trip planner illinois

Live Well • Work Well Promoting a healthier lifestyle through total wellness.

The following navigation utilizes arrow, enter, escape, and space bar key commands. Left and right arrows move through main tier links and expand / close menus in sub tiers. Up and Down arrows will open main tier menus and toggle through sub tier links. Enter and space open menus and escape closes them as well. Tab will move on to the next part of the site rather than go through menu items.

Plan a trip

Plan a trip online

More options

Plan a trip by phone.

RTA Travel Information Center You can get travel information from the RTA Travel Information Center by calling:

1 (312) 836-7000

• The center is open from 6am to 7pm, Monday thru Saturday.
• For faster service, be ready to give your starting point and destination and the day and time at which you wish to travel.

Related information

• Routes/schedules
• Fare information

• Maps & Schedules
• Skip to main content

Plan a Trip

The RTA Trip Planner allows travelers to plan trips in the Chicago region using public transit (CTA, Metra and Pace) that include driving, biking and walking directions.

Chicago trip planner

• Attraction passes
• Domestic flight times
• International flight times

Getting around

• Accessibility at Chicago’s airports 
• Getting around Chicago
• Accessibility at Chicago attractions
• Accessibility at Chicago’s museums
• Accessibility guide to Millennium Park
• Sensory-friendly attractions in Chicago
• Accessibility at Chicago’s theatres and performance venues

International visitors

• Request visitors guide
• Bulk order collateral
• Subscribe to newsletter

Helpful info

Chicago weather, find chicago hotels, covid-19 updates.

Ready for your Chicago style adventure? From finding just the right hotel to navigating the city’s rules of the road, you’ll find all the practical information you need for your perfect stay in Chicago right here.

Special offers

Getting here

Accessibility

Visitor resources

Explore hotels, flights, deals, and more

Plan your trip.

Chicago Newsletter

Stay in the know.

Visitors Guide

Start planning today.

Get the guide

Your Favorites

Quick access links.

• © Roadtrippers
• © Mapbox
• © OpenStreetMap
• Improve this map

Announcement

Trip planner.

This Google Transit trip planner offers directions to/from points all around the six-county Chicagoland region, using Pace, CTA, and Metra fixed route transit service. Reservation-based services such as Pace's On Demand or paratransit are not included in the results offered. See more information on those options here . Furthermore, certain express services and school-days-only trips are not included in the results offered. Pace also offers a Vanpool program for those with a consistent workday commute. For further details on the range of options available, contact the RTA's Travel Information Center at 847-836-7000.

For smartphone users interested in using an app for trip planning and real-time bus tracking, Pace recommends the Transit app . Once it identifies you as a Pace rider, you'll automatically get the upgraded ("Royale") version of the app, which shows scheduled arrivals/departures for the whole day along with some fun app customization options.

Plan Your Trip

Sign up for email or text alerts.

© Copyright Pace Suburban Bus | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy  | Sitemap

The Chicago region has the second largest public transit network in the country with 7,200 miles of bus routes and train tracks connecting six counties and millions of riders to opportunity, education, and community.

Learn how to plan a trip and pay your fare on CTA, Metra, and Pace; how to apply for ADA Paratransit service; and the accessibility of the transit system.

How to ride transit

Plan your trip

Learn how to navigate the CTA’s 127 bus routes within the City of Chicago and eight rapid transit routes with 145 stations in Chicago and more than 30 suburbs, Metra’s 11 commuter rail lines with 243 stations, and Pace’s suburban bus service in 284 communities.

Pay for your ride

Riders can pay using cash, the Ventra Card, or via the Ventra mobile app. Learn how much your ride will cost on CTA, Metra, or Pace.

Free and discounted fare programs

Riders with disabilities, older adults, military personnel, and other populations may be eligible for reduced or free transit. The RTA manages Reduced Fare and Ride Free applications, replacements, and renewals.

