Route 66 Day 1: Top Five Experiences

Because we have had so many peak experiences on our first day of driving Route 66, picking my Top Five experiences is a challenge. But here goes:

1. Clifford, the Travel Angel (aka, Ambassador of the Route 66 sign on Adams and Wabash) Meeting interesting people on the Mother Road--especially people I would never meet otherwise--is by far the peak experience of our first day on The Route. I'm still feelin' the love!

2. Lou Mitchell's Restaurant & Bakery 

Breakfast here was one of the best meals I've ever had. This place is definitely one of the Great American Diners and deserves its excellent ratings on Yelp! and TripAdvisor.

3. Berwyn's Toys & Trains 

This little treasure chest was the biggest surprise of the day. We thoroughly enjoyed our excursion to the happy days of childhood. So glad we stopped here on a whim.

4. Joliet's Route 66 Experience

This museum provided the best introduction to the history and cultural importance of the Mother Road. I loved the interactive exhibits, the faboo merch in the gift shop, and the free literature on The Route's coming attractions. Funks Grove and Devils Elbow, here we come!

5. Dwight 

What a charming whistle-stop on The Route! I loved the historical architecture--especially Ambler's Texaco--and the tranquil vibe of this quintessentially Midwestern village, the epitome of small-town America.