Part of the allure of a road trip is not the destination itself but the stops you make along the way. Roadside attractions can be fascinating, some are a bit kitschy, but all in all, they are tons of fun to stop at and take photos! Illinois is filled with incredible roadside attractions and not just along historic Route 66. Throughout the state, you can even find numerous large-scale tourist stops that are worth a detour.
This large-scale attractions road trip is best done over the course of two or three days and would be a fun thing to do over a weekend. You can use this interactive Google map link for directions and to change the route or add your own stops if you'd like.
The drive time for this large attractions road trip in Illinois is 13 hours 47 minutes and is best done over two or even three days.
Ready to hit the road? Let's go!
1. De Immigrant Windmill, Fulton
Our first stop on this grand adventure is the De Immigrant Windmill of Fulton. This 100-foot-tall authentic Dutch windmill was actually built in the Netherlands, disassembled, shipped, and then reassembled here by Dutch craftsmen. This is a working mill that produces several different flours which are sold in the Windmill Cultural Center's gift shop.
You can learn more about De Immigrant Windmill in our previous coverage.
2. World's Largest Covered Wagon, Lincoln
Measuring 25 feet tall and 40 feet long, this world's largest covered wagon with Abraham Lincoln sitting on top is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.
You can learn more about the World's Largest Covered Wagon on the webpage.
3. Robert Wadlow Statue, Alton
Born in 1918, Robert Wadlow became known later in life as "The Gentle Giant." Due to a health condition, he grew to be nearly nine feet tall and even made it to the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest man alive. The life-sized statue in Alton is a popular stop.
" target="_blank">You can learn more about the Robert Wadlow Statue on the webpage.
4. World's Largest Catsup Bottle, Collinsville
Built in 1949, this 170-foot water tower was built for the G.S. Suppiger catsup bottling plant. Over the years, this massive catsup bottle has become a popular roadside attraction and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.
" target="_blank">You can learn more about the World's Largest Catsup Bottle on the website.
5. Superman Statue, Metropolis
You don't have to be a DC comics fan to enjoy the attractions around the town of Metropolis, including the 15-foot Superman statue located in Superman Square. Feel free to also stop by the Super Museum and Gift Shop while you're in town. Along this road trip, Metropolis may be a good place to spend the night at a one-of-a-kind bed and breakfast like the Riverview Mansion.
You can learn more about Superman and Metropolis in our previous coverage.
6. Kaskaskia Dragon, Vandalia
Have you ever wanted to see a fire-breathing dragon in person? Head to Vandalia and you'll have your chance to see the 35-foot Kaskaskia Dragon, a coin-operated attraction that will breathe fire when fed a Dragon coin. Coins may be purchased at a nearby liquor store for $1.
You can learn more about the Kaskaskia Dragon in our previous coverage.
7. Cross at the Crossroads, Effingham
Towering over Highways 57 and 70 that run through Effingham, the 198-foot Cross at the Crossroads is the second-largest cross in the country. At the site of the cross, visitors will also find a welcome center and a chapel.
" target="_blank">You can learn more about Cross at the Crossroads on the website.
8. World's Largest Objects, Casey
With 12 attractions that are in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's largest, plus several others that are not, the town of Casey is filled with big things. Walk around town and you will find items like the World's Largest Rocking Chair, the World's Largest Mailbox, a Big Pencil, and so much more. With all the things to explore in town, you may want to spend the night. Consider staying overnight at Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover, a boutique hotel with modern amenities and an old-fashioned feel.
You can learn more about the town of Casey in our previous coverage.
9. Gemini Giant, Wilmington
Along Route 66, just outside of The Launching Pad restaurant, stands the 30-foot-tall Gemini Giant. Wearing a spacesuit and helmet and holding a small silver rocket in his hands, the Gemini Giant was inducted into the Route 66 Hall of Fame in 2000. While visiting this famous landmark, stop at The Launching Pad for a bite to eat.
You can learn more about the Gemini Giant and its location in our previous coverage.
Are you ready to hit the road? What large-scale tourist attractions would you add to this list? Let us know your favorite Illinois roadside attractions in the comments!
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