Route 66 Association of Illinois — Attraction in Pontiac Township

If Route 66 is America’s highway legend, then the Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac is like the grand storyteller holding court in an old firehouse. This place is pure Mother Road magic—with just enough dust, neon, and nostalgia to charm even the most hardened Interstate traveler.

From the moment you step in you can feel the rumble of old engines, the whisper of road trips past, and the faint aroma of gas and diner grease in your imagination. The museum is free admission, donations encouraged, so it’s a no-brainer pit stop.

What I loved: • The folks behind it clearly know their Route 66. The collections include tons of memorabilia: signs, photos, maps, license plates, and more. • The “Bob Waldmire Experience” exhibit is a highlight. Bob’s VW van and art helped define Route 66’s counterculture soul—and yes, he’s one of the legends enshrined here. • The building itself has character. A former firehouse and city hall with historic bones and charm. • It feels like a community labor of love. The volunteers and stewards of this place clearly care about preserving the Mother Road’s legacy.

If I have quibbles: • It’s not huge, so don’t expect a sprawling industrial museum. But what it does do, it does beautifully. • Some exhibits might benefit from extra interpretive signage or stories.

Overall, whether you’re a Route 66 pilgrim, a history nerd, or just someone who loves a good road trip stop, this is a must-see. Pull off the highway, stretch your legs, wander through those exhibits, and let the nostalgia hit you like a cross-country tailwind.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely. If you’re doing the Illinois stretch of the Mother Road, don’t let Pontiac slip by. This is one of the sweet spots that keeps...

Located in downtown Pontiac, the Route 66 Association is part of a network of free museums that offers visitors something to explore.

The Route 66 focuses on the Illinois portion of the road, and shows memorabilia depicting the towns from Chicago to Saint Louis. It was interesting to learn how many people earned their livelihood from the Route.

You can walk through quickly, or spend some time admiring the objects on display. I spent about 45 minutes in the Route 66 Museum. The volunteers are wonderful. I have to give a shout-out to Rose who was positively charming.

This is a must-see if you are into automobile history, the history of Illinois, or popular culture from the 50's and 60's. Be sure to walk around the back and take a photo with the gigantic Route 66 mural on the side of...

I didn't take any photos because I was soaking it all in. I can't believe how much Pontiac has to offer from the Mother Road! I've been through the city once, and it was late at night so perhaps the darkness sealed everything off for my eyes to see. But I finally went here during the day, Saturday 6/8/24, and it has just about convinced me to move there!! The city itself is BEAUTIFUL, just absolutely stunning, and there is so much to do. But this museum provided so much information about the highway, as well as a Titanic exhibit, and a war museum which is another big interest of mine. Everything inside was beautifully well kept. Again, no pictures, but if you are ever stopping through, or simply want to check this museum...