American Giants Museum - Atlanta, Illinois

Route 66 Experience

Otro gran lugar para visitar viajando por la Ruta 66.

Shannon

I recently took a weekend roadtrip along the Illinois portion of Route 66, taking time to stop at each of the notable towns, landmarks and attractions along the way. I was particularly interested in visiting several of the famous Muffler Men stationed along this historical roadway so, of course, the charming town of Atlanta,IL was on the itinerary. This small town boasts the largest collection of Muffler Men in one place and was home to many interesting attractions, including the famous Bunyan Giant, 7 Walldog Murals and the newly opened American Giants Museum. The Museum tells the story behind the International Fiberglass Company who created many giants in the 60’s for advertising campaigns. Its also known for housing the first Texaco Big Friend to be fully restored. In addition to all the above, the town has a few gift shops, small eateries and a small walk-up/ drive-up coffee shop all within walking distance of the museum. In fact, my stop at the Sip Shack for an ice cold energy drink was just what I needed to refuel in order to tackle the rest of my Route 66 drive that day.

If you’re planning a Route 66 trip in the near future, Atlanta, IL and the American Giants Museum are must stops.

The museum itself had free admission and was designed to look like as a rest-stop with picnic tables and a water fountain outside and a unisex restroom inside. It was entirely handicap accessible as well. They were open 10-4 on the Saturday I visited, but I would suggest checking the website for hours.

Gary

Really cool Route 66/ Roadside Attractions stop that brings back memories of these giants that advertised businesses from auto, tires, etc..to Roadside attractions across America in the 60s and 70s and beyond! Lots of information here and very nice examples inside and outside of this Texaco style building! A can't miss for Route 66 fans!

Susan Galloway

Great museum on route 66. Very informative and so fun to see the Giants, that we remembered being around stores and gas stations when we were young. We stopped in Atlanta on Memorial Day and there was a big celebration going on and parade.

Dan Moisson

What a treat on Route 66! This one of a kind museum has lots of history of Giants and the stories behind them. They will be adding more soon to be the premier place for these pieces of history. We can't wait to see the new additions. We were blessed to get to speak to Bill and learn even more. Updates to come!

Peter Stassen

There is free parking on the street. You will receive a friendly welcome. The explanation about the organization of this museum and the history of the giants is explained on the information boards. There is a movie about the person who started everything and restored the giants.

AJ Hernandez

We have been on a journey to discover the grand odd sites of America...and we have found another. Come on down to Atlanta, Illinois, where you will be dwarfed by the giant that roam the city. Enjoy some time at the City of Atlanta Museum and get a glimpse of history. Plus, I you have $5.00 and the Arcade Museum is open, why not enjoy and old game of Avalanche or QBert. But I digress, so what I am saying is come on down and see these giants, enjoy the sights and say HI to some very friendly locals. Come on down, ya'll

Patrick Greenlaw “ShadowDad”

Yes, it is a small museum. But it is packed with information and great volunteers. The giants outside ate a real treat for anyone who like the "Muffler Men" and other classic Americana giants.
The town of Atlanta, IL is lime an extension of the museum with their own Bunyon Hotdog Man and loads of Route 66 themed stores and great little museums. Definitely stop here on your 66 road trip.