In this article, I’ll show you what’s new along the Illinois stretch of Route 66 in summer 2025, from giant fiberglass art and restored neon parks to fresh murals, historic pavement, and fun festivals ...

The Gemini Giant has stood in Wilmington, Illinois since 1965. The statue is one of many "Muffler Men" – giant fiberglass advertising characters for which Route 66 was known for many years.

WILMINGTON — Ryan Jandura was locked into a high-stakes, high-value online auction. The item up for grabs — which eventually sold for $275,000 — wasn’t jewelry or a painting. It was a 30 ...

“He has to stay in Wilmington. He has to stay on Route 66.” Jandura started this online fundraiser, a Facebook page and created t-shirts that say Save the Giant.

Celebrating Route 66's 100th anniversary, Illinois State Museum seeks personal stories to preserve in history. Share your memories of the iconic highway.