Experience the revival of a nostalgic piece of history along Route 66 in Springfield! Shea’s Gas Station Museum, once a Texaco and later Marathon gas station from 1946-1982, was transformed into a world-renowned museum by owners Bill and Helen Shea in 1995.
After closing in 2013, we are thrilled to announce its return! The City of Springfield-Illinois, thanks to an Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity Route 66 Grant, made improvements to the property including reproducing the original signage on the exterior and interior of the station.
“After being shuttered for over a decade, reopening Shea’s Gas Station is one of the most anticipated events on Route 66 leading up to the Centennial in 2026. Illinois realized a record 2.1 million international visitors in 2023 and that number will continue to grow as the Route 66 100th Anniversary draws closer. Thankfully, City of Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher, State Sen. Doris Turner, DCEO and the Illinois Office of Tourism realize the significance Illinois Route 66 attractions, like Shea’s, mean to global travelers and are investing millions of dollars ahead of 2026.” Scott Dahl, Director, Visit Springfield.
