Chicago Names Navy Pier as New Route 66 Start Ahead of Centennial

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Chicago is officially designating Navy Pier as the new ceremonial starting point for historic U.S. Route 66, replacing the previous start point at Adams Street and Michigan Avenue. The city will unveil a new 'Begin Route 66' sign at Navy Pier on March 25, 2026, coinciding with the annual Toast to Harry Caray event, as part of the road's upcoming 100th anniversary celebrations.

Why it matters

The move to shift the ceremonial Route 66 start to Navy Pier is part of Chicago's strategy to boost tourism and foot traffic at the iconic lakefront destination during the highway's centennial year. By tying the new marker to an existing popular event, the city hopes to draw more visitors to experience the start of the famous 'Mother Road'.

The details

Chicago's City Council approved a resolution recognizing Navy Pier as the new eastern terminus for Route 66, directing that a fresh 'Begin Route 66' sign be installed there. The decision comes after recent tourism strategy sessions where industry partners, including restaurateur Grant DePorter, pushed for a high-profile centennial celebration and a 'pier-to-pier' connection with the western end in Santa Monica.

• The new 'Begin Route 66' sign will be unveiled at a public dedication ceremony on March 25, 2026.
• The dedication event will coincide with the long-running annual Toast to Harry Caray at Harry Caray's Tavern on Navy Pier.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The new 'Begin Route 66' sign at Navy Pier is scheduled to be unveiled during a public dedication ceremony on March 25, 2026, which will coincide with the annual Toast to Harry Caray event at Harry Caray's Tavern on the pier.