Tag: Route 66 Springfield IL

Timeless Adventure: The Sangamon Watches’ Collection that Captures the Spirit of Route 66

On By Sangamon DockIn Microbrand Watches, Sangamon Illinois, Sangamon Watch Ambassador Program

Sangamon Watches is an American watch brand that has recently been making waves in the international market, particularly among foreign tourists and Route 66 fans. The brand’s Mother Road Collection has been particularly popular among this group, as it pays homage to the iconic Route 66 highway that runs through the heart of America.

Route 66 is known as the “Mother Road” because it was one of the original highways in the U.S. highway system and connected Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. The highway has a rich history and is a symbol of American freedom and adventure. It has been the subject of countless songs, books, and movies, and continues to draw tourists from around the world.

Sangamon Watches recognized the appeal of Route 66 to both Americans and foreign tourists and decided to create a collection of watches inspired by the highway. The Mother Road Collection features five unique designs, each representing a different aspect of the Route 66 experience. The collection includes watches named after iconic Route 66 destinations such as “The Cadillac Ranch.”

The watches in the Mother Road Collection are not only stylish but also well-crafted, with high-quality materials and precision engineering. Each watch is individually numbered, and the brand is committed to using sustainable materials whenever possible. The watches are also affordably priced, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers.

The success of the Mother Road Collection has been largely driven by foreign tourists and Route 66 fans. Many of these individuals are drawn to the watches as a way to remember their travels along Route 66 or to connect with the spirit of adventure that the highway represents. The watches have also become popular souvenirs, allowing international visitors to take a piece of Route 66 home with them.

Sangamon Watches has recognized the importance of international expansion for its brand, particularly given the popularity of the Mother Road Collection among foreign tourists. The brand has started to sell its watches through international retailers and is working to expand its online presence in order to reach customers around the world.

Old Route 66 Must See Spots in Downtown Springfield, Illinois

On By Sangamon DockIn Microbrand Watch Events, Microbrand Watches, Sangamon Illinois, Sangamon Watch Ambassador Program

Downtown Springfield, Illinois is a vibrant and bustling city that is home to several must-see spots on Old Route 66. This iconic highway runs through the heart of the city and offers visitors a glimpse into its rich history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s something for everyone in downtown Springfield, and here are some of the must-see spots that you should visit.

  1. Maldaner’s Restaurant – The Oldest American Restaurant on Route 66

Maldaner’s Restaurant is one of the oldest American restaurants on Route 66 and has been serving delicious meals to locals and visitors since 1884. The restaurant is known for its traditional American cuisine, including steak, seafood, and pasta dishes, and it has been recognized as one of the best restaurants in the state. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and rich history of Maldaner’s Restaurant make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

  1. Sangamon Watches – Where You Pick Up Route 66 Passports

Sangamon Watches is a locally owned business that has been crafting high-quality watches. The company is known for its attention to detail and its commitment to using the finest materials, and its watches are a true testament to the art of watchmaking. Visitors to the store can learn about the history of local watchmaking history, and they can even purchase a custom-made watch as a souvenir of their visit to Springfield. Route 66 passports and free stamps are available at the shop.

  1. 6th Street Cafe – A Cozy Spot for Breakfast on Route 66

The 6th Street Cafe is a charming and cozy spot for breakfast, and it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The cafe serves a variety of breakfast dishes, including omelets, pancakes, and French toast, and it is known for its friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy their breakfast in the cozy dining room or on the outdoor patio, and they can take in the sights and sounds of downtown Springfield while they eat.

  1. La Piazza Cucina Italiana – A Taste of Italy on Route 66

La Piazza Cucina Italiana is a family-owned Italian restaurant that offers a taste of Italy in the heart of downtown Springfield. The restaurant is known for its delicious pasta dishes, including lasagna, spaghetti, and ravioli, and its extensive wine list features a variety of Italian and Californian wines. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant, along with its friendly staff and delicious food, make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

  1. Loukinen’s On 4th Street Restaurant – Upscale Dining on Route 66

Loukinen’s On 4th Street Restaurant is an upscale dining destination that offers a sophisticated and elegant dining experience. The restaurant is known for its upscale cuisine, including steak, seafood, and pasta dishes, and its extensive wine list features a variety of premium wines from around the world. The chic and stylish decor of the restaurant, along with its friendly staff and delicious food, make it a popular destination for special occasions and romantic dinners.

