Route 66 is a historic highway that runs from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. It was created in 1926 and was originally called the “Mother Road.” The route passes through many famous cities and towns, including St. Louis, Missouri; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Amarillo, Texas
In Chicago, Route 66 begins at Grant Park and travels west through the city. It passes by some of Chicago’s most famous landmarks and tourist destinations. Among those are the following:
The Willis Tower
The Willis Tower was previously known as Sears Tower. This is Chicago’s skyscraper and was the tallest building in the world for 25 years. The Willis Tower was completed in 1974 and is 1,451 feet tall.
Once you reach the Willis Tower, there are many things to do and see. Some of the highlights include the following:
The Skydeck
The Skydeck is an observation deck located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower. It offers panoramic views of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. The Skydeck is open daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm.
The Ledge
The Ledge is a glass-enclosed box that extends from the side of the Willis Tower. It provides stunning views of Chicago and its surroundings. The Ledge is open daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm.
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is a world-renowned art museum. It is located on Michigan Avenue, just south of the Willis Tower. The Art Institute of Chicago houses a vast collection of art, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to paintings by Impressionist masters. It is open daily from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm.
The Chicago Theatre
The Chicago Theatre is a historic theatre located on State Street in Chicago. It was built in 1921 and is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. The Chicago Theatre is home to many Broadway shows, concerts, and other events. It is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the shore of Lake Michigan. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Chicago. Navy Pier is home to many shops, restaurants, museums, and attractions, including an IMAX theatre. It is open daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Wilmington Gemini Giant
The Gemini Giant in Wilmington, Illinois is a thirty-foot tall fiberglass sculpture of an astronaut in a classic suit. The statue was built in 1965 and originally stood outside of the Lunaire Drive-In theater. When the theater closed down, the statue was moved to its current location in front of Launching Pad Drive-In Restaurant. The Gemini Giant is one of many Route 66 attractions that were created in order to entice drivers to stop and spend their money.
Mustang Corral
If you’re looking to see some of the best classic cars in the world, you’ll want to stop by the Mustang Corral in Chicago. This spot is home to an incredible collection of Mustangs, and it’s well worth a visit for any car lover. Be sure to check out the on-site museum while you’re there – it’s packed full of amazing vehicles from all eras.
Route 66 is a historic highway that passes through many famous cities and towns, including Chicago. In Chicago, Route 66 begins at Grant Park and travels west through the city. It passes by some of Chicago’s most famous landmarks and tourist destinations, including the Willis Tower, The Skydeck, The Ledge, The Art Institute of Chicago, The Chicago Theatre, the Navy Pier, the Wilmington Gemini Giant, and the Mustang Corral. If you’re looking to see some of Chicago’s most iconic attractions, Route 66 is definitely worth taking a drive on.
