We plan to drive along route 66 next year but would like to know where to start in Chicago, preferably on the suberbs heading towards the open road. plus some idea of a decent hotel in the same area would be helpful

I learned from my first motorcycle trip on Route 66 that the unoffical starting place is at Lou Mitchell's Restaurant on E. Jackson Blvd (oneway street east). They have been there forever. From there drive east to Michigan Ave, turn left, then left again onto Adams St. (oneway street west) There is a Route 66 sign there that says: BEGIN HISTORIC ROUTE 66. On Jackson Blvd. just before Michigan Ave there is a Route 66 Sigh that says: END HISTORIC ROUTE 66. I took pictures of both of them on our ride. I have been telling everyone to get the Route 66 Guide Books from the magazine. They will have you going the right way on your journey.

I will be returning to Chicago this summer to repeat the journey. I have been studying the guide books almost every night so I won't miss too much this time.

Make sure to try Lou Mitchell's for some great food first. A great place to start your 66 trip. After that check out the 'Begin 66 sign" on Adams. Once your on your way down the route you got the Willis Tower (old name Sears Tower) you can check out. Further down the road check out the hot dog and fries sign at Henry's Drive-In. When you get into Berwyn watch for the Berwyn 66 signs on the lamp posts. A nice touch for along the route. Berwyn has a nice hobby shop if your interested. Every year Berwyn has the Route 66 Car Show. They block off the street for blocks. This is well worth seeing. Lots of cars of all kinds. Once pass Berwyn go across Harlem Ave. and check out the Hofmann Tower. A good photo spot.

Well that should get you started. Have a great time.