In Granite City, Governor JB Pritzker, along with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA), launched the Route 66 Centennial celebrations. The event marks 100 years since the creation of Route 66, known as the “Mother Road,” which begins in Chicago and travels through Illinois.
“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.”
Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, who serves as a Commissioner on the Route 66 Centennial Commission, commented on how communities across Illinois are participating: “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. 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’ tourism industry continues its growth with record hotel tax revenue in fiscal year 2025 reaching $367 million—a 14% increase over FY24—and hosting approximately 113 million visitors who spent $48.5 billion in 2024.
To support centennial activities statewide, DCEO will distribute nearly $4 million in grants for local tourism bureaus. These funds aim to help communities improve visitor experiences by developing attractions tied to Route 66’s legacy.
“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.”
Grant recipients include several regional convention bureaus across North Central, Southwest, Northeast and Central Illinois. Projects funded this year feature an Abraham Lincoln penny sculpture in Lincoln; a new statue honoring President Lincoln in Granite City; updates to Springfield’s Giant Slide at the State Fairgrounds; and transforming part of Joliet’s Old Prison grounds into a baseball field for events.
Since 2021, DCEO’s Office of Tourism has invested $19 million into projects connected with Route 66.
The theme for both Springfield’s and Du Quoin’s State Fairs will be “Miles of Smiles” in recognition of Route 66’s influence on state culture.
“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.”
Additional centennial events are planned statewide by The Illinois Route 66 Centennial Commission throughout next year.
“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 from Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau.
State Rep. Jay Hoffman highlighted its historical significance: “For 100 years, Route 66 has connected the Midwest to the West… It connects our community from Metro East all the way to California.” State Senator Christopher Belt noted how it supported local families: “Route 66 helped shape Metro East by connecting our river towns…”
Other officials including State Rep. Katie Stuart described it as central to American history originating from Illinois while Senator Erica Harriss emphasized its role supporting small businesses over generations.
The IDOA plays an important role regulating agricultural practices within these communities along with providing services such as pesticide licensing or animal import permits according to its official website.
Further information about centennial events can be found at enjoyillinois.com/things-to-do/route-66-in-illinois.
