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Heart of the Mother Road

Braidwood, IL: Home of the Polk-a-Dot Drive-In

Braidwood, IL: Home of the Polk-a-Dot Drive-In

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Part of Our Route 66 Everytown Collection - Braidwood Edition

Step back into the golden age of cruising with this Braidwood, Illinois Route 66 tee, featuring the legendary Polk-a-Dot Drive-In. Since 1956, this neon-drenched diner has been serving up burgers, fries and a full dose of 1950s nostalgia to generations of travelers.

Perfect for fans of classic Americana, rock 'n' roll or for collectors of our exclusive Route 66 Everytown Collection, this tee keeps the retro spirit alive just as the diner has done for half a century. 

Shop now at Heart of The Mother Road and enjoy FREE SHIPPING on all orders over $25.

About Braidwood, Illinois: Where Nostalgia is Always on the Menu

Braidwood, Illinois is a lively community located in Will County along the 1926-1977 alignment of Route 66. Founded in 1864, and later incorporated in 1873, Braidwood originally boomed as a coal-mining center, fueled by an influx of Scottish and Irish immigrants.

Today, Braidwood is best known as the "Home of the Polk-a-Dot Drive-In." This classic diner, located at 222 N. Front St., first opened its doors in 1956 and is a favorite hangout for locals and Route 66 travelers alike. It's colorful, polka-dotted exterior and classic 50s diner vibe transports visitors straight back to the Fabulous Fifties. The interior is a nostalgic tribute to the era, featuring fiberglass statues of pop culture icons like Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, James Dean and Betty Boop, all set to the tune of a classic jukebox.

Stepping into the diner is akin to Marty McFly's time travel adventure back to the 1950s in Back to The Future, while the diner itself may remind you of Pulp Fiction's "Jack Rabbit Slim's."

Beyond the diner, visitors can explore the Braidwood Zoo, which offers family-friendly animal encounters, or take a detour to the nearby Kankakee River State Park for fishing, hiking and outdoor recreation.

Every May, Braidwood joins the Red Carpet Corridor Festival, welcoming travelers with live music, classic cars and community celebrations that keep the spirit of Route 66 alive. Whether you come for the burgers, the statues or just for the nostalgia, Braidwood delivers an unforgettable stop where the past is always ready to party.

Product Features:

  • 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton for premium softness
  • Side seams for added structure and durability
  • Tear-away label for comfort
  • Classic crew neckline with a flattering unisex fit - true-to-size for all day comfort (see size chart for details)
  • Fulfilled in the USA

Care Instructions:

  • Machine wash: cold (max 90°F / 30°C)
  • Tumble dry: low heat
  • Non-chlorine bleach as needed
  • Iron or steam: medium heat
  • Do not dry clean
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