Beyond the diners and roadside attractions, the First Hundred Miles of Route 66 offers a treasure trove of unique shopping experiences. Along this historic stretch, travelers will discover cozy antique stores, artisan galleries and stylish boutiques tucked into charming downtown districts and historic buildings. From the suburbs near Chicago to the small-town streets of Wilmington and Pontiac, these locally owned shops invite visitors to slow down, browse and uncover one-of-a-kind finds that make any road trip along the Mother Road even more memorable.
In Lockport, Thimbles (940 S. State St., Lockport) has become a destination for sewing and quilting enthusiasts traveling the route. The shop carries more than 3,000 bolts of fabric along with books, patterns and a full assortment of sewing supplies. For those looking to sharpen their skills, Thimbles also offers a variety of in-store classes designed for beginners and experienced crafters alike.
Start your Joliet exploration with a visit to Audiophil’s Records (76 N. Chicago St., Joliet), an independent record store located near the Rialto Theater. Audiophil’s is built on a family’s passion for music and offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can lose yourself in rows of vinyl records, 45s and cassettes. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to help you find that elusive album you’ve been searching for or introduce you to new favorites. You can even test your selections on their in-shop stereo before committing to a purchase.
Further along the road in the heart of downtown Plainfield, Me Tu Bella Boutique (24027 W. Lockport St., Plainfield) offers a stylish stop for shoppers seeking contemporary fashion. The boutique features a curated selection of women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories that ranges from sweet and casual to bold and edgy. Visitors can browse everything from Made-in-Italy tops and cozy cardigans to graphic tees, blazers and statement accessories.
In Wilmington, a cluster of locally owned shops creates a lively destination for browsing and discovery. Inside the historic Wilmington Watch Shop building, Art on 66 (208 N. Water St., Wilmington) showcases the work of local and regional artists. Founded in 2024, the gallery features paintings, sculptures, original works and limited edition prints that highlight the creativity found throughout the Route 66 corridor.
Just a few doors away, Le Fleur De Lis Boutiques & Antiques (219 N. Water St., Wilmington) offers an eclectic French Country mercantile shopping experience filled with charm and surprises. Visitors will find a thoughtfully curated mix of home décor, gourmet food items, gift baskets, vintage collectibles, candles and jewelry, ensuring there is always something new to discover among the shop’s ever-changing displays.
Nearby, Celtic Trinity Knot (119 N. Water St., Wilmington) brings a touch of Irish heritage to Route 66 shopping. The store features both vintage and modern Irish collectibles along with décor, clothing and unique gifts. Shoppers can browse vintage furniture, handcrafted soaps and lotions, antique toys, artwork and even festive holiday offerings.
Music lovers and nostalgia seekers often make their way to Rick’s Relics on 66 (116 N. Water St., Wilmington), where hundreds of carefully alphabetized vinyl LPs and 45s await rediscovery. Whether visitors are searching for a favorite album from their youth or a new addition to their collection, the shop offers plenty to explore, along with antiques, Matchbox cars, Route 66 souvenirs and occasional vintage turntables.
Antique hunters will also enjoy browsing the eclectic selection at Paraphernalia Antiques (112 N. Water St., Wilmington). Located just off Route 66, the shop specializes in vintage toys, small collectibles and nostalgic artifacts. Visitors may also uncover classic furniture, lamps, dishes and antique jewelry among the store’s wide assortment of treasures.
For those who prefer a large antique marketplace, Milltown Market (508 N. Kankakee St., Wilmington) provides an expansive collection housed inside a historic red clapboard building. The shop features gently used furniture, war memorabilia, vintage radios, home décor and many other antiques large and small. With convenient parking and step-free access, it’s an easy stop for travelers exploring Wilmington’s antique scene.
Further south in Pontiac, a vibrant downtown shopping district continues the journey. At Route 66 Kites & Board Games (222 N. Main St., Pontiac), visitors of all ages will find a playful assortment of toys and games. The shop carries board games, card games, disc golf supplies, gifts and Route 66 souvenirs, along with an impressive selection of colorful kites perfect for flying in one of the area’s nearby parks.
Art lovers can explore the gallery at the Greater Livingston County Arts Council (209 W. Madison St., Pontiac), which occupies a historic building in downtown Pontiac. The organization offers art classes while also displaying a rotating collection of framed artwork, sculptures and pottery created by local artists who live and work along the Route 66 corridor.
Nearby, Pop’s Pop Up Shop (517 W. Howard St., Pontiac) offers a constantly changing selection of antiques, refurbished pieces and creative repurposed items. Since opening in 2019, the shop has built a reputation for its custom tables, lighting and unique décor pieces. Visitors who time their trip right can also attend the store’s popular pop-up events held on the third Saturday of each month.
For something truly unusual, Jurassic Gemstones (117 W. Madison St., Pontiac) invites visitors to step millions of years into the past. The shop features an impressive selection of fossils, gemstones and natural specimens available in a wide range of sizes and price points, making it an intriguing stop for collectors and curious travelers alike.
Nestled in Pontiac’s downtown shopping district is Livin’ in Color (105 W. Madison St., Pontiac), a boutique specializing in women’s clothing and accessories. The shop carries sizes from 3X to small along with gifts and jewelry, including selections for children, making it a welcoming stop for shoppers looking for stylish finds along their Route 66 adventure.
