Welcome to Pontiac, Illinois! Located just 100 miles southwest of Chicago along interstate 55, Pontiac is home to 11,000 residents. While we may be small, we are mighty! Known as a must-stop destination along historic Route 66, Pontiac welcomes travelers from across the country and around the globe. Whether you are passing through for the day or planning a long weekend, you will find plenty of history, art, and photo-worthy moments waiting for you.

Experience Pontiac

Pontiac’s biggest draw? Its museums and murals. Our town boasts four museums: The Museum of Gilding Arts, Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum, and the most popular – the Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum. The Historic Museum Complex features the Route 66 Museum and several other exhibits, so there is truly something for every visitor. Art lovers will also find 25 beautiful outdoor murals, all spread throughout our downtown. Together, these attractions create an authentic Americana, small-town experience for all visitors to enjoy.

Bob Waldmire’s Legacy

Explore the life of the Mother Road’s most famous resident, artist Bob Waldmire, at the Pontiac Museum Complex. Bob was known for his vibrant illustrations of the Mother Road, and left behind a colorful legacy. See examples of Bob’s unique art style, his famous Volkswagen van, “Road Yacht” mobile home, while learning about his life on the road.

Picture-Perfect Pontiac

So many photo-ops! Bringing a camera is a must on vacation, and Pontiac, Illinois, has a variety of locations to choose from. We always recommend that visitors take a selfie with our miniature Art Cars spread throughout downtown in the summer season, strike a pose in front of our iconic Route 66 Mural behind the Historic Museum Complex, or snag a photo with Abe’s statue in front of the Livingston County Courthouse. Share your favorites on social media with the hashtag #playinpontiac, and don’t forget to tag our official Facebook and Instagram pages, @visitpontiacil.

History in Pontiac

At the heart of downtown stands the Livingston County Historic Courthouse, established in 1845 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. History buffs can tour our three historic preserved homes, the Strevell, Yost, and Jones Homes, open for free tours every third Saturday. Visitors can also “walk where Abe walked” by following the “Looking for Lincoln” trail to see exhibits and landmarks that link Pontiac to the 16th president, Abraham Lincoln.

Stay, Explore, & More

Need a place to rest? Pontiac’s location I the heart of Illinois makes us an ideal overnight stop for road trippers. Choose from one of four hotels: Hampton Inn, Best Western, Quality Inn, and Super 8. Looking for more of a rustic stay? Try out the Livingston County 4H Park Fairgrounds, located just on the edge of town. 

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Upcoming Events

Pontiac, Illinois, loves a good celebration! Each year, visitors can join in on the Red-Carpet Corridor weekend held in May, the Threshermen’s Reunion in late August, the Summer Sendoff & GTOAA weekend held in late September, and all our holiday celebrations to wrap up the end of the year. Mark your calendars for 2026, an especially exciting year, as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with events and surprises you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned to our media channels for details!

From our museums to murals, historical sights to artistic sights, there are endless ways to make memories and #playinpontiac. For more information on attractions, events, and travel tips, visit our website at www.VisitPontiac.org and sign up for our free monthly E-Newsletter.