Once known as “Main Street of America,” Route 66 is one of the most iconic roadways in the world. While the entire highway winds from Chicago to L.A., as Bobby Troup famously noted, the Illinois portion takes motorists to East St. Louis. Here is what motorcyclists need to know about riding Route 66 on a motorcycle while in the Land of Lincoln.
Notable Attractions Along Illinois’ Route 66
Illinois’ stretch of Route 66 offers a variety of must-see attractions for motorcyclists. Begin your journey in East St. Louis, across the Mississippi River from the iconic Gateway Arch. This 630-foot monument symbolizes the city’s role as the “Gateway to the West.”
Just northeast from there, in Collinsville, you’ll find Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, the remnants of a Native American urban center that represents the largest Pre-Columbian site this side of Mexico. At its peak in the 11th Century, the city may have been larger than contemporaneous Paris or London.
From there, head north toward Springfield to visit Abraham Lincoln’s Illinois Home. While you’re in town, don’t miss the chance to grab a bite at the Cozy Dog Drive-In, home of the “original hot dog on a stick”—you might know it as a corn dog.
Route 66 Museum in Pontiac, Illinois
Continuing your adventure, stop by the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac to learn more about the history and significance of this legendary highway and to view a collection of Route 66 memorabilia.
Your Route 66 journey will finish in Chicago, the third-largest city in America and home to numerous cultural, culinary, and historical offerings—but that’s for another blog.
Riding Experience
Riding Route 66 on a motorcycle through Illinois offers motorcyclists a unique and unforgettable experience. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of roadside attractions, such as vintage gas stations, neon signs, and quirky statues, each with its own story to tell. The road itself is a mix of well-maintained stretches and sections that have retained their original character, allowing you to feel a connection to “The Mother Road’s” rich history.
With plenty of opportunities to stop, explore, and photograph these iconic landmarks, the Illinois portion of Route 66 is a dream ride for motorcycle enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in American culture and nostalgia.
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