The Complete Story
Atlanta, Illinois has earned the nickname 'Land of the Giants' and the American Giants Museum is the crown jewel of this Route 66 town. The museum building was completed in October 2022 and opened to the public in July 2023, quickly becoming one of the most unique attractions on the Mother Road.
The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Muffler Men - those iconic 14 to 25-foot tall fiberglass giants that stood outside businesses across America from 1963 to 1972. These statues were manufactured by International Fiberglass in Venice, California, and became synonymous with American roadside culture. The museum houses several giants including the Mortimer Snerd 'Happy Half Wit' with his goofy grin (the first installed in 2023), a 24-foot Texaco Big Friend in his signature uniform, a Stetson-hat-wearing Phillips 66 Cowboy, and a Carpet Viking.
In 2025, museum founder Joel Baker added a gun-slinging cowboy muffler man that was found in Georgia and restored by folk artist Mark Cline. The outdoor areas are open 365 days a year, making it a must-stop for anyone traveling Route 66. The museum is operated by the Atlanta Betterment Fund and has brought widespread attention to this small Illinois town.
Surprising Facts You Didn't Know
→ All original Muffler Men were manufactured between 1963-1972 by International Fiberglass in Venice, California
→ The Texaco Big Friend is 24 feet tall - among the tallest surviving Muffler Men
→ The Mortimer Snerd giant was named after Edgar Bergen's ventriloquist dummy character
→ Located directly across the street from the famous Hot Dog Muffler Man (Bunyon Giant)
→ Free parking is available in the City Parking Lot across from the museum
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit American Giants Museum
✓ You Can Visit Today
Address: undefined, Atlanta, IL 61723
What's There Now: Operating museum with the largest collection of Muffler Men on Route 66. Outdoor areas open year-round, free admission.
GPS Coordinates: 40.2610108, -89.2308046
Photo Tip: Best photographed in early morning or late afternoon when the Illinois light brings out the building's character.
Continue Your Route 66 Journey
These nearby Route 66 stops are just down the road:
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