Springfield’s new Living Legends program introduces you to our iconic Route 66 local business owners. Pick up your Explorer Passport at the Springfield Visitors Center, meet the legends face-toface, snap a pic, get an autograph, and create your own Route 66 story.
Dew Chilli Parlor
2690 S. Dirksen Pkwy. 217-679-1910 dewchilliparlor.com Over 110 years of serving American’s finest chilli to Springfield Illinois residents and Route 66 travelers.
Hall’s Harley Davidson
2301 N. Dirksen Pkwy. 217-528-8356 hallsh-d.com
In Springfield since 1962, stop in and check out the magnificent two-story 43,000 square foot complex, including the Harley Davidson showroom with a huge selection of motorcycles, apparel and customized collectibles for all ages. Hall’s is located on the 1940-1977 Route 66 alignment in Springfield.
Lauterbach Giant
1569 Wabash Ave.
217-546-2600 lauterbachtire.com
Lauterbach Tire and Auto Service has a fiberglass “muffler man” giant standing in the parking lot. He was recently upgraded to be more patriotic with a U.S. flag.
Mahan’s Filling Station
1168 Sangamon Ave.
217-544-8520 fulgenzis.com
A unique example of the earliest of gas stations is now on display at Fulgenzi’s Pizza & Pasta located across from the historic Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield The roadside attraction is accessible as a great photo and souvenir opportunity for Route 66 visitors.
Maid Rite
118 N. Pasfield
217-523-0723 This friendly, quaint, original old-school diner was built in 1921, one of only a few remaining Maid Rite franchises. You can still get a steamed “Loose Meat Sandwich” on super soft bread and a tasty root beer float. The Springfield location on the old Route 66 is also credited with being the first fast food drive-thru in America.
Maldaner’s Restaurant
222 S. 6th St. 217-522-4313 maldaners.com
Creative American dining using local products, when available. Relaxed semi-formal atmosphere in a historical Springfield building. Two blocks from hotels and Lincoln sites. Buffet style meals also available. Oldest continually operated restaurant in Springfield since 1884.
Route History
737 E. Cook St. 217-503-4129 Facebook: visitroutehistory Route History is where visitors can experience and learn about the tragedy, resilience, and excellence of Black people, Black-owned businesses and related events and places located along historic Route 66. Learn about pioneers that made significant contributions to Illinois, the city of Springfield, and the greater society. Of note are Springfield’s role as a haven along the Underground Railroad, the Race Riot of 1908 which led to the formation of the NAACP, and the lifesaving commodities and guidance provided by Black-owned businesses during the Jim Crow era.
Route 66 Motorheads Bar and Grill
600 Toronto Rd.
217-679-7323 66motorheads.com
Not only are we home to one of the coolest restaurants and bars you have ever seen, we are also home to a Route 66 museum showcasing some of Springfield’s historic past. A great place for lovers of Route 66, old cars and vintage signs.
Route 66 Twin Drive-In Theatre
1700 Recreation Dr. 217-546-8881 route66-drivein.com The remodeled twin drive-in, located on Route 66 in Springfield, is next to Knights Action Park. Enjoy affordable family fun with concessions and double features on both screens. Open April through September — show starts at dusk.
The Curve Inn
3219 S. 6th St. Rd.
217-529-5806 thecurveinn.com
The Curve Inn opened on Route 66 south of Springfield in 1945. The original owner, Guido Manci, served the public in the main tavern area, while “special” customers could ring a buzzer at the bottom of the back stairs to gain entrance to the gambling parlor on the upper floor. It was inducted into the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame in 2007.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival September 25-27
866-783-6645 route66fest.com
Each year over 1,000 classic cars and tens of thousands of spectators travel to downtown Springfield for live music, entertainment, and to simply cruise. This family friendly event celebrates all things Route 66.