From Your Local Arrangements Committee -
Get Your Kicks on Route 66 in Chicago!
Kathy Miller, Governers State University (k-miller@govst.edu)

Route 66 was established November 11, 1926 by the National Highway Commission. It begins in Chicago, traveling through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and ending in Santa Monica, California; a distance of 2,450 miles. During the Great Depression, Route 66 became the primary road for people travelling westbound. John Steinbeck called it the “Mother Road” in his book “The Grapes of Wrath” which was set during the depression. The designation in 1926 of Route 66 as a national highway acknowledged the road as the nation's principal east-west artery between Chicago and the west coast.

Bobby Troupe composed the song "Route 66” made famous by Nat King Cole. As the interest about Route 66 grew so did the popularity of the song. It has now been recorded by hundreds of artists, including the Rolling Stones. Just as the Mother Road drew postwar motorists to the romance and excitement of driving Route 66, you can still find that same excitement today – beginning with the starting point of Route 66 on Adams and Michigan, in the heart of Chicago. Route 66 in Chicago’s Loop ran along Jackson Boulevard and Adams Street; parallel thoroughfares packed with historic sites and structures.

There are many great eateries on Route 66 in Chicago. For a hearty breakfast, visit Lou Mitchell’s – family owned and operated since 1923. As a special treat, donut holes are passed to patrons waiting in line.

Lou Mitchell’s
565 W Jackson
(312) 939-3111 phone
(312) 939-4400 fax
www.loumitchellsrestaurant.com

Enjoy lunch at the famous Berghoff Café, serving M-F, 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. The café is located in the lower level of the historic Berghoff building.

Berghoff Café
17 West Adams Street
(312) 312.427.7399
www.berghoff.com

One community to visit on Route 66 is “Greektown”, located on Madison and Halstead. The community plays host to more than 10 different restaurants serving Greek cuisine. To learn more about “Greektown” visit www.greektownchicago.org

For Route 66 tour information, contact Windy City Road Warrior Tours at www.windycityroadwarrior.com The Windy City Road Warrior is David G. Clark, the author of “Route 66 in Chicago”. Mr. Clark has written numerous articles for publications about Route 66 in Chicago. He conducts bus tours and gives lectures and visual presentations. Tours last about 2 hours and are about 1 mile in distance. Some stair-climbing is required. Group and Individual rates are available - e-mail dave@windycityroadwarrior.com for more information.