Famous fiberglass Muffler Men and other eccentric oversized statues scatter the road. These eye catching, larger than life, art installations originated in the 60’s and 70’s as roadside attractions to attract travelers on Route 66.

Livingston, Illinois is home to the Pink Elephant Antique Mall – which also serves as an outdoor museum for giant statues.

Oversized, uniquely decorated, neon lit signs have always been all the rage on Route 66. The neon lights draw you in and the vibrant colors hold you there. The next thing you know you’ve spent 30 minuets taking selfies with a sign on the side of the road – that’s Route 66.

These signs are coveted by photographers and highly celebrated for their Americana charm, a classic example of Route 66 kitsch. In Granite City – the It's Electric Neon Sign Park preserves, honors, and brings to life some of the cities classic vintage signs.

Small, intimate little service stations lined the mother road – some of them have been preserved and serve as a reminder of what Route 66 once was and how much the road trip experience has changed since the road’s inception.

Some of the still standing stations have been repurposed into museums – highlighting the history of transportation and travel. West End Service Station in Edwardsville, Illinois, and Soulsby Service Station in Mt. Olive, Illinois, are two incredible examples of repurposed museums that are packed with artifacts from transportation, automobile services, vehicle, and travel culture.

Exhibits and museums line the road like service stations – each bringing their own unique charm and story to visiting travelers.

The museums highlight stories, artifacts, collectables, and more that shape the legacy of Route 66 and help modern road trippers understand the influence and impact of Route 66 of American travel and tourism. Litchfield, Illinois, is home to the Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center – which is filled with stories, artifacts, and memorabilia.

There is nothing more charming than a retro diner with a classic menu, and a friendly Midwestern welcome, right off Route 66.

Many Route 66 diners and cafes feature vintage décor and evoke a strong sense of community and belonging. They also serve as meeting spaces for travelers – connecting them to each other and the locals. Litchfield, Illinois, is home to the famed Ariston Café and Jublets Bakery. Hamel, Illinois, is known for Weezy’s Pub and the Route 66 Creamery. Don't miss Doc's Just Off 66 in Girard, Illinois.

Many of these diners have a map on the wall for you to drop a pin on your hometown.

Roadside art attractions are an important part of the whimsically kitsch vibes Route 66 has to offer.

There are many murals, sculptures, and other public art installations lining the Mother Road. Many businesses embrace the creative energy of Route 66 by painting a mural on part of their building.

The Great Rivers and Routes Region has a Post Card Mural and Route 66 Monument Trail connecting local Route 66 communities together and providing a charming trail for travelers.

Route 66 is all about the kitsch – classic Americana culture, and it is impossible to get your kicks without the kitsch!

From classic diners to roadside museums to giant statues and iconic signs, there is nothing but magic on Route 66 in Illinois. What are you waiting for – let’s explore!