Welcome to Odell, Illinois
Welcome to Odell, a charming village in Livingston County, Illinois, nestled along the iconic Route 66. This small town may seem quiet at first glance, but it holds a wealth of history and nostalgia for travelers following the Mother Road. From its beautifully restored Standard Oil Gas Station to its vintage murals and community pride, Odell is a delightful stop filled with photo opportunities, small-town charm, and genuine Midwestern hospitality.
History of Odell
Odell was founded in 1856 as a railway town along the Chicago and Alton Railroad. Named after William Odell, a prominent early settler and local judge, the town quickly developed into a center for agriculture, commerce, and transportation in Central Illinois. The town’s economy revolved around farming, and its residents took pride in building a self-sustaining community with churches, schools, and businesses to support its growing population.
As automobiles and highways replaced railroads as the dominant mode of travel, Odell found itself positioned along the new U.S. Route 66, which ushered in a new era of commerce and tourism.
Weather in Odell
Odell has a classic Midwestern climate featuring four distinct seasons:
- Summer: Warm and humid, with average highs in the mid-80s°F (29°C) and occasional thunderstorms.
- Fall: Mild and pleasant, with crisp air, colorful foliage, and highs in the 60s°F (15–20°C).
- Winter: Cold, with temperatures dipping into the 20s°F (around -5°C) and occasional snow accumulation.
- Spring: Cool and rainy, gradually warming to 60s and 70s°F (15–24°C), ideal for outdoor exploration.
The best months to visit are May through October, when the weather is most favorable for sightseeing and driving.
A Detailed History of Route 66 in Odell
When U.S. Route 66 was established in 1926, Odell quickly adapted to serve motorists traveling between Chicago and St. Louis. The original alignment of Route 66 went right through downtown Odell, making it a convenient place for travelers to refuel, eat, and rest. The town became home to service stations, cafes, and roadside businesses catering to the booming highway traffic.
Perhaps the most iconic remnant of that era is the Standard Oil Gasoline Station, built in 1932. This Tudor-style station operated until the late 1960s and became a beloved symbol of Route 66’s golden age. When Route 66 was decommissioned and replaced by modern highways in the late 20th century, Odell—like many Route 66 towns—saw a decline in through traffic. But thanks to preservation efforts and renewed interest in Route 66 heritage, Odell has embraced its history and welcomed modern-day road trippers with open arms.
Early Route 66 Days in Odell
When U.S. Route 66 was first commissioned in 1926, it followed the existing State Bond Issue (SBI) Route 4 through Odell. This early alignment brought the highway straight down Odell’s main street (originally known as West Street and now part of IL-66), running through the heart of the village and directly past its now-famous 1932 Standard Oil Gas Station.
The arrival of Route 66 ushered in a boom time for Odell. Motorists passing through the village required services — and Odell delivered. The town supported a collection of mom-and-pop cafes, roadside lodges, and automotive services. Businesses sprouted to meet demand, and Route 66’s presence ensured that Odell thrived despite its rural surroundings.
Realignments of Route 66 Through Odell
Over the years, Route 66 underwent several realignments in and around Odell, reflecting the national push toward safer, faster, and more modern highways.
1926–1946: The Original Alignment Through Town
From 1926 until roughly 1946, Route 66 cut through the center of Odell on what is now known as West Street. It ran adjacent to the railroad tracks and carried traffic directly through the business district. This alignment is most closely associated with the Standard Oil Station, which was ideally placed for maximum visibility and customer access.
1946–1950s: Bypass for Safety
By the mid-1940s, the increasing danger of mixing local traffic with fast-moving interstate travelers led to the construction of a bypass around downtown Odell. This new route ran just east of the village, slightly reducing the influx of vehicles through the main thoroughfare. Still, Odell remained a key stop for travelers.
1950s–1977: Four-Lane Divided Highway
The 1950s saw a dramatic transformation as Route 66 was upgraded to a four-lane divided highway through the region. This new alignment roughly paralleled the original road but was built for high-speed traffic, further reducing local congestion. The four-lane Route 66 remained in service through the area until its official decommissioning in 1977.
Post-1977: Legacy and Restoration
After Route 66 was removed from the U.S. Highway System, parts of its former path in Illinois became state or county roads. In Odell, remnants of all alignments still exist and are celebrated. The original downtown alignment is now part of Historic Route 66 and has been preserved for heritage tourism.
Preserving the Spirit of the Mother Road
Today, Odell is a proud guardian of Route 66’s legacy. Visitors can walk the sidewalks once buzzing with travelers, admire the lovingly restored gas station, and reflect on the profound cultural impact of this once-busy village on the open road. Interpretive signage, community-led tours, and preservation projects ensure that the town’s connection to Route 66 remains vibrant and accessible.
Whether you’re a die-hard “roadie” retracing the full route or a casual history buff with an appreciation for Americana, Odell stands as a must-visit stop along Historic Route 66. Its story, full of change, adaptation, and revival, perfectly mirrors the evolution of the road itself.
