Route 66 Begin Sign

About

Chicago's Historic Route 66 Begin Sign marks a celebrated starting point for travelers exploring America's Mother Road. Located along East Adams Street near Michigan Avenue, the familiar highway marker offers a classic photo opportunity in downtown Chicago. The sign stands near the Art Institute of Chicago, where travelers can capture a memorable photograph before beginning their westbound journey. Multiple Route 66 markers can be found nearby, including additional Begin signs and an End sign on Jackson Boulevard.

Established in 1926, Route 66 originally began at Jackson Boulevard and Michigan Avenue. During the 1950s, Adams Street became the highway's westbound alignment, establishing the location associated with today's historic Begin signs. In March 2026, Chicago dedicated a new symbolic starting point at Navy Pier, creating a ceremonial connection with Santa Monica Pier in California. Although the ceremonial starting point has changed, the East Adams Street sign remains a recognizable landmark celebrating the highway's history and its generations of cross-country travelers.

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