  1. Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery – A Unique Brewing Experience on Route 66

Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery is a unique and innovative brewery that offers a wide variety of handcrafted beers. The brewery is housed in a historic building in the heart of downtown Springfield, and it is known for its unique brewing process and commitment to using only the finest ingredients.

Downtown Springfield is home to several cultural attractions, including the Old State Capitol, which served as the seat of government for the state of Illinois and is now a museum. Visitors can also visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the life and legacy of the 16th President of the United States.

Overall, visiting downtown Springfield on IL 66 is a unique and enriching experience that offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.


Travelers, claim your FREE Rt 66 Sticker and stamp at Sangamon Watches downtown shop at 206 S 6th Street, Springfield IL; a new Route 66 passport is available for purchase.

What is a Mother Road Route 66 Passport?

On By Sangamon DockIn Sangamon Illinois, Sangamon Watch Ambassador Program

Mother Road Route 66 Passports are a special type of passport that commemorate the iconic Route 66 highway in the United States. This highway is widely known as the “Main Street of America” and runs from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. The Mother Road Route 66 Passports were created as a way for travelers to document their journey along the historic route and serve as a physical reminder of their adventures.

The Route 66 Passports have become a popular collectible item among travelers, history buffs, and road trip enthusiasts. The passport features the iconic Route 66 shield on its cover and includes a series of stamps and stickers that can be collected along the way. The stamps and stickers are available at various points of interest along the route, such as historic sites, museums, and roadside attractions. Some popular stamps and stickers include the Route 66 Museum in Pontiac, Sangamon Watches in Springfield, Illinois, and the Wigwam Motel in Rialto, California.

The Mother Road Route 66 Passports not only serve as a record of a traveler’s journey, but also serve as a way to support local communities along the route. Many of the stamps and stickers are produced by small businesses and local organizations, providing them with additional revenue and exposure. Additionally, the Route 66 Passports encourage travelers to explore small towns and communities that they might have otherwise missed, helping to promote economic growth and sustainability in these areas.

The Mother Road Route 66 Passports are also a way to commemorate the history of Route 66 and its significance in American culture. The highway was originally established in 1926 and was one of the first major highways in the country, serving as a major transportation route for decades. It was particularly important during the Great Depression and World War II, when it served as a vital link between the Midwest and the West Coast. Today, the highway is still widely recognized as an iconic symbol of American road trips and a symbol of the American spirit of adventure.

In conclusion, the Mother Road Route 66 Passports are a unique and meaningful way to document a traveler’s journey along this historic highway. Not only do they serve as a physical record of a trip, but they also support local communities and celebrate the rich history of Route 66. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time road tripper, a Route 66 Passport is a must-have for anyone embarking on a journey along this iconic American highway.

To order a Rt 66 Passport before you are headed on the road, click here at http://www.SangamonWatches.com

International Travelers Are Getting Their Kicks at Sangamon Watches on Historic Illinois Route 66

On By Sangamon DockIn Microbrand Watches, Sangamon Illinois, Sangamon Watch Ambassador Program

Deep in the heart of Springfield, Illinois, sits one of Route 66’s most sought-after local attractions. Sangamon Watches is located in downtown Springfield on 6th street, across from City’s Visitors Center, it is the only locally created and owned watch brand on Route 66. This phenomenal wristwatch shop opened its downtown location in October 2021. Since its opening, Sangamon Watches has found tremendous business success and met countless friendly faces. People from all over the world have stopped to visit this fantastic shop, reveling at their beautiful watches, friendly staff, and historical residence. Travelers along Route 66 have made it essential to stop at Sangamon Watches and have written blogs and filmed YouTube videos to showcase their shop. Local TV and radio media has helped expose the world to this shop’s unique and authentic products and services.

Brian Su and Tyler Mckay, the founders of Sangamon Watches, had the vision to preserve the tradition and history of the wristwatch’s design while also embracing modern technology. Brian moved to America in the 1980s, coming from a background in international business. Tyler transitioned from his farming background into business and entrepreneurship, studying at the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois. American history was a common interest for the two, which birthed their idea to open their historical shop. Brian and Tyler wanted to create more than just a luxury product. Their love of local and national history can be seen and felt throughout each watch and throughout every layer of their business.

