Route 66 is an iconic stretch filled with American nostalgia. It has the perfect thing to help your family make long-lasting memories, whether you want to learn more about heartland history or need the most decadent meal of your life! As a Springfield family photographer, I adore working with parents to make sure they can make the most out of their time in this incredible city. Here’s my list of the best Route 66 restaurants in Springfield, IL to check out!
Enjoy Some Delicious Family Meals At These Great Route 66 Restaurants In Springfield, IL
Maid Rite Sandwich Shop
118 N. Pasfield, Springfield, Illinois 62702
Maid Rite Sandwich Shop is an original in every sense of the word. First founded in 1924, this was the very first drive-thru restaurant opened in the entire country! Over a century later, this Route 66 restaurant is still serving up the food that helped people first fall in love in Springfield, IL. You can find classic options like burgers, fries, and homemade root beer. Oh, and this is a stop on the Horseshoe Trail, giving you every excuse to enjoy the traditional Springfield staple!
Cozy Dog Drive-In
2935 S. 6th St, Springfield, Illinois 62703
If you don’t feel like trying the original drive-thru restaurant in Springfield, IL, why not try the original Route 66 corndog, or as they call it here, a “cozy dog”? Covered in batter and deep-fried, this is going to be an experience you will always remember! You can each choose your own dish, or you can pick family baskets that let everyone try the cozy dogs. They also have a pretty great breakfast menu available through mid-morning.
Route 66 Motorheads
600 Toronto Rd, Springfield, Illinois 62711
While you might see tons of motorcycles in this Springfield, IL restaurant parking lot, you don’t have to ride a Harley to fall in love with Route 66 Motorheads! This beloved spot brings you classic bar food ideal for the entire family. While you are here, be sure to check out the Route 66 Motorhead Museum, where you can find different artifacts that once made up this part of the country.
Mel-O-Cream
525 North Grand Ave 2, Springfield, Illinois 62702
There is a reason why Mel-O-Cream has only grown since it got started over 90 years ago. This bakery offers soft, billowy donuts perfect for starting your day. It is impossible to go wrong here, whether you want to stick with a traditional long john or want to try out their signature honeymooner. You can even order Mel-O-Morsels for the perfect, shareable size! They have locations all across Springfield, so you are never too far away from your dream breakfast.
I Hope Your Family Enjoys Visiting These Fantastic Route 66 Restaurants In Springfield, IL
If you have been looking for the best meal out here on the road, these Route 66 restaurants in Springfield, IL have you covered! With all of these spots, you are in for some pretty unforgettable food.
Are you looking for more ways to remember your time along Route 66? Then I would love to chat! As a Springfield family photographer, I am wild about working with parents to freeze every wonderful moment throughout these years. I would love to have a conversation and tell you all about my sessions so you can decide if I’m a match for you. Send me a message today to find out more.
