Springfield, IL, the place to be along Route 66 for the Centennial Celebration!
Get your kicks on Route 66 as you bask in the glow of the neon lights at the new IL State Fairgrounds Route 66 Gate 2 Experience and take part in the Route 66 Mural and Wayside Exhibit Trails.
Visit the exclusive Route 66 Art Exhibition: Celebrating the Iconic Artwork of Bob Waldmire Springfield native, nomadic hippie, gifted artist, and Route 66 icon. Immerse yourself in the legends creative expressions and awe-inspiring attention to detail, celebrating the nostalgia and culture of Route 66. In the same space enjoy David Schwartz’s “The Road that Takes You” photography display. Both are located in The Pharmacy Gallery & Art Space thru Dec 2026.
Carpenter Park Original Route 66 Pavement - Nestled beside the scenic Sangamon River, this quarter-mile stretch of road has remained untouched and overgrown for nearly 90 years. Visitors can leisurely stroll down this historic pathway, enjoying wayside signage that offers fascinating insights into the past while soaking in the breathtaking scenery and rich history of the area.
Visitors can bask in the neon glow at the Route 66 Gate 2 Experience. Walk the entire Illinois Route 66 corridor in microform. Marvel at the Neon Sign Park with new and restored neon signs, a paved brick road, a 25’ tall, fiberglass Route 66 muffler man, a drive-in theater replica and interpretive signs highlighting each Route 66 community from Chicago to the Chain of Rocks Bridge.
Reminisce at the restored Shea’s Gas Station and take time for a photo opportunity at one of the original stations on Route 66!
Experience the journey, local tragedy and resilience of the Black traveler along Route 66 through the Route History Metaverse Virtual Reality experience.
The Cozy Dog Drive In is a traditional Route 66 diner that became a part of the history of The Mother Road, and the history of Springfield, when, in 1946, inventor Ed Waldmire introduced the "Cozy Dog" - the famous "hot dog on a stick." The Waldmire family still makes this delicacy today. Inside the diner, located on Old Route 66 since 1949.
Maldaner’s Restaurant is a creative American establishment with a focus on farm to table food. Established in 1884, Maldaner’s is the oldest continually operated restaurant in Springfield on Route 66.
Enjoy Springfield’s premier summer series for its 17th season, History Comes Alive! Meet the Lincolns at historic sites throughout the city, and learn about their lives in Springfield. Historic portrayals at locations such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Old State Capitol, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum visitors are invited to become a part of living history.
Foodies can look forward to the History Cooks collection! The Lincoln Home National Historic Site will feature a cooking demonstration that ties in Springfield’s historic past.
Join the IL DNR for free Walk, Hike, and Bike Tours or reserve your spot on a Springfield Walks ghost tour.
Step into the life of the Lincoln family when you visit the only home the Lincolns ever owned at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. Enjoy our 17th season of History Comes Alive, a 10-week summer program taking you back in time.
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is the official library and museum of the 16th U.S. president. Experience pivotal moments in Lincoln’s life and enjoy immersive displays and amazing shows that explore the human costs of slavery and war.
The Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site, designed by famed sculptor, Larkin Mean, is nestled in Oak Ridge Cemetery. At the entrance to the Tomb itself, there is a bronze bust of Mr. Lincoln where visitors from around the world have stopped to rub the nose of the statue for good luck.
Make a stop at the Lincoln Memorial Garden for a truly zen experience. A woodland and prairie garden with over 5 miles of trails lead you on a journey through the Illinois landscape Lincoln would have known. Located on the shores of Lake Springfield and designed by landscape architect, Jens Jensen. Be sure to visit the Garden's Nature Center and Split Rail Gift Shop.
If food is your jam, be sure to check out the Springfield Horseshoe Trail. This trail is packed with 30 local restaurants serving Springfield’s legendary Horseshoe Sandwich, originating in 1928. Be sure to pack your comfy pants!
Plan to relax at one of more than a dozen wineries and breweries in the area. Many have outdoor seating, food and regular music performances.
Regardless of your interests, Springfield has you covered with a variety of sites, attractions, culinary delights and affordable accommodations to meet your travel needs.
Make your first stop the Springfield Visitors Center, and let our travel ambassadors get you ready for an experience like no other. While there, grab our Explorer Passport with 26 sites, attractions and culinary delights so you don’t miss a thing!
To learn more and start planning your Abe-mazing trip, visit: www.visitspringfieldillinois.com