Accessible Transit

All CTA and Pace vehicles are fully ADA accessible, and every Metra train has at least one accessible car. Over 70 percent of CTA stations and over 75 percent of Metra stations are fully ADA accessible, and more are becoming accessible each year. Bus drivers, train operators, and customer assistants will assist riders with disabilities with boarding and exiting, using ramps, accessing priority seating, securing wheelchairs and scooters, or putting fares in the fare box when asked, though please note that drivers and operators will not provide physical assistance to riders. 

The RTA believes in promoting travel independence and empowering riders with mobility options. We provide education to older adults and riders with disabilities, including free one-on-one travel training and group presentations.

If you have a disability that prevents you from taking a bus or train, you may be eligible for ADA Paratransit services. ADA Paratransit is a shared ride, advanced reservation service. Call 312-663-HELP (4357) between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to request an application and schedule an in-person eligibility interview.

Transit Benefit for Commuters

The RTA offers commuters a Transit Benefit Fare Program that uses a pre-tax deduction from their paycheck to pay for transit and parking. Employers and employees both save with My Transit Benefit.

• Metro Call-A-Ride
• Via Metro STL
• $1 Lyft Program
• Bike & Ride

Trip Planner

• System Maps
• MetroBus Schedule
• MetroLink Schedule
• Holiday Schedules
• Rider Alerts
• Upcoming Schedule Changes
• Fares & Passes
• Reduced Fare Programs
• Gateway Card
• On The Way With ADA
• Mobile Fares
• Student Passes
• Commuter Advantage
• Where to Buy
• Transit Tools
• How to Ride
• Accessibility
• Safety & Security
• Exploring St. Louis
• Winter Weather Updates
• Community Connect
• Destination Deals
• Customer Care

Where would you like to go?

Use our Trip Planner to reach your important destinations on Metro Transit. If you need assistance or would like one of our Transit Information Experts to create your personalized trip plan, contact:

Metro Transit Information | Monday‑Friday | 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Phone: 314‑231‑2345 ​| Text: 314‑207‑9786 Web Chat: Click on the red chat icon at the bottom right of this page

Plan your trip from your phone with Transit app.

Transit app makes it easy to plan your Metro Transit trip, pay your fare, and check on the real‑time status of your bus. Download Transit today .

Trip Planner

Find your way around San Francisco

How I want to travel

TheRoute-66.com ☰

Home | Blog

Home > Plan Your Road Trip

How to Plan Route 66 Road Trip

Last Updated: 08.Dec.2023 . By Austin Whittall

This is our " Road Trip Planner " page :

With everything you will need to organize your Route 66 road trip.

Tips, advice, and many resources for planning your itinerary and preparing for your vacations.

Learn about the Weather , road conditions , best time of the year to travel , read our detailed Itinerary , see maps, information on rental (cars, motorcycles, RVs), and more.

Also try our Route 66 Itinerary planner tool to calculate distances between key locations, view them on the route 66 trip planner map and plan your trip!

Road trips open your mind, build bonds, create memories, give you a better perspective on life and are good for your mental and physical wellbeing: Learn the 10 Reasons to Go on a Road Trip . And if you have concerns about your safety, visit our Is Route 66 Dangerous? safety tips page.

In this page:

• Gather Information and Analyze it
• How long will your trip be?
• Calculate your Budget
• Check your Plan again and again

How much should you plan?

Plan your route 66 road trip.

Definition of Plan "Noun. A set of actions that have been thought of as a way to do or achieve something"

A check list to plan your trip

Your Vacation on U.S. Highway 66

Just like you would do for any other vacation, you will have to gather information to plan your Route 66 trip.

This means you have to do some research, read tips and suggestions to learn more about the attractions that you will enjoy during your journey.

Actually, planning a trip along US 66 is part of the fun.

The four steps that we outline below combined with our Route 66 Route Planner Tool will help you design the perfect Route 66 Road trip.

How to Plan a Route 66 Trip

Step-by-step list.

Our step-by-step checklist will help you to outline your journey and consider everything that you should take into account when planning your trip.

