Gov. Pritzker Celebrates Route 66 Centennial Kickoff

2026 marks 100 years since the creation of the iconic Route 66

Gov. Pritzker Celebrates Route 66 Centennial Kickoff

2026 marks 100 years since the creation of the iconic Route 66

GRANITE CITY — Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) joined the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Commission and tourism partners from across the state to celebrate the official kickoff of the Route 66 Centennial, marking 100 years since the creation of the highway. Also known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 begins in Chicago and runs through the heart of Illinois — connecting communities and travelers for a century.

“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.”

Illinois continues to prioritize its growing tourism industry as millions of visitors from around the world boost economic development and support jobs in the industry. Illinois reached its highest-ever hotel tax revenue figures in FY25 with $367 million — a 14% increase over the previous record set in FY24. Additionally, Illinois welcomed 113 million visitors who spent a record-breaking $48.5 billion in 2024 — representing 500,000 more travelers and $1.3 billion more in spending compared to 2023.

In recognition of the centennial, DCEO is awarding nearly $4 million in grant funding to local tourism bureaus to support development, education, preservation, and promotion efforts of Route 66 activities throughout Illinois. These awards will help communities enhance visitor experiences, preserve historic assets, and showcase Illinois’ unique role in Route 66 history.

“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.”

The Route 66 Grant Program is funding several standout projects in 2026 to create even more must-see stops along America’s most iconic highway. An Abraham Lincoln penny sculpture will soon be installed in Lincoln, while Granite City will honor President Lincoln with a towering 14-foot statue. Springfield’s famous Giant Slide at the Illinois State Fairgrounds is getting a fresh look for the Route 66 Centennial, and Joliet is transforming part of the Old Joliet Prison grounds into a baseball field for events, representing the long history of organized baseball played at the prison. Since 2021, DCEO’s Illinois Office of Tourism has invested $19 million in Route 66 projects to drive tourism forward over the last several years.

For the centennial, the Illinois State Fair's theme for 2026 will be “Miles of Smiles,” in honor of Route 66 and its enduring impact on the state’s communities, culture, and tourism. The theme will be featured at both the Springfield and Du Quoin fairs, highlighting Route 66’s legacy through special exhibits, programming, and experiences for fairgoers of all ages.

The Illinois Route 66 Centennial Commission also has scheduled celebration events across the state throughout 2026, with additional events and announcements forthcoming. These activities will spotlight Illinois’ historic Route 66 attractions, local businesses, and community traditions, all while inviting visitors to explore the Mother Road from end to end.

“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, President & CEO of Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau.

Learn more about the centennial and local events by visiting enjoyillinois.com/things-to-do/route-66-in-illinois

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