Atlanta IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Atlanta, Illinois.
1. American Giants Museum & Route 66 Land of the Giants Rest Stop
HOME OF GIANT STATUES
The American Giants Museum tells the fascinating story of International Fiberglass Company and the 'giant' phenomenon of over-sized statues used to draw attention to businesses in the 1960s and 1970s. Developed under the guidance of American Giant Specialist Joel Baker, the museum features one of only six surviving 'Texaco Big Friend' statues. Visitors can explore this unique collection that will be expanded with more restored giant characters in time for the Route 66 Centennial celebration in 2026.
2. Hot Dog Muffler Man
ICONIC ROUTE 66 GIANT
The Hot Dog Muffler Man is one of Atlanta's most photographed roadside attractions standing tall along Historic Route 66. This giant fiberglass statue represents the classic 'Muffler Man' phenomenon that became popular advertising fixtures along American highways in the mid-20th century. Visitors can snap memorable photos with this quirky landmark that has become a must-see stop for Route 66 enthusiasts.
3. Atlanta Coal Mine Museum
HISTORIC MINING HERITAGE
The Atlanta Coal Mine Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the city's 40-year attempt to mine coal. Guests can look down an old mine shaft and learn about the fascinating industrial history that shaped the community. The museum also features the unique aspect of running water inside the mine shaft, which visitors can still hear flowing today.
4. Atlanta Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Atlanta Museum preserves and showcases the rich history and heritage of Atlanta, Illinois. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and stories that chronicle the development of this Route 66 community. The museum provides an insightful look into local life across different eras, making it an educational stop for history enthusiasts.
5. Atlanta Public Library and Clock Tower
HISTORIC OCTAGONAL ARCHITECTURE
The Atlanta Public Library and Clock Tower is a distinctive eight-sided historic building that serves as both a functional library and architectural landmark. This unique structure has been serving the community since its construction and represents an important piece of Atlanta's cultural heritage. Visitors can appreciate both the historical significance of the building and utilize its resources as a modern library.
6. Smiley Water Tower
CHEERFUL COMMUNITY LANDMARK
The Smiley Water Tower is Atlanta's famous yellow water tower painted with a friendly smile that literally welcomes visitors with a grin. Painted in 2003 at the recommendation of Atlanta's alderwoman Billie Cheek, this cheerful landmark has become an iconic symbol of the town. Residents and visitors alike have been cheered by the water tower's friendly expression, embodying the town's motto of 'Welcoming the world with a smile.'
7. Route 66 Shields on Arch Street
ARTISTIC HIGHWAY TRIBUTES
Route 66 Shields on Arch Street features artistic interpretations of the famous Route 66 highway shield, displayed along the original 1926 alignment running through downtown Atlanta. Each unique shield represents an artist's reimagining of this iconic American road symbol, creating an outdoor gallery for visitors to enjoy. Travelers are encouraged to take selfies with their favorite designs and share on social media, tagging @visitatlantail.
8. Bunyon Giant
LEGENDARY ROADSIDE FIGURE
The Bunyon Giant is a towering fiberglass statue that has become one of Atlanta's most recognizable roadside attractions. This giant figure stands as a testament to the golden age of American roadside attractions that dotted Route 66 in its heyday. Visitors from around the world stop to photograph this impressive landmark that represents the quirky charm of small-town America.
9. J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator
PRESERVED AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE
The J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator is a historic all-wooden grain elevator that showcases the agricultural importance of the region. This preserved structure offers visitors insight into the farming practices and grain processing methods that were vital to the local economy. The elevator stands as one of the few remaining wooden grain elevators in the state, making it an important piece of agricultural history.
10. Lumi Giant
COLOSSAL WAITRESS FIGURE
Lumi, the Giant Waitress, is a towering fiberglass statue depicting a waitress figure that has become a beloved roadside attraction in Atlanta. This impressive statue represents the tradition of roadside giants used to attract travelers along America's highways during the mid-20th century. Visitors can take memorable photos with Lumi, making her a popular stop for those exploring Route 66.
11. Route 66 Park
HISTORIC HIGHWAY REST AREA
Route 66 Park offers travelers a pleasant place to stop for a picnic lunch while exploring the historic highway. The park features mementos of Atlanta's past, including tributes to the Atlanta Fair, Atlanta High Schools, and the Knights of Pythias. Adventure-seeking visitors can take a sip from the bubbling water fountain, one of four that once stood on the four corners of downtown square in the 1930s.
12. Historic Downtown
PRESERVED MAIN STREET AMERICA
Historic Downtown Atlanta offers visitors a charming glimpse into classic small-town America along Route 66. The well-preserved district features historic buildings, local businesses, and the authentic atmosphere of a bygone era. Visitors can stroll the streets, shop at local establishments, and experience the genuine character of this Route 66 community.
13. Historic Carriage House
J.P. HIERONYMUS HERITAGE SITE
The Historic J.P. Hieronymus Carriage House preserves an important piece of Atlanta's transportation history. This well-maintained structure offers visitors a glimpse into the era before automobiles, when carriages were the primary mode of transportation. The carriage house stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and lifestyle of earlier generations in this Route 66 community.
14. Memories: Route 66 Museum
NOSTALGIC HIGHWAY COLLECTION
Memories: Route 66 Museum (now known as Midway154) is an eclectic private collection that allows visitors to step back in time while exploring Route 66 memorabilia. This quirky museum features antiques and Route 66 souvenirs available for purchase, making it both an educational and shopping destination. Located on the 1926 alignment of Route 66, it makes for a great indoor stop for travelers exploring the historic highway.
15. Route 66 Arcade Museum
VINTAGE GAMING EXPERIENCE
The Route 66 Arcade Museum invites visitors to play on original arcade machines dating from the 1940s through the 1990s. Located inside the Visitors Center on Arch Street, this interactive museum offers a hands-on gaming experience with a suggested $5 donation to help maintain the vintage games. The museum provides a nostalgic entertainment option for families traveling along Historic Route 66, though children must be accompanied by an adult.