Route 66 Memories on Display at ISM

The Illinois State Museum’s new “Miles of Memories: Stories of Route 66” exhibit is giving visitors another reason to stop by this summer as the state prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of historic U.S. Route 66.

Visitors to the Springfield exhibit can receive a voucher for one free adult weekday admission to the 2026 Illinois State Fair through Aug. 13. The fair runs Aug. 13-23, and vouchers will be collected at the fair entrance gates. Children ages 12 and under already receive free admission to the fair.

The promotion connects the museum’s Route 66 exhibit with this year’s Illinois State Fair theme, “Miles of Smiles,” which was selected to commemorate the Mother Road’s centennial. The Illinois State Fairgrounds sits along a leg of historic Route 66 and features the Route 66 Experience inside Gate 2.

“We selected the theme to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and the lasting impact this iconic highway has had on our state and those who have traveled it,” said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, which manages the Illinois State Fair. “This partnership between the Illinois State Fair and the Illinois State Museum brings together two of Illinois’ premier institutions, giving visitors a unique opportunity to explore our state’s rich history while earning free admission to the fair. We encourage everyone to visit both destinations and create their own miles of smiles this summer.”

The Illinois State Museum’s “Miles of Memories: Stories of Route 66” exhibit opened late last month, bringing to life the experience of living, working and traveling along U.S. Route 66 during its heyday.

The exhibit incorporates the museum’s Route 66 Oral History Project, a collection of 100 interviews with people who experienced the road when it served as a primary route between Chicago and Los Angeles. Visitors can listen to excerpts from those firsthand accounts throughout the exhibit.

On display is a range of Route 66 memorabilia, including vintage souvenirs, neon signs, fiberglass advertising figures and Burma-Shave signs.

“This exhibit is a must-see for any fan of Route 66,” said ISM curator of history Erika Holst. “What sets it apart is the opportunity to hear memories of the Mother Road in the voices of the people who lived it.”

The Illinois State Museum is operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

“The nostalgia and romance of historic Route 66 make it a natural fit for showcasing at both the Illinois State Museum and the Illinois State Fair,” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. “We’re thrilled to welcome visitors from near and far who wish to rekindle their memories of the Mother Road at the Illinois State Museum and to invite them to celebrate the Route 66 centennial at the Illinois State Fair.”

Commissioned in 1926, Route 66 was promoted as the shortest, best and most scenic route between Chicago and Los Angeles. It served as a major corridor to the West Coast for decades until the development of the federal interstate system. Renewed interest in the late 20th century transformed Route 66 into a popular road trip destination, now attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year. The highway marks its centennial anniversary this year.

“Some of the stories featured in the exhibit cover topics that even seasoned Route 66 travelers may not have heard before,” said ISM registrar of history Amanda Bryden. “There is something for everyone, regardless of familiarity with the road.”

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Office of Tourism is also encouraging travelers to take part in Route 66 centennial celebrations this summer. As the starting point and first 301 miles of the Mother Road, the Illinois portion of Route 66 has connected communities and travelers for a century.

“This summer, we’re excited to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 at the Illinois State Fair and show visitors all that our great state has to offer,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “From historic landmarks and roadside attractions to communities that continue to keep the Mother Road’s legacy alive, Route 66 offers unforgettable experiences for travelers of all ages.”

The project was made possible through support from the Illinois State Museum Society, the Hanson family, Jane and Paul Ford and Loken Family funds at the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln, in partnership with the Lumpkin Foundation, Stifel and the Cozy Dog Drive In.

“Miles of Memories” will be on view through April 4, 2027. The Illinois State Museum offers free admission and is open daily.

More information about Illinois’ Route 66 centennial celebrations is available at enjoyillinois.com.