The iconic Route 66 turns 100 years old this year, and Illinois is celebrating with major events, festivals and more.
Established in 1926, Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road”, connects Chicago to Santa Monica, California, stretching 2,448 miles across nearly two-thirds of the country. The origins of Route 66 trace back to trails used by Native Americans, which later evolved into smaller roads that often paralleled railway lines.
Route 66 remains culturally significant today due to its historical contributions. During the Dust Bowl in the 1930s, the highway became a critical route for families traveling west to California in search of opportunity.
Its importance continued to grow, and, in 1938, Route 66 became the first highway in the United States to be completely paved. During World War II, the route played a major role in the war effort, helping transport materials east from California industries while bringing workers west.
Over time, the development of the federal interstate highway system led to a decline in Route 66’s use as a primary highway, as faster and more efficient routes became available. However, Route 66 continues to carry a rich history and remains a popular destination for travelers, bringing tourism and economic activity to small towns across the country.
In 2026, Illinois is marking the Route 66 Centennial with a variety of events throughout the summer, kicking off on May 23. Learn more at the Route 66 Centennial website.
