Route 66 in Chicago: The Mother Road's Windy City Wobble
So, you wanna hit the Mother Road, huh? You've got dreams of open highways, classic cars, and diners that serve up pies the size of your head. Well, hold your horses, partner! Before you rev up your engine and zoom off into the sunset, let's talk about the beginning of this legendary journey: Chicago.
The Windy City's Route 66: More Like Route 66½
Now, you might be surprised to hear this, but Chicago doesn't exactly have a sprawling stretch of Route 66 like you'd imagine. It's more like a quick hello before the real adventure begins. Think of it as the appetizer to a five-course meal. Or, to stick with the road trip analogy, the gas station you stop at for a quick bathroom break before hitting the highway.
The official starting point is marked by a sign at the corner of Adams Street and Michigan Avenue. It's a pretty underwhelming spot, to be honest. I mean, you're standing in the middle of a bustling city, surrounded by skyscrapers and tourists. Not exactly the quintessential Route 66 experience.
Where's the Fun?
Don't get me wrong, Chicago is a fantastic city, but when it comes to Route 66, it's more about the journey than the destination. The real magic happens as you venture out of the city limits and into the heartland. So, while you can technically say you've started your Route 66 adventure in Chicago, the real fun begins once you leave.
But hey, if you're determined to squeeze every last drop of Route 66 out of the Windy City, there are a few things you can do. Check out some of the old roadhouses that have been preserved, or visit the Chicago History Museum to learn more about the road's impact on the city.
Route 66 in Chicago: FAQs
How to find the official Route 66 starting point in Chicago?
- Head to the corner of Adams Street and Michigan Avenue.
How to experience the real Route 66?
- Get out of Chicago and hit the open road!
How to learn more about Route 66's history?
- Visit the Chicago History Museum.
How to find preserved Route 66 roadhouses in Chicago?
- Do some online research or ask locals for recommendations.
How to prepare for a Route 66 road trip?
- Plan your route, pack your essentials, and get ready for an adventure!