22 May 2024
As the sun-soaked days of summer beckon, why not take a journey through the landscapes of Illinois, where every mile holds a tale waiting to be told. Take a road trip along iconic Route 66, ticking off bucket list roadside attractions and quirky 'old Americana' towns with each stop along “The Mother Road” offering a glimpse into a bygone era. While there, venture further afield to discover unexpected outdoor adventures and small-town charm. Whether you're a history buff, a road trip enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, Illinois promises an unforgettable experience this summer.
Route 66 begins in Chicago and winds its way southwest through Illinois to the Mississippi River. As you drive this iconic 300-mile stretch of "The Mother Road" be sure to include stops in Joliet, Pontiac, Springfield, Litchfield, Edwardsville, Collinsville and Alton which are brimming with vintage diners, larger-than-life roadside attractions, museums and a wealth of history waiting to be explored. Savor the nostalgia of a simpler time as you cruise past rolling prairies, iconic neon signs and classic Americana.
Chicago & Beyond
The 26-mile scenic lakefront in Chicago offers more than two dozen free beaches that are open to the public every summer. Oak Street Beach is one of Chicago's most popular places to make the most of the sunshine and take in the spectacular city skyline. A stone's throw away is Ohio Street Beach - within walking distance of Navy Pier and sheltered by the curve of the shoreline, it offers calm waters for open water swimmers and amazing views of downtown.
The 17-mile-long Lakefront Trail hugs Lake Michigan and whether you want to run, bike, hike or walk, you can cool down with spectacular lake views and breathtaking cityscapes.
Chicago Museum Campus is a 57-acre museum park that sits near Lake Michigan and surrounds three of the city's most notable museums, all dedicated to the natural sciences: the Adler Planetarium; the Shedd Aquarium; and the Field Museum of Natural History. It is also near the Soldier Field football stadium and the Lakeside Center of the McCormick Place.
The Forge: Lemont Quarries Adventure Park, Lemont
Stretching across 300-acres of historically significant land and just 22-miles from Chicago, The Forge: Lemont Quarries Adventure Park features the largest aerial challenge course, tallest climbing towers, and longest ziplines in the area. They offer mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboat excursions that feed the appetite of adventure enthusiasts looking for unique challenges.
Land of Lincoln
Cruisin With Lincoln on 66, Bloomington-Normal
This Route 66 and Abraham Lincoln themed Visitors Center and Gift Shop celebrates the rich, historical Bloomington-Normal connection to both Route 66 and Abraham Lincoln. It includes a complete interactive Route 66 map and a variety of gifts and souvenirs, many crafted by local artists.
Route 66 Motorheads Bar & Grill, Museum & Entertainment Complex, Springfield
Home to the world's largest Route 66 shield, Motorheads is not just a restaurant and bar - it's a celebration of the iconic Route 66 and the vibrant culture that surrounds it. Visitors can sample the city's famous horseshoe sandwich and locally brewed beers before exploring the extensive collection of Route 66 memorabilia and experiencing live music and entertainment in The Motordome.
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, Springfield
This state-of-the-art facility was carefully designed with exacting historical detail. Amazingly well-preserved artifacts tell the entire life story of the nation's 16th President. Dedicated to the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, the Presidential Museum, unlike any other in the U.S., features high-tech exhibits, interactive displays, and multimedia programs, as well as a reproduction of the White House as it looked in 1861.
Route 66 Legends Neon Park, Springfield
This new stop on a Route 66 road trip offers re-creations or restorations of long-defunct Route 66 signs and businesses, which now glow at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. The Route 66 Experience contains the signs of the A. Lincoln Motel, the Coliseum Ballroom, Chain of Rocks Motel and the Bel-Air Drive-In theater, plus a giant Route 66 shield.
The Cozy Dog Drive In, Springfield
An Illinois Made Maker, this is a must-stop destination on a Route 66 Road trip, where in 1946 Ed Waldmire invented the 'Cozy Dog' – the now famous corn dog on a stick.
Trails to Adventure
Lusk Creek Canyon, Shawnee National Forest
Lusk Creek Canyon is a 906-acre canyon located within the Lusk Creek Wilderness Area of the Shawnee National Forest and is the most well-known whitewater run in Southern Illinois. The creek starts out in woodlands with relatively minor gradients but is soon surrounded by rocky hillsides and cliffs.
Superman Statue, Metropolis
A visit to the 15-foot-tall statue of Superman and a nearby statue of Lois Lane is a necessary stop on a trip through Illinois. While in his hometown, be sure to fly by the Superman Museum which opened in 1993 and showcases rare memorabilia and souvenirs.
Marcoot Creamery, Greenville
This seventh-generation family-owned Jersey dairy farm in Greenville welcomes visitors to marvel at their cheese making process through their viewing windows, meet and mingle with their calves, and indulge in their premium products such as cheese and the innovative Extreme Ice, a frozen treat crafted from fresh fruit.
Rend Lake, Benton
Rend Lake's 19,000-acres of fresh water, 162-miles of shore and 20,000-acres of surrounding forests, meadows and wetlands invites visitors to enjoy paddling a kayak or canoe, boating, fishing, swimming, water-skiing, knee boarding, wakeboarding, or slalom skiing. Those interested in nature can also view songbirds, upland birds, waterfowls, freshwater mammals and wildflowers.
Great Rivers Country
Situated along the Mississippi River, Alton is the only place in the US where historic Route 66 and the Great River Road meet and is said to be one the most haunted towns in America.
Aerie's Resort, Grafton
Adventures begin at Aerie's Resort - The Grafton Zipline, SkyTour and Alpine Coaster get visitors high enough to experience 'The Best View in the Midwest.'
The entire village of Elsah, with a population of around one hundred people, is on the National Registry of Historic Places and is often referred to as the "village where time stood still." Visitors to Elsah can escape back to the Americana of the early 1800s with quiet streets and 19th century stone homes.
Getting There:
America As You Like It (www.americaasyoulikeit.com / 0208 742 8299) offers a nine-night 'Illinois' Historic Route 66 and the Great River Road' package from £1,490 per person (based on two adults sharing, travelling in August 2024). Price includes return flights and car hire for the duration with two nights accommodation in Chicago, two nights in Springfield, two nights in Alton, one night in Quincy and two nights in Galena.
About the Illinois Office of Tourism:
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism manages industry efforts that result in sustainable and significant economic and quality-of-life benefits for Illinois residents. To learn more, visit EnjoyIllinois.co.uk
Media Contacts: Barry Johnston barry@goshpr.co.uk, Georgia Thornton georgia@goshpr.co.uk, or Chloe Mackay chloe@goshpr.co.uk
Images available HERE
