Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 23 hours ago
Join Darley Newman on Route 66 in Wilmington, Illinois, just about 30 minutes from Chicago, for a stop at one of the Mother Road’s most iconic restaurants: Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket. Serving travelers since the 1940s, this legendary Route 66 destination is famous for its crispy fried chicken, classic comfort food sides, and nostalgic roadside charm that keeps visitors coming back generation after generation.
From the golden crunch of perfectly fried chicken to the historic atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of Route 66, Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket offers an unforgettable taste of Americana. Whether you're planning a Chicago-area getaway, exploring Illinois road trips, or traveling the full Route 66 route, this beloved restaurant is a must-visit for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
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Join Darley Newman on Route 66 in Wilmington, Illinois, just about 30 minutes from Chicago, for a stop at one of the Mother Road’s most iconic restaurants: Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket. Serving travelers since the 1940s, this legendary Route 66 destination is famous for its crispy fried chicken, classic comfort food sides, and nostalgic roadside charm that keeps visitors coming back generation after generation.
From the golden crunch of perfectly fried chicken to the historic atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of Route 66, Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket offers an unforgettable taste of Americana. Whether you're planning a Chicago-area getaway, exploring Illinois road trips, or traveling the full Route 66 route, this beloved restaurant is a must-visit for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
📺 Watch Travels with Darley on PBS & Streaming:
darley-newman.com/tv-show/pbs-tv-preview
🔔 Subscribe for More Travel & History Videos:
darley.link/youtubesubscribe
🎧 Listen to the "Travels with Darley" Podcast:
iheart.com/podcast/53-travels-with-darley-123513653
📲 Follow Darley for Exclusive Travel Content:
Instagram:instagram.com/darleynewman
Facebook:facebook.com/travelswithdarley
TikTok:tiktok.com/@darleynewman
Twitter (X):https://x.com/DarleyNewman
