Motorheads Route 66 Museum
A vibrant Route 66 hub featuring a museum, bar, restaurant, and entertainment complex with a vast collection of vintage cars and memorabilia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Car shows & live music
Motorheads Route 66 Museum
Best Time
Car shows & live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Route 66 hub featuring a museum, bar, restaurant, and entertainment complex with a vast collection of vintage cars and memorabilia.
"This place was amazing. It taps into my fascination for history and Route 66. "
🚗 Explore the Back Lot
Don't miss the salvaged items from old gas stations piled out back – a treasure trove for history buffs!
🎶 Check Event Schedule
Catch live music or car shows in the Motordome for an extra dose of fun!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vintage Car & Memorabilia Museum
Throughout the complex
Immerse yourself in a private collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and Route 66 memorabilia. A true feast for car enthusiasts!
The Motordome
Back of the complex
This entertainment hub hosts live music, car shows, and themed nights. Check their schedule for exciting events!
Route 66 Themed Dining
Restaurant & Bar
Enjoy a diverse menu in a setting adorned with classic cars and road trip treasures. A delicious stop on the Mother Road.
Alive at 66 Gift Shop
Adjacent to restaurant
Browse unique gifts, souvenirs, and plants at this charming shop run by the owner's daughter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Americana Vibe
Check Event Schedules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Explore the Back Lot
Don't miss the salvaged items from old gas stations piled out back – a treasure trove for history buffs!
🎶 Check Event Schedule
Catch live music or car shows in the Motordome for an extra dose of fun!
🍽️ Try the Buffet
If you're there on a Tuesday, the Horseshoe Buffet is a must-try!
🛍️ Visit the Gift Shop
Grab unique souvenirs and plants from the 'Alive at 66' shop.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Explore the Back Lot
Don't miss the salvaged items from old gas stations piled out back – a treasure trove for history buffs!
🎶 Check Event Schedule
Catch live music or car shows in the Motordome for an extra dose of fun!
🍽️ Try the Buffet
If you're there on a Tuesday, the Horseshoe Buffet is a must-try!
🛍️ Visit the Gift Shop
Grab unique souvenirs and plants from the 'Alive at 66' shop.
📸 Snap Photos
The entire place is a photo op! Capture the vintage cars and memorabilia.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Motorheads for its delicious food, extensive collection of vintage cars and memorabilia, and the vibrant Route 66 atmosphere. The friendly service and unique entertainment options, including live music and car shows, also receive high marks. Some guests noted that visiting later in the day might mean missing out on buffet options.
"1st timer with friends from the area who had been here before. Food was fantastic with a very big menu. Server was great, checked on us a lot and kept our drinks refreshed. It's also a museum with all the old cars and memorabilia and it also has a great gift shop with a variety of items from shirts to magnets. Right next to I-55, easy to see and find with pretty parking. Highly recommended!!"
Wynton Dillard
"I've always wanted to stop here. If you're heading to St Louis from the North side of Springfield it is right before Springfield Lake. The owner has a pretty cool collection of items. There is even a car at one end up in the ceiling area. They have high tables and low tables. Found out they have a buffet, we were there too late. They advertise a Horseshoe Buffet on Tuesdays! The owner's daughter has a really neat little stand alone shop called Alive at 66, I think that's the name. You can walk over to it from your parking spot. She has outdoor plants in the warm weather and always has indoor plants."
Mrs Bush
"My dad and I visited this restaurant while we were in Springfield and we loved it! The food was delicious, and the service was even better. Our server, Stacey, was incredibly kind and helpful. She even returned my dad’s credit card after he accidentally left it behind — really going above and beyond. We had a great time and would definitely recommend this place to anyone. Can’t wait to come back next time we’re in town!"
Barry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Motorheads is conveniently located right off I-55 in Springfield, Illinois, making it an easy stop for travelers. It's easily visible from the highway with ample parking.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available, often with space for car show participants.
While not explicitly stated, the ample parking suggests it can accommodate various vehicle sizes. It's a popular stop for car enthusiasts, so they are accustomed to vehicles.
Absolutely! Motorheads is a perfect stop along Route 66 for a meal, to explore the museum, and soak in the Americana vibe.
Look for the distinctive signage and vintage car displays right off the highway. It's a landmark for Route 66 travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the museum and browsing the memorabilia is generally included with your visit to the restaurant and bar. There are no separate admission fees mentioned for the museum itself.
