Route 66 Association of Illinois

"If Route 66 is America’s highway legend, then the Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac is like the grand storyteller holding court in an old firehouse. This place is pure Mother Road magic—with just enough dust, neon, and nostalgia to charm even the most hardened Interstate traveler. From the moment you step in you can feel the rumble of old engines, the whisper of road trips past, and the faint aroma of gas and diner grease in your imagination. The museum is free admission, donations encouraged, so it’s a no-brainer pit stop. What I loved: • The folks behind it clearly know their Route 66. The collections include tons of memorabilia: signs, photos, maps, license plates, and more. • The “Bob Waldmire Experience” exhibit is a highlight. Bob’s VW van and art helped define Route 66’s counterculture soul—and yes, he’s one of the legends enshrined here. • The building itself has character. A former firehouse and city hall with historic bones and charm. • It feels like a community labor of love. The volunteers and stewards of this place clearly care about preserving the Mother Road’s legacy. If I have quibbles: • It’s not huge, so don’t expect a sprawling industrial museum. But what it does do, it does beautifully. • Some exhibits might benefit from extra interpretive signage or stories. Overall, whether you’re a Route 66 pilgrim, a history nerd, or just someone who loves a good road trip stop, this is a must-see. Pull off the highway, stretch your legs, wander through those exhibits, and let the nostalgia hit you like a cross-country tailwind. Would I recommend it? Absolutely. If you’re doing the Illinois stretch of the Mother Road, don’t let Pontiac slip by. This is one of the sweet spots that keeps the road alive."

"Great small museum packed full of awesome route 66 history. A must see on your route 66 tour."

"This stop tick all the boxes on our expectation list. Seen the murals and multi level museum was treated. Seeing the Bob Watlmire Bus (road yacht)and Comby was memorable. We walk around and spend time next to the bus and made a wish at the Wishing Well Motel, well. Must stop for all travelers on Route 66. Allow enough time to talk to every one and realize how significant and well kept this museum is. Thank you"

"This is a Route 66 Museum. Several other museums are attached. The museum was very good and the staff was knowledgeable. There's also a free hop on hop off bus tour of the city. Driver did an excellent job explaining what we were seeing. We were there late in the day and our primary focus was Route 66 so we didn't go to the other museums."

"This was a great complex!! Even though some sections were closed for the weekend, we could have spent hours in the Route 66 and life in the 40s displays. The volunteer was wonderful!"