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Route 66 Association of Illinois

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Launching Pad

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).

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Upcoming Events

Jun 13
June 13 - June 15

Motor Tour 2025 – A Bridge to the Giants

Jun 16
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm CDT

Berwyn Cruise Nights 2025

Jun 20
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm CDT

Lincoln Third Fridays Downtown

Jun 20
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm CDT

Route 66 Cruisers Cruises

View Calendar

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Donations Fuel Our Mission!

Your donation to our Association helps support our efforts to preserve, promote, educate and enjoy Route 66 in Illinois. We are a volunteer organization and thank you for your generous donation toward maintaining our nostalgic slice of Americana. The Association is a 501(c)(3) for tax purposes.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

Route 66 Association of Illinois, a 501(c)(3) charitible organization
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