WHERE THE MOTHER ROAD BEGINS

Since 1926

Route 66 defined a remarkable era in our nation’s history – and it lives on today in Illinois' many Route 66 roadside attractions, museums, and restaurants – it's the shining ribbon of blacktop we call 'The Mother Road'.

Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway

Learn more about the Centennial & the Route 66 Experience

Click the Centennial logo to purchase merchandise available only through the Byway and click the Experience logo to learn more about the Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66 Experience!

Featured Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Member

Pontiac, IL

Cold drinks, good music, and that classic small-town bar vibe. Right in the heart of downtown Pontiac, Mill Street Tap is the spot to kick back, meet locals, and keep the night going—especially after exploring Route 66. No frills, just a solid pour and a good time. Located on Mill Street next to the Route 66 Museum, with the legendary Route 66 mural right in our backyard.

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316 North Mill Street
Pontiac, IL 61764
(309) 224-2029

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Events on Illinois Route 66

  • Rare Mary Lincoln Dress on Display at Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

    Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL, United States

    SPRINGFIELD – One of the few surviving dresses worn by Mary Lincoln is now on display at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, offering visitors their first chance to see the fragile garment in 15 years. Known as the “strawberry dress” for its decorative pattern of berries and leaves, the dress can be seen in the special…

  • Lucky Leprechaun Historic Route 66 Flea Market St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

    Historic Route 66 Flea Market/Route 66 Diner/Kickstand Bar 3121 & 3123 W. Chain of Rocks Rd., Granite City, IL, United States

    Join the fun at the Historic Route 66 Flea Market for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Come shop some great deals with our vendors. This is a rain or shine…

    Free
  • 2026 Springfield St. Patrick’s Day Parade

    Downtown Springfield #1 Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield, IL, United States

    The 41st Annual Springfield St. Patrick’s Day Parade will travel through downtown Springfield on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Craic O’noon (12 p.m.) This year’s theme is “A Bridge Across the Centuries”, highlighting the connections between Springfield and Ireland over the last 200+ years of Illinois history. The Grand Marshal for this year’s parade…

  • DESTIHL St. Patrick’s-Themed Brewery Tours

    DESTIHL Brewery 1200 Greenbriar Drive, Normal, IL, United States

    Join DESTIHL Brewery in Normal for a St. Patrick's-themed brewery tour that celebrates the wearin' of the green! Put on your most festive St. Patrick's outfit and join us for a tour of our production brewery. This captivating 60-minute guided brewery tour will give you an intimate look at the day-to-day happenings of the brewery,…