Route 66 and Springfield: a Journey into the “Land of Lincoln”

Index - Route 66 and Springfield: a Journey into the “Land of Lincoln”

1. - Route 66 in Illinois
2. - Springfield: the City of Abraham Lincoln
3. - Route 66 and Springfield: Must-See Attractions
4. - Murals, Shops and Vintage Atmosphere
5. - Practical Travel Tips
6. - Route 66 and Springfield

Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” was inaugurated in 1926 to create a quick and efficient connection of nearly 2,500 miles, stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. Although today it is no longer a single continuous highway, it remains the quintessential on the road route in the United States, an iconic symbol for travelers, bikers riding their Harley-Davidsons, and countless lovers of timeless adventures.

In Illinois, the Mother Road has its roots: it starts in Chicago, crosses the prairies and small towns of the Midwest, and arrives in St. Louis, Missouri. About halfway along, travelers reach Springfield, the state capital and a city deeply tied to the figure of Abraham Lincoln.

It is an often underrated stop, but one that truly deserves to be included in any on the road adventure or regional itinerary. In Springfield, the myth of Route 66 intertwines with American history: cultural attractions dedicated to a president who shaped the nation’s destiny can be enjoyed in a town with a charmingly vintage atmosphere, dotted with restored gas stations and authentic 1950s-style diners.

“Get your kicks on Route 66” (Bobby Troup, 1946)

Route 66 in Illinois

The Illinois stretch is one of the most fascinating for those who want to relive the original spirit of Route 66 on the way to Springfield. From downtown Chicago to the Mississippi River, travelers can still drive long stretches of the old road, marked by the characteristic brown “Historic Route 66” signs.

Among the most interesting stops before reaching Springfield are Joliet, where you can visit the Route 66 Welcome Center inside the Rialto Square Theatre, and Pontiac, famous for its colorful murals and the Pontiac Oakland Automobile Museum. Continuing south, visitors encounter the typical Midwestern agricultural landscapes, with restored motels and vintage restaurants that preserve the look of the 1940s and 1950s.

After Springfield, which we will explore further below, the road continues toward Missouri, crossing the Chain of Rocks Bridge, a spectacular span over the Mississippi that once marked the entrance to St. Louis.

This Illinois itinerary is perfect for anyone who wants to drive a manageable section of Route 66, discovering destinations rich in history, legend, and authenticity.

Springfield: the City of Abraham Lincoln

Springfield is a major stop along Route 66, and perhaps the city in the U.S. most closely linked to Abraham Lincoln. Here, the future president lived for nearly twenty-five years, working as a lawyer and taking his first steps into politics. For history enthusiasts, here’s an overview of the main sites connected to his legacy.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

The home where Lincoln lived with his family from 1844 to 1861 is perfectly preserved and open to visitors free of charge, thanks to guided tours organized by the National Park Service.

• Admission: free for everyone
• Parking: $2 per hour
• Hours: daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed on Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day)

During peak season (March–November), tickets may run out by late afternoon, so it’s best to arrive early. Large groups (15+) should book in advance through the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

One of the most modern history museums in the United States, it features original documents and personal items displayed in multimedia exhibits that bring the president’s story to life. Highlights include two immersive presentations: “Ghosts of the Library” and “Lincoln’s Eyes.”

• Admission: adults $15, seniors $12, children (5–15) $6, free under 4
• Hours: daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (last entry 4:00 pm)

Other must-see sites include the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln delivered some of his most famous speeches, and the Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site in Oak Ridge Cemetery, the president’s final resting place since 1874.

Route 66 and Springfield: Must-See Attractions

• Cozy Dog Drive In: legendary diner founded in 1949, credited with inventing the corn dog.
• Route 66 Drive-In Theater: seasonal open-air cinema (May–September).
• Shea’s Gas Station Museum: former service station turned private museum filled with Route 66 memorabilia.

Murals, Shops and Vintage Atmosphere

Springfield keeps the Route 66 spirit alive not only through its diners and restored service stations, but also through colorful murals dedicated to the Mother Road. One of the most photographed is near the Visitor Center, featuring the inscription “Route 66 – Springfield, Illinois.”

Souvenir and antique shops abound, selling original license plates, road signs, vintage car models, and memorabilia—often run by families preserving the historic identity of the road. Perfect for taking home a unique memento of your on the road adventure.

Throughout town, neon signs, retro gas pumps, and old motels recreate the golden age when Route 66 was the main highway across the USA, making Springfield an evocative stop along the way.

Practical Travel Tips

Springfield is about a three-hour drive from Chicago via Interstate 55, which in many stretches overlaps the historic Route 66. For a more authentic experience, travelers can follow the brown “Historic Route 66” signs along the old segments.

Best time to visit: spring and fall, with mild weather perfect for road trips. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be harsh, with seasonal attractions closed.

For those dreaming of experiencing Route 66 without the hassle of planning, our ready-made on the road itineraries will soon be available, featuring selected stops and practical tips to make the most of your Mother Road adventure.

Route 66 and Springfield