Write a new chapter in the Route 66 story. Opportunity is knocking and that makes this the perfect time to help ensure Route 66 is still celebrated in the highways bicentennial. Curious?

Well, by investing in Route 66 you help preserve landmarks. You also ensure that this iconic highway remains the quintesential American road trip for years to come. As a bonus, you yourself become a part of the roads story.

So, if you are stuck in a dead end job, want something more rewarding out of life, or just want to be part of a dynamic community, now is the time. All along Route 66 there are business opportunites for ambitious folks that something more than just a job or career.

Opportunity is knocking

FOR SALE: Docs Just Off 66 – A Historic Route 66 Destination

This is rare opportunity to own a fully restored and operating historic landmark along iconic Illinois Route 66. Docs Just Off 66, located in Girard, Illinois, is one of the longest-operating businesses in the community. It dates to 1884, when it first opened as Deck’s Drug Store. Over the decades, it evolved into a pharmacy and soda fountain, becoming a central gathering place for generations.

In December 2021, Steve and Casey Claypool purchased the business, completed extensive renovations, and reopened it in June 2022 as Docs Just Off 66. The historic charm was preserved while expanding it into a full restaurant, soda fountain, and bar experience.

Today, Docs stands as a thriving destination for both locals and Route 66 travelers. It offers a nostalgic atmosphere, classic soda fountain experience, and a unique dining environment rooted in history and community.

Asking Price: $450,000

Includes:

• Both buildings
• The fully operational restaurant and bar
• All equipment and contents, including:
  • Refrigeration units
  • Kitchen equipment
  • Furniture and fixtures
  • Inventory
• All antiques and historic displays, including the original pharmacy relics showcased throughout the space and additional antiques stored above the restaurant
• Established brand, business name, and goodwill

This is a true turnkey operation, with everything in place to continue running immediately.

Alternative Option:

• Business only: $125,000
• Lease: $3,000/month

Why This Opportunity is Unique

• Established, recognizable brand on Historic Route 66
• Rich history dating back over 140 years
• Fully restored and thoughtfully expanded property
• Destination business with built-in tourism traffic
• Multiple revenue streams (restaurant, soda fountain, bar, events)
• Strong community presence and loyal customer base

Docs Just Off 66 is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience, a piece of history, and a cornerstone of the community.

Contact Casey Claypool – casey@illinoisroute66.org – 217-725-7444

Dawn of A New Era

The Route 66 centennial is the closing of one chapter, and the opening of another. The countdown to Route 66 bicentennial celebrations will be beginning soon. And you can write a new chapter in the Route 66 story because opportunity is knocking.

Over the course of the next few months I will provide information about opportunities for an adventure of another kind on Route 66. Meanwhile, I suggest that we celebrate the 250th anniversay of America with a road trip or two. And I also recommend that at least one of those trips be on Route 66. Discover the real America, and our country’s amazing story.

And if find an opportunity to write a new chapter in the Route 66 story where opportunity is knocking, let me know.