In 2020, while most of the world shut down and business halted, Sangamon Watches overcame these challenges and released three watch collections. Since then, the company has also launched a few other collections. Sangamon Watches’ Mother Road Collection of watches was coined from the shop’s home alongside Route 66. The Mother Road Collection are high-quality, well-made wrist watches with a modern yet classic sports look. You’ll find a color and style that meets your needs throughout the collection. These watches have been sought after by many travelers looking to add a new piece to their collection. These watches are also an excellent souvenir for anyone new to wearing watches and wanting to start with a first-rate piece.

Brian and Tyler have dedicated their business to the history of this country. They value high-quality, intentionally made products with superior craftsmanship. Through their hard work and vision, they successfully overcame this pandemic and launched Sangamon Watches into reality. They’ve proven that even in today’s modern society of fast-made products, superior artistry still reigns supreme. Their mortar and brick shop, located at 206 South 6th Street in downtown Springfield has become a hot spot for Route 66 travelers from across the globe. They’ve met the smiling faces of travelers from Russia, Ireland, the UK, Spain, Canada, China and Japan.

Sangamon Watches still honors local businesses and values investing their success back into their community. Since being in business, they’ve donated to over fifteen local charities and community events including the International Route 66 Mother Road Festival. Stop by the shop and browse their unique collection of wristwatches, locally handcrafted gifts, and route 66 passports. Brian and Tyler have a gift for all route 66 travelers!

Don’t forget to check out http://www.SangamonWatches.com and follow them on Instagram at http://www.Instagram.com/sangamonwatches.

Sangamon Watches Springfield Shop is Becoming a Popular Destination for Rt 66 Bloggers and Travelers

On By Sangamon DockIn Microbrand Watches, Sangamon Illinois, Sangamon Watch Ambassador Program

Sangamon Watches store at 206 South 6th Street in downtown Springfield is becoming a popular destination for many Route 66 social media personalities and travelers since its opening in mid October 2021. Sangamon Watches, owned and operated by local entrepreneurs Tyler McKay and Brian Su, is the only watch brand and shop located right on old Illinois Route 66 which now attracts visitors from all over the world. In recent weeks, the shop has been visited by many visitors and social media bloggers from Ireland, UK, Canada and other parts of the country. Sangamon Watches was launched in the Summer of 2019 with the simple goal of designing and producing stunning watches for men and women around meaningful American stories.

Please watch a recent YouTube video posted by Kelly and Brent from Canada, they came by for a great conversation on Springfield and Abe Lincoln history, and they bought a watch!

One of the most popular items is Route 66 passport, a booklet with informative and helpful information that are needed by tourists who are traveling along the route. People who purchased the passports can get a free stamp at Visitor Center right across the street. Mother Road Collection watches are also getting quite few orders. FREE gifts available for international Rt 66 tourists.

Address: 206 S 6th Street, Springfield IL
Website: http://www.SangamonWatches.com
Hours: 10 am – 3 pm (Tuesday-Friday)

Get Your Kicks on Route 66 with a Route 66 Passport! Mother Road Route 66 Passports Available in Springfield Illinois

On By Sangamon DockIn Sangamon Illinois, Sangamon Watch Ambassador Program

The enhanced second edition of Route 66 Passport, produced by Route 66 Navigation is ready now available for purchase in Springfield Illinois! Passport holders would collect unique stamps at 39 carefully selected locations along Route 66 as well as free souvenirs or discounts. Get stamps, get gifts and get fun! Come to get your passport at 206 South 6th Street, historic downtown Springfield IL

You can also order online prior to your trip, FREE shipping within USA.

While you are here in town, you may even want to browse or purchase a Mother Road Collection watch and claim your free gifts from us!

Our showroom location: 206 South 6th Street, downtown Springfield IL (we are located right across from Springfield Visitors Center)! We accept all major credit cards. We ll even stamp your passport for free! Open on weekdays.

International Route 66 Mother Road Festival Returns Back to Springfield Illinois in 2021

On By Sangamon DockIn Sangamon Illinois, Sangamon Watch Ambassador Program

 A popular Route 66 event for classic car lovers is returning once again to Springfield Illinois after the cancellation in 2020 due to the pandemic. The International Route 66 Mother Road Festival was a great success in Downtown Springfield Sept. 24-26.  The three day festival was packed with hundreds of amazing cars, people from all over the country, certainly yummy food and live music!

We want to thank the event promoter Greg Cooper and his team for their great work. Sangamon Watch Company is one of the event sponsor and business participant. We look forward to the 21st annual festival next year.