The Complete Story
In 1956, Chester 'Chet' Fife started something truly unique on Route 66. He took a white school bus, painted it with rainbow polka dots, installed a grill, an ice cream machine, and a pop machine, then cut a window into the side so customers could walk up and order food. This mobile diner became an instant hit with travelers.
By 1962, the business had grown so popular that Fife moved operations into a permanent building at the current location. The Polk-a-Dot has changed hands several times since then - sold to Judy Dixon Chinsky in 1972, then to Angelo and Pat Bianchin in 1978, with the Dixon family buying back in 1987. Through all the ownership changes, the spirit of roadside Americana has remained intact.
Today, the Polk-a-Dot Drive In is one of the most photographed stops on Illinois Route 66. The parking lot features a collection of life-sized fiberglass statues including Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe in her famous white dress, James Dean leaning against a post, Betty Boop, and Jake and Elwood from The Blues Brothers. Inside, vintage memorabilia covers the walls, and the menu still features classic drive-in fare including their famous chili cheese fries.
Surprising Facts You Didn't Know
→ The original 'diner' was a converted school bus painted with polka dots
→ Chet Fife chose Braidwood because it was on Route 66 between Chicago and Joliet
→ The Blues Brothers statues pay homage to the nearby Old Joliet Prison featured in the 1980 film
→ The restaurant has been featured in numerous Route 66 documentaries and travel shows
→ Braidwood was on both the original 1926 alignment and the alternate Route 66 alignment
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit Polk-a-Dot Drive In
✓ You Can Visit Today
Address: undefined, Braidwood, IL 60408
What's There Now: Still operating as a classic 1950s-style diner with life-sized celebrity statues outside. Popular photo stop for Route 66 travelers.
GPS Coordinates: 41.2652666, -88.2099741
Photo Tip: Best photographed in early morning or late afternoon when the Illinois light brings out the building's character.
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