations of neon signs for businesses that are no longer operational along the route. Such businesses include A. Lincoln Motel, Chain of Rocks motel and the Bel-Air Drive-In theater. Overlooking the yard is, of course, a giant neon Route 66 shield.
There are many other Route 66 attractions that can be seen in Springfield. Start the day by sliding down the Giant Slide (also found on the fairgrounds), visit the newly renovated and reopened Shea’s Gas Station Museum (a spot that has seen more than 75 years of Route 66 gossip) and end it at the Route 66 Drive In replica.
West End Service Station
If you were driving along Route 66 and your car broke down, where would you go? The West End Service Station, of course. Serving the highway for nearly four decades, the automobile service station runs through Edwardsville, Illinois. You could get the oil changed, re-fuel and have your tires checked all while slurping down an ice-cold soda. With its location on a prime Route 66 corner in the hip “West End” of Edwardsville, it was a hive of activity for both travelers and locals.
The station ran from 1927 to 1964 before becoming a dentist office until 2019. It was then purchased by the city and turned into a historic site and visitor center, in conjunction with Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau. The station is open Wednesday thru Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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