Launching Pad Drive-In and Gemini Giant Founded in 1960, the Launching Pad at first sold only hot dogs and ice cream, but now has a full service menu. It is also home to the Gemini Giant, a fiberglass "muffler man" sporting a space helmet and a rocket ship, a remnant of our fascination with space travel.

Gallery pages: 1 2 3 4 5 >

< 4 of 41 >

Art Hill > Route 66 Park
This park has an overlook for viewing the historic Collins Street Prison where the Blues Brothers and other movies were filmed. Informational kiosks highlight Route 66 attractions in Joliet with directions, photos, and messages.

Art Hill > Launching Pad Drive-In and Gemini Giant
Founded in 1960, the Launching Pad at first sold only hot dogs and ice cream, but now has a full service menu. It is also home to the Gemini Giant, a fiberglass "muffler man" sporting a space helmet and a rocket ship, a remnant of our fascination with space travel. This is a friendly little establishment where travelers feel welcome and can easily chat with locals. It is reminiscent of drive-ins before corporate chains standardized them.

Art Hill > Braidwood
Polk-a-Dot Drive-In
In 1956, Chester "Chet" Fife began taking fast food orders in his school bus painted in rainbow Polk-a-Dots. In 1962, he moved the business into the current building, which today continues to be a popular stop along Route 66. The drive-in has inside booths along with outdoor seating. Fiberglass figures of Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Betty Boop, James Dean, and the Blues Brothers adorn the outside.

Launching Pad Drive-In and Gemini Giant
Founded in 1960, the Launching Pad at first sold only hot dogs and ice cream, but now has a full service menu. It is also home to the Gemini Giant, a fiberglass "muffler man" sporting a space helmet and a rocket ship, a remnant of our fascination with space travel.