Route 66 Begin Sign Chicago
The iconic marker where the legendary Route 66 begins its epic journey across America. A must-visit for road trip enthusiasts!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Route 66 Begin Sign Chicago
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The iconic marker where the legendary Route 66 begins its epic journey across America. A must-visit for road trip enthusiasts!
"The 'Begin' sign is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable Route 66 adventure!"
📸 Photo Op Alert!
Get your iconic 'Begin' sign photo early to avoid crowds. It's the perfect start to your Route 66 adventure!
🗺️ Plan Your Route
Wikivoyage has an in-depth article on Route 66 stops. Use it to plan your journey beyond Chicago!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Route 66 Begin Sign
Downtown Chicago
The iconic marker where the Mother Road officially begins its epic journey across America. A quintessential photo op!
Historic Route 66
Chicago, Illinois
Experience the start of America's most famous highway, a symbol of adventure and classic road trips.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Start Your Iconic Journey
Beyond the Sign
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Op Alert!
Get your iconic 'Begin' sign photo early to avoid crowds. It's the perfect start to your Route 66 adventure! 
🗺️ Plan Your Route
Wikivoyage has an in-depth article on Route 66 stops. Use it to plan your journey beyond Chicago!
🍕 Chicago Pizza Stop
Craving pizza? Route 66 Pizza on Indianapolis Blvd is a local favorite!
🚗 Urban Exploration
Combine your Route 66 start with Chicago's urban gems like Millennium Park.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Op Alert!
Get your iconic 'Begin' sign photo early to avoid crowds. It's the perfect start to your Route 66 adventure!
🗺️ Plan Your Route
Wikivoyage has an in-depth article on Route 66 stops. Use it to plan your journey beyond Chicago!
🍕 Chicago Pizza Stop
Craving pizza? Route 66 Pizza on Indianapolis Blvd is a local favorite!
🚗 Urban Exploration
Combine your Route 66 start with Chicago's urban gems like Millennium Park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are thrilled to mark the official start of their Route 66 adventure at the iconic Chicago Begin Sign. It's a quintessential photo opportunity that captures the spirit of the legendary highway. While the sign itself is a brief stop, its significance as the starting point for a cross-country journey is highly celebrated.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Route 66 Begin Sign is located in downtown Chicago. Public transportation options like the 'L' train or buses can get you close. Many visitors arrive by car, but parking can be challenging in the downtown area.
Parking near the sign can be difficult and expensive, especially during peak hours. Consider using public parking garages or ride-sharing services. Some areas might have private parking with fees.
Most travelers begin their Route 66 journey at the official 'Begin' sign in Chicago. From there, you can head south or west to continue on the historic highway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Route 66 Begin Sign is a public landmark and does not require a ticket for viewing or taking photos. It's a free attraction.
To avoid crowds and get the best photos, aim for early mornings on weekdays. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 15-30 minutes at the sign to take photos and soak in the atmosphere. It's a quick stop before embarking on a longer journey.
While the 'Begin' sign is the main marker, Chicago has other historical markers and diners related to Route 66. Exploring these can add to your experience.
Some sections of Route 66 in Chicago have been abandoned due to quarrying. While urban explorers might visit these areas, exercise caution and be aware of local regulations. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Downtown Chicago offers a vast array of dining options. For a Route 66-themed experience, consider Route 66 Pizza on the southeast side for a slice.
While the 'Begin' sign is in the city center, historic diners are more common as you travel further along Route 66 outside of Chicago.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning light offers softer shadows and fewer people, making it ideal for capturing the sign. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting.
Experiment with different angles! A straight-on shot is classic, but try getting lower to include more of the city skyline or a wider shot to capture the context.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
As you begin your journey on Route 66, look for kid-friendly stops like the Gemini Giant in Wilmington, Illinois, or other quirky roadside attractions that spark imagination. The adventure of the open road itself is often the biggest draw for children.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Leverage resources like Wikivoyage for detailed route planning and recommendations. Consider the pace of your trip; some prefer a leisurely exploration, while others aim for a faster cross-country dash. Don't forget to factor in time for spontaneous detours and to savor the unique atmosphere of each town you pass through.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Route 66 Begin Sign
For many travelers, seeing this sign is a bucket-list moment, signifying the start of an epic cross-country expedition. It's a tangible connection to a bygone era of American travel and a testament to the enduring allure of the open road. The juxtaposition of this historic marker against Chicago's modern cityscape adds a unique layer to its significance.
While the sign itself is a quick stop, its importance lies in what it represents: the promise of discovery, the spirit of adventure, and the beginning of a legendary American experience. It's a must-visit for anyone embarking on a Route 66 journey.
+1Exploring Route 66 Beyond Chicago
Many travelers recommend using resources like Wikivoyage for detailed stop suggestions along the entire route. Popular early stops after leaving Chicago include Wilmington, Illinois, with its Gemini Giant, and Pontiac, Illinois, known for its Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum. Further along, you'll encounter unique sights like the red brick sections of the road and historic bridges.
Some sections of Route 66, particularly within or near urban areas like Chicago, have been bypassed or abandoned due to modern highway development. For instance, a section near Chicago was closed due to quarrying operations. While these abandoned segments can be intriguing for urban explorers, it's crucial to prioritize safety and be aware of any access restrictions.
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