Route 66 Park: A Tribute to the Mother Road

Route 66 Park, located in Joliet, Illinois, is a vibrant tribute to the historic U.S. Route 66, also known as the "Mother Road". This 7-acre linear park, part of the Broadway Street Greenway, offers visitors a nostalgic journey back to the heyday of this iconic highway.The park's attractions include the Rich & Creamy ice cream stand, a vintage-style building that has been serving travelers for years. A giant neon Route 66 shield and a large "Greetings from Joliet" postcard provide excellent photo opportunities. Interpretive signs throughout the park detail Joliet's history and its significance along Route 66. The park also features a 1/3-mile paved path, an arboretum, and a playground, making it a pleasant place for a stroll or a family outing.In 1991, the city began the Broadway Street Greenway project to enhance the northern gateway into the city. By the early 2000s, the area north of Ruby Street became a 7-acre linear park, incorporating the Kreamy Delight ice cream stand. In 2007, a state tourism grant enabled the city to add Route 66-themed elements, officially branding the site as Route 66 Park. The park has continued to improve, with a rededication ceremony in October 2024 highlighting new signage, landscaping, and a planned 8-foot-tall Steelman statue.Joliet itself has a rich history tied to Route 66. As one of the first cities travelers encountered after leaving Chicago, it became a hub for diners, motels, and gas stations. Today, Joliet is known as the "City of Steel" and offers a variety of attractions for Route 66 enthusiasts, including the Joliet Area Historical Museum and the Route 66 Welcome Center.