Discover the Charm of Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway
Experience the historic beauty and charm of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway, a journey filled with Americana, culture, and unforgettable sights.
Embark on a journey along the legendary Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes converge to create an unforgettable travel experience. This iconic road offers a plethora of attractions, scenic views, and charming small towns that narrate the story of America’s past. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a casual traveler, this scenic route has something special for everyone.
A brief summary to Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway
- 1045 S 5th St, Springfield, Old Aristocracy Hill, Illinois, 62703, US
- +1217-414-9331
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your trip during the fall for stunning autumn foliage along the byway.
- Stop at local diners for authentic Route 66 cuisine; they often have unique, nostalgic menus.
- Visit the visitor centers along the route for maps and additional local insights.
- Consider taking a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the historical significance of the sites.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique roadside attractions and beautiful landscapes.
Getting There
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Car
From anywhere in Northern Illinois, make your way to Interstate 55 South. This major highway runs through several cities in the region, including Chicago, Joliet, and Bloomington. If you're starting from Chicago, take I-55 South towards Springfield. After approximately 200 miles, take exit 92A on the left to merge onto Clear Lake Ave. Continue on Clear Lake Ave for about 1 mile, then turn left onto S 5th St. The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Visitor Center will be on your right at 1045 S 5th St, Springfield, IL 62703.
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Public Transportation
Traveling from Chicago, you can take an Amtrak train from Union Station to Springfield. The trip takes about 3 hours. Once you arrive at the Springfield Amtrak station, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Visitor Center at 1045 S 5th St. Expect taxi fares to be around $10-$15 for the short ride.
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Bus
You can also take a Greyhound bus from various locations in Northern Illinois to Springfield. Once in Springfield, you will need to use local public transportation or a taxi to reach the Visitor Center at 1045 S 5th St. Bus fares typically start at about $20, depending on your departure city.
Discover more about Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Bressmer
0.3 km
Discover the charm and history of The Bressmer, a historic landmark hotel in the heart of Springfield, Illinois, blending past elegance with modern comforts.
Lincoln Home Parking
0.9 km
Discover the significance of Lincoln Home Parking as your gateway to the historic sites of Springfield, Illinois, and explore the life of President Abraham Lincoln.
America's National Parks Store at Lincoln Home National Historic Site
0.9 km
Explore a unique gift shop celebrating America's national parks, offering souvenirs, educational materials, and local crafts in Springfield, Illinois.
Illinois Liberty Bell Replica
1.1 km
Visit the Illinois Liberty Bell Replica in Springfield, a majestic symbol of freedom and democracy, and explore the rich history that surrounds it.
Illinois State Capitol Building
1.1 km
Discover the architectural splendor and rich history of the Illinois State Capitol Building in Springfield, a focal point of Illinois's political life and culture.
Iles Park
1.1 km
Discover the serene landscapes and recreational delights of Iles Park, Springfield's favorite outdoor sanctuary for relaxation and family fun.
Pasfield House
1.1 km
Discover Pasfield House, a charming venue in Springfield, IL, perfect for weddings, events, and cozy hotel stays amidst historical elegance.
Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site
1.2 km
Discover the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices, a key historical landmark in Springfield, Illinois, where President Abraham Lincoln once practiced law.
Lincoln Plaza Galleria
1.2 km
Explore the creative heart of Springfield at Lincoln Plaza Galleria, where contemporary art meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Springfield Visitors Center
1.2 km
Explore Springfield, Illinois through its Visitors Center, your guide to historical landmarks, local attractions, and cultural experiences.
Old State Capitol Historical Markers
1.2 km
Explore the Old State Capitol Historical Markers in Springfield, IL—a beacon of history showcasing Illinois' rich political past and architectural beauty.
Springfield, IL
1.2 km
Explore the rich historical tapestry of Springfield, IL, from the iconic Old Capitol to the legacy of Abraham Lincoln.
Donner Party Historic Site
1.2 km
Explore the Donner Party Historic Site in Springfield, IL, a tribute to the resilience of pioneers and a key chapter in American history.
Historic Preservation Agency
1.3 km
Discover the Historic Preservation Agency in Springfield, Illinois, and explore the architectural treasures of the state's rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site
0.5 km
Discover the architectural brilliance of Frank Lloyd Wright at the Dana-Thomas House, a historic site and museum in Springfield, Illinois.
