Springfield, IL is Your Overnight Heart of Illinois Route 66
- Joey Amato
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
New in 2025, visit the exclusive Route 66 Art Exhibition: Celebrating the Iconic Artwork of Bob Waldmire Springfield Native, Nomadic Hippie, Gifted Artist, and Route 66 Icon. Immerse yourself in the legends creative expressions and awe-inspiring attention to detail, celebrating the nostalgia and culture of Route 66. This exhibit is open on Friday & Saturday, Noon-6pm through December 2026.
Walk the Carpenter Park Original Route 66 Pavement - Nestled beside the scenic Sangamon River, this quarter-mile stretch of road has remained untouched and overgrown for nearly 90 years. Visitors can leisurely stroll down this historic pathway, enjoying wayside signage that offers fascinating insights into the past while soaking in the breathtaking scenery and rich history of the area.
Reminisce at the restored Shea’s Gas Station and take time for a photo opportunity at one of the original stations on Route 66!
Experience the journey, local tragedy and resilience of the Black traveler along Route 66 through the Route History Metaverse Virtual Reality experience.
Explore and snap photos galore along the newly added Mural and Wayside Exhibit trail along Route 66 in and around Springfield!
Celebrate the 24th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival with us, September 26-28, 2025! Be amazed at the Friday night cruise into downtown, as over 2,000 cars parade through the city to kick off the event. Enjoy live entertainment, a burn-out contest, food vendors, music acts throughout the weekend and much more. The event is free to spectators.
Check out their fall blogs full of fun, pumpkin patches, haunted houses and special events!
Enjoy the benefits of dining al fresco! Check out our Outdoor Patio Blog!
In addition to being a sociable and relaxing way to spend time with loved ones, friends and colleagues, some studies suggest eating outdoors is also very beneficial to our health.
Eating outside can lead to changes in the body which contribute to better mood, enhance well-being and lower stress. The Vitamin D boost along with better meal choice making and savoring the crisp fresh air, all adds an extra layer of flavor to your meal that no indoor setting can provide!
To learn more and start planning your Abe-mazing trip, visit: www.visitspringfieldillinois.com
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Hi, I just visited it a couple of months ago. Springfield offers farm-to-table restaurants serving fresh, local ingredients. You can try recipes inspired by Lincoln-era staples or enjoy modern takes on traditional American comfort food.
Snake