Carlinville was founded in 1829 and is the county seat of Macoupin County, Illinois. The town was named after its founder, Thomas Carlin, who later became the 7th Governor of Illinois. Carlinville has a historic downtown area with well-preserved architecture, and it’s known for its charming town square.

Route 66 Attraction in Carlinville Illinois

1. Ariston Café: The Ariston Café, located in Carlinville, is often referred to as the oldest operating restaurant on Route 66. It was established in 1924 and has been serving travelers along the Mother Road for decades. The café features Art Deco styling and offers classic diner fare.
2. Route 66 Shield Mural: Carlinville has a large mural featuring the iconic Route 66 shield. This mural is a popular spot for photos among Route 66 enthusiasts passing through the area.
3. Chain of Rocks Bridge: While not directly in Carlinville, the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge is located relatively close by. This bridge once carried Route 66 across the Mississippi River between Illinois and Missouri. Although the bridge is closed to vehicular traffic, it’s open to pedestrians and cyclists, offering great views of the river.