Route 66 runs straight through the heart of McLean County, Illinois — and in Bloomington-Normal, the Mother Road tells a story that’s both deeply local and unmistakably American. Established in 1926, Route 66 helped shape our community by connecting farms, families, and hometown businesses to the rest of the country, turning Bloomington-Normal into a welcoming stop for travelers heading west and east.

Here, Route 66 isn’t just something you pass through; it’s something you experience. From historic downtown streets to classic roadside stops, McLean County’s stretch of the Mother Road reflects the everyday life, innovation, and hospitality that defined mid-century travel. Visitors can explore preserved architecture, learn the stories behind longtime businesses, and discover how Route 66 influenced the growth of McLean County as a regional hub.

Today, Route 66 in McLean County continues to invite exploration. Local attractions, museums, public art, and dining spots celebrate the nostalgia of road-trip culture while offering modern reasons to linger. Whether you’re visiting a historic site, grabbing a bite at a beloved local restaurant, or strolling through Downtown Bloomington or Uptown Normal, Route 66 connects the past to the present.

2026 marks the Route 66 Centennial, and Bloomington-Normal is ready to celebrate the Mother Road’s legacy in the heart of McLean County. Events, exhibits, and special experiences will honor the Mother Road’s legacy while highlighting the people and places that make McLean County a meaningful stop along the journey. It’s the perfect time to plan a visit, revisit familiar favorites, and discover new stories along our stretch of Route 66.