Hall of Fame member, inducted 2000
810 E Baltimore St, Wilmington, Illinois 60481, United States
The Launching Pad Drive-In opened in 1960 as a Dari Delite, originally selling only hot dogs and ice cream, The Launching Pad was formerly the home of the Gemini Giant, as seen above, who welcomed Route 66 travelers since the 1950’s! In 2000, the Launching Pad Drive-In was inducted into the Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame. Unfortunately, the Launching Pad is no longer in business.
It’s a must to have your photo taken with the Giant, which has been relocated as of November 30, 2024 to the South Island Park in Wilmington at 201 Bridge Street (see its separate entry).