Illinois e-News Release

GRANITE CITY — Today, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) joined the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Commission and tourism partners from across the state to celebrate the official kickoff of the Route 66 Centennial, marking 100 years since the creation of the highway. Also known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 begins in Chicago and runs through the heart of Illinois — connecting communities and travelers for a century.

 

“Throughout 2026, we’ll recognize 100 years of Route 66, a road that helped shape Illinois into what it is today. That’s why my administration is proud to provide attraction and site infrastructure along this iconic route and deliver millions in grant funding to local tourism bureaus,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I invite all Illinoisans to take part in the many celebrations throughout the year — it’s a chance to check out the beauty of a truly American road and soak in all that Route 66 and our state have to offer.” 

 

“Across Illinois, our communities are showing up to celebrate 100 years of connection. From Michigan Avenue through Springfield and the small towns that line the route, Route 66 has shaped our history and identity,” said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, an appointed Commissioner on the Route 66 Centennial Commission. “Illinois is home to sweeping prairie landscapes, welcoming Main Streets, rich cultural destinations, and world-class cities. I’m proud to welcome visitors from near and far to experience the people, places, and stories that make Illinois truly special.”

 

Illinois continues to prioritize its growing tourism industry as millions of visitors from around the world boost economic development and support jobs in the industry. Illinois reached its highest-ever hotel tax revenue figures in FY25 with $367 million — a 14% increase over the previous record set in FY24. Additionally, Illinois welcomed 113 million visitors who spent a record-breaking $48.5 billion in 2024 — representing 500,000 more travelers and $1.3 billion more in spending compared to 2023.

 

In recognition of the centennial, DCEO is awarding nearly $4 million in grant funding to local tourism bureaus to support development, education, preservation, and promotion efforts of Route 66 activities throughout Illinois. These awards will help communities enhance visitor experiences, preserve historic assets, and showcase Illinois’ unique role in Route 66 history.

 

“Tourism is a powerful economic driver for Illinois, and Route 66 is one of our greatest assets,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “These grants will help communities tell their stories, preserve their history, and attract visitors from across the country, ensuring the legacy of Route 66 continues to shine statewide.”

 

The Route 66 Grant Program is funding several standout projects in 2026 to create even more must-see stops along America’s most iconic highway. An Abraham Lincoln penny sculpture will soon be installed in Lincoln, while Granite City will honor President Lincoln with a towering 14-foot statue. Springfield’s famous Giant Slide at the Illinois State Fairgrounds is getting a fresh look for the Route 66 Centennial, and Joliet is transforming part of the Old Joliet Prison grounds into a baseball field for events, representing the long history of organized baseball played at the prison. Since 2021, DCEO’s Illinois Office of Tourism has invested $19 million in Route 66 projects to drive tourism forward over the last several years.

 

For the centennial, the Illinois State Fair's theme for 2026 will be “Miles of Smiles,” in honor of Route 66 and its enduring impact on the state’s communities, culture, and tourism. The theme will be featured at both the Springfield and Du Quoin fairs, highlighting Route 66’s legacy through special exhibits, programming, and experiences for fairgoers of all ages. 

 

“The Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield sit on the historic path of Route 66, making it a natural stop along the Mother Road,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. “This year’s Illinois State Fair theme creates an opportunity for partnership with DCEO and the Illinois Office of Tourism, and our teams have exciting plans for that collaboration during the fair and throughout 2026.”

 

The Illinois Route 66 Centennial Commission also has scheduled celebration events across the state throughout 2026, with additional events and announcements forthcoming. These activities will spotlight Illinois’ historic Route 66 attractions, local businesses, and community traditions, all while inviting visitors to explore the Mother Road from end to end. 

 

“The Centennial of Route 66 reminds us that America’s most iconic road was built mile by mile, town by town, and community by community. Its storied past inspires our shared future — a century behind us, a lifetime of journeys ahead — that’s the promise Route 66 has in Illinois,” said Cory Jobe, President & CEO of Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau.

 

“For 100 years, Route 66 has connected the Midwest to the West, encouraging tourism, trade, and opportunity. It connects our community from the Metro East all the way to California,” said State Rep. Jay Hoffman (D-Swansea). “I'm looking forward to celebrating the grandeur and nostalgia of Route 66 this year and seeing and the importance this route played in the America experience.” 

 

“Route 66 helped shape the Metro East by connecting our river towns and working families to opportunity,” said State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Swansea). “Celebrating its legacy honors the generations who built this region.”

 

“Route 66 is a quintessential part of American history, and it started right here in Illinois,” said State Rep. Katie Stuart (D-Edwardsville). “I'm excited to celebrate this scenic drive that showcases the best of our state in our cities, small towns, prairies, and everywhere in between. I welcome everyone from around the globe to come see all we have to offer.”

 

“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, celebrating 100 years of Route 66 is especially meaningful for the 56th District,” said State Senator Erica Harriss (R-Glen Carbon). “This stretch of the Mother Road has welcomed travelers from around the world for generations, supporting local tourism and small businesses. For a century, Route 66 has connected communities, told the story of our region, and inspired travelers to explore the people and places that make the 56th District truly unique.”

 

Learn more about the centennial and local events by visiting enjoyillinois.com/things-to-do/route-66-in-illinois.