Quick Facts:
- Standard Oil Station Address: 400 S. West St., Odell, IL
- NRHP Status: Listed in 1997
- Route 66 Timeline in Odell: 1926–1977
- Current Use: Historic site and photo stop with visitor information
Route 66 Attractions in Odell
Standard Oil Gasoline Station
Address: 400 S. West St., Odell, IL
Built: 1932
Restored to its former glory, this landmark features original pumps, vintage signage, and Tudor Revival-style architecture. It is a must-see for any Route 66 traveler and often staffed by volunteers who offer insights into its history. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s one of the best-preserved early gas stations on the route.
The crown jewel of Route 66 in Odell is the historic Standard Oil Gasoline Station, located at 400 S. West Street. Built in 1932 by Patrick O’Donnell, the station originally featured a house-and-canopy design typical of the era. It served travelers for decades before closing in the 1960s.
In the early 2000s, thanks to the efforts of the Route 66 Association of Illinois and federal funding, the station underwent extensive restoration and was transformed into a visitor information center and photo stop. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the most photographed landmarks along the Illinois stretch of Route 66.
Odell Pedestrian Subway Tunnel
Location:
It’s hard to believe nowadays, but during it’s peak, Route 66 traffic on the two lane road was so heavy, it made it hard for pedestrians and school kids to get across the street. Students and other had to dodge cars and trucks to get across.
A subway tunnel was built in 1937 to provide a safe way for students and pedestrians to cross Route 66. It remained in use until Route 66 was moved during an alignment change in 1944. The alignment change took the traffic away from the neighborhood and in 1947, it was filled in and sealed off. The remnants of the tunnel are still visible, however.
Stoney’s Vintage Mobil Gas Station
Address: 108 S West St, Odell, IL
Stoney’s Mobil Station at 108 S West St. in Odell, Illinois, is a vintage Route 66 service station that once served motorists during the highway’s mid-century heyday. Operated by local mechanic John “Stoney” Stonecipher, the station was known for its friendly service and hands-on automotive care. Though no longer in operation, the building still stands as a nostalgic relic of small-town Americana and Route 66 history, just a short walk from the restored Standard Oil Gas Station. Its preserved Mobil signage and garage bay facade make it a favorite photo stop for Route 66 travelers seeking authentic roadside charm.Stoney’s Vintage Mobil Gas Station
Odell Grade School Murals
These large, colorful murals near the school grounds celebrate the town’s heritage, agricultural roots, and its place on the Mother Road. They provide excellent photo ops and a look at how the community honors its past.
Downtown Odell Historic Area
Take a short walk through downtown Odell to see buildings that once served traveling motorists. While many structures now serve local businesses, the architecture retains a historic feel.
Saint Paul Catholic Church
Address: 313 W Hamilton St, Odell, IL 60460
Built: 1902
This Romanesque-style church, with its red brick façade and bell tower, adds to the town’s vintage aesthetic and is visible from Route 66. It’s a peaceful and photogenic site to admire as you pass through town.
The church is located across the street from the entrance to the Route 66 subway tunnel that allowed pedestrians, church goers, and children to safely cross busy Route 66.
Lodging on Route 66 in Odell
Odell does not currently have lodging within its town limits, but there are excellent accommodations just minutes away in nearby Pontiac:
- Hampton Inn Pontiac – Modern, reliable lodging just off I-55 with Route 66 themes.
- Super 8 by Wyndham Pontiac – Budget-friendly with clean rooms and easy highway access.
- Best Western Pontiac Inn – A Route 66 favorite offering comfort and convenience.
These hotels provide an excellent base for exploring Odell and other nearby Route 66 towns.
Places to Eat on Route 66 in Odell
While Odell doesn’t have a large restaurant scene, there are local eateries and nearby options that serve delicious Midwestern meals:
Old Route 66 Family Restaurant (Dwight, IL – 5 miles north)
Classic American diner with hearty breakfasts, burgers, and Route 66 décor.
Delong’s Casual Dining (Pontiac, IL – 10 miles south)
Family-friendly spot with comfort food and generous portions.
Edinger’s Filling Station (Pontiac)
A nostalgic eatery with a Route 66 theme, this spot recreates the gas station atmosphere while serving sandwiches, desserts, and coffee.
Picnic tables near the Standard Oil Gas Station offer a nice stop for travelers bringing lunch or snacks.
Tips for Visiting Odell
- Photographers: Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light at the gas station.
- Souvenirs: Look for Route 66 memorabilia at the gas station or local visitor centers in Pontiac or Dwight.
- Events: Check with the Illinois Route 66 Association for seasonal events or guided tour days at the Standard Oil Station.
- Nearby Stops: Odell is an ideal stop between Dwight and Pontiac—two other Route 66 towns with murals, museums, and diners worth visiting.
Final Thoughts on Odell
Odell, Illinois may be small, but it delivers an authentic Route 66 experience filled with vintage charm and historical depth. Its restored gas station, friendly community, and connection to America’s most iconic highway make it a must-see stop for road trippers, nostalgia seekers, and history lovers alike. Whether you’re snapping a photo at the Standard Oil Station or simply soaking in the small-town atmosphere, Odell is a meaningful reminder of the golden days of travel.
