ROUTE 66:
“Get your kicks on Route 66” as you explore what John Steinbeck coined “The Mother Road.” Illinois is the only Route 66 state east of the Mississippi— and where it all began. There’s so much historical signifi cance along this route, so plan ahead by visiting the Illinois Route 66 website.
Add to the nostalgic feel of your Route 66 experience by renting a classic American car, like a 1935 Roadster or a 1956 Thunderbird from American Classic Rides (Palatine) – which they will deliver right to your hotel!
If a motorcycle is your preferred mode of travel, you can rent a Triumph at MCC Motor Cycle Center (Villa Park).
Day ONE
Your day begins in DuPage County, where you pick up your classic car or motorcycle for the experience of a lifetime.
Then, head into Chicago to see Buckingham Fountain, the eastern terminal of Route 66. Stroll along beautiful Lake Michigan before taking a self-guided tour of the Route 66 exhibit at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Enjoy lunch at Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant and Bakery, which has served many a visitor – including U.S. presidents and movie stars – since 1923.
Your trip back to DuPage County will take you through the city of Berwyn, where you’ll make a stop at the Berwyn Route 66 Museum, with its fascinating collection of memorabilia and information about the history of Berwyn’s portion of Route 66.
End your day at Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket (Willowbrook) for a classic American meal. This historic roadhouse has welcomed Route 66 travelers since the 1940s and served as a Blue Bird bus stop. It is famous for its fried chicken and unique “mac & cheese.”
30 DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
CRUISE THE MOTHER ROAD Day TWO
The DuPage County area is rich in history, culture and landscape. Before you head out on the next leg of your journey, choose from one of these suggested stops within a 5 to 25 minute drive from Route 66:
• Brookfi eld Zoo (Brookfi eld) – This world-famous zoo is one of the largest in the U.S. and houses more than 2,800 animals representing 425 different species, many living in award-winning indoor immersion exhibits.
• Cantigny Park (Wheaton) – The former home of the late Chicago Tribune magnate, Robert R. McCormick, is now a 500-acre park which includes a historic mansion, fi rst-class military museum, magnifi cent gardens, and a championship golf course.
• The Morton Arboretum (Lisle) – An engaging 1,700-acre garden of trees and other woody plants from around the world. Enjoy the Children’s Garden, Maze Garden, sixteen miles of hiking trails, and nine miles of roads. Guided tours run throughout the day in season.
• Naper Settlement Outdoor History Museum (Naperville) – History comes to life at this 12- acre museum village with 30 historic structures. Accredited by the American Association of Museums.
• Illinois Aviation Museum (Bolingbrook) – Housed in Hangar One at Clow International Airport (just 3 miles north of Route 66 via Veterans Parkway), it focuses on the rich history of aviation in Illinois.
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