Hours can vary, especially for events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date operating hours for the restaurant, bar, and museum.
Motorheads hosts various events like car shows and live music, which may have specific times or cover charges. Always check their schedule in advance.
While the 'Alive at 66' shop is separate, it's easily accessible from the parking lot, so you can likely visit it independently.
The Motordome is an entertainment venue. Entry fees or cover charges may apply for specific events like live music performances.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Motorheads offers a diverse menu with classic American fare, burgers, and more. Many visitors rave about the delicious food and generous portions.
Yes, they advertise a Horseshoe Buffet on Tuesdays, and sometimes offer other buffet options for special events.
While specific dishes aren't highlighted, reviews consistently praise the overall quality and taste of the food. The ' Horseshoe Buffet' is a noted special.
The menu is diverse, but specific vegetarian or vegan options are not detailed in the provided information. It's advisable to check their menu directly or inquire upon arrival.
Yes, Motorheads has a bar and serves drinks, often featuring specials during events.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The vintage cars, the memorabilia lining the walls, the unique decor, and the exterior are all fantastic photo backdrops.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos of the extensive private collection of cars and memorabilia.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other guests and staff.
Daytime offers good natural light for the exterior and interior displays. Evening events in the Motordome can also provide unique photographic opportunities.
The car suspended from the ceiling and the various vintage vehicles throughout the restaurant are popular spots. The exterior with Route 66 signage is also a classic.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
Explore the extensive museum filled with vintage cars and Route 66 memorabilia, browse the gift shop, and check for live events in the Motordome.
Yes, it's considered a great place for families, offering a unique atmosphere and plenty to see for all ages.
They host motorcycle rallies, car shows, live music performances, and themed nights.
Yes, there's a gift shop with a variety of items, including shirts and magnets.
It's a lively, fun atmosphere with a strong focus on Americana, cars, and Route 66 nostalgia.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The restaurant's lively atmosphere and diverse menu mean there's something for even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the adjacent 'Alive at 66' gift shop offers fun souvenirs. It's a great place to break up a road trip and create memorable family experiences.
🚗 Car & Motorcycle Enthusiasts
Beyond the museum, the Motordome frequently hosts car shows and motorcycle rallies, providing opportunities to see incredible vehicles up close and connect with fellow enthusiasts. The entire complex is designed with car lovers in mind, from the decor to the salvaged roadside treasures.
🛣️ Route 66 Road Trippers
It offers the perfect combination of a great meal, a fascinating museum, and a unique atmosphere that captures the essence of the Mother Road. It's an ideal spot to refuel, stretch your legs, and immerse yourself in classic Americana before continuing your journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Route 66 History
Beyond the main collection, the exterior and surrounding areas also hold treasures. Visitors can explore salvaged items from old gas stations and unique roadside attractions, adding another layer to the historical immersion. This dedication to preserving and showcasing Route 66 heritage makes Motorheads a must-visit for anyone interested in American history and automotive nostalgia.
Many visitors find the experience deeply personal, connecting with the history through the passion evident in the collection. It's not just a museum; it's a curated journey that sparks conversation and fond memories, especially for those who grew up with or have a deep appreciation for the iconic highway.
The MotorDome: Entertainment Hub
Social media buzz highlights events like 'Tune Up Tuesdays' and '80s Hair Nights, showcasing the diverse range of entertainment offered. These events are a fantastic opportunity to experience the community spirit and enjoy a night out with friends, often featuring local bands and themed celebrations.
Whether you're a local looking for a fun night out or a traveler seeking an authentic roadside experience, the Motordome offers a unique blend of entertainment and classic Americana. It's a place where enthusiasts can gather, share their passion, and create lasting memories.
A Culinary Stop on the Mother Road
Beyond the regular menu, Motorheads is known for its special offerings. The Horseshoe Buffet on Tuesdays is a particular highlight, providing an opportunity to sample a variety of dishes. They also host buffets for special events, such as fundraisers, adding value and variety to the dining experience.
The restaurant's ambiance is as much a draw as the food itself. Diners can enjoy their meals surrounded by vintage cars and Route 66 memorabilia, creating a unique and immersive atmosphere that enhances the overall visit. The friendly and attentive service further contributes to a positive dining experience.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit