Get Your Kicks at Rader Family Farms in 2026!
There’s something magical about Historic U.S. Route 66.
For a century, America’s most famous highway has inspired generations to pack the car, hit the open road, and discover the people and places that make this country extraordinary. From family vacations and roadside diners to attractions and farmland, Route 66 became more than a road-it became a symbol of adventure, freedom, hope, and the American spirit.
We are proud to be located just off Historic Illinois Route 66 and honored to be a member of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway. As thousands of travelers journey through Central Illinois during this once-in-a-lifetime Centennial celebration, we invite you to make Rader Family Farms one of your next stops along the Mother Road.
Celebrating 100 Years of the Mother Road
When Route 66 opened in 1926, it forever changed rural America.
As automobiles became more common, travelers ventured farther than ever before, and family farms found themselves welcoming visitors from across the country. Roadside produce stands, orchards, country stores, diners, gas stations, and family-owned businesses sprang to life along the highway, creating a uniquely American travel experience.
Farmers supplied fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and homegrown hospitality to travelers, while Route 66 provided agricultural communities with new opportunities to grow their businesses and share their way of life.
The rich farmland surrounding Historic Route 66 became part of the journey itself. Endless rows of corn, animal barns, apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and small-town charm reminded travelers that America’s heart beats strongest in its rural communities.
Today, Rader Family Farms proudly carries on that tradition.
For four generations, the Rader family has worked this land, creating experiences where families gather, children laugh, traditions are celebrated, and memories are harvested right alongside our crops.
Route 66 Fall Kick-Off Centennial Celebration
Friday, September 4, 2026 from 10am – 9pm
Purchase Your Tickets Here!
Join us as we officially kick off our Fall Season with a celebration honoring the 100th Anniversary of Historic U.S. Route 66! This special opening day is unlike anything we’ve ever created.
Enjoy:
- Over 55 farm attractions (10 am – 6 pm)
- Our spectacular 12-Acre Route 66-themed corn maze (10 am – 6 pm)
- A Cruise-In Classic featuring vintage automobiles and sponsored by Maxlider, Rivian and Limelite Graphics (4 – 7)
- Live music by the Route 66 Band (5:30 pm – 8:30 pm)
- Delicious diner-style favorites, fall comfort foods (10 am – 6 pm) and a curated line-up of food vendors. (5:30 pm – 8:30 pm)
- Fresh apple cider, apple cider slushies, homemade donuts, cookies, caramel apples, and signature bakery treats
- Family activities around every corner
- Special Route 66 souvenirs and photo opportunities throughout the farm
- Drone show at dark (Approximately 8:30 pm)
The Drone Show Everyone Will Be Talking About
When darkness falls on September 4, 2026, prepare to witness the most spectacular drone show ever presented at Rader Family Farms.
Hundreds of brilliantly illuminated drones will paint the night sky with an inspiring story celebrating Bloomington-Normal , the communities that have shaped Central Illinois, and the legacy of Historic Route 66.
Watch as iconic landmarks, familiar symbols, patriotic moments, and images come to life high above the farm in a display synchronized with music and storytelling.
You’ll journey through the history of the Mother Road, celebrate the beauty of America’s heartland, and experience a moving tribute to the values that continue to unite generations of Americans.
This performance has been created by DroneShow especially for the Route 66 Centennial and is an experience you simply won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re a lifelong Route 66 enthusiast or introducing your children to the Mother Road for the very first time, this evening promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Explore America’s Mother Road…One Turn at a Time
While September 4 launches the celebration, the adventure continues all fall long.
Our 12-Acre Route 66 Corn Maze stands as a living tribute to the Centennial of Historic U.S. Route 66.
Every pathway honors the adventurous spirit of the American road trip.
Every turn recognizes the resilience of the small towns that welcomed millions of travelers.
Every acre celebrates the connection between agriculture and the open road.
Surrounded by the very fields that continue to feed our communities, guests will experience firsthand how farming and travel have always been intertwined. The landscapes that travelers admired through their car windows were cared for by generations of farm families whose hard work helped shape the character of Route 66.
Set within Rader Family Farms, the maze reminds us that some of America’s greatest treasures aren’t found in big cities – they’re found in simple places where families gather, traditions are passed from one generation to the next, and stories continue to be written.
Your Route 66 Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re traveling Historic Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica, exploring the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway, or simply looking for the perfect family fall tradition, we invite you to make Rader Family Farms part of your journey.
For 100 years, Route 66 has connected people through adventure.
For four generations, Rader Family Farms has connected families through agriculture.
In 2026, those two stories come together in one unforgettable celebration!!