As spring travel planning accelerates, Illinois continues to build momentum through international outreach, Route 66 Centennial storytelling, and new opportunities for industry partners. From global sales missions to high-profile events and fresh traveler insights, this month’s updates reflect the strong collaboration happening statewide to attract visitors and showcase all that Illinois has to offer.
TOURISM NEWS
The Big House Ballgame – Joliet (April 30) The Joliet Slammers will take the field for a one-of-a-kind exhibition game inside the historic walls of the Old Joliet Prison on April 30, 2026. Dubbed The Big House Ballgame, the event serves as the official kickoff to Joliet’s Route 66 Centennial celebration and highlights the city’s unique history. The game revives a century-old tradition when organized baseball was once played by inmates at the prison. Set against the iconic limestone walls and guard towers, this promises to be a once-in-a-generation experience connecting America’s pastime with Joliet’s remarkable heritage.
Route 66 Centennial: Hidden Route 66 Series in Development Planning is underway for a new Hidden Route 66 series hosted by Peter Greenberg, with production anticipated to begin in early June. The Hidden series is a nationally distributed travel feature airing across broadcast and digital platforms that spotlights lesser-known destinations through immersive storytelling. The Route 66 installment will feature the iconic people and places that contribute to the fabric of the Mother Road in Illinois, further expanding the narrative around its cultural impact and local character.
UK/Germany/Switzerland Sales Mission Underway (April 13–26) The Enjoy Illinois sales and trade mission is currently underway with stops in Dublin, London, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, and Zurich. The mission includes meetings, trainings, and events with key members of the UK, German, and Swiss travel trade and media communities. The goal is to raise awareness of Enjoy Illinois while strengthening relationships with both new and existing partners. These efforts create valuable networking opportunities that further amplify Illinois tourism internationally.
NEWS YOU CAN USE
12 Quirky, Artsy, and Delightfully Weird Roadside Attractions Along Route 66
A recent feature from Matador Network spotlights a dozen quirky, nostalgic, and uniquely American roadside attractions travelers can discover along Route 66. Illinois destinations highlighted include Shea’s Gas Station Museum and the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle — two memorable stops that celebrate the character and charm of the Mother Road.
Travelers prioritizing meaningful experiences over material purchases
Growing demand for personalized and flexible itineraries
Increased interest in multigenerational and group travel
Travelers seeking hidden gems and less-crowded destinations
Continued appetite for food-focused and culture-driven trips
ENJOY ILLINOIS MAGAZINE
The Spring/Summer issue of Enjoy Illinois Magazine is out now, packed with fresh inspiration for warm-weather getaways, outdoor adventures, and culinary finds. Explore now! View online Download the PDF