Elijah Iles House Foundation
0.7 km
Immerse yourself in history at the Elijah Iles House Foundation, a captivating museum in Springfield showcasing the city's rich heritage.
Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site
0.7 km
Discover the life and legacy of Vachel Lindsay at his historic home in Springfield, Illinois—a must-visit for poetry lovers and history enthusiasts.
Route History
0.7 km
Explore the Route History Museum in Springfield, IL, where the history of transportation comes to life through engaging exhibits and captivating stories.
Illinois Governor's Mansion
0.8 km
Explore the historic Illinois Governor's Mansion in Springfield, a stunning testament to the state's political legacy and architectural elegance.
Bicentennial Plaza
0.9 km
Explore Illinois' rich history at Bicentennial Plaza, a vibrant museum and outdoor space in Springfield that celebrates the state's cultural heritage.
Henson Robinson House
0.9 km
Explore the Henson Robinson House, a historic gem in Springfield, IL, showcasing 19th-century architecture and rich local history.
Allen Miller House
0.9 km
Explore the historic Allen Miller House in Springfield, Illinois, where history, architecture, and serene gardens come together for a memorable experience.
Illinois State Museum
0.9 km
Explore the Illinois State Museum: A Free Journey Through Art, History, and Nature in Springfield, Illinois.
Charles Arnold House
0.9 km
Discover the rich history and captivating stories of the Charles Arnold House in Springfield, Illinois, a must-visit museum for history lovers.
Lincoln Home National Historic Site Visitor Center
0.9 km
Explore the historic Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, where the legacy of Abraham Lincoln comes to life in a beautifully preserved setting.
Lincoln Home
0.9 km
Discover the historic Lincoln Home in Springfield, IL, a preserved site reflecting the early life of America's beloved president, Abraham Lincoln.
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
1.0 km
Explore the iconic Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the preserved residence of President Abraham Lincoln, in Springfield, Illinois.
Dean House
1.0 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Dean House in Springfield, Illinois, a captivating museum showcasing local heritage.
Lincoln Statue
1.0 km
Explore the iconic Lincoln Statue in Springfield, Illinois, a remarkable tribute to President Abraham Lincoln's enduring legacy and leadership.
Essential places to dine
The Chili Parlor
0.7 km
Discover the best chili in Springfield at The Chili Parlor—where every bowl tells a delicious story.
Loukinens' On 4th
0.8 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Loukinens' On 4th in Springfield – where every meal tells a story of local flavors.
Springfield Carriage
0.8 km
Experience Springfield's rich culinary heritage at Springfield Carriage - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Gabatoni's Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Gabatoni's Restaurant in Springfield – home to unique pizzas and warm hospitality.
Lulu's Diner
0.9 km
Discover the charm of Lulu's Diner in Springfield - where delicious breakfasts meet warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
Boone's
1.0 km
Discover Boone's: A lively restaurant and bar in Springfield offering delicious food, craft drinks, and vibrant live music for an unforgettable experience.
Maldaner's Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience fine dining at Maldaner's Restaurant in Springfield - where seasonal ingredients meet culinary excellence.
Jerk Shop Go
1.1 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Jerk Shop Go in Springfield – where every bite is a journey to the islands.
La Piazza Cucina Italiana
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Piazza Cucina Italiana—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
3rd Shift Kitchen
1.2 km
Experience delicious dining at 3rd Shift Kitchen in Springfield, IL - where innovative cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Saputo's
1.2 km
Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Saputo's in downtown Springfield - where traditional flavors meet modern dining.
Di Piero's
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Di Piero's in downtown Springfield—where every dish tells a story of culinary tradition.
The Feed Store
1.2 km
Experience the warmth of American hospitality at The Feed Store, where hearty sandwiches meet community spirit in downtown Springfield.
Cafe Moxo
1.3 km
Discover Cafe Moxo in Springfield: where fresh ingredients meet delicious American cuisine in a cozy setting.
THE GRILLE AT CITY CENTRE
1.3 km
Discover delectable American cuisine in downtown Springfield at The Grille at City Centre - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Iris & Ivy
0.4 km
Discover unique treasures and local craftsmanship at Iris & Ivy, the charming boutique in Springfield, Illinois, perfect for all your shopping needs.
Upper Limits Midwest, Inc.
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of vaporizers, cannabis, and exquisite glass artistry at Upper Limits Midwest, Inc. in Springfield, Illinois.
