The Shop on 66, Perkins Wood and Glass, on Route 66 in Gardner, Illinois

The Shop on Route 66 in Gardner, Illinois ...
Perkins Wood and Glass

U.S. Route 66, often called The Mother Road, was established on November 11, 1926, and ultimately stretched 2,448 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, including 301 miles within the State of Illinois.

Most travelers start their journey on Route 66 in Chicago, and head westbound. That is the direction we take on this website. The Route 66 starting point in Chicago has changed over the years. Today, it begins on East Adams Street at South Michigan Avenue, and ends at East Jackson at South Michigan.

Outside the metropolitan Chicago area, Route 66 followed the Pontiac Trail, a former Indian trail and stagecoach road. From Chicago, Route 66 headed southwest to Romeoville and Joliet, and then on to Wilmington, Braidwood and into the Village of Gardner.

Travelers entering Gardner from Chicago will find "The Shop", loaded with Coca Cola, Route 66 and Americana memorabilia, on the right side of the Route as it curves into downtown. Read more about the popular Perkins Wood and Glass Shop on this page!

Map showing the approximate route of U.S. Highway 66 in Illinois and the location of Gardner

The Shop on Route 66 ... Perkins Wood and Glass A popular stop for travelers on Route 66 between Chicago and Bloomington is this unique shop in Gardner. It offers a wide variety of gifts, Coca-Cola memorbilia and Americana, and several "photo ops" around the charming red building! Be sure to stop by, visit with owner Tom Perkins, take some fun photos inside and outside the building, and shop an amazing inventory of Route 66 gifts. Tom is a local expert on Route 66, and can provide valuable area info and tips for Route 66 roadies. He also has extensive experience in stained glass creation and restoration. The Shop has become a "must see" destination on Route 66 in northern Illinois. Well worth a visit! Be one of the many who have said "I Shopped at the Shop". It is located at 315 North Center Street in Gardner. Phone 815.237.0068 For more information and photos, visit Perkins Wood & Glass The Shop on Facebook Scenes around "The Shop"