Route 66 is filled with quirky roadside attractions and surprises along the way – it’s all part of what makes driving down the Mother Road a whole lotta fun! And perhaps one of the quirkiest roadside attractions in Illinois is a very atypical Paul Bunyan statue with a story behind it. Located in the tiny city of Atlanta, this is one attraction you can’t help but notice and want to stop at.

Located in central Illinois, Atlanta is a tiny city with a population of under 2,100. If you’ve ever traveled along Route 66, you’ve probably driven right through the heart of this town.

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And maybe you’ve even stopped in Atlanta upon seeing this unusual Paul Bunyan statue. It’s a popular stop for Route 66 travelers passing through town, after all.

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If you have stopped to take a photo of this roadside attraction, you might have thought, “Why is Paul Bunyan holding a hot dog?” Well, there’s an explanation for that.

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This Paul Bunyon statue, with the last name spelled with an “o” instead of an “a,” towers 19 feet and holds a hot dog. He was originally created in 1966 for a hotdog stand known as “Bunyon’s” located in Cicero, Illinois.

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Typically, a Paul Bunyan Statue is seen holding an ax. But that’s not the case with this Paul Bunyon on Route 66! Used as an advertisement for the hot dog establishment, this imposing statue holds a giant hot dog in his hands instead.

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Unfortunately, the Bunyon’s hot dog stand shut its doors in 2002. In 2003, Paul Bunyon was moved to Atlanta where it’s been a popular attraction ever since.

David Wilson/Flickr

As you’re getting your kicks on Route 66, don’t forget to stop for a photo with Paul Bunyon!

David Wilson/Flickr

When is the last time you’ve stopped at some of the fascinating roadside attractions in Illinois? Do you have a favorite roadside attraction? If so, please share what it is in the comments!

james ervin/Google

Don Harder/Flickr

Nik Sheesby/Google

Pom’/Flickr

Wade Filewich/Google

David Wilson/Flickr

Do you enjoy seeing massive works of art? You can view plenty of larger-than-life sculptures at the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park located in University Park. 

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