Flea Market To Fabulous
0.7 km
Explore unique furniture and eclectic decor at Flea Market To Fabulous in Springfield, where every piece has a story waiting to be discovered.
Mr Lincoln's Souvenirs & Gifts
0.8 km
Explore Springfield's charm at Mr Lincoln's Souvenirs & Gifts, where unique memorabilia and local crafts await your discovery.
Corrine's Closet LLC
1.2 km
Explore Corrine's Closet in downtown Springfield for trendy women's clothing, vintage finds, and unique accessories that capture local flair.
Studio on 6th
1.2 km
Discover unique treasures and local artistry at Studio on 6th, a boutique offering eclectic gifts, home goods, and fashionable women's clothing.
Springfield Vintage
1.2 km
Explore Springfield Vintage, where history meets style through a unique collection of antiques, vintage clothing, and home goods in downtown Springfield.
Murphy's Loft
1.2 km
Explore Springfield's hidden gem, Murphy's Loft, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor.
The Keep Store
1.2 km
Discover unique, locally sourced products at The Keep Store in Downtown Springfield, your destination for eco-friendly shopping.
Itty Bitty Fashion Trunk
1.3 km
Discover unique women's fashion trends at Itty Bitty Fashion Trunk in Springfield, where style and individuality come together.
Daisy Jane's
1.3 km
Explore Daisy Jane's in Springfield, a delightful gift shop offering unique treasures, handcrafted jewelry, and charming greeting cards for every occasion.
Springfield Clock Shop
1.4 km
Discover unique timepieces and charming gifts at Springfield Clock Shop, where craftsmanship meets nostalgia in the heart of downtown Springfield.
Abe's Old Hat Antiques
1.4 km
Explore Abe's Old Hat Antiques in Springfield, IL - A Unique Antique Store with Vintage Furniture and Quirky Gifts.
Wild Rose Artisans Gallery & Boutique
1.4 km
Explore the unique artistic handicrafts and handmade pottery at Wild Rose Artisans Gallery & Boutique in Springfield, Illinois, your destination for local treasures.
District 23 Boutique
1.5 km
Explore Springfield's District 23 Boutique for a curated selection of vintage clothing, unique gifts, and women's fashion that supports local artisans.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Trish & Mary's Public House
0.8 km
Discover the warm and inviting atmosphere of Trish & Mary's Public House in Springfield, Illinois – a perfect blend of local charm and delightful drinks.
Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery
0.8 km
Experience the unique blend of handcrafted beers and delicious dining at Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery in historic Springfield.
Whiskey Jack's
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Jack's, a downtown bar in Springfield offering great drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
Bar None
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar None, a premier bar in downtown Springfield offering craft drinks and live entertainment.
The Gin Mill
1.1 km
Discover The Gin Mill, a lively bar in downtown Springfield, offering a welcoming atmosphere, extensive drink menu, and engaging events for all visitors.
D H Brown's
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Springfield at D H Brown's, a lively bar with a wide selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Unique's Bar & Grill
1.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious food of Unique's Bar & Grill in Springfield, where local culture meets great dining.
Replay Lounge
1.2 km
Experience Springfield's vibrant nightlife at Replay Lounge, where delicious American cuisine meets exciting karaoke entertainment.
Floyd's Thirst Parlor
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Floyd's Thirst Parlor, a unique bar in downtown Springfield offering craft cocktails and a lively social scene.
Buzz Bomb Brewing Co
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Buzz Bomb Brewing Co in Springfield, where brews, bites, and live music create an unforgettable experience.
J P Kelly's Pub & Pkg Liquor
1.2 km
Discover J P Kelly's Pub in Springfield, where vibrant nightlife meets a friendly atmosphere and a diverse selection of drinks.
Ad Astra Wine Bar and Market
1.2 km
Discover Springfield's Ad Astra Wine Bar and Market, where exceptional wines and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
The Wakery
1.3 km
Discover The Wakery, Springfield's unique bar, coffee shop, and tea house with a lively atmosphere and eclectic events.
Celtic Mist Pub
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant Celtic Mist Pub in downtown Springfield, where drinks flow, music plays, and the warmth of Irish hospitality awaits.
clique
1.4 km
Discover Clique, Springfield's favorite gay nightclub, where vibrant nightlife meets inclusivity and unforgettable experiences.
