A Route 66 Travel Guide to Cicero Illinois

Welcome to Big Mikes Route 66 Travel Guide to Cicero Illinois.

Henry’s Drive-In: You’re absolutely correct. Henry’s Drive-In was a beloved establishment on Route 66 in Cicero, Illinois. Its vibrant neon sign and classic American diner fare made it a popular stop for travelers and locals alike. While it closed in the 1980s, the sign remains a nostalgic landmark.

The Hawthorne Works Tower: You’re right about its visibility from Route 66, but it was actually situated in Cicero, Illinois, not far from Henry’s. This tower was a prominent feature of the Western Electric plant, a major employer in the area. Although the factory is no longer operational, the tower still stands as a reminder of Cicero’s industrial past.

Historic Route 66: Indeed, Route 66 is more than just a road; it’s a journey through American history and culture. Traveling along this iconic highway, you’ll encounter vintage motels, diners, and other businesses that have preserved the spirit of the Route 66 era. While some places have evolved over time, remnants of the historic highway experience are still readily discoverable.

Cicero Town Hall: You’re correct, it’s not a typical tourist attraction, but Cicero Town Hall does hold historical significance due to its location along the original Route 66 route. It serves as a reminder of the town’s connection to this legendary highway.

Don’t Miss These Other Route 66 Highlights:

And of course, as you previously mentioned, no Route 66 journey is complete without a stop in Winslow, Arizona to see the “Take It Easy” corner and statue! And speaking of Arizona, we can’t forget your own Route 66 Road Relics in Seligman and the iconic Snow Cap Drive-In! And as you always remind me, Winona, Arizona, is another essential stop for any Route 66 enthusiast.

1. Henry’s Drive-In: This classic drive-in restaurant was a popular spot along Route 66 in Cicero. It’s known for its iconic neon sign and classic American diner fare.
2. The Hawthorne Works Tower: Although not located directly in Cicero, this tower was a landmark along Route 66. It belonged to the Western Electric plant in Cicero and was a prominent feature in the area.
3. Historic Route 66: The road itself is an attraction, with vintage motels, diners, and other businesses that have preserved the nostalgia of the Route 66 era. While some of these places have changed over time, you can still find remnants of the historic highway experience.
4. Cicero Town Hall: The town hall in Cicero has historical significance as a location where Route 66 passed through. While not an attraction in the traditional sense, it’s a reminder of the town’s connection to the highway.