1. Collect information and analyze it

You should first learn about your destination (in this Route 66 is the destination):

A map and Route 66: start living your adventure!

• What are the main sights and attractions?
• When will we drive it, summer, fall, spring?
• What sort of weather will you encounter during that season?
• Will you drive the whole Route 66 or part of it?
• Check a map to identify the main places you will visit (Grand Canyon? Petrified Forest? side trip to Las Vegas?)
• Drive the original alignment or stick to the freeway and only stop at the interesting cities?

These basic questions will help you to outline your trip and gather information.

If you have friends who have done the trip, ask them about their experience both planning their trip and enjoying it, and also, what they would have skipped and what they are sorry they did not visit during their vacations.

Write a rough outline of the trip, and a "wish list" of must-see sights.

You can gather all of your Route 66 vacation planning data here in our website; check the following links:

• Route 66 itinerary planner , an itinerary of the mother road, from Chicago to Los Angeles
• Towns & Cities a link to each and every town along Route 66. You will find all the attractions and sights of that town.
• Attractions a complete list with links to all the attractions and landmarks: motels, diners, gas stations and Route 66 classic sights, listed by state.
• Historic Sites all the "historic places" along US 66, listed by state.
• State by State a summary of each the top 10 sights in each state along the Mother Road
• National & State Parks for those interested in outdoors and nature

Step 1 outcome: A first outline of your trip

You now have a rough outline of where your trip will start and end; the towns, attractions, landmarks, must-see places and other sights. Now you can write down an initial draft of your Route 66 trip plan.

The next step will be to try to fit your initial plan into your allocated time frame, see Step 2 below

The Best Tips to Plan your Road Trip

Free E-Book

A beginners guide to planning a relaxing road trip

Here is what you will find inside:

• How to calculate your budget
• When to travel
• How to define the length of your trip
• Getting to your Road Trip
• A Check list
• Don't forget the Side Trips!
• What to Pack
• Plan it or go with the flow?
• Hotel bookings

Step 2. How long will your trip be?

How much time do you need for it.

Map showing airports close to Route 66

How much time can you spare? Your trip will change depending on how much time you have available.

But don't be discouraged, a one-week or a one-month trip can be planned so that you can pack as much fun and adventure as possible into it; it all depends on how you Plan your Route 66 road trip.

a. Getting to Route 66

In step one you defined the possible starting and ending cities of your road trip ; now you can use our Route 66 Road Trip Planner to check their location on the map, and see the distance and driving time between them.

Also, start thinking about getting from your home to the starting point and from the end point back home.

International Visitors

In case you have to fly to Route66, it will come in handy to see which options are available regarding flights and which are the airports closest to the Route 66 start & end points of your journey:

See our Flights page, with full information on flights and airports.

Check out our International Visitors page for useful travel tips.

Factor in the time it will take you to get to US 66. A visitor from the UK will need to calculate the flight times from Britain to the U.S., and the connecting flight to the point where you will start your trip. And then, the return flights to get back home.

A U.S. road-tripper or a Canadian one may choose to drive instead. Calculate the time you will need to " Go to and from Route 66 ".

Actual Driving Time

Driving time: take it easy.

Driving is fun and road trips are all about the driving experience. However Route 66 is also about the sights, the people and enjoying the trip.

Drive too many hours and you will get too tired to have fun. So try not keep driving at less than 6 hours per day.

You may also want to take side trips to visit nearby attractions or stick to the side road and avoid the Interstate. These roads may mean a slower pace.

It is a road trip so it is pretty obvious that you will be driving. So plan your driving time : From Chicago to Los Angeles it is 2,278 miles (3,665 km). You can drive along the old road in some parts, and in others you will have to drive along the Interstate. So assuming an average speed of 50 mph (80 km⁄h) you could drive the whole road in about 46 hours.

But you need to consider the towns, cities and villages (with their speed limits and traffic), stopping to take in the scenery, to visit the sights, to eat, fill up with gasoline, walking and relaxing; driving on Old Route 66 isn't like cruising along the Interstate, it is a slower trip.

