Epic 1-Day Road Trip through Scenic Route 66, USA

Day 1: Scenic Road Trip

Chicago, Illinois

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lou Mitchell's

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Lou Mitchell's, a historic diner known for its fluffy pancakes and famous cinnamon rolls.
After breakfast, head west on I-290, merging onto I-55.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Route 66 Museum in Pontiac

Explore the fascinating history of the iconic Route 66 at the Route 66 Museum, featuring memorabilia and fun exhibits celebrating the Mother Road.
Drive approximately 100 miles southwest for around 1.5 hours.
USD 5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Photo Stop at the Pontiac's Giant Ketchup Bottle

Capture fun photos at the world’s largest ketchup bottle, a quirky roadside attraction just next to the museum.
Walk to the attraction from the museum (5-minute walk).
Free, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Edinger's Filling Station

Savor a classic American lunch at Edinger's, where you can enjoy burgers and hand-cut fries in a nostalgic filling station atmosphere.
Continue to Bloomington, approximately 25 miles south (30 minutes drive).
USD 12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the David Davis Mansion

Take a guided tour of the David Davis Mansion, a stunning Victorian home adorned with beautiful architecture and rich history.
From the restaurant, it’s a short 10-minute drive to the mansion.
USD 5, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the McLean County Museum of History

Immerse yourself in local history and culture at this engaging museum featuring artifacts from the area's past.
Drive 10 minutes to the museum.
USD 6, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Drive to Springfield

Head southwest to Springfield where you'll explore Lincoln's hometown.
Travel approximately 40 miles (40 minutes drive).
Free, 40 minutes

6:15PM

Dinner at The Feed Store

Enjoy a delicious farm-to-table dinner at The Feed Store, where you can indulge in local favorites like fried chicken and homemade pie.
A quick 10-minute drive from the center of Springfield.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site

End your day with a visit to the Lincoln Home, taking a stroll around the beautifully preserved neighborhood and absorbing the history of the iconic president.
A 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour
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