Route 66 Illinois Road Trip (Part 1): Chicago to Joliet — Classic Diners, Roadside Icons & History

Kick off an unforgettable road trip along the legendary Route 66 as Darley Newman travels from Chicago toward St. Louis through the heart of Illinois in this two-part series. In Part 1, discover where the historic Mother Road begins in downtown Chicago before hitting the highway to explore nostalgic stops, family-run eateries, and iconic roadside attractions that have defined American road trips for nearly a century. From the famous Route 66 sign near the Art Institute of Chicago to classic breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s and the story behind the original Palmer House brownie, this journey blends history, culture, and great food. Along the way, Darley meets locals who are preserving Route 66’s legacy and shares tips for travelers planning their own adventure. Stop for legendary fried chicken at Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket or White Fence Farm, explore the hauntingly historic Joliet Prison, snap photos with the Gemini Giant, and cruise past classic diners and vintage service stations that capture the spirit of the open road. Recorded on location during filming for the PBS series Travels with Darley, this immersive audio road trip brings the sights, sounds, and stories of Route 66 to life—perfect inspiration for your own Illinois road trip.