American Giants Museum — Attraction in Atlanta

I recently took a weekend roadtrip along the Illinois portion of Route 66, taking time to stop at each of the notable towns, landmarks and attractions along the way. I was particularly interested in visiting several of the famous Muffler Men stationed along this historical roadway so, of course, the charming town of Atlanta,IL was on the itinerary. This small town boasts the largest collection of Muffler Men in one place and was home to many interesting attractions, including the famous Bunyan Giant, 7 Walldog Murals and the newly opened American Giants Museum. The Museum tells the story behind the International Fiberglass Company who created many giants in the 60’s for advertising campaigns. Its also known for housing the first Texaco Big Friend to be fully restored. In addition to all the above, the town has a few gift shops, small eateries and a small walk-up/ drive-up coffee shop all within walking distance of the museum. In fact, my stop at the Sip Shack for an ice cold energy drink was just what I needed to refuel in order to tackle the rest of my Route 66 drive that day.

If you’re planning a Route 66 trip in the near future, Atlanta, IL and the American Giants Museum are must stops.

The museum itself had free admission and was designed to look like as a rest-stop with picnic tables and a water fountain outside and a unisex restroom inside. It was entirely handicap accessible as well. They were open 10-4 on the Saturday I visited, but I would suggest checking the...

The American Giants Museum in Atlanta, Illinois is one of those quirky Route 66 treasures that makes a road trip unforgettable. Dedicated to the towering fiberglass “Muffler Men” roadside figures, it celebrates a fun slice of Americana you don’t see every day.

The museum itself is small but packed with history, colorful displays, and full-size giants that will make you feel like a kid again. You’ll learn the backstory of these roadside icons, how they were created, and how collectors and restorers have brought them back to life. It’s equal parts nostalgia, pop culture, and small-town pride.

The staff and volunteers are warm, enthusiastic, and clearly passionate about preserving this part of Route 66 history. They’re happy to answer questions, share stories, and point out the other Muffler Men scattered around Illinois and beyond. The gift shop is fun too, with unique souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else.

Atlanta itself is a charming little stop—between the giant Paul Bunyan with his hot dog, the old juke box museum, and now the American Giants Museum, it’s a perfect detour on the Mother Road.

If you love roadside Americana, kitschy history, or just want an awesome photo op standing under a fiberglass giant, this place is a must-visit. Five stars for big fun in...

This is a fun little stop on any route 66 journey, or if you’re just traveling on I 55 and need a nice pitstop! The museum itself is fashioned as an old gas station and is very well maintained with Restored gas pumps out front. This makes for a Great photo op! There are four giants surrounding the museum itself, as well as one across the street. Inside there is an extensive history, which tells Many interesting stories about how they were both created, loved and obtained. It was a very small museum, but a fun little side stop. Our favorite was the big boy, as it brought back lots of...