Explore our Historic Route 66
Drive America's "Mother Road" through Granite City and discover some of the best things about Route 66 isn't just the attractions, of which Granite City has many! It's the locally-owned businesses, the historic buildings, and the people you meet and stories told when you slow down to "Get your kicks on Route 66".
Historic Route 66
Where Every Mile
Tells a Story
More than just a highway, Route 66 represents the spirit of adventure, freedom, and the open road. Stretching over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, it became known as the "Mother Road," connecting small towns, welcoming travelers, and shaping American culture for generations.
Granite City proudly celebrates its place along this legendary route. From locally owned businesses to vibrant murals and towering roadside giants to classic diners, and historic landmarks, every stop invites visitors to experience the authentic charm of America's most iconic highway in our city.
Historic Journey
The Story of Route 66
Travel through nearly a century of history as Route 66 transformed from a cross-country highway into one of America's most celebrated symbols of freedom, adventure, and community.
1926
The Birth of the Mother Road
The U.S. Highway System officially introduces Route 66, creating a 2,448-mile highway linking Chicago to Santa Monica. It quickly becomes America's most famous road, intentionally weaving through hundreds of small, rural farming towns to spark commerce and tourism, while evolving into an inescapable cultural icon.
1950's
The Golden Age
Classic diners, motels, service stations, and roadside attractions flourish. Families embrace the road trip culture that defines a generation.
Today
Keeping the Legacy Alive
Officially decommissioned in 1985, Route 66 survives through grass-roots preservation efforts and historic scenic byways such as Great Rivers & Routes and the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Association. Granite City proudly preserves its Route 66 history through a burgeoning community of small businesses, murals, American Giants, civic events, and local festivals—all offering a nostalgic piece of Americana for visitors from around the world.
1930's
A Welcoming Stop
Granite City grows in popularity as a destination for travelers, workers, and military families heading west, offering hospitality, restaurants, and local businesses along the highway.
1960's
Neon Nights
Brilliant neon signs, drive-in restaurants, vintage cars, and unforgettable roadside experiences make Route 66 an American cultural icon.
Historic Landmarks
Historic Stops Along Route 66
Every stop tells a story. Discover the iconic landmarks, museums, roadside attractions, and historic businesses that continue to preserve the spirit of America's Mother Road in Granite City.
Classic Route 66 Dining
Classic Diners &
Restaurants on the Route
No Route 66 journey is complete without stopping at the diners that have welcomed travelers for generations. Enjoy hearty breakfasts, homemade comfort food, and the timeless charm of America's Mother Road.
Route 66 Kickstand Diner
★★★★★
If you love classic roadside Americana, the Route 66 Kickstand Diner is an absolute hidden gem. This bar and grill embodies that welcoming, old-school traveler spirit. It is the kind of local hangout where the owners treat you like an old friend the moment you walk through the door. Sit a spell. Visit. Drink, eat, and play bar games.
3121 W Chain of Rocks Road
Get Your Kicks on Route 66 in GRANITE CITY
Route 66
Photo Gallery
Every photograph has a story. Explore the colorful murals, glowing neon signs, places to enjoy a sweet treat or a classic cheeseburger, and unforgettable roadside attractions that make Granite City a must-visit stop along Historic Route 66, aptly named the Mother Road by John Steinbeck in "The Grapes of Wrath."
(Tap on image to learn more about each stop)
ROUTE 66 FACTS
Did You Know?
Granite City is more than a stop along Historic Route 66, it's a place where American industry, community spirit, and road trip culture have come together for generations. Every mural, neon sign, classic diner, and local landmark tells a story that continues to welcome travelers from around the world.
FACT
ONE
The Mother Road Began in 1926
When U.S. Route 66 was officially established in 1926, it quickly became one of America's most iconic highways. Stretching over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, it connected small towns, thriving cities, and countless roadside attractions that shaped the American road trip. Granite City proudly sits along this historic route, welcoming visitors with the same spirit of hospitality that travelers experienced a century ago.
FACT
TWO
Built on Steel
Granite City's history is deeply rooted in American manufacturing. The city earned its name from the production of "Granite Ware," a durable enamel-coated steel product that became popular across the United States. Today, that industrial heritage continues to define the city's hardworking character while blending seamlessly with its growing tourism and cultural attractions.
FACT
THREE
Route 66 Comes to Life Through Art
Throughout downtown Granite City, vibrant murals celebrate the city's history, local heroes, classic automobiles, and the legendary Mother Road. These large-scale works of art have transformed ordinary streets into open-air galleries, making every walk through downtown an opportunity to discover something memorable.
FACT
FOUR
Classic Diners Still Welcome Travelers
The Route 66 tradition of gathering over breakfast, burgers, homemade pies, and fresh coffee is alive and well in Granite City. Family-owned diners continue serving locals and visitors alike, preserving the welcoming atmosphere that made Route 66 famous for generations of road trippers.
FACT
FIVE
More Than 175 Acres of Parks
Beyond its historic highway, Granite City offers beautiful parks, walking trails, playgrounds, splash pads, sports facilities, and peaceful green spaces that provide opportunities for recreation throughout every season. Whether you're exploring Wilson Park, Worthen Park, or simply enjoying a picnic outdoors, there's always room to slow down and enjoy the community.
FACT
SIX
Route 66 Lives On
Each year, visitors from across America and around the world continue to follow the legendary Mother Road in search of authentic experiences. Granite City proudly celebrates this heritage through community events, classic car gatherings, local festivals, public art, and the small businesses that keep the Route 66 spirit alive for future generations.
START YOUR ADVENTURE
Ready to Experience Historic Route 66?
The open road is calling. Discover iconic diners, colorful murals, scenic parks, local shops, and unforgettable attractions throughout Granite City. Whether you're planning a quick afternoon visit or an entire weekend getaway, your next Route 66 adventure begins right here.