Get your kicks! Choose Chicago launches campaign honoring Route 66 ahead of centennial

Choose Chicago is immortalizing a piece of Windy City history with its recently launched Route 66 Exploration Program. The new tourism campaign will take visitors on a local tour of the famous American thoroughfare just in time for its 100th anniversary!

Coloquially known as the "Main Street of America,"  Route 66 begins at the Art Institute steps and ends in Downtown Los Angeles, and has historically served as a symbol of Americana and the freedom of the open road. In recent years, the route has seen a decline in tourism, but Choose Chicago's new program aims to revive interest in the famous roadway and its unique features.

The program will provide both visitors and residents with a comprehensive historical overview of Route 66 within Chicago's limits. The Route 66 Exploration Program is a combination of guided tours, interactive maps, social media challenges, and curated itineraries. Participants can explore various sites and attractions that played a crucial role in shaping American automobile culture during the 20th century, such as the Art Institute of Chicago, Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant, and the Route 66 Begin Sign.

Decorative Route 66 markers have been set up in front of The Art Institute as part of the initiative, featuring an informative plaque detailing the significance of the road in American history. With the NASCAR Chicago Street Race just around the corner, the route markers are the perfect chance for a photo op amid the influx of tourists to downtown Chicago.