Driving Route 66 planner tool

Route 66 planner.

Check our Route 66 travel planner Tool ; it will let you calculate the total distance of your journey between the starting and ending points that you select. It will also give you the total driving time and the Trip duration at the selected driving speed and hours of driving per day, plus a map showing the itinerary.

Play around with the planning tool using different starting and ending points for your trip.

So you can calculate how many days you will actually have for your trip, knowing:

• How much time you have for your trip (i.e. 7 days)
• How long it will take you to go and come from Route 66 (i.e. 2 days)

In this example you have 5 days for your road trip. Now refine you Route 66 Trip Plan by estimating:

• How many hours you will drive each day (i.e. 5 hours)
• Your average driving speed. Tip: err on the safe side; calculate a lower average speed (i.e. 40 mph).
• How many hours you will dedicate to visiting the attractions during each driving day. (i.e. 3 hours). So you will be using 8 hours each day between actual driving and sightseeing.

Our Route 66 travel planner Tool lets you do this calculation easily, try it! You can select driving time and speed.

So, in this example, you will have 8 hours between your check-out and check-in times. If you leave at 9 AM, you will arrive at 5 PM. You will be driving 5 hours x 40 miles⁄hour= 200 miles per day on average.

In your allotted time span of 5 days you will have driven: 1,000 miles

You also know the distance you will cover each day (in this case 200 mi.) so this will let you reckon where you will stop to spend the night. And let you plan your accommodation for the night.

Step 2 outcome: outline of itinerary and time required

You now have a draft of your itinerary (distance, main sights) and the duration of your trip (including the driving time and the time to go from your home to Route 66 and back.

The next step will be to calculate how much will it cost. See Step 3 below

Step 3. Calculate a Budget

How much will the trip cost? You must have a reasonable idea of the cost of your road trip. Take into account the following:

Getting There

The cost of reaching the Mother Road (and getting back home after your trip) depends on whether you will fly or drive to and from your home to the starting and ending points of your journey.

Calculate these costs, which may include: air fares, getting to the airport, parking, airport taxes, taxi, gasoline, tolls, food while you are traveling to get to US66, etc.)

Gasoline for your Road Trip

In Step 2, you calculated the total mileage you will be driving (add a +10% to it just in case). Now estimate the average mileage per gallon (km⁄l) of your car -yours or the one you wil be renting- and calculate how many gallons of gasoline you will need for your trip.

Turn this into dollars by checking the current Gasoline and Diesel Fuel prices in the US.

Accommodation

This is a key element in your budget, and the cost will depend on the season (high or low) and the type of lodging (will you stop at some icon landmark motel? or a regular chain motel?).

To calculate your lodging costs take each of the stopover towns that you identified in Step 2, and the starting and ending points of your journey (in case you spend a night there) and look for hotels to stay at.

Check hotels & motels along Route 66 that are available on the dates that you have identified in Step 2 using some online hotel booking tool such as Booking.com

Tips for Booking your accommodations

Book your hotel on time!

If you plan to drive Route 66 during the high season summer holiday period, reserve your hotel or motel in advance. Some key lodging may be fully booked months in advance, so pinpoint these locations and reserve with plenty of time.

There are of some Vintage and Route 66 "must see" hotels with thematic rooms which should be booked well in advance. Demand is high.

Read our Tips on Accommodation .

RV parks and campgrounds

Visit our RV Campgrounds page for a State-by-State detail of the RV Campgrounds on Route 66 or close to it. Full information on each RV Park and campground for your Recreational Vehicle or Motorhome. A State by State, Town by Town detail with contact information so that you can check the camp ground's features and book your space now, online.

Travel Insurance

What if you fall ill or suffer an accident?

For our international visitors: Are you covered? If you are traveling outside of your home country, your health and accident insurance may not cover you.

Your travel insurance should cover cancellations or other travel mishaps.

Learn more about Travel Insurance .

Renting a Car, RV or motorcycle

You'll need a vehicle for your Road Trip...

