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Get your kicks on Route 66! As you plan to make your way through at least Springfield’s part of the historic route on this 100th anniversary year, check out all the stories and events we have here, and are constantly adding. Plus, read more about the national landmark highway! Thank you to our sponsors for making this page possible: Wellman’s Lawn Care and Recon Techs!

This Sangamon Mass Transit Bus, named "Buddy," has been decorated to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Route 66.
Local
2 days ago
Meet ‘Buddy’, SMTD’s new Route 66-themed bus

“Buddy” will be at many Route 66 events around Springfield.

Local
4 days ago
Route 66 anniversary, other events throughout May

Get your kicks on RT 66…Amy Beadle of Visit Springfield was on The WTAX Morning Newswatch to discuss the upcoming RT66 100th Anniversary Events that are happening right here in the capitol city…

A sign marking the beginning of historic Route 66 stands at the intersection of East Adams Street and South Michigan Avenue, in Chicago, Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)
History
3 weeks ago
Route 66, a quintessential American road trip heavy on kitsch and history, turns 100

There were places to grab and go, but also to sit down and relish a slice of home. The Cozy Dog Drive In — famous for its breaded hot dogs on a stick — has fit both bills since 1949. Inside the dining room in Springfield, Illinois, travelers tell tales of life on the highway.

Customers at Cozy Dog Drive In have lunch in Springfield, Ill., Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
History
3 weeks ago
Eight states, three time zones and a ton of history: Take a trip down Route 66 as it turns 100

The Cozy Dog Drive In in Springfield, the Illinois capital, is one of the many diners that sprang up along Route 66, and its breaded hot dogs on a stick have stood the test of time.

Local
1 month ago
Photo exhibit captures Springfield’s Route 66 sites

The Pharmacy displays a dozen David Schwartz portraits.

Route 66 near Illinois Capitol
History
2 months ago
New map celebrates Route 66 in Illinois

“The new Route 66 map is a must for enthusiasts and road trippers celebrating 100th anniversary of the Mother Road.”

Route 66 near Illinois Capitol
Local
2 months ago
‘Cobranded’ events part of Route 66 centennial celebration in Springfield. Here’s what’s planned

Here’s an updated list of events surrounding the centennial of the “Mother Road” in Springfield!

Visitors can also find tributes to Springfield legends, including Len Trumper, known for bringing major acts like KISS and REO Speedwagon to the city, and Bessie Paoli, the first woman to own a car and race in the Indianapolis 500.
Local
2 months ago
Springfield museum celebrates 100 years of Route 66

The museum and restaurant opened eight years ago, transforming what was once a condemned Stuckey’s restaurant into an international attraction.

Lincoln's Director of Tourism, Scott McCoy, said a significant portion of the grant money will go towards completing the Museum of Route 66.
Local
3 months ago
Logan County receives $465k grant for Route 66 tourism

The grant is part of the City of Lincoln and Logan County’s plan to beef up Route 66 attractions ahead of the 2026 tourism season.

Route 66 near Illinois Capitol
Local
3 months ago
Route 66 Centennial celebrations officially underway

Springfield is getting a share of $4 million in grants to help fund Route 66 100th anniversary celebrations.

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