The Most Route 66 City off the Mother Road
OK, so the alignments of Historic Route 66 never wound through Jacksonville. But located just a half-hour from Springfield, the culture of the Mother Road no doubt impacted the development of modern Jacksonville. Today, the city is rich with stops reminiscent of those found along the Main Street of America, now celebrating its 100th anniversary. So, before heading toward the Gateway to the West, take a short detour to Jacksonville and explore the hidden gems just off Route 66.
The Past Preserved
Route 66 passes by countless historical sites on its long trek from Chicago to Santa Monica, CA. Similarly, Jacksonville has amassed its own collection of places in which both local and national legends gather; at sites like the Jacksonville Area Museum, their stories are displayed for all to experience up close. Tour the home of Illinois’ sixth governor at the Governor Duncan Mansion, marvel at breathtaking Second Empire architecture — and the masterful artworks contained therein — at The David Strawn Art Gallery, and hear the harrowing accounts of those escaping slavery at Woodlawn Farm.
And, like our neighbors in Springfield, Jacksonville is home to many Abraham Lincoln sites, including Beecher Hall on the Illinois College campus, the General Benjamin Grierson Mansion, and the spot on the corner from which Lincoln delivered his famous speech denouncing slavery during the 1858 Senate campaign trail. Jacksonville is also home to sites honoring those who fought for equality at places like the Jacksonville African American History Museum.
Throwback Dining
A classic road trip steeped in nostalgia deserves an equally retro meal. Plenty of eateries around Jacksonville offer a hot meal in the mid-century spirit of Route 66. Go for the classic burger-and-fries combo at BurgerBoard or pair a chili cheese dog with your pick of frozen treats from Charlie’s Ice Cream Shop. Located just a block off the downtown square, The Patio is a food stand famous for its gargantuan tenderloins in addition to burgers, fries, and nachos.
Prefer to sit and savor your meal? Grab a bite at Guse’s Pub & Eatery, famous for its fried cheese curds and tavern-style pizzas. Or pack your meal for a picnic in the park. The menu at The Corner Deli is loaded with sandwiches, soups, and salads that are perfect for dining al fresco in one of Jacksonville’s beautiful community parks.
Roadside Curios
The Mother Road is dotted with fascinating, kitschy, and quirky attractions that serve as the backdrop for unforgettable photo ops. You’ll find the same in Jacksonville. The city is home to its own collection of photo-worthy stops. Start with the dedicated Selfie Station at Main Street and College Avenue, then snap a photo in front of the Civil War Columbia statue in Central Park or alongside the many Walldog murals adorning the historic buildings around the square. Finally, head over to Jacksonville Community Park and snap a photo in front of the Big Eli Ferris Wheel on the park’s northeast corner, commemorating the city’s long history of producing amusement park rides like Big Eli Ferris wheels and Scramblers. You can even take a spin on the wheel during the warmer months.