Car, motorcycle or RV rental . If you are an international traveler, you will surely rent a vehicle to do your road trip. Calculate the rental costs and the different options available.

Tips on Renting a Vehicle

Hiring a Car is expensive. For complete information, check out our pages on Renting a Car .

We also have information on Motorcycle rental and Renting an RV .

Calculating the cost of food depends on how you like to eat: Will you eat at restaurants? Fast food or more formal meals? Have both Lunch and Dinner? Buy snacks or stock up at the local supermarket?

Attractions and admission fees

You will have to pay an admission fee at National Parks, Museums and events... calculate these too. The fee for National Parks is between $25 and $30 per car per park. There are some senior and annual Passes which may interest you.

Miscellaneous items

Always set some cash aside for the unexpected, for souvenirs, emergencies and whatever may tickle your fancy.

Step 3 outcome: your expenses and a budget

You now know how much your trip will cost. You can now iron out the details... See Step 4 below

Step 4. Check your Plan again and again

Review your first draft. Get some more details. Add or remove sights and attractions, perhaps give yourself more time to see things, for shopping or to visit some cultural attraction. Factor in some side trip. Read more, and improve the original rough draft.

Review flight options the connecting flights, the car rental pick up and return points. Check other lodging options.

Planning a trip on Route 66 is part of the fun, it is about the journey not the destination; enjoy the process!

Trips are lived three times: when we dream them, when we live them, and when we remember them

Some travelers like to have a very detailed Route 66 trip plan detailing all their stops, the sights they will see and the hotels where they will stay at. This is perhaps a good idea if you have a tight schedule, so that you can optimize your trip.

Others, especially those with more time on their hands, prefer an open plan, and are open to letting the road take them to unexpected destinations.

A middle-of-the-road approach is to outline a general broad idea of your Route 66 vacation, and then book key accommodations with plenty of time. Leave room for unexpected scenic spots that may surprise you along the way.

See our One Week Route 66 Road Trip Itinerary

We have put together a 1-Week Route 66 Road Trip Itinerary from Chicago to Santa Monica.

You can use it as a starting point for planning your own road trip.

Some sponsored content:

>> Book your Hotel in Santa Monica

Comments & Responses

See Comments & Responses

Banner image: Hackberry General Store, Hackberry, Arizona by Perla Eichenblat

Social Media

Things To Do

• Outdoor Activities

Route 66 in Illinois

• Arts & Culture
• Attractions
• Food & Drink
• Lincoln Historic Sites
• Illinois Scenic Byways
• Festivals & Events

Places To Go in Illinois

• Chicago & Beyond
• Great Rivers Country
• Land of Lincoln
• Trails to Adventure

Plan Your Trip

• Travel Inspiration
• Road Trip Itineraries
• Illinois Made
• Places to Stay
• Seasonal Adventures
• Exploring Illinois with Electric Vehicles
• Getting Here & Getting Around
• Maps & Visitor Guides

Accessibility in Illinois

• Tourism Industry
• Like us on Facebook
• Follow us on Instagram
• Check our Pinterest
• Follow us on TikTok
• Follow us on LinkedIn
• Subscribe to our channel on YouTube

An Iconic Trip Through Time

Route 66 begins in Chicago and winds its way south-west through Illinois to The Mississippi River. As you follow this iconic 300-mile stretch of "The Mother Road" through the state you'll encounter charming towns brimming with vintage diners, quirky roadside photo-ops, 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.

From the bustling streets of Chicago to the quaint corners of Springfield, each stop along the Mother Road offers a glimpse into a bygone era. Whether you're a history buff, a road trip enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, Route 66 in Illinois promises an unforgettable journey where lasting memories are sure to be made.

Route 66: Chicago

THE MOTHER ROAD BEGINS

Begin Route 66 Sign

You’ll begin your legendary journey in the heart of downtown Chicago. Snap the perfect selfie at the iconic Route 66 sign on E. Adams St., Chicago. 

