Probably no road trip in America is more iconic than Route 66. For generations, people from all over the world have dreamed of getting their kicks on the Mother Road, just like the old Bobby Troup song says. I had always been one of those people, and I was thrilled to finally make that dream a reality by traveling from Chicago to Los Angeles with Guided Route 66 Tours by Two Lane America.
One of the best parts of the journey was discovering the food stops along the way. Route 66 is packed with old-school diners, roadside restaurants, sweet shops, and classic Americana that make the trip just as much about the experience as the destination. Along with the vintage food stops, there are also plenty of great photo opportunities, historic attractions, and even some vintage-camper-friendly campgrounds.
Route 66 in Illinois
If you want to do the full Route 66 experience, Chicago is the place to begin. Even if it is only to snap a photo next to one of the official Route 66 signs, it feels like the right place to start. Before heading out of the city, Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant is a fitting first stop. Opened in 1923, it is often called the first stop on the Mother Road and is a great place to enjoy breakfast before beginning the drive.
Cozy Dog Drive In in Springfield, Illinois. Located on old Route 66, Cozy Dog has been serving travelers since the late 1940s and is best known as the home of the original “hot dog on a stick,” created by Ed Waldmire. It is one of those classic Mother Road stops that feels like part diner, part museum, with Route 66 memorabilia covering the walls and plenty of nostalgia built into the experience. For travelers heading down the Illinois stretch of Route 66, it is an easy and iconic place to grab a bite, soak in some roadside history, and enjoy a meal at a spot that has been welcoming road-trippers for more than 75 years.
Pontiac, Illinois, is another worthwhile stop. The Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame & Museum is packed with interesting displays about the history of Route 66 in the state, and the large Route 66 mural outside makes another fun photo stop. Around town, there are also small shops and local places to eat that make it easy to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere.
For something sweet, Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup in Shirley is a memorable seasonal stop. This family-owned maple farm has been producing its famous “sirup” for more than 100 years and also sells maple treats that are hard to resist.
The Palms Grill Cafe in Atlanta, Illinois, is unfortunately permanently closed. Originally opened in 1934 and beautifully restored, it served up plenty of vintage charm along with regional favorites and homemade pie. It is now reopened as Missy’s Sweet Shop.
Where are your favorite spots along Route 66?
