Cruising The Mom Highway: A Deep Dive Into The Route 66 Illinois Map

Cruising the Mom Highway: A Deep Dive into the Route 66 Illinois Map

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Cruising the Mom Highway: A Deep Dive into the Route 66 Illinois Map

Route 66, the legendary Mom Highway, holds a particular place within the American creativeness. Its 2,448-mile stretch, as soon as a significant artery connecting Chicago to Los Angeles, is now a pilgrimage for road-trippers, historical past buffs, and anybody craving for a style of Americana. Whereas the complete route boasts unbelievable appeal, the Illinois leg, although comparatively brief in comparison with others, gives a novel mix of city grit and rural tranquility, making it an important a part of any full Route 66 expertise. This text delves into the Illinois portion of Route 66, exploring its historical past, iconic landmarks, and the experiences awaiting those that select to comply with its path.

A Temporary Historical past of Route 66 in Illinois:

Illinois’s section of Route 66, formally designated as US Route 66, entered the state close to Atlanta, Illinois, and exited close to the Mississippi River, traversing roughly 300 miles. Its building, starting within the Twenties, mirrored the nation’s burgeoning automotive tradition. The freeway served as a lifeline for farmers, companies, and vacationers, fostering financial development alongside its path. Cities thrived, motels sprung up, and roadside points of interest catered to the fixed stream of automobiles. Nonetheless, the rise of the Interstate Freeway System within the Nineteen Fifties and 60s finally led to the official decommissioning of Route 66 in 1985. Regardless of this, the spirit of the Mom Highway endures, and far of its unique route stays accessible, a testomony to its enduring legacy.

Exploring the Illinois Route 66 Map: Key Stops and Points of interest:

The Illinois portion of Route 66 gives a various vary of points of interest, catering to numerous pursuits. This is a curated collection of must-see places, organized roughly from east to west:

1. Chicago (Beginning Level): Whereas not technically on the unique alignment, Chicago serves as the standard jap terminus of Route 66. Beginning your journey right here permits you to expertise the colourful metropolis earlier than embarking in your street journey. Take into account visiting the Route 66 Mom Highway Museum, a incredible start line to be taught concerning the freeway’s historical past earlier than you hit the street.

2. Atlanta, Illinois: This small city marks the official entry level into Illinois on Route 66. It is a quintessential Route 66 city, with preserved sections of the freeway and a number of other historic buildings. A cease on the Atlanta Historic Society Museum supplies invaluable insights into the city’s historical past and its connection to the Mom Highway.

3. Pontiac, Illinois: Recognized for its Route 66 heritage, Pontiac gives a glimpse into the freeway’s impression on small-town America. The Route 66 Corridor of Fame and Museum is a must-visit, showcasing memorabilia and artifacts from the freeway’s golden age. Pontiac additionally boasts a number of well-preserved buildings and motels reflecting the period.

4. Bloomington/Regular, Illinois: This twin-city space gives a mix of historic websites and fashionable facilities. Exploring the historic downtown areas reveals glimpses of the previous, whereas the colourful faculty environment provides a up to date contact. A number of Route 66-related companies and points of interest could be discovered right here.

5. Springfield, Illinois: The state capital boasts a wealthy historical past, unbiased of Route 66. Nonetheless, the freeway’s affect continues to be evident. The Route 66 Springfield Welcome Heart supplies data and sources for vacationers. The town additionally gives quite a few historic websites, together with the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

6. Litchfield, Illinois: This charming city maintains a good portion of its unique Route 66 alignment. The historic downtown space is a photographer’s dream, with well-preserved buildings and a nostalgic environment. A number of vintage retailers and diners add to the appeal.

7. Staunton, Illinois: Recognized for its charming downtown and the enduring Route 66 murals adorning its buildings, Staunton is a photographer’s paradise. It’s an ideal spot to seize the essence of Route 66’s visible attraction.

8. Carlinville, Illinois: This city gives a glimpse into the previous with its well-preserved Route 66 structure. A number of classic companies and eating places alongside the previous freeway present a style of Americana.

9. Gillespie, Illinois: Gillespie options a number of historic buildings and motels which have been restored to their former glory. The city’s Route 66 heritage is widely known by way of its native companies and occasions.

10. Edwardsville, Illinois: Situated close to the western fringe of Illinois’s Route 66, Edwardsville gives a distinct perspective on the freeway’s impression. Whereas not as closely targeted on Route 66 as different cities, it supplies a transition level earlier than crossing into Missouri.

Past the Landmarks: The Expertise of Driving Route 66 in Illinois

Driving Route 66 in Illinois is extra than simply visiting landmarks; it is about experiencing the journey. The open street, the altering landscapes, and the sense of historical past surrounding you create an unforgettable expertise. The smaller cities supply a glimpse into easier occasions, whereas the bigger cities present a distinction of recent life towards the backdrop of Route 66’s legacy.

Planning Your Route 66 Illinois Highway Journey:

Planning your journey requires cautious consideration. Researching lodging choices alongside the route is essential, as many cities have restricted lodging. Reserving prematurely, particularly throughout peak season, is extremely really useful. Moreover, contemplate the situation of the roads; some sections could also be much less well-maintained than others. A dependable car is crucial, and checking your tires and fluids earlier than embarking on the journey is advisable.

Preservation Efforts and the Way forward for Route 66 in Illinois:

Vital efforts are underway to protect Route 66 in Illinois. Native communities actively work to keep up and restore historic buildings and sections of the freeway. These preservation efforts be sure that future generations can expertise the appeal and historical past of the Mom Highway. The continued assist and involvement of native communities and organizations are essential for the long-term preservation of this iconic American freeway.

Conclusion:

The Illinois section of Route 66 gives a novel and rewarding journey expertise. From the bustling metropolis of Chicago to the charming small cities alongside the route, the journey is full of historical past, nostalgia, and a way of journey. Whether or not you are a seasoned Route 66 traveler or a first-timer, the Illinois leg supplies an important chapter within the story of the Mom Highway, a journey that continues to captivate and encourage. So, pack your luggage, hit the street, and expertise the magic of Route 66 in Illinois for your self. The recollections you make will final a lifetime.

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