Lou Mitchell's

Head to Lou Mitchell’s to fuel up for your adventure. This cozy diner was the city’s first-ever all-day breakfast restaurant when it opened in 1923.

The original wooden stools at the counters are packed with regulars sipping coffee, the iconic marquee glows above the door, and the menu offers classic diner fare.

Route 66: Chicago to Joliet

Ogden Avenue is Berwyn’s stretch of Historic Route 66. Route 66 is celebrated at the annual Berwyn Route 66 Car Show and at local haunts like  Cigars & Stripes BBQ Lounge and Paisan's Pizzeria & Bar .

Old Joliet Prison

Your next stop is a tour at the Old Joliet Prison , best known for its most popular, fictional inmate “Joliet Jake” Blues from the 1980 film “The Blues Brothers.” Since then, it's made a number of appearances in film and TV, including the critically acclaimed series “Prison Break.”

We get people from all over the United States and overseas, too—Britain, Australia, New Zealand. One guy found a Route 66 sign, and he was having everybody sign it. Bill Gulas, Blues-Brothers-topped ice cream shop, Rich and Creamy in Joliet

Route 66: Joliet to Bloomington

ROUTE 66 HISTORY

Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket

It’s time for a little grub at   Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket . Dell Rhea’s in Wilmington has been serving up some of the best fried chicken on Route 66 since it opened as a gas station lunch counter in the summer of 1946. Since then, it’s been inducted into the Route 66 Hall of Fame.

Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum, Pontiac

No Route 66 journey is complete without a visit to one (or all) of the Mother Road’s classic museums. A must-see is the Route 66 Mural & Hall of Fame Museum  in Pontiac, packed full with the finest memorabilia associated with the history of Route 66. Among the artifacts, you’ll find the bus and van of Route 66 icon, Bob Waldmire—a true legend of the Mother Road. Step around back for a photo op with the World’s Largest Route 66 shield mural.

Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum, Pontiac

Get your classic car fix at the Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum . Here you'll find the nation’s greatest collection of cars, dealer items, literature, and all things related to the Oakland and the Pontiac automobile brands.

Ambler-Becker Texaco Gas Station, Dwight

The Ambler-Becker Texaco Gas Station in Dwight displays a circular red and white Texaco sign. Inside, a vintage fire engine fills the service bay. Though the station no longer sells gas, hybrid and electric cars can refuel at a charging station. Ten miles south in Odell, a rehabbed Standard Oil Gas Station displays vintage car-repair tools and sells a variety of Route 66 memorabilia.

Route 66: Bloomington to Springfield

FINDING THE KITSCH ON ROUTE 66

Paul Bunyon Hotdog Statue

Some of Illinois’ best roadside relics lie in wait on this stretch of the Mother Road. In Atlanta, snap a photo with the 19-ft.   Paul “Bunyon”   clutching a giant hot dog.

World’s Largest Covered Wagon  

A little way down the road in Lincoln, catch a glimpse of the 24 ft. World’s Largest Covered Wagon , complete with a very large – and very studious –   Abraham Lincoln statue .

Route 66: Springfield to Litchfield

LINCOLN, SODAS, DINERS & DRIVE INS

Abraham Lincoln's Legacy

Stop by the Lincoln Tomb when you arrive and be sure to rub his nose for good luck! Visit the  Illinois State Capitol  and  Old State Capitol , and make time for the  Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum. For food, stop by  Route 66 Motorheads , a restaurant that doubles as a Route 66 museum.

Cozy Dog Drive In

Have you ever wondered who decided to put these deep-fried delights on a stick in the first place? Well here they are. Part Drive In, part Route 66 museum, make sure to plan a stop at the Cozy Dog Drive In .

Lauterbach Giant, Springfield

Lauterbach Tire and Auto Service has a fiberglass "muffler man" giant standing in the parking lot. He used to hold a tire, but was recently upgraded to be more patriotic with a U.S. flag. In 2006, the muffler man lost his head during a tornado, but was skillfully repaired by the station.

