Chenoa lies at the intersection of historic Route 66 and U.S. Route 24. Its different historic alignments make the town especially interesting to travelers who want to explore Route 66 history in more detail: Chenoa has two historic routes. The town also offers Silliman Lake Park, historic sites, and an annual celebration. You can choose between different highlights: road history, recreation in the park, and a day of events.
Route 66: Alignments, Road Surface, and Trail
The earlier of the two historic alignments ran along North Morehead Street. It then shared the road with U.S. Route 24 for several blocks or ran parallel to it. This distinction is important for finding your way around: Chenoa’s Route 66 history is not limited to a single historic alignment. The original Route 66 road surface is designated at the intersection of US-24 and Morehead.
The Historic Route 66 Trail offers another perspective. Its section in Chenoa is 1.1 miles long and provides a safer environment along historic Route 66 for tourism, cycling, and walking. The designated original road surface and the trail represent different aspects: one is a specific stretch of historic road, the other a section serving tourism, cycling, and walking. Those interested in Route 66 history can distinguish between its former alignment, a designated road surface, and the trail section.
Historic Sites in Chenoa
The Matthew T. Scott House in Chenoa, Illinois, is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. The Texaco Star is located at the original site of a gas station. The two sites highlight different aspects of history: the house is notable for its listing on the register, while the Texaco Star is notable for its original gas station location. Together with the Route 66 alignments and the designated road surface, they offer a glimpse of several facets of local history.
The Route 66 of Chenoa Roadside Attraction Tourist Info & Walkway is located at 501 E. Cemetery Ave. Its name points to another Route 66-related destination in Chenoa; the address provides a specific location to help with travel planning.
Recreation at Silliman Lake Park
Silliman Lake Park in Chenoa has a boat dock, fishing opportunities, accessible facilities, and picnic shelters. The park brings together different kinds of outdoor recreation: the boat dock and fishing are complemented by facilities and shelters for spending time outdoors. If you don’t want to visit Chenoa solely for its road history, the park is another local highlight to consider when planning your trip.
The Chenoa 4th of July Celebration
The Chenoa 4th of July Celebration is an annual, daylong event featuring a parade, flea market, food, and fireworks. Unlike the historic sites, it gives you a specific reason to plan your visit around an event. Set aside a separate day for the celebration. Dates and programs may vary; check both if the celebration is the occasion for or main focus of your trip.
Discover more destinations: Mclean, Normal, Bloomington.
See the broader travel overview: Mclean County.
