In 1926, the intersection of Route 66 where it was crossed by the Lincoln Highway was considered THE CROSSROADS OF AMERICA. Chicago Street, Ottawa Street and Scott Street can now all claim this title.

In 1913, the Lincoln Highway passed through Joliet.

In 1928, the Boy Scouts of America installed a concrete directional post at every mile and at every turn to mark the Lincoln Hwy. They did this all across America on the same day, July 8th. (An original post is on display at the Route 66 Visitors Center on Ottawa Street at Cass Street.)

In 1940 the very first Dairy Queen opened its doors on Route 66 in Joliet at 501 N. Chicago St.

In 2006, the world wide travel organization known as the Lonely Planet released their newest guide book, THE BLUELIST. It declares Route 66 in the USA as one of the 10 best road trips in the world. The other 9 are in other countries.

In 2006 Route 66 was declared the second most popular attraction in Illinois, beneath Chicago.