Original Historic Route 66 Brick Road, Auburn

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this beautiful 1.4 mile long piece of restored hand-laid brick road is a segment of Route 66 done in 1931 and placed over a concrete roadbed. Don't miss this great photo op.

Doc’s Soda Fountain, Girard

Heading into Litchfield, cut over to the Old Route 66 and take the fabled Auburn Brick Road to Girard. Voted #4 Best Soda Fountain across America by Country Living Magazine, Doc's is the best way to get refreshed before the next leg of your trip.

Route 66: Litchfield to Collinsville & Granite City

THE FINAL MILES OF ILLINOIS ROUTE 66

Pink Elephant Antique Mall

Browse retro knick-knacks at the  Pink Elephant Antique Mall in Livingston (you won’t leave empty handed). Browse the shelves for a unique find and eat at the quaint diner offering burgers, nachos, sandwiches and refreshments. Save room for ice cream!

World's Largest Catsup Bottle

The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle is a great spot for a roadside photo. Looming over Collinsville, this 170 ft. water tower is an internationally known roadside attraction that was even mentioned in a "Twilight" film.

Cahokia Mounds, Collinsville

In Collinsville, be sure to visit  Cahokia Mounds UNESCO World Heritage Site for a great view. The remains of the most civilized prehistoric civilization north of Mexico are preserved here. Within this 2,000-acre tract lies the archeological remains of the Mississippians and their ancient civilization known today as Cahokia.

Luna Café & O'Brien Tire & Auto, Granite City

On the alignment of the Mother Road that connected Pontoon Beach and Granite City sits the Luna Café . Their neon sign is perfect for a photo. Once you get to Granite City, make a stop at O'Brien Tire & Auto to take a selfie in front of their huge Route 66 branded tire!

Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, Collinsville

Your Illinois Route 66 journey ends at the  Old Chain of Rocks Bridge out of Collinsville. Built in 1927, it’s the fifth bridge to cross the Mississippi River and the perfect final selfie as you close the book on your Illinois Route 66 adventure.

Route 66 Road Trip

Plan Your Adventure

It's the things you see along the way that you remember most. The giant statue of the guy holding a hot dog. The drive-in where it’s not a day past 1955. The Lincoln monument. Legendary Route 66 begins in Illinois and offers road trippers 300 miles of vintage, quirky, and larger-than-life roadside attractions.

EV Charging on Route 66

An Eco-Friendly Road Trip

Route 66 with a modern twist! This road trip highlights stops where you can charge your electric vehicle as you enjoy all that "The Mother Road" has to offer.

More on Route 66

Where to eat on route 66 in illinois, family friendly illinois route 66 road trip, drive-in movie theaters, historic landmarks on route 66, share your moments, #enjoyillinois, subscribe to our newsletter.

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.

The Charming Small Town In Illinois That’s Perfect For Family Day Trips

By: Author Tyler Bennett

Posted on August 27, 2024

Driving through the heart of Illinois , you might think you’ve seen it all—until you reach Clinton.

This charming small town is the kind of place where you’ll want to park your car and stay awhile.

From the captivating local history to the warm welcomes from the townsfolk, Clinton has a way of making you feel right at home.

Wondering what makes this place perfect for a family day trip?

Taking a stroll through downtown Clinton feels like stepping back in time.

Lined with locally owned shops, boutiques, and cafes, downtown Clinton is the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon.

Stop by one of the cozy coffee shops for a cup of freshly brewed coffee, browse through the unique gifts and antiques at the local stores, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the town’s inviting restaurants.

The welcoming atmosphere and friendly faces you’ll encounter make shopping and dining in Clinton a delight.

History buffs will find plenty to love about Clinton.

The C.H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum offers an immersive dive into 19th-century life.

This beautifully preserved Victorian mansion, once home to Judge Charles H. Moore, offers a glimpse into 19th-century life in Clinton.

The museum features original furnishings, historical artifacts, and rotating exhibits that bring the past to life.

