As the historic Route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, Springfield, Illinois, a city deeply intertwined with the legacy of Abraham Lincoln, is anticipating a surge in visitors. These travelers are expected to seek a deeper understanding of the 16th U.S. President, drawn by the confluence of the iconic highway’s milestone and Lincoln’s enduring national significance.
A Historic Crossroads
Route 66, often called the “Main Street of America,” officially opened on November 11, 1926. It stretched over 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. The highway played a pivotal role in the migration of people during the Dust Bowl and spurred economic growth in the towns it connected.
Springfield, Illinois, served as a crucial early point along the original path of Route 66. The city is also the final resting place and home of Abraham Lincoln, offering a unique dual appeal to tourists. This proximity creates a natural synergy, with travelers on the legendary road often extending their journeys to explore Lincoln’s historical sites.
Lincoln’s Enduring Legacy in Springfield
Abraham Lincoln spent a significant portion of his life in Springfield, moving there as a young lawyer in 1837. The city is home to numerous sites managed by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, including his preserved home, his tomb, and the Old State Capitol, where he served in the Illinois legislature and delivered his famous “House Divided” speech.
These sites offer tangible connections to Lincoln’s formative years and his rise to national prominence. Expert historical guides at these locations provide context, detailing not just the iconic president but also the man, his family, and the community that shaped him. The centennial of Route 66 is seen as an opportunity to highlight this rich historical tapestry.
Anticipating a Tourist Influx
Local tourism officials and businesses in Springfield are preparing for an increase in visitor numbers. They are leveraging the Route 66 centennial as a marketing opportunity, promoting packages and itineraries that combine the classic Americana of the highway with the profound history of Lincoln.
“We’re seeing a renewed interest in historical travel, and the 100th anniversary of Route 66 provides the perfect catalyst,” stated a spokesperson for the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau. “It’s a chance for people to experience two quintessential American stories in one destination.”
Data from the National Trust for Historic Preservation indicates that heritage tourism is a significant driver of local economies. Visitors interested in historical sites often stay longer and spend more, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Connecting Two American Icons
The narrative of Route 66 often evokes images of classic cars, diners, and a bygone era of American mobility. Abraham Lincoln, conversely, represents a pivotal chapter in the nation’s political and social history. The convergence of these two narratives offers a compelling draw for a diverse range of travelers.
From history buffs eager to walk in Lincoln’s footsteps to road trip enthusiasts seeking the quintessential Route 66 experience, Springfield is positioned to cater to both. The city’s infrastructure, including its museums, historical markers, and hospitality services, is being enhanced to accommodate the expected rise in tourism.
What to Watch Next
As the Route 66 centennial celebrations unfold throughout the year, the success of Springfield’s tourism strategy will be closely watched. The city’s ability to effectively market its dual attractions—the iconic highway and the Lincoln legacy—will determine the extent of its economic impact. Further developments may include new historical exhibits, special events commemorating both Route 66 and Lincoln, and expanded visitor services designed to capitalize on this unique historical moment.
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