Atlanta’s Relationship with Route 66

When Route 66 was officially designated in 1926, Atlanta found itself on one of the most legendary roadways in America. The town quickly became a welcome break for travelers, with its location along the original alignment of Route 66. Businesses flourished by serving motorists with gas, food, and lodging.

Unfortunately, it didn’t last. By 1947 the busy road was rebuilt to bypass town to the the east. New businesses flourished on the bypass only to fail again when Interstate 55 replaced the Mother Road in 1977. Recently, a rebirth of interest in historic Route 66 has pumped life back into Atlanta.

Today, Atlanta embraces that legacy with well-preserved historic sites, roadside attractions, and community pride in its Route 66 roots. The town is part of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway, and many of its buildings and sites have been lovingly restored.

Top Attractions in Atlanta, Illinois

Bunyan’s Statue – The Muffler Man Holding a Hot Dog

One of the most iconic roadside statues on Route 66, It has been in Atlanta since 2003, and it’s become one of the most photographed attractions on the route.

During the heydays of Route 66, travelers passed hundreds of signs, murals, and other forms of advertising. Among the more famous stood the fiberglass giants created during the 1960s by International Fiberglass of Venice, California.

It stands 19 feet tall and clutching a giant hot dog, this “Paul Bunyan” stature is one of Route 66’s mythic Muffler Man Statues.

In 1965 one of these giants was placed in front of a restaurant on Route 66 in Cicero, Illinois. The original axe was replaced with a hot dog. After the restaurant closed in 2003, this giant was moved to Atlanta, as a route 66 icon.

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J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator Museum

This 1904 wooden grain elevator is the only fully restored grain elevator museum in Illinois. It offers a fascinating look at Midwest farming history. The historic J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator Museum is one of the few all-wooden grain elevators in America — and it still runs!

Atlanta Public Library and Clock Tower

Dating back to 1908, this octagonal library is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The vintage Seth Thomas clock tower still chimes on the hour.

The Atlanta Public Library is located at the intersection of Race and Arch Streets.

Atlanta Museum and Route 66 Park

A small but impressive museum that celebrates local history and Route 66 culture. Outside, you’ll find Route 66 murals, benches, and plenty of places to stretch your legs.

The Palms Grill

Opening up in 1934, the Palms Grill attracted travelers on Route 66. Downtown cafes and gas stations did more than serve highway travelers. The were places where townsfolk gathered to share gossip, negotiate deals, and fall in love.

In the early days, weekly dances and bingo nights accompanied the blue-plate specials at the Palms Grill Cafe. The “Grill” was also Atlanta’s Greyhound bus stop. If you wanted the bus to pick you up, you just turned the light on above the door. The Palms Grill Cafe served Atlanta’s citizens, as well as a steady stream of Route 66 travelers, from 1934 until the late 1960s.

Atlanta’s Walldog Murals

J.M. Judy & Sons – This mural was completed in June 2002, when the Walldogs were first invited to Atlanta for the “Rt. 66 Firecracker Walldog Jam.” The Letterheads, a group of generous and free-spirited sign painters from across the U.S. and Canada who are interested in preserving the art of painting outdoor signs and murals, restored the design created by Bill Diaz of Pontiac, Illinois, using a photo taken in the early 1900s of the original J.M. Judy & Sons mural that adorned this side of the building.

Where to Stay in or Near Atlanta, IL

While Atlanta itself doesn’t offer major hotels, there are several options just a short drive away:

America’s Best Value Inn – Lincoln

Affordable and close to Atlanta, located in nearby Lincoln, IL. Great for travelers looking for simple, clean accommodations.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Lincoln

Modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, and convenient access to Route 66 make this a popular choice for road trippers.

Camping Nearby

For those traveling by RV or camper, Kickapoo Creek Park in Lincoln provides peaceful camping with nature trails and fishing.

Best Places to Eat in Atlanta, Illinois

Palms Grill Café

This lovingly restored 1930s diner serves up classic American comfort food, Route 66 memorabilia, and homemade pie. You can even see where Greyhound buses used to stop out front!

Dixie Restaurant & Truck Stop (McLean, IL – 5 min away)

Just off I-55 and Route 66, this legendary roadside stop is open 24/7 and offers comfort food, coffee, and people-watching in a truly nostalgic setting.

Tips for Visiting Atlanta on Route 66

• When to Visit: Spring through fall for mild weather and open attractions
• Getting There: Just off I-55, between Bloomington and Springfield
• Travel Style: Perfect for road trippers, families, photographers, and history lovers