Guided tours take you through the elegant rooms of the house, where you’ll learn about the history of the region and the influential figures who helped shape it.

Outdoor enthusiasts, don’t fret—Clinton has something spectacular for you too.

One of the town’s most beloved attractions is Weldon Springs State Park, a natural oasis that’s perfect for families who love the outdoors.

Spanning over 550 acres, Weldon Springs offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, picnicking, fishing, and even paddle boating on the lake.

The park’s extensive trail system takes you through lush woodlands, around the picturesque Weldon Springs Lake, and up to scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

It’s a peaceful retreat where families can spend the day immersed in nature, whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a more adventurous hike.

For families who love a bit of adventure, nearby Clinton Lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and camping.

The lake’s expansive shoreline provides plenty of space for water activities.

Meanwhile, the surrounding area offers scenic picnic spots and campgrounds for those who want to extend their day trip into an overnight stay.

Whether you’re casting a line, paddling along the shore, or simply enjoying a lakeside picnic, Clinton Lake is a great place to unwind and take in the beauty of nature.

Shopping in Clinton is an adventure in itself.

Whether you’re searching for vintage collectibles or handmade crafts, the local stores offer something for everyone.

Imagine the joy on your child’s face when they discover an old toy that sparks their imagination or a beautiful keepsake that becomes a cherished memory.

Accessibility is another feather in Clinton’s cap.

Located conveniently within driving distance of several major cities, it’s an easy destination for a day trip or weekend getaway .

The well-maintained roads and ample parking make travel a breeze, ensuring that the journey is as pleasant as the destination.

Related: This Quirky Small Town in Illinois is Home to Some of the Largest Objects on Earth

Related: The Tiny Town in Illinois Where You Can Easily Spend the Whole Weekend Hunting for Antiques

Related: This Tiny Amish Town in Illinois is the Perfect Day Trip for Families

Events and festivals in Clinton add an extra layer of excitement to any visit.

The annual Apple and Pork Festival, for example, draws crowds with its delicious food, fun activities, and vibrant atmosphere.

The festival celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage with a mouthwatering selection of apple and pork-themed dishes, as well as a bustling marketplace filled with handmade goods.

It’s a quintessential small-town experience that captures the essence of Clinton’s community spirit.

If you’re looking for something more hands-on, head to Wagon Wheel Pumpkin Farm, located just outside of town.

This family-friendly farm offers seasonal activities like pumpkin picking, hayrides, and corn mazes, making it a favorite spot for families during the fall.

The farm also hosts special events throughout the year, including their popular Family Fun Day, which features games, food, and entertainment for all ages.

Clinton’s charm extends beyond its attractions and into its very community.

The friendly locals are always ready to share a story or recommend a hidden gem.

Their warmth and hospitality make every visitor feel like part of the family.

It’s this sense of community that makes Clinton not just a place to visit, but a place to experience.

If your family enjoys a bit of sport, Clinton has you covered.

The local golf courses offer well-maintained greens and challenging holes that will delight both novice and seasoned golfers.

Imagine spending a sunny afternoon teeing off with your loved ones, the sound of laughter filling the air.

It’s moments like these that turn a simple outing into a cherished memory.

Foodies will find Clinton a delightful surprise.

Beyond the charming cafes and diners, the town’s farmers’ market is a cornucopia of fresh produce, homemade goodies, and local delicacies.

Sampling these treats is a culinary adventure in itself.

Picture your family gathered around a table, savoring the flavors of the season.

With so much to see and do, Clinton truly is a hidden gem in Illinois.

Its blend of history, nature, community, and charm makes it a perfect destination for family day trips.

Whether you’re planning a spontaneous outing or a well-thought-out adventure, Clinton welcomes you with open arms and endless possibilities.

To discover more about this delightful town, visit its website .

To plan your route, use this map .

Where: Clinton, IL 61727

What are you waiting for?

Why don’t you pack up the family, hit the road, and create some unforgettable memories in Clinton, Illinois?

Have you ever been somewhere that felt like a home away from home?